Girls trip coming up and you need to carry some hair tools? Well be careful because the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced a new rule that will affect many travellers. Certain hair tools are no longer permitted in checked luggage.
Now this may upset many travellers, but it is all about keeping flights safe.
Which Hair Tools Are Banned?
This ban is applicable to cordless hair straighteners and curling irons that have gas or butane cartridges. These tools are often sold as travel friendly because they do not need to be plugged in and are easy to carry.
Even though these products seem practical, they are dangerous. The gas cartridges may leak and due to pressure changes during the flight, the gas could potentially start a fire in the luggage hold. In order to prevent this, TSA has made the decision that these tools will no longer be allowed in checked bags.
What Hair Tools Can You Still Bring?
There’s no need to stress about this because there are hair tools that are still permitted. Hair dryers, curling irons and hair straighteners that have cords are allowed to be packed in hand luggage and checked bags.
You are allowed just on cordless hair tool in your hand luggage (carry-on bag), but make sure that it has protection over the heating element. Extra gas cartridges are not allowed in either checked or carry-on bags.
For travellers who want to avoid all of the extra commotion, the best option is to just carry only plug in hair tools, alternatively check with your place of accommodation if they provide hair styling tools.
How This Could Affect Travelers
This new rule could cause unnecessary stress for travellers who are not yet familiar with it. If you have already packed a hair tool that is not permitted, TSA would likely confiscate it before your flight.
Make sure to be extra careful when packing to avoid wasting time at the airport. Review the TSA website before departing so that you are aware of what is allowed in your luggage and what isn’t.
Packing Tips to Make Life Easier
Follow these tips to avoid trouble at the airport:
- Keep plug-in tools since they are still permitted, safe, and convenient to pack.
- Review the amenities offered by the hotel: a lot of them have hair dryers, and some even have curling irons or straighteners.
- Avoid carrying extra gas cartridges: All baggage is prohibited from carrying them.
- Double-check before packing: To double-check, use the TSA’s online “What Can I Bring?” tool.
Why the Change Matters
Although the rule may seem frustrating, the goal is safety. A small fire in the cargo hold of an aircraft might be quite deadly. TSA reduces the risk for all passengers by prohibiting gas-powered tools from being included in checked baggage.
The change is an element of a bigger effort to increase the safety of flying. TSA has also imposed restrictions on things like as aerosol cans and lithium batteries throughout the years due to the fact that they can catch fire in certain circumstances.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead to Avoid Stress
The new ban is just one more thing for travellers to consider before packing. But it doesn’t have to be problematic if you prepare beforehand. If you use cordless gas-powered styling equipment at home, you might want to switch to plug-in versions when you travel.
In summary, pack carefully, review the rules and regulations, and avoid surprises at security. To ensure a seamless start to your vacation, a few minutes of preparation may save you money, time, and stress.