There are two types of people in this world: good packers and bad packers. But whichever one you are, all must comply with the rules of the TSA. Therefore, knowing which items you can and cannot pack in your suitcase makes your journey through the airport all the more smooth.
As we know, TSA has a strict 3.4oz-liquid limit in carry-on bags. Even so, TSA currently permits some pretty quirky items in both your carry-on and checked bags. So let’s explore some of the weirdest items TSA permits you to pack.
Due note, that even if the TSA website says an item is permitted, it may be subject to additional screening. Not all permitted items are listed, and some are permitted in both carry-on and checked bags but only listed in one section below. Refer to the official TSA website for further details.
TSA permits these items in a carry-on:
- Air mattress with built-in pump (special instructions)
- Antlers
- Artificial skeleton bones
- Bowling balls
- Bread machine
- Cheese – creamy (special instructions)
- Cheese – solid
- Coffee beans (*however, this is a commonly flagged item)
- Fidget spinners
- Fishing pole
- Laser hair remover
- Live coral
TSA permits these items in a checked bag:
- Ammunition (special instructions)
- Axes and hatchets
- Blender
- Brass instruments
- Canoe/kayak paddles
- Foam toy sword
- Fresh meat
- Gravy
- Live lobster
- Rainbow flame crystals
TSA permits these full-size liquids:
- Live fish
- Prescription medicine (in gel, aerosol or liquid)
- Ice, gel, and freezer packs (necessary for medicines)
- Fresh eggs
- Baby formula
- Baby/toddler food & drink
- Biological specimen (non-infectious in preservative solution)
- Duty free items
- Wet batteries (non-spilling)
- Liquid teethers
- Over-the-counter medication
Bringing prohibited items can lead to civil penalties. If you have a question about an item but cannot find more information on the TSA website you can text “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872) with your inquiry.