This Hair Tool Is Banned From Checked Luggage—and Could Trigger a $17,000 Fine

There are a lot of rules when it comes to flying, and while most travelers know the limits on things like liquids and other common items, one popular hair styling accessory is setting off alarm bells.

Cordless curling irons, a popular option for travelers who want to maximize space while forgoing the need for converters or pesky plugs, have put a snag in passengers’ plans since the tool is actually banned if it contains a butane-fueled gas cartridge, according to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) “PackSafe” website, which details what travelers can and can’t bring on board. In this case, the tool may be brought in a carry-on bag, but is prohibited in checked luggage.

In addition, the FAA requires travelers who do fly with this tool to cover certain heating elements and protect them from accidental activation while on the aircraft, according to the FAA’s advisory. However, electric curling irons and hair straighteners that get plugged into the wall are not restricted.

Still, the FAA warns these regulation are for domestic flights and travelers heading internationally should “check with your airline as international regulations may vary from domestic regulations.”

Many cordless irons do use butane cartridges to heat up and don’t require batteries or plugs, including options sold by popular companies like Conair. The butane cartridge “lasts for months of normal use,” according to a product listing page on Walgreens for the iron.

And while battery-operated curling irons are permitted in a carry-on bags, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) warns of one important safety requirement: “The battery, fuse or heat element must also be removed to prevent accidental activation,” according to the agency.

Travelers who pack prohibited items can face warnings, potential fines exceeding $17,000, and even possible arrest, according to the TSA.

Of course, hair styling tools aren’t the only things that come with rules when boarding an aircraft. While the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is evaluating whether to increase the volume of liquids that can be brought in carry-on luggage, it currently remains capped at 3.4 ounces or less. (It also comes on the heels of the agency’s decision to end its shoes-off policy during security screenings).

Other items, like battery packs with lithium batteries or portable electronic devices that contain batteries (think: laptops, cell phones, and cameras), are similarly allowed in carry-on luggage but banned in checked bags. Others are banned entirely, including strike anywhere matches, torch lighters, and flammable aerosols like spray paint.