Things Not To Bring On Airplane
So, there I was, standing in the security line at JFK, watching as the poor guy in front of me was getting his entire carry-on searched. You know why? Because he'd decided to...
So, there I was, standing in the security line at JFK, watching as the poor guy in front of me was getting his entire carry-on searched. You know why? Because he'd decided to pack a full-sized bottle of shampoo. In his checked luggage. Yeah, you heard it right. The look on his face when the TSA agent pulled it out was priceless. It was like he'd just realized he'd been living under a rock all his life. That, my friends, is when it hit me. We all need a little reminder of what not to bring on an airplane.
Liquids, Liquids, Liquids
Let's start with the obvious. Liquids. You know the drill - 3.4 ounces or less, all in one clear, quart-sized bag. But here's the thing, folks. That rule applies to your carry-on. If you're checking your luggage, you can pack your heart out. Just don't expect it to make it to your destination in one piece. Trust me, I've seen enough exploded shampoo bottles to last a lifetime.
And while we're on the subject, let's talk about alcohol. Yes, you can bring it. But again, it's got to be under 3.4 ounces if it's in your carry-on. And remember, one standard bottle of wine is about 25 ounces. So, do the math. Also, don't be that guy who tries to sneak in a full bottle of something strong. The TSA has a sixth sense for that stuff.
Must Read
Sharp Objects and Pointy Things
Now, I get it. You're a chef. Or maybe you're just really into arts and crafts. But here's the deal - leave your knives at home. And your scissors. And your corkscrews. And your knitting needles. You get the picture. Anything that could be used as a weapon is a no-no. And yes, that includes your Swiss Army knife. Sorry, Bear Grylls.
But what about your multitool, you ask? Well, that's a bit of a gray area. Some airlines allow it, some don't. So, check before you pack. And if you're really worried about it, just pack it in your checked luggage. Problem solved.
Explosives and Flammables
Okay, so this one should be obvious. But you'd be surprised. Every year, the TSA finds thousands of fireworks. Yes, people actually try to bring fireworks on planes. I mean, who knows? Maybe they're planning a mid-flight celebration. But trust me, that's not going to end well.
And while we're talking about explosives, let's not forget e-cigarettes. You can bring them, but they have to be in your carry-on. And you can't charge them at your seat. So, if you're planning a long-haul flight, make sure you've got enough juice to last you.
Animals (Yes, Even Your Emotional Support Pig)
Now, I love animals. I mean, who doesn't? But here's the thing - not all airlines allow them on board. And even if they do, there are rules. Like, you can't bring your emotional support pig on a plane unless it's a service animal. Yes, that actually happened. And no, the pig didn't get to fly first class.
What Is Allowed In (and Prohibited From) Your Carry-on: The Ultimate
But let's say you've got a legitimate service animal. Great! But remember, it's still an animal. It's got to be well-behaved. And it's got to go through security with you. So, if you're planning on bringing your service snake, you might want to rethink that.
Food (Because No One Wants to Smell Your Stinky Cheese)
Look, I get it. You're hungry. But here's the thing - some foods are just not plane-friendly. Like, for example, that stinky cheese you love so much. Trust me, no one on the plane wants to smell that for the next five hours.
And while we're talking about food, let's not forget about fruits and vegetables. You can bring them. But they've got to be solid. So, no liquids. And no, you can't bring a whole watermelon. Sorry.
Finally, Use Your Common Sense
Look, I could go on and on about what you can't bring on a plane. But here's the thing - use your common sense. If you're not sure about something, check the TSA's website. Or ask someone at the airport. They're there to help.
And remember, folks, the TSA has a job. They're not there to ruin your day. They're there to keep you safe. So, cut them some slack. And maybe, just maybe, don't pack that full-sized bottle of shampoo.