Can You Take Curling Irons on an Airplane?

The Transportation Security Administration, as well as individual airlines and airports, restrict a wide variety of items due to their potential danger. Curling irons, despite their potential to burn, are not restricted by the TSA or any major airline in the United States.

Identification

A curling iron is a rod-shaped metal hair styling tool on which hair is wrapped around and heated to create curls or waves.

History

Many items, including those that heat up or provide a flame, are restricted by the TSA because of danger at high altitudes or potential use as a weapon in the case of hijacking.

Effects

Curling irons are not included on the list of prohibited items found at the TSA website or any list provided by the major airlines in the United States (US Airways, JetBlue, Delta and United Airlines).

Benefits

Curling irons can be packed in both carry-on and checked luggage.

Warning

JetBlue, the only major airline to mention curling irons in its baggage policy, stipulates that butane curling irons are only acceptable if the butane cannot be removed.

Considerations

As airline protocol is constantly changing, it would be wise to check with the airline before packing, just in case.

References

• US Airways Baggage Policy
• JetBlue Permitted Carry-on Items
• Delta Baggage Allowances

Resources

• TSA List of Prohibited Items
• US Airways Baggage Policy
• JetBlue Permitted Carry-on Items
• Delta Baggage Allowances
• United Airlines Restricted Items