Traveling by airplane is a pleasure that can turn stressful quickly. As a Type 1 diabetic, I have extra challenges, that start with airport security. Challenge #1: my CGM (continuous glucose monitor) shouldn’t go through the walk-through screening. Secondly, I carry items onboard (like insulin) that can’t be placed on that screening belt either. So, I’m always on the lookout for other items that could be flagged by airport security and add to the challenges I know are already there. I am surprised, and I think you may be too, by some of these items that have been flagged by airport security recently.
Peanut Butter Is Among Surprising Items Flagged
Peanut butter is a convenient, portable, protein-filled snack for someone like me. But I have learned NOT to pack a jar in my carry-on, because airport security classifies peanut butter as a liquid. Yes, you read that right. That sticky stuff that you can’t begin to get off the roof of your mouth, is a liquid according to the TSA. Small, individual packages are almost always ok, but be sure to put them in your clear, plastic bag.
Thick Exfoliants, Like Body Scrubs, Have Recently Been Confiscated by Airport Security
And speaking of liquids, who’d have thought that something like a body scrub would be considered a liquid, but, guess what folks? It is. To adhere to TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-ons, your liquids have to be less than 3.4 ounces. And the TSA considers body scrub to be a liquid, just like peanut butter. It’s all for our safety. Just keep that in mind even if it blows your mind a little.
Some Other Surprising Items That Have Been Flagged by Airport Security
I think some items that make these lists are fairly obvious ones, like corkscrews. I mean, c’mon people. If that wine-opening tool doesn’t look like a weapon to you, you are just not paying attention. And wrapped gifts have been a no-no for a long while now. You will just end up re-wrapping them, because for TSA every day is their birthday, and they have to do it for our safety.
But how about snow globes? Yup, back to the over 3.4 ounces of liquid rule. You’re losing the Eiffel Tower in winter if you pack it in your carry-on. And small hand weights? TSA considers them something that can be used as a bludgeon. Yikes! But I get that. And finally, Christmas crackers. No, I’m not talking about Ritz or Wheat Thins. These are those pretty, cardboard cylinders that people put out as table decor during the holidays. You pull them open. They pop and crack. And then you’re usually less than thrilled by the tissue paper crown and the plastic toys inside. The TSA prohibits them primarily because they make the sound they do when pulled open. Anything that can sound like a gun or an explosive is out. I get that too.
If you’re traveling by plane this summer you may want to double check the TSA Guidelines for carry-ons in advance. Their list is extensive and we’ve barely scratched the surface here. For other travel-related topics, check out: Best Travel Items to Buy at Consignment and Thrift Stores, Travel Items to Avoid Buying Second-Hand and How To Be Good To The Environment When You Travel.
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