Travel Alert: 8 Items TSA Will Confiscate From Your Carry-On

(MENAFN- Budget and the Bees)

We have all seen the tragic pile of surrendered items at the TSA checkpoint. Expensive shampoos, brand new pocket knives, and full water bottles sit sadly in the trash. It is both frustrating and expensive. While you think you know the rules regarding liquids and weapons, the list of prohibited items is trickier than you expect.

TSA agents aren't trying to ruin your vacation; instead, they are following a strict set of federal guidelines. To save you the heartbreak of watching your favorite items get tossed into the bin, here are eight surprising things TSA will confiscate from your carry-on.

1. Peanut Butter and Nutella

For snack lovers, this is the number one heartbreaker. You likely view it as food, but TSA views it as a liquid. Unfortunately, the rule applies to anything that is spreadable or can be smeared.

If you can spill it, spread it, spray it, or pump it, the item falls under the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Therefore, that jar of artisanal peanut butter or the family-size Nutella is getting tossed. Unless the container is under 3.4 ounces, it must go in your checked bag. The same logic applies to hummus, cream cheese, and yogurt. While solid food is fine, creamy food is not.

2. Snow Globes

Perhaps you bought a cute souvenir snow globe for your niece. Although it seems harmless, inside that glass sphere is liquid. Furthermore, there is no way for the agent to measure exactly how much water is in there. Consequently, TSA policy states that snow globes are only allowed in carry-ons if they appear to contain less than 3.4 ounces of liquid. Anything larger than a tennis ball will be confiscated. Don't risk it. Instead, wrap it in your clothes and check it, or simply mail it home.

3. Tools Over 7 Inches

Maybe you are traveling for work, or you just like to be prepared. While you can bring tools, there is a specific size limit. Wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers must be seven inches or shorter in length. Anything longer is considered a potential weapon. Additionally, hammers and drills are never allowed in carry-ons, regardless of their size. If you have a multi-tool, make sure it doesn't have a blade, or it will be gone instantly. Measure your tools before you pack. That expensive wrench set isn't worth losing.

4. Cast Iron Skillets

This is a weird one, but it happens frequently. You might be bringing a family heirloom skillet to a relative. While pots and pans are generally allowed, cast iron is often flagged. Because cast iron is incredibly heavy and dense, agents view it as a potential weapon. In a worst-case scenario, it can easily crack a skull. Therefore, TSA explicitly lists cast iron skillets as items that should be checked. Don't try to argue that you just want to make cornbread. Put it in the cargo hold.

5. Tent Stakes and Poles

If you are going camping, you can bring your tent fabric in your carry-on. However, the metal stakes and poles are a problem. They are sharp, durable, and can be used as makeshift weapons. While some agents might let tent poles slide if they fold up, stakes are almost always confiscated. It is safer to check the whole camping kit to avoid being left without a way to set up your shelter.

6. Soup or Salsa

You want to bring home some of your mom's famous salsa or a local soup. Again, this is the liquid rule in action. Even if it has chunks of vegetables in it, the liquid content counts. Unless it is frozen solid when you go through security, it will be taken. Relying on ice is a risky gamble if it melts in line. So, ship the salsa or eat it before you go.

7. Certain Battery-Operated Items

While you must carry lithium batteries in the cabin, devices that cannot be turned off or protected from accidental activation can be flagged. Generally, loose batteries are fine if they are packed correctly. More specifically, items that look like weapons or explosives will be taken, even if they are toys. For example, a lighter shaped like a grenade is gone. Similarly, a toy gun is prohibited. Also, large quantities of loose batteries can look suspicious on the X-ray. Keep them organized in a case.

8. High-Proof Alcohol (Over 140 Proof)

You can bring mini bottles of alcohol in your quart-sized bag. However, there is a limit on the strength of the beverage. Anything over 140 proof is prohibited in both carry-on and checked bags. This includes heavy-duty rum like Bacardi 151 or Everclear. It is considered a hazardous material because it is highly flammable. Leave the rocket fuel at home.

Pack Smart, Fly Stress-Free

The checkpoint is stressful enough without an argument over peanut butter. When in doubt, check it out in your big bag. It is better to wait at the baggage claim than to lose your stuff.

What is the weirdest thing you have ever had confiscated by TSA? Share your travel woes in the comments!

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