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If a curling iron lives in your suitcase, it’s time for a quick packing reset.
Starting August 15, 2025, TSA and FAA rules ban some cordless hairstyling tools from checked luggage to cut fire risk in cargo holds.
You don’t have to change your routine, but you do need to know what goes where and how to pack it so it passes inspection.
Think of this as a simple field guide that keeps your trip moving and your gear out of the bin.
Why TSA Changed the Rules
The update aims at heat and fuel stored where flight crews can’t intervene fast.
Gas cartridges and butane can vent or ignite if damaged or exposed to heat. While cargo holds have detection and suppression systems, no one can quickly inspect or isolate a single bag mid-flight.
Keeping these tools in the cabin gives officers and crews a chance to spot a problem and act quickly.
What Exactly Is Banned
As of August 15, 2025, the following may not go in checked bags:
- Cordless curling irons or flatirons that contain gas cartridges
- Butane-powered curling irons or flatirons
- Refill cartridges for these tools
These devices are still permitted in carry-on bags with safety steps in place. That aligns TSA’s What Can I Bring guidance with FAA PackSafe, which has long limited gas-powered styling tools to the cabin.
What You Can Bring (And How To Pack It Safely)
Just because some tools are restricted doesn’t mean you have to leave your styling gear at home. The rules are really about where you place them and making sure they’re properly secured.
By knowing which versions belong in your carry-on and how to protect them, you can keep your routine intact and sail through security without extra delays.
You still have options. The key is placement and protection.
Carry-on with special rules
- One gas or butane cordless tool per person if a snug safety cover shields the heating element, and the switch cannot activate in transit
- Spare fuel cartridges are not allowed in any bag
- Battery-powered cordless irons belong in carry-on (secure the switch or use a travel lock)
Carry-on or checked
- Corded irons and straighteners may go in either bag
- Wrap the cord, cushion the hot plates or barrel, and pack so nothing crushes the tool
How To Pack It Right
Set yourself up so nothing gets flagged at the checkpoint.
Carry-on setup: Fit a hard safety cap over the hot end. Place the tool in a heat-resistant sleeve or pouch and keep it accessible for inspection. If it’s gas-powered, bring no refills. If it’s battery powered, lock or tape the switch and avoid packing it against metal items that could press the button.
Checked-bag setup: Only pack corded tools in checked luggage. Coil and secure the cord, then cushion the plates or barrel with a soft case or clothing so they don’t snag inspection gear or dent your bag.
What Happens If You Get Caught With a Banned Item
Accidentally or not, bringing a prohibited item can derail your timeline. Here’s what may happen:
- Immediate confiscation: TSA may remove the item and it usually isn’t returned
- Delays at the checkpoint while officers resolve the issue
- Civil penalties or other legal consequences depending on risk
- Loss of expedited screening perks for repeated or serious violations
If you travel often, make friends with the What Can I Bring page.
It lists what’s allowed or prohibited in both carry-on and checked bags and explains items that need special handling.
One more reminder: the local screening officer has the final say at the checkpoint, even when the website looks clear.
Related Rule Changes Travelers Ask About
DHS recently lifted the routine shoes-off requirement for domestic travelers. Officers can still ask for shoes off on a case-by-case basis.
Liquid limits and CT-scanner expansion continue to evolve. Unless your airport says otherwise, follow the 3-1-1 rule.
One-Minute Packing Checklist
- Gas or butane cordless tool: carry-on only, one per person, safety cover on, switch protected, no refills
- Battery cordless tool: carry-on only, switch protected
- Corded tool: carry-on or checked
- Not sure about an item: check TSA’s What Can I Bring tool before you zip the bag
Weird Items You Can Bring Through TSA Security Checkpoints
If you’re a cowboy who likes Harry Potter and want to celebrate Christmas with festive lights and a live lobster, you’ll still get through security. These unexpected items are TSA-approved:
- Live lobsters: Allowed through security in a clear, plastic, spill-proof container. A TSA officer will visually inspect it.
- Christmas lights: Permitted in carry-on or checked bags.
- Cowboy spurs: Allowed off your boots in carry-on or checked bags.
- Antlers: Allowed as carry-on or in checked bags if they fit overhead or under the seat.
- Harry Potter wands, light sabers: Toy versions are fine in carry-on or checked bags.
- Coffee and espresso makers: Allowed; wrap cords and pack carefully.
- Magic 8 ball: Not in carry-on, but allowed in checked bags.
- Sewing machines: Carry-on or checked, but check airline size limits.
- Waffle irons: Carry-on or checked if they fit the bins or under-seat space.
Quick FAQ
Can I bring a gas cordless iron at all?
Yes. Bring one in your carry-on with a fitted safety cover and a protected switch. Leave refills at home.
Are battery cordless irons treated like other lithium devices?
Yes. Keep them in carry-on, protect the switch, and be ready to show the device.
Are corded tools affected?
No. If it plugs into an outlet, you can pack it in carry-on or checked luggage. Wrap cords to prevent snags.
Bottom Line for Travelers
Starting August 15, 2025, keep butane-based or gas-powered cordless hair tools and cartridges out of checked luggage.
Bringing banned items can mean confiscation, delays, fines, or even loss of trusted-traveler status.
Starting August 15, 2025, keep butane-based or gas-powered cordless hair tools and cartridges out of checked luggage.
Still unsure about something? Check TSA’s What Can I Bring page before you pack. Bringing a banned item can mean confiscation, delays, fines, or hits to trusted-traveler status.
Staying informed saves time, stress, and maybe your favorite styling tool.