Looking good on your trip is no longer an option for the TSA, because they have added to their list of prohibited items during flights the cordless hair straighteners and curlers. We know you already know the reason, but we will tell you anyway: they have lithium batteries and in some cases even butane gas cartridges… Do you know what could happen if one of these explodes during a flight?
There have already been incidents that the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) recorded where these devices were the culprits, overheating inside a suitcase in the hold… And that can cause fires and explosions that no one expects. So passenger safety always comes first, no more cordless hair devices on flights.
What is included in the ban
The rule only affects devices that depend on portable power, straighteners, combs, or portable curlers, but if you have a model with a cord, you have nothing to worry about, you can take it both in your carry-on luggage and checked luggage in the hold.
•Corded electric curling irons and hair straighteners aren’t restricted.
*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. pic.twitter.com/SlSLeNXNmE
— TSA (@TSA) August 20, 2025
Don’t say the TSA wants to see you with messy hair!
Doing your haircare on the fly? Allow us to iron out the details:
•Cordless curling irons with a gas cartridge or butane are ONLY permitted in carry-on bags.
•One per person.
•Must have a safety cover fitted over the heating element.
•No spare cartridges.More:
— TSA (@TSA) August 20, 2025
Are there any exceptions?
Yes, there are exceptions, and if you want to bring one of those cordless devices, you will have to do it in a safety case for hot devices. They are not expensive and very easy to buy online.
That said, you can only bring one per person and it must have a lock button to prevent it from being turned on accidentally, if not, it stays on the ground.
How do I pass security control?
Pack your luggage properly, for that you have many TSA tools available to help you. The idea is that when you get to the checkpoint, you are not the one holding up the line.
Some rules remain as always, liquids, 100 ml in containers inside a clear bag. Everything that has a battery included (phones, laptops, e-books and tablets) in a tray, backpack, shoes, and ID (passport or REAL ID).
And be careful with your belongings once you cross the scanner! There are many people who take advantage to steal belongings, so don’t lose sight of your trays or your suitcase.
They also recommend traveling with clothes that are easy to remove to get through faster, avoid unnecessary lines, and check the updated rules of each airport before every flight.
What does this mean for passengers
Cordless curlers and straighteners have become a basic item for many people who travel, they are convenient and you can use them anywhere. Now, that habit will have to change or you will have to leave home already looking well-groomed.
Other personal items prohibited
The TSA clarifies that security measures are not limited to hair devices. The list of restricted products also includes butane gas cartridges, lighters with liquid fuel, and spare lithium batteries that are not installed in a device. And also vapes!
Safety first, always
With this measure, the TSA makes it clear that safety comes before comfort and beauty. Cordless hair devices take a back seat compared to the need to avoid risks inside a plane.
From now on, it’s time to adapt: use corded models or always check the rules before flying. And think about it, no one wants an explosion a thousand feet in the air… The smallest detail can make the difference, and we all love arriving safe at our destination!