7 new items that have baggage restrictions when traveling to the US

Traveling to the United States always involves going through rigorous security checks, but now, ahead of the peak season , the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced a set of new restrictions that affect both the most cautious and the most carefree travelers when it comes to luggage for travel to the US .

These measures, according to the agency, aim to guarantee air safety in the face of the growing number of passengers. But what's most surprising isn't the intention, but rather the items you'll now be prohibited from packing in your suitcase… not even your carry-on.

No alcohol in your luggage when traveling to the USA

Among the new prohibitions , the one that has attracted the most attention is that of alcoholic beverages with more than 140 degrees of alcohol , that is, those that exceed 70% alcoholic volume .

Products such as grain alcohol or certain types of high-proof rum are completely prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage . In other words, the prohibition is absolute .

The TSA justified this decision by citing the extreme flammability of these beverages, emphasizing that they pose a potential risk during flights . For alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content between 24% and 70% , the maximum limit of 5 liters per person remains in place, provided they are in unopened retail containers. This limit applies to all types of baggage for travel to the United States.

Rest of the list of restricted items

The TSA took the opportunity to update and strengthen its list of seven items that, although they may seem harmless or even very popular, can no longer be carried or have specific restrictions.

• Loose lithium batteries : Spare batteries can only travel in hand luggage , provided they are properly protected to prevent short circuits . Carrying them in checked baggage is prohibited.
• Toy guns and replicas : Any object that resembles a weapon is prohibited in hand luggage . This includes everything from toy guns and prop guns to water guns and bubble guns , which many families bring with them for their holidays at water parks or theme parks.
• Smart luggage with non-removable batteries : In the age of technology, many travelers opt for so-called smart suitcases , which allow them to charge devices, track their location, or even lock the suitcase with a fingerprint. However, the TSA prohibits the transport of this type of luggage if the batteries cannot be removed .

• Wrapped gifts : The TSA recommends not wrapping gifts before traveling. If you do, be aware that security agents have the right to open them if they believe the contents need to be inspected. It's best to wrap them once you arrive at your destination.
• Some foods : Many spreadable or pourable products are considered liquids under TSA rules. Examples include peanut butter , hummus , and sauces . You can only carry up to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) in your hand luggage. To avoid problems, it's best to pack them in your checked baggage .
• Razor blades : Disposable razors and their cartridges are allowed in hand luggage, but loose razor blades and razors can only go in checked baggage.

Why are there baggage restrictions for traveling to the USA?

The TSA explained that these measures aim to strengthen air safety , especially during peak travel months. With millions of people passing through airports each week, any incident that could compromise a flight must be prevented at all costs.

The logic behind each prohibition is clear: to prevent cabin fires (as in the case of high-proof alcohol and lithium batteries ), to avoid confusion and false alarms (as happens with replica weapons or toy guns ), and to maintain strict control over what travels in each suitcase.

The restrictions may seem tedious, but their ultimate goal is simple: to make millions of flights safer each year. A small change in how you pack can prevent fines , lost belongings, or worse, delays that ruin the start of your vacation.

Before you leave, carefully check your luggage for your trip to the US. If you have any questions, it's best to consult directly with your travel agent, airline, and official TSA sources.

Because traveling with peace of mind literally begins from the moment you pack your suitcase .

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