What Am I Not Allowed to Take on an Airplane?

Travelers often find themselves confused with changing guidelines for airline travel. Many items prohibited on airplanes are logical restrictions. Potentially dangerous items are generally restricted to checked luggage, if allowed at all. If you are unsure about an item not listed, contact your airline for clarification. Check with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for the latest restrictions.

When it comes to airline travel with food, understanding the guidelines and regulations can greatly enhance your dining experience on the go. From packed lunches to hot food, drinks, and alcohol, it’s important to know what you can and cannot bring with you through security and onto your flight.

• Frozen Food: While traveling, you can bring frozen food items such as ice packs or frozen gel packs to keep your other perishable items cold. These items are allowed as long as they are frozen solid when you pass through security.
• Fresh Fish: Fresh fish is permitted in your carry-on or checked baggage. To keep the fish from spoiling, pack it with dry ice or ice packs. Wrap the fish in plastic or other watertight material to keep it from leaking during transit.
• Fruits & Vegetables: Passengers are welcome to bring fresh fruits and vegetables on board. Place items in a sturdy container or plastic bag to prevent bruising. Any fruit or vegetable that is soft, mashed, or in sauce form is subject to the same restrictions that the TSA places on liquids, gels, and aerosols.
• Healthy Foods: Nutritious snacks and health-conscious foods are encouraged during travel. You can bring items like granola bars, trail mix, and other non-perishable options.
• Hot Foods: While you may not be able to bring piping hot foods on the plane, you can pack warm items such as a pre-cooked meal in a spill-proof container.
• Drinks: Once you pass the TSA security checkpoint, you are free to purchase any drink in the airport and bring it with you onto the plane. Before the checkpoint, you can bring small containers of drinks, such as travel-sized juice bottles or coffee cups, as long as they fit within a quart-sized bag and are within the specified volume limit of less than 3.4 ounces.
• Alcohol: While you can bring alcohol on a flight in your carry-on luggage, there are restrictions and regulations to follow. You may not be allowed to consume your own alcohol during the flight, and it must remain sealed if you plan to bring it home as a trip souvenir.

Embarking on a journey that involves air travel necessitates a thorough understanding of the protocols and guidelines pertaining to the transportation of medical equipment and medication. Whether you're heading on a much-anticipated vacation or a crucial business trip, navigating the intricacies of carrying essential medical supplies with you is essential to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience.

• Prescription Drugs: If you require prescription medication, be sure to pack it in your carry-on luggage. Keep the medication in its original packaging, clearly labeled with your name and the prescribing doctor's information.
• Vitamins: Bringing vitamins on your flight is generally permitted. Pack your vitamins in their original containers or use a pill organizer. You may want to pack them in your carry-on bag along with your prescription medications.
• Protein Powder: TSA regulations do not prohibit bringing protein powder along on your flight and you can bring it in your carry-on luggage. Before traveling, ensure that the powder is well-sealed to prevent it from spilling.
• CPAP Machines: If you use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, you can bring it on the flight. CPAP machines are considered essential medical devices and are exempt from the usual carry-on liquid restrictions.
• Crutches: Travelers who require crutches for mobility can bring them on the flight. Most airlines will allow crutches to be stowed in the overhead compartment or placed in a designated storage area in the cabin.
• Walking Stick: A walking stick or cane used for assistance is generally permitted on the flight. You can bring it with you and store it in the cabin during the journey.
• Epi Pens: Epi Pens are allowed on flights and should be easily accessible in your carry-on bag.
• Nebulizers: Nebulizers are allowed on flights, but it's recommended to notify the airline in advance and arrive early for security screening. You may need to undergo additional screening for the nebulizer itself.
• Insulin: Travelers who need to carry insulin for diabetes management can bring it on the flight. Insulin should be stored properly and easily accessible.
• Prescription Drugs: If you require prescription medication, be sure to pack it in your carry-on luggage. Keep the medication in its original packaging, clearly labeled with your name and the prescribing doctor's information.
• Vitamins: Bringing vitamins on your flight is generally permitted. Pack your vitamins in their original containers or use a pill organizer. You may want to pack them in your carry-on bag along with your prescription medications.
• Protein Powder: TSA regulations do not prohibit bringing protein powder along on your flight and you can bring it in your carry-on luggage. Before traveling, ensure that the powder is well-sealed to prevent it from spilling.
• CPAP Machines: If you use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, you can bring it on the flight. CPAP machines are considered essential medical devices and are exempt from the usual carry-on liquid restrictions.
• Crutches: Travelers who require crutches for mobility can bring them on the flight. Most airlines will allow crutches to be stowed in the overhead compartment or placed in a designated storage area in the cabin.
• Walking Stick: A walking stick or cane used for assistance is generally permitted on the flight. You can bring it with you and store it in the cabin during the journey.
• Epi Pens: Epi Pens are allowed on flights and should be easily accessible in your carry-on bag.
• Nebulizers: Nebulizers are allowed on flights, but it's recommended to notify the airline in advance and arrive early for security screening. You may need to undergo additional screening for the nebulizer itself.
• Insulin: Travelers who need to carry insulin for diabetes management can bring it on the flight. Insulin should be stored properly and easily accessible.

When traveling with infants or young children, caregivers should familiarize themselves with the specific regulations and guidelines regarding baby and child equipment in the airport and on the airplane. These guidelines are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of both the child and other passengers and to make your journey as stress-free as possible.

• Booster Seats: While booster seats are not allowed on the plane, a child big enough to need a booster seat is big enough to use a plane's seat belt. Most major airlines will generally check a booster seat at no cost to the passenger.
• Stroller: Most airlines allow strollers to be checked in at the gate or check-in counter, and they are typically returned to you upon arrival at the gate or baggage claim.
• Baby Food Pouches: Baby food pouches are acceptable for travel, allowing you to provide nourishment for your little one during the flight. Remember to adhere to TSA regulations for liquids and gels.
• Baby Formula: If your child requires formula feeding, you can bring baby formula on the airplane. It's recommended to pack powdered formula in your carry-on bag and mix it with water provided by flight attendants when needed.
• Travel System: Travel systems, which often include a stroller and a detachable car seat, can be used while navigating the airport. Like strollers, travel systems can be checked at the gate or check-in counter.
• Baby Milk: You can carry baby milk or breast milk on the plane, complying with the airline's liquid restrictions. Ensure that containers are properly sealed to prevent leaks, and consider informing airline staff about your milk storage needs.

When it comes to traveling with special attire, such as bridal dresses, suits, tuxedos, and delicate garments, careful planning can ensure they arrive at your destination in pristine condition.

• Bridal Dress: To avoid damage and loss, keep your bridal dress near you as much as possible. Consider using a garment bag designed specifically for wedding dresses. Most major carriers have an area near first class with closet space and hangers available to hang your gown during the flight.
• Suits: Pack suits with care to preserve their crisp appearance. Consider packing your suit in the dry cleaning bag and on the hanger and using a garment bag.
• Tuxedo: Like suits, transport your tuxedo in a garment bag to minimize damage to the material and potentially losing it with your luggage.
• Garment Bags: Garment bags are essential for keeping your special attire well-protected during travel. Look for bags with sturdy zippers, breathable fabric, and ample space to accommodate your garments without cramming. Most garment bags fold in half, making them easier to stow in the plane's overhead compartment or overhead bin.

From liquids that soothe to grooming tools that refine, demystifying the intricacies of toiletries on a plane will enhance your travel experience. Knowing what toiletries are allowed on a plane will help you plan what items to check to your final destination and what you will need to purchase when you land. Many grooming items are allowed in your carry-on, allowing for a freshening up at a layover or when you land.

• Liquids: Liquids are allowed in your carry-on bag, but they must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule. Each container of liquid should be 3.4 ounces or less, and all containers must fit into a quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag. This includes items like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. TSA is allowing one oversized liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in carry-on bags. Passengers may also bring hand wipes through checkpoints.
• Disposable Razor: Disposable razors and cartridges are allowed in checked baggage and carry-ons. However, straight razors are not permitted on a plane, and neither are safety razors unless the blade is removed beforehand.
• Electric Razor: Not only is an electric razor allowed in checked baggage, it can also be carried onto the plane. Batteries for your electric razor are allowed in carry-on or checked luggage.
• Shaving Cream: TSA has no restrictions on putting a full-size aerosol can of shaving cream in your luggage that will be checked at the airport. But in your carry-on, the aerosol must comply with the 3-1-1 rule.
• Tweezers: Tweezers are permitted in carry-on or checked baggage. If you prefer to shave your brow arches rather than tweezing, you can bring a disposable razor or eyebrow shaper.
• Nail Clippers: Nail clippers are generally allowed in carry-on baggage. No restrictions exist for other manicure tools, except for scissors which must have less than a 4-inch blade as measured from the fulcrum.
• Hairspray & Aerosols: Hairspray and aerosols are allowed in your carry-on, but they must also adhere to the 3-1-1 rule. Once you pass the TSA security checkpoint, you are free to purchase hairspray and aerosols in the airport and bring it with you onto the plane.
• Perfume: Perfume is allowed in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, adhering to the 3-1-1 rule. Alternatively, consider using solid perfume as an easy travel-friendly option.
• Deodorant: Deodorant sticks or roll-ons are typically allowed in carry-on baggage. Gel and aerosol deodorants must comply with the 3-1-1 rule.
• Hair Dryer & Hair Straightener: Hair dryers and hair straighteners are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage.

Preparing for air travel involves more than just booking a ticket and packing your clothes. Whether you're an avid knitter, an artist carrying your watercolors, or an adventurer with outdoor equipment in tow, this section covers the guidelines for bringing your hobby gear with you on your next adventure.

• Laptop: Laptops and other electronic devices are allowed in your carry-on baggage. Keep them easily accessible during security checks for efficient screening.
• Electronic Equipment: Alongside your laptop, other electronic equipment like cameras, tablets, and e-readers can also be brought on board in your carry-on bag.
• Artwork: Transporting artwork requires special care. Consider using protective sleeves or cases to prevent damage during travel. Smaller pieces can be transported as part of your carry-on baggage.
• Watercolors: Watercolors and art supplies are permitted in your carry-on. Make sure any liquid components adhere to the 3-1-1 rule.
• Guitar: Guitars and other musical instruments can be brought on the plane, either as carry-on items or by purchasing an extra seat for them. Always secure your guitar in a sturdy case and head directly to baggage claim after your flight lands if you checked your guitar as baggage.
• Sewing Items: Sewing supplies, such as needles and small scissors, can generally be included in your carry-on baggage. Packed and sheath sharp objects to prevent accidental injury to airport security and baggage handlers.
• Hiking Backpacks: Hiking backpacks can be carried as a personal item or a carry-on. Check larger backpacks as luggage, but take precautions to make sure straps don't get caught in conveyor belts.
• Camping Stoves: Camp stoves are permitted to be packed as either carry-on or checked luggage. Make sure to drain and clean the stove days before the departure date and let it thoroughly air out, so there is no lingering odor of fuel.
• Plants: Some plants are allowed on airplanes, but regulations vary depending on the destination and type of plant.
• Skis: Skis can be transported as checked baggage. Ensure they are properly packed and labeled to avoid damage.
• Bicycles: Bicycles are allowed on airplanes, but they generally need to be disassembled, packed in a suitable container, and checked as oversized baggage.

When it comes to air travel, there are strict regulations in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers. Certain items are not permitted on airplanes, and understanding these restrictions is crucial for a smooth and secure journey.

• Knives: Carrying knives on an airplane on your body or in your carry-on is prohibited due to safety concerns. However, knives and other sharp objects are permitted in checked luggage as long as they are sheathed and securely wrapped.
• Handguns & Weapons: Unless you are a law enforcement official, handguns and other weapons are strictly prohibited on airplanes. Firearms and flare guns may be checked if unloaded, packed in a locked, hard-sided container and declared.
• Tactical Pens: Tactical pens with blades shorter than two inches aren't specifically prohibited, although they're a sharp object and a weapon. If you plan to carry this writing instrument onto your flight, you must declare its presence to TSA during security.
• Gun Cases: Secure your unloaded firearm in a hard-sided container you can lock. TSA requires that you are the only person with the combination or key to your firearms.
• Cigarettes: TSA regulations don’t restrict quantities of cigarettes, so if you'd like to take multiple packs or cartons of cigarettes with you, you're generally in the clear. Be aware of designated smoking areas and restrictions on smoking during flights.
• Chewing Tobacco: The TSA places no restrictions on tobacco. You can bring tobacco products with you in your checked luggage as well as your carry-on bag.
• Lighters: You may carry one standard (disposable, Zippo, non torch) lighter on your person or in your carry-on bag.

Amid the complexities of air travel, certain items hold significance beyond their practicality. Whether you're carrying cherished blooms to commemorate an occasion or safeguarding a symbol of love, careful consideration is vital when traveling with gifts.

• Flowers: It is possible to safely take flowers on airplanes for domestic flights if you properly prepare them for transport several hours before the flight.
• Engagement Ring: If you are planning on transporting an engagement ring in your checked luggage, nestle the ring into the box it came in. Tuck the item into the bottom of your carry-on bag if you are taking it with you and add a discreet note of explanation so a security agent doesn’t accidentally ruin your big surprise.

Most airlines and airports have guidelines on what is acceptable to bring, so if you follow those, you can ensure that you have a smooth and stress-free travel experience. If you're ever in doubt about what you can take on a plane, or your specific question isn't answered on the airline's website, reach out and ask.