HONOLULU (KHON2) — It’s summertime, and that means people are traveling much more. From Hawaiʻi holidays and to family reunions, it’s vacation time for many Americans.
When you fly to a destination with an airline, there are Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules about what you can bring in your carry-on bag (the bag you take on the plane with you).
Some rules are simple, like, no big weapons, for example. But others are surprising. Here’s a guide to help you out.
Unusual items you can bring in your as carry-on
These might seem strange, but they are allowed:
- Antlers.
- Artificial skeleton bones.
- Bocce balls.
- Chopsticks.
- Drumsticks (for drums, not chicken).
- Duct tape.
- Forks.
- Harry Potter wand.
- Knitting needles and crochet hooks.
- Nail clippers and metal nail files.
- Parachutes (with special rules).
- Skateboards and rollerblades (check with airline for size).
- Sewing needles and even sewing machines.
- Vacuum robots.
- Longboards.
- A TV or a printer.
- Scissors if blades are less than 4 inches.
- Corkscrews.
- Screwdrivers if shorter than 7 inches.
Allowed for carry-on (even though similar items are not)
Sometimes, you can bring certain items that seem similar to things that are not allowed.
Knitting needles are explicitly allowed in carry-on and checked baggage. Even long metal needles, though sharp and pointed, are permitted. Crochet hooks with their sharp hooks are also allowed in carry-on and checked baggage.
However, tent spikes, a.k.a. tent stakes, are not allowed in carry-on due to their sharp, weapon-like points.
And while corkscrews are allowed, Swiss Army knives are not.
Surprising Things That Count as Liquids
Liquids, creams and gels in carry-on bags must be in containers 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, and all must fit in one quart-size bag.
Some foods look solid but count as liquids or gels:
- Creamy cheese.
- Hummus.
- Creamy dips and spreads (like ranch or bean dip).
- Peanut butter.
- Salsa and sauces.
- Yogurt.
- Soup.
- Pies with gooey fillings or soft centers.
- Ice cream or gelato (if not solid).
Even if it looks like it’s not a liquid, the TSA might say it is if it spreads, squeezes or pours.
Extra tips
Always check with your airline for big or unconventional items like skateboards, TVs, printers/printer ink or wheelchairs. While TSA allows them, you have to check with individual airlines to find out if they allow them.
Remember that TSA officers make the final call if something seems unsafe, even if it’s usually allowed.
If you organize your bag so it’s easy to check at the airport, then you will spend less time in the TSA screening area.
You can click here for a full list of items TSA allows and does not allow both for carry on and checked baggage.
And always remember: Travel smart and double-check before you pack