TSA Announces Ban on 16 Items from Checked Baggage

Overview

• The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced a list of 16 items banned from passengers' checked bags.
• The enforcement is systematic and not random, relying on technology to identify specific prohibited items.

Banned Items

Alcohol

• Alcohol above 140 proof (70% alcohol) is banned due to its flammability.
• Regular wine, spirits, and beverages like tequila and vodka are typically allowed.
• The FAA restricts passengers to five liters (1.3 gallons) of alcohol per person.

Lighters and Matches

• Only lighters without fuel or in a Department of Transportation (DOT) approved case are allowed in checked luggage.
• Travelers can carry one lighter or a packet of safety matches in carry-on bags.
• Strike-anywhere matches are prohibited on planes.

E-Cigarettes and Vapes

• Banned from checked luggage due to the flammability of lithium batteries.
• Recommended to keep in carry-on luggage.

Lithium Batteries

• Known to explode mid-flight, thus banned unless contained in a protective device.

Cordless Curling Irons

• Butane-powered irons are risky due to explosion potential and must have a safety cover if in carry-on luggage.

Certain Novelty Items

• Items resembling weapons or grenades can be flagged for inspection but will be returned with a note upon approval.

Meat and Produce

• Domestic travel allows most foods if TSA can identify them.
• Importation of most meats, fruits, and vegetables is prohibited to prevent pest and disease introduction.

Camp Stoves and Propane Canisters

• Propane canisters must be empty to be packed, but it's safer to buy locally.

Aerosols and Compressed Gas Cans

• Items like fire extinguishers must comply with the TSA's 3.4 oz rule as personal care items.

Ammunition

• Allowed if packed in a locked, hard-sided container and declared at check-in.
• Ammunition up to .75 caliber and shotgun shells are allowed, but other types like black powder are prohibited.

Ammonia and Bleach

• Both are banned due to their potential to cause explosions or fires when mixed or in certain conditions.

Fireworks and Sparklers

• Prohibited due to their flammable nature.

Specialty Glue

• Non-flammable glues like Elmer's are allowed, but flammable types like model glue are banned.

Pressurized Air Tanks

• Not allowed unless visibly empty. Compressed or liquid oxygen is also banned.

Key Points

• TSA uses technology to identify banned items rather than random checks.
• Several banned items are due to their flammability or explosion risk.
• Some items may be carried in carry-on luggage but not in checked bags.
• Specific packaging and declaration requirements exist for items like ammunition.

Additional Information

• Travelers are advised to check the TSA website for the complete list and detailed regulations on prohibited items before packing.