The TSA has quietly added a Samsung device and other surprising items to its 2023 prohibited list for carry-on bags, The Mirror US reports. The updated restrictions, effective immediately, include everything from gel-based cosmetics to high-powered tools, catching travelers off guard ahead of the holiday rush. Why is a specific Samsung gadget now banned? How can you avoid fines or delays? From security loopholes to viral TikTok confusion, here’s the full list of newly restricted items—and why the TSA’s latest crackdown is sparking outrage among frequent flyers and tech enthusiasts alike.
The Samsung Ban – Which Device Made the TSA’s Naughty List?
According to The Mirror US, the TSA has prohibited Samsung’s Galaxy Note 7—a discontinued phone notorious for battery explosions in 2016—from all carry-on and checked luggage. Though the model is outdated, the agency cited “persistent fire risks” after discovering some refurbished units still in circulation. The ban also extends to similar lithium-ion devices with damaged batteries. Other new additions include:
Gel ice packs (over 3.4 oz)
Butane curling irons
Drills/drivers with batteries over 100Wh
Self-defense sprays (e.g., pepper spray over 4 oz)
TSA agents are instructed to confiscate these items on sight, with fines up to $15,000.
Traveler Backlash and How to Pack Safely
The updated list has sparked chaos at airports, with viral videos showing agents tossing pricey tools and beauty products. The Mirror US notes confusion over the gel ice pack rule, which impacts families carrying medications. To avoid trouble:
Use TSA’s “Can I Bring?” app for real-time checks.
Ship banned items via UPS/FedEx instead.
Separate electronics for easier screening.
“This feels like a cash grab,” said a stranded contractor whose DeWalt drill was seized. Meanwhile, Samsung clarified that Galaxy Note 7s were recalled in 2016 and urged owners to “dispose of them properly.”
In conclusion, the TSA’s latest restrictions, as reported by The Mirror US, highlight the evolving challenges of air travel security. While the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 ban targets a legacy risk, new rules around everyday items like gel packs and tools reveal a broader crackdown on potential threats. For travelers, adaptability is key: double-check bags, leverage shipping services, and stay updated via TSA’s app. As debates over safety vs. convenience rage, one thing’s clear—navigating airport security just got trickier. Whether these rules enhance safety or fuel frustration, preparedness remains the best defense against holiday travel chaos.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Why did the TSA ban the Samsung Galaxy Note 7?
A: Due to fire risks from defective lithium-ion batteries, even in refurbished units (The Mirror US).
Q: Can I pack gel ice packs in checked luggage?
A: Yes, if frozen solid. Gel packs over 3.4 oz are banned in carry-ons.
Q: Are power tools allowed in checked bags?
A: Yes, if battery cells are under 100Wh and securely installed.
Q: How can I check if my device is restricted?
A: Use the TSA’s mobile app or visit tsa.gov for real-time updates.
Q: What happens if I accidentally pack a banned item?
A: Agents will confiscate it, and repeat offenders may face fines up to $15,000.
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