When packing for a trip, most travelers focus on essentials like clothes and toiletries. However, many are unaware of the surprising items prohibited in checked luggage. This article uncovers the unexpected objects banned from checked bags, ensuring your next journey goes off without a hitch.
Hoverboards
Despite their popularity, hoverboards are banned from checked luggage due to their lithium-ion batteries, which pose a significant fire risk. The volatile nature of these batteries has led to several instances of spontaneous combustion, prompting strict regulations to ensure passenger safety.
E-Cigarettes and Vaping Devices
Electronic smoking devices, including e-cigarettes and vape pens, are prohibited in checked luggage because their lithium batteries can ignite. To mitigate fire hazards, passengers must carry these items in their carry-on bags, ensuring they are easily accessible if an issue arises.
Samsung Galaxy Note 7
The Samsung Galaxy Note 7, specifically, is banned due to its infamous battery issues, which caused several units to overheat and catch fire. The U.S. Department of Transportation implemented a complete ban on this model, preventing it from being carried in any form of luggage.
Spare Lithium Batteries
Loose lithium batteries, such as those used in cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices, are forbidden in checked baggage. These batteries can short-circuit and cause fires, making them a significant safety concern. They must be stored in carry-on luggage with proper precautions to prevent accidental activation.
Fireworks and Sparklers
Fireworks and sparklers are banned from checked luggage due to their explosive nature. Even small fireworks can pose a severe risk if they accidentally ignite during the flight, potentially leading to catastrophic consequences.
Oxygen Canisters
Oxygen canisters are prohibited because they contain compressed gas, which can be highly flammable and explosive under certain conditions. The high pressure and flammability make them unsafe for transport in checked luggage.
Bleach and Cleaning Products
Bleach and various cleaning products contain corrosive chemicals that can cause damage to luggage and the aircraft. These substances can leak and react with other materials, posing a hazard to both passengers and crew.
Alcohol Over 140 Proof
High-proof alcohol, such as Everclear or certain types of rum, is banned from checked luggage due to its flammability. Alcohol over 140 proof (70% alcohol by volume) can easily ignite, creating a fire hazard in the confined space of an aircraft’s cargo hold.
Self-Heating Meals (MREs)
Meals Ready-to-Eat (MREs) that use self-heating technology are prohibited because the chemical reaction used to heat the food can produce heat and gas, potentially causing a fire or explosion in the luggage compartment.
Camping Stoves and Fuel
Camping stoves and their fuel canisters are banned because the fuel is highly flammable. Even trace amounts of fuel residue can pose a risk, leading to stringent regulations on these items in checked baggage.
Aerosol Products
Many aerosol products, such as spray paint or certain cleaning sprays, are banned due to their potential to explode under high pressure. The propellants used in these products are often flammable, increasing the risk of fire.
Strike Anywhere Matches
Strike anywhere matches can ignite from friction, making them a significant fire hazard. These matches are banned from both checked and carry-on luggage to prevent accidental ignition during transit.
Scuba Tanks
Scuba tanks, whether full or empty, are prohibited because of the compressed gas they contain. The pressure inside the tanks can make them explosive if damaged, posing a significant risk during air travel.
Bear Spray
Bear spray, a potent form of pepper spray, is banned due to its high concentration of capsaicin and potential to cause severe respiratory distress if released. The pressurized canisters also pose an explosion risk.
Wet Cell Batteries
Wet cell batteries, commonly used in vehicles and marine equipment, contain corrosive acids and pose a leakage risk. These batteries can damage luggage and aircraft components, leading to their prohibition in checked luggage.
Human or Animal Ashes
While allowed in carry-on luggage under strict regulations, human or animal ashes are often banned from checked luggage due to the potential for loss or mishandling. Proper documentation and secure packaging are required for transport.
Mercury Thermometers
Mercury thermometers are banned because mercury is a toxic substance. If a thermometer breaks, the mercury can contaminate luggage and pose a health hazard to anyone who comes into contact with it.
Nail Polish Remover
Nail polish remover contains acetone, a highly flammable liquid. The risk of it leaking and igniting in the cargo hold has led to restrictions on carrying it in checked luggage.
Self-Inflating Life Vests
Self-inflating life vests contain compressed gas cartridges, which are prohibited due to their potential to explode under pressure. These items must be transported in carry-on luggage with prior airline approval.
Chemical Oxygen Generators
Chemical oxygen generators, which produce oxygen through a chemical reaction, are banned due to their high potential for causing fires. These devices are often used in emergency medical kits and require special handling and approval for transport.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
More from UnifyCosmos
24 Exceptional Cheeses and Ideal Pairings
In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the most distinctive cheeses and suggest the best pairings to enhance their unique flavors. Read more!
20 Myths About Love and Relationships Exposed
By identifying and challenging these myths, we can build healthier and more fulfilling connections. Let’s explore some common false beliefs about relationships and uncover the truth behind them. Read more!
23 Food Facts You Thought Were True But Aren’t
Get ready to rethink what you know about your favorite foods! Read more!
Leave a Reply