We’ve all been there—standing in the TSA line, panicking about whether our water bottle or nail clippers are about to get us flagged. But did you know there are some pretty bizarre items the TSA won’t let you bring on a plane? Buckle up for this list of “Wait, seriously?” items you can’t bring on your carry-on, but (mostly) can stuff in your checked bag. Because, apparently, these items are just too dangerous to sit beside you at 35,000 feet. Let’s dive in!

MAGIC 8 BALL:

Canva
Canva
loading...

"Will I make it through security?" Don’t even bother asking. Magic 8 Balls are a no-go in your carry-on because the liquid inside is apparently too risky. You can, however, toss it in your checked bag if you need a little help deciding between "Reply hazy" and "Ask again later."

HEATING PADS:

Canva
Canva
loading...

That comfy heating pad for your achy back? TSA says *nope* to carry-on. But if it’s in your checked luggage, it’s all good. Maybe the warmth could trigger the plane’s climate system? Or maybe TSA just wants you to suffer a little longer before you hit that hotel bed.

GEL INSOLES:

Canva
Canva
loading...

So you thought those squishy gel insoles would keep your feet comfy as you dash through the airport? Too bad. The gel inside makes them unwelcome in your carry-on. But hey, you can still toss 'em in the checked bag, because comfy feet at your final destination are the only ones that matter.

SNOW GLOBES:

Canva
Canva
loading...

You picked up a charming little snow globe at the souvenir shop—what could be more innocent? Apparently, snow globes are TSA’s arch-nemesis because of the liquid inside. In your carry-on? Forget it. In checked luggage? Sure, freeze your heart’s content.

CAST IRON PANS:

Canva
Canva
loading...

A good cast iron pan can survive *anything*—except TSA security. No carrying that bad boy on a plane. You can, however, check it in with your other essentials. No word on why you’re traveling with cookware, but hey, no judgment.

FOAM SWORDS:

Canva
Canva
loading...

Bringing your foam sword for a little cosplay convention in Vegas? Not in your carry-on, you're not. TSA sees foam swords as potential threats (really?). But throw it in the checked luggage, and you’ll be ready to duel Lancelot at baggage claim.

FERTILIZER:

Canva
Canva
loading...

The one item you *absolutely* can’t bring—whether it’s in your carry-on or checked bag—is fertilizer. It might seem like a random addition to your trip, but TSA isn’t messing around with this one. Too many explosive components in the mix, so best to leave the gardening supplies at home!

BONUS ROUND! 3 Weird Items YOU CAN Bring On The Plane:

Surprisingly, these next few things are TSA-approved for carry-ons. Ready for some head-scratchers?

TOOLS:

Canva
Canva
loading...

Yep, as long as they’re under 7 inches, tools are fine to bring. So if you feel like fixing up the plane’s plumbing mid-flight, have at it (kidding… please don’t).

SMALL SCISSORS:

Canva
Canva
loading...

Not all sharp things are banned. As long as your scissors are less than 4 inches, you're good to go! So feel free to do a little mid-flight crafting or snip away at those in-flight magazines.

DISPOSABLE RAZORS:

Canva
Canva
loading...

It’s true! While they seem sketchy, disposable razors are totally cool in your carry-on. So, no need to fear a last-minute, pre-beach shave, but please don’t decide to touch up your beard mid-flight—your seatmates might not appreciate that!

So, next time you’re packing for your flight, double-check this list to avoid some awkward TSA moments. Because nothing says “vacation” like trying to explain your foam sword collection to a confused security officer!

Cat Country 107.3 and 94.9 logo
Get our free mobile app

More From Cat Country 107.3 and 94.9