TSA expands travel restrictions: These 7 items are now off-limits
Here’s the latest TSA ban on 7 popular items you should know about before heading to the airport.
If you are planning a trip this season, you might want to check your travel bag first. While getting your bags checked at the airport is a common occurrence, with the new Transportation Security Administration (TSA)'s list of banned items, a relaxing time can quickly turn into unpleasant.
If you want to save some time down at the airport, it is very important to check this list with all the new banned items, to avoid unnecessary delays and discomfort; and pack accordingly.
Loose lithium batteries
You probably have some of these if you are travelling with some technological devices such as cameras or drones. However, these cannot be inside your checked luggage, and you must pack them carefully inside your carry-on luggage to prevent short-circuiting.
Toy weapons
While this may be the most expected item on the list, as airports typically have very strict rules regarding objects that resemble a weapon, these types of toy are only allowed on your checked bags. Empty water guns, toy swords, are included on this list. However, any kind of explosive replicas are prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage.
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Alcohol over 140 proof
You probably have picked up those mini bottles of alcohol at the airport, nonetheless, you must be very careful as any kind of alcohol over 140 is now absolutely prohibited in both checked bags and carry-on luggage. This ban also applies to grain alcohol and 151 proof rum.
Smart luggage with non-removable batteries
Did you know smart luggage existed? This kind of luggage has many special features that allow you to charge your devices and track their location via GPS. Many of them are, like some smartphones and only open if you scan your fingerprint. It is very important to know the TSA has banned this kind of luggage only if it doesn't have removable batteries.
Wrapped gifts
It may seem obsessive, but if you're planning to bring presents for friends and family, it's best not to wrap them. While it's very unlikely they won’t let you travel with the item, there is a real possibility that they will unwrap the gifts if deemed necessary. You will have wasted time twice—once wrapping the present and again waiting for TSA officers to finish inspecting the rest of your bags.
Some snacks
Spreadable foods like peanut butter, hummus and dips are under observation as many rules applying to liquids can also affect them. Anything over 3.4 ounces is not allowed in carry-on luggage. If you don't want to lose your snacks, make sure anything over this amount is on your checked bag.
Razor blades
While disposable razor blades, and electric razors are allowed in both checked bags and carry-ons, as long as they are properly secured; razor-type blades are not allowed in carry on bags. Just remember that all sharp objects must be properly sheathed to prevent any kind of injury to inspectors.
