Travel experts have revealed the ten everyday items that could get you stopped at airport security as peak travel season approaches. Most passengers are aware of certain rules and prohibited items on planes.
Electrical items, such as laptops and power banks, will need to be inspected, and all travellers must limit the amount of liquids they carry. However, there are several other unsuspecting everyday items that you may not realise could cause you problems.
Experts at Ski Vertigo have put together a list of ten common things that often lead to additional checks and how to deal with them to avoid unnecessary hold-ups. By understanding these typical items and their related rules, travellers can better prepare for security screenings and avoid needless delays at the airport.
1. Liquids over 100millilitres (3.4 Ounces):
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) restricts passengers from carrying liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers larger than 100 millilitres (3.4 ounces) in their hand luggage. This rule, known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule, was introduced to prevent the possibility of creating liquid explosives onboard, reports the Daily Record.
Passengers must place these containers in a single, quart-sized, clear plastic bag. Exceptions are made for medications, baby formula, and breast milk, but they must be declared and inspected separately.
A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo commented: “To save both time and money, consider purchasing travel-sized containers for your toiletries. Instead of buying expensive travel-sized products, you can buy reusable containers and fill them with your favourite shampoo, conditioner, and other liquids.
“This not only complies with the 3-1-1 liquids rule but also ensures you don’t have to buy new products at inflated airport prices.”
2. Sharp objects:
Items such as knives, scissors, box cutters, and other sharp objects are banned from carry-on luggage because they can be used as weapons. Even small items like nail clippers or safety razors might be scrutinised.
If you must travel with these items, it’s best to pack them in checked luggage to avoid delays at security checkpoints.
3. Over-the-counter medications:
While allowed, over-the-counter medications can sometimes cause delays if they are in liquid form or in large quantities. Security officers might need to inspect these items to ensure they comply with liquid restrictions and to confirm they are not hazardous.
The spokesperson added: “For your health, ensure you carry any necessary prescription medications in your carry-on, but keep them in their original labelled containers to avoid any confusion or delays at security. It’s also wise to have a doctor’s note explaining your need for the medication, especially if it includes syringes or other medical equipment. This preparation can prevent stress and ensure you have everything you need for a healthy journey.”
4. Electronics:
Large electronic items like laptops, tablets, and cameras need to be removed from carry-on bags and placed in separate bins for X-ray screening. This is because dense electronic devices can obscure the view of other items in the bag, potentially hiding prohibited items.
Additionally, spare lithium batteries must be packed in carry-on luggage but are subject to quantity limits due to fire risks.
5. Food items:
Certain food items, especially those that are liquid or gel-like, such as peanut butter, jelly, or yoghurt, are subject to the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Solid foods generally pass through security without issues, but any food that can be spread, squirted, or poured may be confiscated if it exceeds the allowed liquid limits.
Food items can also trigger additional screening if they appear suspicious on the X-ray.
6. Powders:
Powders, including baby powder, protein powder, and spices, are subject to additional screening if they exceed 350 millilitres (12 ounces). Large quantities of powders can obscure clear images on X-ray machines and may be tested for explosives or drugs.
To avoid delays, travellers should pack powders in checked luggage if possible.
7. Personal care products:
Personal care products such as hair spray, deodorant, and shaving cream are subject to the 3-1-1 liquids rule. If these items are in aerosol form, they must comply with size restrictions and be placed in the quart-sized plastic bag.
Some personal care items, such as nail polish remover, are also considered hazardous and may be restricted. “Also, if you use contact lenses, bring a small bottle of solution within the 3-1-1 limits, along with a spare pair of glasses, to avoid eye strain or discomfort during your flight,” the spokesperson said.
8. Souvenirs and gifts:
Unusual souvenirs or wrapped gifts can cause delays. Security officers may need to unwrap gifts to inspect their contents, and souvenirs that resemble weapons (e.g. , toy guns or sharp items) may be confiscated or cause additional screening.
9. Tools:
Tools such as hammers, wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers are prohibited in carry-on bags because they can be used as weapons. The TSA has specific size and type restrictions for tools, and those that exceed the limits must be packed in checked luggage.
If travelling with tools is necessary, it’s important to review the TSA guidelines to ensure compliance.
10. Baby products:
Items such as baby formula, breast milk, and baby food are permitted in reasonable quantities but must be declared at security checkpoints for separate screening. These items are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule, however, security officers may need to test them for safety.
If you’re planning on bringing a baby stroller or car seat, be prepared for additional screening.
