The Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) three-one-one liquid rule, put in place in the United States in 2006 in response to the 9/11 attacks, continues to require travelers passing through a domestic airport to keep all liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers of no more than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters.
With the evolution of screening technology, some countries have since moved to eliminate restrictions on in-flight liquids.
Since the “What is a liquid?” question continues to confuse infrequent travelers and slow down screening time, the TSA has an entire “What Can I Bring?” section of its website explaining which common foods and semi-solid items do not pass the test.
The government agency regularly issues social media reminders saying that hummus, yogurt, cream cheese, jams, and various creamy dips and spreads are some of the most commonly confiscated food items at security.
During the influx of international visitors who visited the U.S. for the FIFA World Cup last July, some tourists went viral for the disappointment they felt upon having to throw out their souvenir bottles of ranch dressing.
TSA tells travelers that those Magic 8 Balls are not allowed onboard
An unexpected item that does not pass the liquid rule is the Magic 8 Ball toy some use to tell their fortunes or answer questions that are plaguing them.
The novelty toys have seen periodic waves of popularity over the decades. First introduced in the 1950s, they became extremely popular in the 1980s. Now manufactured by Mattel, the toy is making a comeback as a popular stress reliever.
That said, the 20-sided die that one needs to shake to get different answers to their question floats inside a special dye and rubbing alcohol.
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While most standard Magic 8 balls are not large enough for the liquid to surpass the limit, the fact that it is sealed in an unmarked case means officers cannot verify the quantity of liquid and must treat it as a no-go.
As a result, the TSA website has a light-hearted section reminding travelers that any Magic 8 Balls need to be packed in a checked suitcase rather than a carry-on bag.
“For Carry-on bags: We asked the Magic 8 Ball and it told us… Outlook not so good!” the TSA section on the item reads. “For Checked bags: We asked the Magic 8 Ball and it told us…It is certain!”
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What other unexpected items do not pass the TSA liquid rule at airports?
As most people probably do not associate a Magic 8 Ball with liquid, travelers who pack them in bags they bring onboard will most likely see them confiscated.
Other unexpected items that cause trouble include gel deodorant, certain types of cheese packed in brine or other liquid, and certain types of makeup, such as mascara and liquid lipstick packed in large quantities.
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“If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it, or pour it, it is a liquid, aerosol, or gel and must be packed in your checked bag if it exceeds the 3.4-ounce limit,” reads the official TSA explainer that the agency frequently repeats when questions of what is or is not a liquid arise.
