Attention Divas: TSA Banned These Beauty Tools From Checked Luggage

April 21, 2026 Vacationer Staff

A gentle reminder to all divas: Think twice before packing these styling or beauty items in your checked luggage.

Gearing up for a dragtastic Pride? Reconsider those beach waves, honey! Typically, the process of creating beach waves is done with heat: either a curling iron or a hair straightener. (Insider tip: But if you don’t want the heat damage or hassle of packing an appliance, try getting heatless beach waves by braiding damp hair in pigtails and allowing them to air-dry.) However, if you must pack heat, listen up:

As of late 2025, the TSA has banned cordless hair-styling tools that use gas (butane) cartridges from checked luggage because of fire risks.

Prohibited items include butane-powered curling irons, straighteners, and spare gas cartridges. These items are classified as hazardous materials and must be kept in carry-on bags with a safety cover.

Key Banned Beauty Items in Checked Bags

Butane/Gas Curling Irons & Straighteners: Cordless tools that use fuel cartridges are strictly prohibited in checked baggage.

Gas Refill Cartridges: Spare butane canisters for styling tools are banned from checked luggage.

Battery-Powered Hair Tools: Some lithium-ion-powered tools may be restricted due to fire hazards; they are generally safer in carry-ons.

Key Reminders

Carry-on Only: Cordless, gas-powered curling irons are allowed in carry-on bags only if they have a safety cover over the heating element.

Plug-in Tools OK: Conventional, corded hair straighteners and curling irons remain permitted in both checked and carry-on luggage.

Liquids: Standard TSA liquids rules (3.4 oz or less) apply to carry-ons, while larger liquids are fine in checked bags. Known as the 3-1-1 rule, items must be 3.4 ounces (100ml).

Toiletries: Yes, you must still place liquids, gels, and aerosols in a single, clear, quart-sized bag for TSA screening. While some airports with advanced CT scanners may allow you to keep this bag inside your carry-on, the bag itself is still required.