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Can I Bring My Canoe Paddle and My Seashells on the Plane?

Traveling soon and wondering what you are allowed to take through security? Do you know what TSA requires you put in your checked bag?

TSA has a database where you can find an item you want to take with you in your carry-on bag. Check out https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all.

If you don’t find the item you’re looking for, you can tweet them at @AskTSA or send a Facebook message to AskTSA.

Here is a list of their permitted items and where you must place them.

Permitted as carry-on or checked

  • Knitting needles–sharp objects in checked bags should be securely wrapped to prevent inspector injury
  • Canes–must undergo X-ray screening, a TSA officer will inspect item if it cannot fit through a machine
  • Tents–check with airline, but tent stakes and poles must be checked in
  • Umbrellas–Allowed in carry-on bags
  • Insulin and insulin supplies–Notify TSA officer of your condition and that you are carrying supplies. Any forms or dispensers must be clearly identified.
  • Liquid medications–Liquids, gels or aerosol medications greater than 3.4 ounces must be declared to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection.
  • Sand, rocks, seeds, plants—OK in either
  • Medical marijuana/CBD–Not searched for but if illegal substance is discovered, TSA will refer to law enforcement
  • Yogurt–Must be less than 3.4 ounces
  • Small fishing lures–Large hooks should be wrapped in checked luggage. Expensive reels or fragile tackle may be placed in carry-on
  • Dry batteries—AA, AAA, C and D, but not lithium varieties

Only permitted as checked

  • Golf clubs (balls and tees can be placed in carry-on)
  • Canoe/Kayak paddles
  • Walking sticks

Only permitted as carry-on

  • Vape/E-cigarette
  • Portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium ion battery
  • Disposable and Zippo lighters (no matches allowed in carry-on or checked-in)

And what about those small pets?

They are allowed through the checkpoints but don’t have to go through the scanner. A pet carrying case is required to go through the X-ray machine, but the animal must be walked through the metal detector.

Other advice

  • Don’t forget the 3-1-1 liquid rule and pack your liquids in the front pocket on your carry-on for accessibility. Liquids, gels and aerosols must be stored in 3.4-ounce containers or less, and fit in a quart size clear plastic zip top bag, one per passenger
  • Tape a card with your name and contact info to your electronics
  • Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.)
  • Don’t forget your money at the checkpoint. In fiscal year 2018, travelers left behind over $960,000. (The TSA plans to use the unclaimed money toward checkpoint training requirements.)