The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is gearing up for the busy travel season across America. Visitors are flocking to airports for vacations, but there’s a new hurdle at security checkpoints. As we know, TSA has tried to lay out several new rules in the past couple of months.
For instance, as of May 2025, authorities have restricted carrying power banks, cellphone battery charging cases, spare lithium-ion batteries, spare lithium-metal batteries, cellphone batteries, laptop batteries, external battery packs, and portable rechargers in checked baggage while flying. These rules became stricter due to repeated violations by flyers.
As of June 2025, the TSA has sheepishly updated its list of prohibited items, including a surprising beverage restriction. This order includes alcohol, which is banned if it is over 140 proof and is not permitted on all flights. According to the TSA, highly concentrated alcoholic beverages, such as grain alcohol and some overproof rums, are now strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage due to their extreme flammability. As per The Mirror, the new rule was announced on the official website.
“Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol (over 140 proof), including grain alcohol and 151 proof rum, are not permitted.” However, beverages containing between 24% and 70% alcohol are allowed in limited quantities up to 5 litres per passenger if they’re in unopened retail packaging and stored in checked bags. The legal age to drink proper alcohol in America is 21.
We know liquor lovers who were excited to chill and save on alcohol by carrying their own are disappointed, but this is not the only restriction; others include Replica weapons and toy guns, including water and bubble guns, which are banned from carry-ons entirely. Meanwhile, smart luggage with non-removable batteries is also prohibited due to safety risks.
While smart luggage usually has features that let you charge your gadgets, track your bag’s location, lock it with your fingerprint, and weigh it automatically, the TSA authorities have asked flyers to avoid it. Consequently, passengers are advised not to wrap gifts before traveling to save time and avoid hassle. If agents need to inspect them, they’ll have to be unwrapped, causing delays and frustration.
Similarly, food items like dips, peanut butter, hummus, and sauces are considered liquids, and any amount over 3.4 ounces must be packed in checked baggage. Certain types of cheese are banned from airport scanners.
For example, spreadable cheeses and dips are classified as liquids and must follow the 3.4-ounce rule. However, blocks of chocolate (those thick ones) and stacks of books and magazines can require extra checking if they are packed tightly—the thickness can interfere with precise imaging, causing agents to fan through pages to ensure nothing is hidden inside.
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The TSA also clarified razor rules: Disposable razors and cartridges are allowed in carry-on bags, but loose blades and straight razors must be checked inside baggage. These rules might be complicated, especially for first-time flyers, couples flying with infants, or elderly passengers with compulsory medications and essential items.
However, these changes come amid renewed political debate, with some Republican lawmakers calling for the TSA to be disassembled and replaced with a new agency. Visitors should stay informed and double-check the TSA’s guidelines before packing, especially if they’re bringing strong spirits or heading to a family destination with toy water guns in tow.
