TSA’s Expanding Packing Ban — What’s Changed
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) maintains strict lists of items that cannot be taken through airport security in either carry-on or checked baggage — and the rules continue to evolve as new safety concerns emerge. While longstanding items such as explosives and firearms have always been prohibited, TSA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have introduced additional restrictions in recent years covering everyday objects that travelers might not expect.
Officials warn that attempting to pack banned items could result in confiscation, delays at security checkpoints, or even civil penalties. The safest approach is to review the TSA’s official “What Can I Bring?” tool and the updated prohibited list before every trip.
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What You Can’t Pack in Carry-On Bags
Under TSA regulations, many common objects are no longer permitted in the cabin regardless of circumstances:
- Liquids over 3.4 ounces (100 ml) must fit into a clear quart-size bag and adhere to the 3-1-1 rule; large bottles of sunscreen, mouthwash, sauces and gels won’t make it through.
- Lithium batteries and power banks — especially spare or loose ones — are not allowed in checked bags and must remain in carry-on luggage where they can be monitored due to fire risk.
- Sharp objects like box cutters, knives and certain tools are banned from carry-on and must be checked (if permitted at all).
- Flammable liquids and aerosols such as large butane containers, spray paint and pressurized gas canisters are prohibited.
These restrictions are in place to reduce fire hazards and ensure passenger safety during flights and security screening.
Newer Bans: Power Tools and Hair Devices
In recent policy updates, TSA and FAA have expanded the list of banned items:
- Cordless hair styling tools — such as gas- or battery-powered curling irons and flat irons — have been banned from checked luggage due to their hazardous energy sources, though corded versions with direct power plugs remain allowed.
- Power banks and portable chargers are no longer permitted in checked bags at all and must be carried on — a change driven by safety concerns over lithium battery fires.
Travelers frustrated by these evolving restrictions argue the bans have become overly broad, especially for everyday items once considered harmless, like personal grooming tools. Experts, however, point out that these rules reflect new safety data and an emphasis on preventing onboard fire incidents.
Checked Baggage Restrictions — Beyond Carry-On Limits
While checked luggage allows more flexibility, several items remain banned outright:
- Flammable or explosive materials such as gasoline, propane tanks and fireworks.
- Compressed gas cartridges and pressurized containers pose risks and are prohibited.
- Certain batteries and electronic devices — particularly spare lithium batteries and e-cigarettes — are banned or require special packaging.
- Weapons and dangerous tools — from firearms (which have their own procedures) to sharp cutting instruments — are strictly regulated or banned unless declared and properly secured under strict airline protocols.
Failing to pack items properly or misunderstanding these rules can result in delays, lost items, and potential fines.
Why These Rules Matter in 2026
TSA’s evolving guidelines reflect ongoing efforts to enhance airport safety and keep pace with emerging technologies. Lithium battery regulations, in particular, have tightened due to documented fire risks in cargo holds.
However, travelers and travel-industry professionals often find these changes difficult to track, especially as new restrictions can pop up without advance notice. Reading official TSA communications before each trip remains essential.
Tips to Avoid Packing Mistakes
To navigate the TSA packing ban safely:
- Check the TSA “What Can I Bring?” tool before packing.
- Keep all batteries and power banks in carry-on luggage to comply with safety rules.
- Prepare liquids and gels in the proper sizes and bags to avoid confiscation.
- Declare any unusual items to TSA officers during screening to prevent misunderstandings.
Being proactive helps travelers avoid costly surprises at the airport and keeps everyone safer.
This article is for informational travel and airport security news coverage purposes only. It is based on official TSA guidance and publicly available travel reporting. The content does not provide legal advice and adheres to AdSense content policies.