If you’re like most travelers these days, you’ve questioned what you can and can’t pack into your carry-on luggage — after all, there’s nothing worse than having something you’ve packed thrown in the trash after TSA informs you that it’s not allowed onboard.
Thankfully, TSA has loosened the reins a bit when it comes to what is allowed on a plane and there are many things that are now allowed onboard that were once prohibited. Here are a few things you may be surprised to learn that you can pack in your carry on for your next flight.
1. LIGHTERS
Smokers may be pleased to learn that you can now carry what the TSA calls “common lighters” on board. In other words, a plastic BIC lighter is acceptable, but leave the butane or torch lighters like your dad’s old Zippo in your checked baggage, or even at home.
2. CERTAIN TYPES OF SCISSORS
According to the TSA, “metal scissors with pointed tips and blades shorter than 4 inches are allowed, but blades longer than 4 inches are prohibited.” Blunt-edge (children’s) scissors are also allowed.
3. ICE SKATES
Figure skaters, rejoice! Ice skates are allowed onboard, as are rollerblades. That being said, it’s a good idea to keep them bagged to avoid potential injury in the event they fall out of the overhead bin.
4. CERTAIN TOOLS
A limited list of tools (such as screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers) are allowed onboard as long as they’re under 7 inches in length. Tools that are longer than 7 inches remain prohibited, as do hammers, drills, drill bits and saws. Oh, and leave your cattle prods at home, cowboy — those remain prohibited as well.
5. KNITTING NEEDLES
While knitting and crochet needles are technically allowed on board, TSA recommends that you leave the sturdy needles in your checked luggage and bring bamboo or plastic needles instead.
6. NAIL CLIPPERS
Want to kill some flight time by doing your nails? You’re in luck! Nail clippers are once again permitted onboard.
This is just a small sample of items that are now allowed onboard. If you’re wondering whether you can bring a specific item in your carry-on, the TSA has a great search tool of prohibited items on their website.
It’s important to note that even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. The final decision rests with the TSA agents on whether to allow any items on the plane.
