Just as everything as is evolving, so is air travel. As things change, so does the risks and in order to mitigate the risks, changes must be made. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reviews its rules and regulations often. The reason for this is to ensure that air travel risks are minimized as much as reasonably practicable. By reviewing the rules, TSA is able to put in place new recommendations to prevent incidents.
TSA made changes to its list of banned items, and these changes relate to cordless beauty tools, portable batteries, or vaping devices. The goal isn’t to inconvenience travellers, but to keep everyone on board safe.
The Everyday Items Now Restricted
Some of the newest additions to the TSA’s watch list are things many people wouldn’t think twice about packing. Here are a few that stand out:
- Cordless hair tools – Butane-powered curling wands and flat irons, as well as some lithium-battery models, are no longer allowed in carry-ons because they can overheat.
- Large power banks – Oversized portable chargers are a fire risk, especially in tight cabin spaces.
- Vaping devices
These may not sound dangerous at first, but at cruising altitude, the risks increase dramatically.
What Hasn’t Changed
The other rules are still in place. Liquids, gels, and aerosols must stay under 3.4 ounces in your carry-on. Sharp objects like knives and scissors remain prohibited. Firearms, as always, must be declared and packed properly in checked luggage.
Even if you don’t travel often, it’s important not to assume the rules are the same as last time you flew. A quick check before packing can save you the trouble at the checkpoint.
Why These Items Are a Problem
It’s important for travellers to remember that these restrictions are for safety and not to inconvenience travellers. Gas cartridges and butane can leak, ignite, or explode under the pressure changes of air travel, creating a dangerous fire hazard.
The change isn’t just about convenience; it’s about fire prevention. When damaged, lithium batteries have a tendency to overheat or catch fire. In 2024 alone, the FAA documented 39 incidents involving lithium batteries on passenger aircraft, most of them tied to power banks.
How to Avoid Security Surprises
Travellers can stay prepared by utilising the TSA’s online website to view the items that are allowed and those that are banned. There are other tips that include:
- Keep batteries with you – Never pack spare lithium batteries or power banks in checked luggage.
- Pack toiletries in a clear bag to avoid liquid disputes.
- Double-check sports or specialty items.
- When in doubt, exercise flexibility. Moving anything to checked luggage is simpler than losing it at the checkpoint.
- Double-check beauty tools – If yours uses gas or butane, keep it in your carry-on (with a safety cover).
- Be aware of the regulations on smoking devices, vapes and e-cigarettes should be brought in your carry-on.
- Be mindful of fire risks – Lighters and flammable items are tightly restricted.
Final Takeaway
We all find travelling a little stressful, and that too without the idea of losing any of items such hair tools, batteries or vapes. The latest update from TSA is quite clear, the goal is to reduce the fire risks and keep passengers safe up in the sky.
It is also known that airport security rules can be frustrating and sometimes, unknowingly, we might carry an item that is banned. This can lead to delays at the airport, it therefore recommended to get all the necessary information before travelling. The TSA website has verified information what is and isn’t allowed.
Spend a few extra minutes and prepare accordingly to save yourself any hassle later on.