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Can you pack that? NYC travelers’ guide to TSA’s weirdest Thanksgiving carry-on rules
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Phil Corso
Published Nov 25, 2024
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By
Phil Corso
Published Nov 25, 2024
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Thanksgiving in New York City is all about the hustle — whether you're dodging crowds at Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade or navigating John F. Kennedy International Airport with a bag full of side dishes. And area airports are expecting record-breaking crowds this year.
But before you stuff your carry-on with holiday cheer, the Transportation Security Administration has a message for travelers:
Not everything is fly-friendly.
The agency released its latest guidelines, including some downright strange items. And, frankly, the people needed to know … can you really bring antlers on a plane?
It turns out: Yes. Yes, you can.
Here’s a look at some of the most head-scratching items New Yorkers might try to fly with this Thanksgiving — and what’s making it through security.
Things you can totally bring (But why?)
- Antlers: Antlers are a surprising “yes” for both carry-on and checked bags.
- Artificial skeleton bones: If your turkey centerpiece includes a side of spooky scary, these bones are cleared to fly.
- Balloons (not inflated): The TSA says you're clear to pack those balloons, but you'll have to pump them up later. And don’t try to inflate them mid-flight, either.
- Live corals: The TSA says live corals in water and a clear transparent container are allowed after inspection by a TSA officer. But you cannot check them. (The same rules apply to live fish.)
- Harry Potter wand: Wizards can rest easy this holiday season.
- Handcuffs: We’re not asking questions. The TSA isn’t either. Just make sure they’re in your carry-on or checked luggage.
Things you’d think are fine but definitely aren’t
- Magic 8 Ball: This retro classic isn’t feeling lucky. The liquids inside make it a no-go for carry-on, but feel free to check it (and ask later if your bag survived the trip).
- Bowling pins: Try this and you'll be striking out in the security line. The TSA says pins "can be used as a bludgeon" and must go in checked bags only. Bowling balls are fine in either bag, though.
- Creamy cheese: If it’s spreadable, it’s questionable. TSA’s hard rule is 3.4 ounces or less for carry-ons. Anything more should be stowed in checked luggage. Solid cheese is all good, though.
Hard pass, no matter what
- Bear spray and "bear banger" deterrents: If your Thanksgiving plans involve repelling wildlife, maybe just drive. These items are banned completely.
- English Christmas crackers: The TSA says no to these festive party poppers. Their resemblance to explosives keeps them grounded, so leave the bangs for your party playlist.
- Dynamite: Just … no.
Surprisingly fly-friendly
- Live lobster: Yes, you can bring along the pet lobster — but it’s complicated. Some airlines allow live lobsters in carry-ons after a TSA inspection, while others require them to be checked.
- Pizza: Whole pies, slices, or even just crusts — it's TSA-approved.
- Sand: For those who want to bring a piece of the beach with them to grandma's house, you're in luck.
- Cowboy spurs: Spurs are cleared to ride in carry-ons or checked luggage.
It's also important to note, the TSA says, that any food should be stored properly while traveling to prevent food-borne illness. Ice packs are allowed if you need to keep something cold, but they must be frozen solid and not melted when they go through security screening.
Safe travels.
Tagged
new york city
transportation
Phil Corso
Phil Corso is the evening news editor at WNYC/Gothamist. Got a tip? Email [email protected].
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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