Your perfectly packed bag might just be your downfall. I thought I was ready—passport in hand, liquids in a zip-top bag, and shoes easy to slip off. Then TSA waved me over. Why? Electronics. From innocent-looking chargers to oddly-shaped cameras, certain gadgets can raise eyebrows at airport security. It’s not about what’s illegal—it’s about what looks suspicious under the scanner. If you’re bringing travel tech, be prepared. I’ve been pulled aside for items you wouldn’t believe, and I’m sharing all 12 of them. Some are obvious. Others? Total surprises.
High-Capacity Power Banks
Power banks over 100 Wh are a frequent cause of delays at TSA checkpoints. Their lithium-ion batteries pose a fire risk and, for this reason, security personnel often flag them for closer inspection. If your power bank is between 100‑160 Wh, you’ll need airline approval to carry it on board. Placing the capacity label conspicuously can aid in swift clearance.
Drones with Removable Batteries
Drones can be a real head-scratcher for TSA officers. With multiple components, especially removable lithium batteries, drones often require additional scrutiny. It’s wise to pack drone batteries separately and clearly label them to minimize confusion and speed up the security process. Doing so helps TSA quickly identify the components, reducing the risk of delays.
Gaming Laptops with Cooling Packs or Fans
Gaming laptops are known for their intricate designs and additional hardware. These features can mimic banned items on X-ray scans, prompting TSA agents to pull them aside for a thorough check. By placing your laptop and its accessories in a separate tray, you can assist security officers in clearing your device more efficiently.
Multiple External Hard Drives
When electronics cluster together in your bag, it creates a dense, opaque mass on the X-ray screen. This often leads to manual checks. To help TSA agents and save time, spread out your devices and organize them neatly. This clear arrangement can prevent unnecessary delays and make the inspection process smoother.
DIY Electronics or Circuit Boards
DIY electronics, especially those with loose wires, can easily be mistaken for makeshift devices at security checkpoints. Carrying a printed description of your project can be invaluable. This offers context to TSA agents and minimizes the likelihood of you needing to provide detailed explanations, allowing you to pass through security with less hassle.
Smart Luggage with Built-in Batteries
Smart luggage is all the rage, but non-removable batteries can be a sticking point with airport security. Ensuring that your luggage’s battery is removable and presenting it separately for inspection can help you avoid unnecessary scrutiny. Providing proof of compliance with TSA regulations ensures a smoother check-in process.
Multiple Laptops or Tablets
Stacking multiple laptops or tablets in a single bag can create confusing shapes on X-ray scans, leading to further examination. TSA agents may ask you to place devices in separate trays for a clearer view. This small step can significantly reduce the time spent in security and help you get through more efficiently.
Electronic Vape Devices
Vape devices, with their heating elements and lithium batteries, often catch the eye of security personnel. As these items are classified as personal, they should be carried in your handbag. Make sure to empty the vape tank and place all components separately in the bin for a hassle-free security experience.
Smartphones or Tablets That Appear Modified
If a smartphone or tablet looks altered, TSA may ask you to turn it on to ensure it’s safe. Storing them visibly yet securely can help speed up this process. Avoid zipped bins that obscure the device, allowing agents a clear view, which helps in passing through security smoothly without unexpected interruptions.
Loose Cables, Chargers, and Tangled Wires
A jumble of wires and chargers looks chaotic on X-ray machines, often prompting manual inspection. Organizing cables by bundling them neatly and separating chargers from other electronics can streamline the security process. This organized approach not only saves time but also reduces the likelihood of items being misplaced during checks.
Portable Vinyl Record Player
With its retro charm, the portable vinyl record player attracts both music lovers and TSA’s attention. Its unique mechanical parts and bulk can resemble suspicious items on scanners. Despite its small size, the player’s intricate design might confuse security machines, leading to manual inspection.
Travelers have reported officers intrigued by the device, sometimes leading to delays. If you’re a vinyl enthusiast, consider packing it in an easily accessible part of your luggage. The nostalgia it brings is unmatched, but be prepared for curious glances from security.
Did you know? Vinyl sales have surged in recent years, rekindling interest in these timeless music players.
Smart Home Assistant Speaker
The compact smart home assistant speaker, while common in households, can cause confusion at airport security. Its cylindrical shape and internal wiring often resemble potential threats, prompting additional screening.
Many travelers find their bags pulled aside due to these devices. Security may run extra scans or ask questions about its purpose. As you pack, ensure the device is easily identifiable, and consider carrying documentation to explain its function.
Fun fact: Smart speakers have rapidly become a staple in modern homes, providing convenience with voice-controlled technology, yet they remain a curiosity in travel security.