What’s Now Banned from TSA Carry-Ons (2025 Rules You Can’t Ignore)

October 10, 2025

TSA carry-on banned — Image Source: Shutterstock

You arrive at the airport, breeze through check-in, then hit the dreaded security line, only to have TSA confiscate something you thought was allowed. It’s embarrassing, frustrating, and completely avoidable if you know the TSA carry-on banned rules for 2025. The rules around carry-on items evolve frequently, and what passed last year may now be a no-go. Staying current can save you stress, money, and time. Below are six items, or categories, that have new or strictly enforced bans you absolutely should know.

1. Cordless Curling Irons and Gas-Powered Hair Tools

One of the biggest changes under the 2025 rules involves hairstyling gear, specifically cordless curling irons or flat irons powered by gas cartridges or butane. Those devices and their refill cartridges are no longer allowed in checked baggage and may be confiscated if found. In carry-ons, they’re permitted only if they have a safety cover over the heating element and you carry no spare cartridges. Standard corded hair tools (plug-in irons) remain acceptable both in checked and carry-on bags.

2. Spare Lithium Batteries, Power Banks & Portable Chargers

Perhaps less obvious, but critical, are the new strict rules on lithium batteries and power banks. All spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in the cabin; they cannot be placed in checked luggage under any circumstances. Chargers or devices containing lithium must meet clear labeling and watt-hour limits (typically ? 100 Wh) or risk confiscation. If your battery is unlabeled or oversized, TSA may seize the item on the spot.

3. Oversized Liquids, Gels & Aerosols

The “3-1-1” liquids rule remains firmly in effect: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or less, and all must fit within a single quart-size clear plastic bag. Anything beyond that, including bigger bottles of shampoo, lotions, or gels, is banned from carry-ons. While there is talk of loosening liquid restrictions under future reforms, no change has taken effect yet, so don’t count on leniency. The safest bet is to stick with the existing limits or check over-limit items instead.

4. Sharp Objects, Tools & Sports Gear

Sharp implements, like knives, box cutters, sabers, and large scissors, are still strictly prohibited in carry-on bags. Tools longer than about 7 inches (wrenches, screwdrivers, crowbars) are also disallowed. Likewise, sporting goods such as baseball bats, golf clubs, and hockey sticks remain banned in carry-on form, as they can be used as weapons. Some less-obvious items, like tent spikes or big tent poles, may also raise red flags and get rejected.

5. Flammable & Hazardous Liquids

Flammable liquids, such as butane, lighter fluid, gasoline, certain solvents, aerosol sprays (except personal care items under 3.4 oz), are outright banned in carry-on luggage. Even common aerosol sprays like pepper spray or spray paint are prohibited in the cabin. Other hazardous materials or corrosive substances (like bleach, strong acids, or oxidizers) are similarly barred. If you pack something flammable by mistake, it may be confiscated, or worse, trigger a dangerous incident.

6. Firearms, Ammunition & Related Items

The long-standing rules around firearms and ammunition remain firm in 2025. Unloaded firearms must be declared, placed in a locked, hard-sided container, and checked, not carried through the cabin. Ammunition is also prohibited in carry-on bags and must follow airline and TSA guidelines for checking. Accessories like gunpowder, primers, and blasting caps are also disallowed from carry-ons. Always verify your airline’s specific firearm policies in addition to TSA’s rules.

Navigating the New TSA Carry-On Era

Travelers in 2025 must be sharper than ever when packing their carry-ons. The TSA carry-on banned list has tightened around items that pose fire risks or safety hazards. Cordless hair tools, extra lithium batteries, flammables, weapons, oversized liquids, and sharp tools are all under greater scrutiny. If an item is questionable or unlabeled, expect it to be seized. Your best defense? Double-check TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” list before every trip.

Have you ever had something confiscated at TSA, maybe because of these rules? Share your experience or cautionary tale in the comments below!