Curling Iron Or No? TSA says pack it wrong and risk a $17,000 fine.
By Chilaeya Ezell
Culture Travels Media Report
Labor Day weekend has become synonymous with family cookouts, aggressive spades tournaments, and extended time away from work. For many, this weekend of good food and leisure typically begins and ends with a trip to the nearest airport.
In fact, Labor Day weekend is historically the busiest period for air travel. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) defines Labor Day weekend as the Thursday prior through the Wednesday after the holiday. In 2024, TSA screened nearly 14.3 million people and expects that number to increase to over 17 million this holiday weekend, as reported via social media. With an estimated 2.86 million travelers going through TSA checkpoints daily, even those of us with TSA Pre-Check better arrive at the airport within the recommended two hours prior to departure time.
But an increase in fellow travelers isn’t the only thing awaiting airport-goers. This year, TSA has implemented several updates to their screening and packing policies which, if not adhered to, could delay or disrupt your travel plans. So, before you make your way to the airport, familiarize yourself with the three updates below to make your TSA screening process a breeze.
Straight to the Point (and Curl)
Pack your cordless curling iron or hair straightener in your checked baggage. TSA updated their Complete List of items travelers can pack to include the following guidance:
Cordless curling irons that contain lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries or are gas or butane fueled are ONLY allowed in carry-on bags.
A safety cover must be securely fitted over the heating element.
The device must be protected from accidental activation.
Gas refills (spare cartridges) are not permitted.
This change aligns with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations regarding portable electronic devices—which also limit cordless curling irons or hair straighteners to one per person. On social media, TSA warns: “Any cordless curling irons containing gas cartridges (butane) discovered in a checked bag will be removed and turned over to the airline as a HAZMAT item.” Travelers who pack prohibited items can face warnings, potential fines exceeding $17,000, and even possible arrest, according to the TSA.
Corded curling irons and hair straighteners are not restricted and can be packed in both checked and carry-on baggage.
Shoes On or Off?
In a July press release, TSA blessed us with the announcement that passengers can now keep their shoes on at TSA security checkpoints in all airports. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated this change is expected to “drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.”
The REAL ID Requirement
Effective as of May 7, TSA implemented the REAL ID enforcement measures at all TSA checkpoints nationwide. Per the TSA press release, travellers without a REAL ID compliant card can “expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint.”
Alternative forms of identification, such as a valid U.S. passport or Global Entry card, are also acceptable—review TSA’s full list of acceptable identification.
Who is required to have a REAL ID compliant card?
All airline passengers aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID compliant card or another acceptable form of identification.
What is a REAL ID compliant card?
In 2005 Congress passed the REAL ID Act, which set minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licences and identification cards. The REAL ID Act also prohibits certain federal agencies, such as TSA, from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards which do not meet the minimum standards established in the Act—including boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.
How do I know if my identification is REAL ID compliant?
It is very likely your identification is already REAL ID compliant. REAL ID compliant cards are required to be issued by all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the 5 U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam). Look for one of the below markings in the upper right-hand corner of your driver’s license or identification card to confirm it is REAL ID compliant.
So…what should I do if I don’t see any of those symbols on my identification?
Use an alternative form of identification, such as your U.S. passport or Global Entry card. TSA accepts several other forms of identity documents—review their full list of acceptable identification. Or, visit your state driver’s licensing agency to obtain a REAL ID.
