If you’ve traveled by air at all during the last two decades, you probably already know you can’t bring a weapon—nor even a bottle of water—through a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security screening checkpoint. No surprise there.
But what might surprise you are the items that are actually fine to fly with. The TSA’s official “What Can I Bring?” list includes everything from toy lightsabers and live fish to knitting needles… and even tattoo guns. Of course, travelers should always double-check with their airline for carry-on restrictions and remember that final decisions rest with TSA officers.
Here are 25 of the most unexpected items you can actually bring through airport security in your carry-on bag:
Antlers
Yes, you can fly with antlers in your carry-on or checked bag—just make sure they’ll fit. According to TSA’s official language: “You may transport this item in carry-on or checked bags. For items you wish to carry on, you should check with the airline to ensure that the item will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.”
Crampons
TSA says this piece of outdoor adventure gear is “generally permitted in carry-on bags,” though officers have the discretion to prohibit them if they feel they might pose a threat. In other words, pack carefully, and be polite if they get an extra glance at screening.
Crochet hooks and knitting needles
Sure, they might look vaguely weapon-like, but they’re actually harmless. So yes, you can bring your craft project on board.
Knitting needles and crochet hooks are permitted in carry-on and checked baggage. TSA recommends wrapping sharp ends securely “to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.”
Fishing poles
Fishing rods are fine in both carry-on and checked luggage—but size matters. According to the TSA, “Passengers should check with the airline to confirm that the fishing rod fits within size limitations for carry-on items.” Sharp hooks or large tackle should be sheathed and checked, but small flies and reels can stay with you.
Hiking poles and walking sticks
These items, too, might seem like potential spears or projectiles. But they’re actually fine to fly.
“Blunt-tipped hiking poles are allowed in carry-on or checked bags and must be screened like other property,” per TSA. Sharp-tipped versions are not permitted in carry-ons, and officers have final say.
Like hiking poles, “blunt-tipped walking sticks are allowed in carry-on or checked bags,” but sharp-tipped ones must be checked.
Juice for babies
Parents get a pass on the 3-1-1 rule—and not just for the dietary essentials of milk and formula. Baby food and juice too “in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag,” TSA explains. You’ll just need to inform officers and remove the items for separate screening.
Laser hair removers
Planning on getting DIY smooth skin for your beach vacation? Battery-powered laser hair removers are fine to pack. TSA lists them as allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
Light sabers
Straight from TSA’s official page, this cheeky explanation: “Sadly, the technology doesn’t currently exist to create a real lightsaber. However, you can pack a toy lightsaber in your carry-on or checked bag. May the Force be with you.”
Lighters
Some lighters (specifically arc or e-lighters) are actually permitted—with caution. TSA advises that “measures must be taken to prevent unintentional activation of the heating element while on board the aircraft,” such as removing the battery or using a safety latch.
Disposable and Zippo lighters without fuel are fine in both carry-ons as well as in checked bags. “Lighters with fuel are prohibited in checked bags,” TSA notes, unless stored in an approved DOT case.
Live coral, fish, and lobster
Returning from a tropical vacation? TSA says: “Live corals in water and a clear transparent container are allowed after inspection by the TSA officer.”
Fish fly too. According to the TSA, “Live fish in water and a clear transparent container are allowed after inspection by the TSA officer.”
And despite the claws, even lobster is cool for your carry-on. It’s “allowed through security and must be transported in a clear, plastic, spill-proof container,” TSA says. They’ll visually inspect your crustacean at the checkpoint.
Magic 8 Ball
No, this iconic toy isn’t an issue that comes up a lot. But it is good to know just in case. TSA’s answer to the question is delightfully playful: “For carry-on bags: Outlook not so good! For checked bags: It is certain!”
Matches
One book of safety matches (not strike-anywhere matches) is permitted in your carry-on. “All matches are prohibited in checked baggage,” TSA notes.
Nail files
Yes, even metal nail files are allowed—though TSA reminds travelers to “sheath or securely wrap” any sharp objects in checked bags.
Pies and cakes
Since they’re not liquids, homemade pies and bakery treats are A-OK to come through security. TSA just asks travelers to “separate items such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.”
Plants
Your green thumb is good to go—plants are allowed in your carry-on. TSA’s note: “Check with the airline to ensure that the item will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.”
Scissors
Though they have blades, scissors are OK under a specified size. They are permitted if “less than four inches from the pivot point.” Longer scissors must be checked.
Tools
TSA allows “tools seven inches or shorter (measured from end to end when assembled)” in your carry-on. This includes potentially eyebrow-raising items like screwdrivers, so long as they meet the size requirements.
Selfie sticks
Sure, some people find them obnoxious in public settings… but yes, they’re technically allowed. Just be prepared to take yours out if requested at screening.
Skates
Both ice skates and rollerblades are allowed—though they’ll likely earn a second look at screening.
Small fishing lures
Smaller tackle is fine to carry on, but TSA says “sharp fishing tackle that may be considered dangerous, such as large fish hooks, should be sheathed, securely wrapped, and packed in your checked luggage.”
Sports cleats
Cleats are permitted, but TSA reminds travelers that “sports equipment that can be used as a bludgeon (such as bats and clubs) is prohibited in the cabin.”
Tattoo guns
Most battery-powered devices—including tattoo machines—are fine in carry-on or checked bags.
Tent poles
“Generally allowed in carry-on or checked bags,” TSA says—but officers have final discretion at the checkpoint.
Toy guns and weapons
While toy versions are generally allowed, TSA “recommends that you pack them in your checked baggage.” Realistic replicas and toy explosives are prohibited.
Utensils
Knives are the only no-go among typical utensils, “except for plastic or round-bladed butter knives,” which are good to go.
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