TSA's New Baggage Ban: What'll Get You Stopped & Why

Just when travelers thought they’d finally cracked the code on what’s allowed in their checked luggage, the TSA has dropped a new set of restrictions—because apparently, flying wasn’t complicated enough already.

After a series of high-profile safety scares (things actually catching fire mid-air), the agency has expanded its infamous “no-fly” list for your bags as of August 25. Some of these bans might seem obvious, but others will have even the most seasoned jet-setter scrambling to repack at the curb.

The Latest Offenders: What’s Now a No-Go

1. Cordless Curling Irons With Gas Cartridges

Butane-powered beauty? Not in the belly of the plane, you’re not. These are now persona non grata in checked bags—sealed, used, or otherwise. If you absolutely must tame that frizz at 35,000 feet, one capped device is allowed in your carry-on. For everyone else: plug it in or leave it home.

2. Gas-Powered Hair Straighteners

Same song, second verse. Any flat iron running on butane is now officially grounded from the cargo hold. The only exception: one capped tool in your hand luggage. Hair perfectionists: consider investing in a cord.

3. Spare Gas Cartridges

Thinking of sneaking in a few extra cartridges for your beauty tools or mini camp stove? TSA says nope. Spare gas cylinders are now strictly carry-on only, and even that's a stretch. Buy your fuel at your destination or prepare to donate it to the TSA’s ever-growing collection of confiscated oddities.

4. Cordless Hair Tools With Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries: beloved by gadget fans, loathed by fire marshals. Any hair tool powered by these volatile little cells is now carry-on only, and must be capped and secure. No spares in checked bags, period.

5. Loose Lithium Batteries

If you’ve ever tried to stash your laptop or drone batteries in checked luggage, congrats, you’ve been breaking the rules for years. Now, TSA is actually enforcing it. All lithium spares must be in your carry-on, terminals taped, and ideally in their own pouch—unless you’re fond of delays, confiscations, or fines.

6. E-Cigarettes and Vaping Devices

Vapes, e-cigs, and any other electronic smoking devices are now strictly cabin-only. No more hiding them in your checked bag. And don’t even think about lighting up in the airplane bathroom unless you fancy a chat with federal agents.

7. Fuel Canisters and Camping Stoves

Outdoor types, take note: flammable canisters and even “empty” stoves are now prime TSA targets. Residue clings, and so does suspicion. Clean your gear, ship it separately, or wait until you land to buy fuel.

8. Sharp Camping and Sports Gear

Axes, tent stakes, and multi-tools are getting more scrutiny than ever. If it’s pointy or heavy, expect a grilling at security—and possibly a one-way trip to the TSA’s lost-and-never-found.

9. Powders Over 12 Ounces

Protein powder, pancake mix, and that giant tub of pre-workout you just bought? If it’s more than 12 ounces, expect delays or a chemical test. Split it up and label it, or risk having your gains confiscated.

10. Toy Weapons and Props

That foam sword for Comic-Con? If it looks like a real weapon on the scanner, it’s probably not making it on board. TSA doesn’t care that it’s plastic—if it looks sketchy, it’s toast.

11. Grooming Tools With Unlabeled Batteries

Electric razors and toothbrushes without clear battery markings? TSA has started pulling these too. If they can’t see the label, they’ll probably see it in the trash.

12. Foil-Wrapped Foods

Not banned, just guaranteed to slow you—and everyone behind you—down. Foil blocks scanners, so pack your snacks in clear bags unless you like public unwrapping sessions with security.

13. Herbal Powders and Incense

Not illegal, just suspicious. If you must travel with sage or incense, keep it in its original packaging and declare it. Otherwise, prepare for questions and side-eye.

Pack Smart or Pay the Price

Air travel rules aren’t carved in stone—they’re written in pencil, with a heavy hand on the eraser. The best move? Assume anything flammable, battery-powered, sharp, or mysterious-looking is suspect. Check the latest updates before you pack, because what got you through last year might get you stopped this time.

Bottom line: Pack smart. Read the rules. And maybe leave the butane-powered beauty routine at home. Welcome to 2025, where the only thing that flies under the radar is your patience.

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