Most Unusual TSA Confiscations: What They’ve Intercepted
If you’ve taken an airplane, then you’ve seen the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The TSA typically examines the clothing, laptops, and shoes of airline passengers. According to the TSA, they screen around 1.4 million checked items daily and about 5.5 million carry-on items daily. Usually, flagged items are oversized bottles of liquids, gels, aerosols, lighters, or sharp objects. However, the TSA encounters items that even the most experienced agent finds astonishing. These items undergo screening and are sometimes featured on the TSA’s Instagram account.
Their Instagram showcases items that might cause raised eyebrows but manage to pass through the security checks. For instance, a zombie-like movie prop was permitted at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The account also provides examples of items that fail to meet the security requirements and must be confiscated. Some of the confiscated items often prompt travelers to wonder, “Did someone really try to bring that onto an airplane?”
Bounce, a luggage storage app, reviewed the TSA’s Instagram account to compile a list of the most unusual items confiscated during security screenings across the United States.
TSA Confiscations
TSA officers stationed at Tampa International Airport likely found themselves wishing that “Snakes on a Plane” was purely a work of fiction. In January, they stumbled upon a 4-foot boa constrictor concealed within a rolling bag. It was coiled among shoes and personal items. This unexpected reptilian traveler was detected by agents as a passenger attempted to send it through the X-ray machine.
Officers at Nashville International Airport had to confiscate oversized ceremonial scissors due to safety concerns.
According to TSA agents, they intercepted a suitcase filled with maggots at LaGuardia Airport. This resulted in the evacuation of the area and the deployment of a cleaning crew to decontaminate the surroundings after this unpleasant discovery.
In another peculiar screening incident at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, a traveler attempted to bring a glove resembling Freddy Krueger’s hand. It was complete with attached knives. The passenger learned gloves with attached knives are prohibited in carry-on luggage.
Check out their complete list of TSA-confiscated finds here.
5 Passport-Free Getaways Where Travelers Can Explore
Puerto Rico
This Caribbean island is part of the U.S. Puerto Rico has sandy beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and even a tropical rainforest. If you’re a U.S. citizen traveling from anywhere within the U.S., you don’t need to hassle with a passport to visit this paradise. It’s worth mentioning that starting from May 2025, there’s this thing called the Real ID Act that kicks in. If your state isn’t compliant with this Act, you’ll need to bring your trusty passport to explore the wonders of Puerto Rico. So, make sure to check if your state is all set with the Real ID Act before planning your trip.
Sean Pavone/ Getty Images
St. Croix
If you’re craving island vibes, you might want to check out St. Croix. It is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, you won’t need to worry about bringing your passport when traveling to and from this island.
NAPA74/ Getty Images
Northern Mariana Islands
The Northern Mariana Islands, a collection of 14 tropical wonders has sandy shores, azure waters, and an array of thrilling activities like windsurfing, cavern dives, and jungle treks. And yes, U.S. citizens can venture to these remote islands without the need for a passport. However, it’s important to remember that you’ll need to carry a government-issued proof of identification along with you during your visit.
raksybH/ Getty Images
St. Thomas
St. Thomas, a Caribbean island known for its white sand beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and Danish colonial architecture. As a U.S. citizen, you won’t need a passport to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands, which includes St. Thomas. However, it’s important to note that if you plan to explore the neighboring British Virgin Islands, a valid passport will be required. For your adventures on St. Thomas, it only requires a government-issued ID with your photo.
SeanPavonePhoto/ Getty Images
St. John
St. John, the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. This island is home to the Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, where you can embark on thrilling adventures like scuba diving, hiking, and even discover prehistoric archaeological sites. Since St. John is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, you can leave your passport at home when traveling there.
SeanPavonePhoto/ Getty Images
