The 8 weirdest things you're actually allowed to bring on planes
Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images
Many travelers know the drill when it comes to packing your carry-on bag for a flight. Make sure your bag fits the size and weight requirements. Check to see if you’re allowed to bring a personal item in addition to a full-sized carry-on. No liquids greater than 3.4 ounces, no firearms, no large sharp objects.
There are seemingly endless banned items, but if you read the fine print, there’s actually a whole range of odd things that you’re actually allowed to fly with. Here, we name eight such items.
1. Falcons
Smudge 9000/Flickr
A few weeks ago, a Saudi prince made headlines when he purchased coach seats for his falcons—all 80 of them. While such a large flock certainly turned heads, the birds were flying legally. Many Middle Eastern airlines permit falcons on board, as falconry is exceptionally popular in the region. Each airline has specific rules, so call ahead to make sure you can bring your feathered friends on board.
2. Antlers
Harrison Jacobs/Business InsiderLooking to bring back your hunting trophy? Most U.S. carriers permit antlers as carry-on items, but there are strict rules. If they are attached to a skull, the skull needs to be wrapped, and the points of the antlers need to be properly protected. Sometimes there are size requirements and extra fees for flying with antlers.
3. Christmas trees
Flickr / Ralph HockensIn Delta’s own words: “Who are we to turn away holiday spirit?” Yes, you can bring a cut Christmas tree on flights within the U.S. You’ll have to wrap the tree up like a gift to prevent pine needles from falling into the cabin, and there are definitely size restrictions. (Your 12-foot Douglas fir might not make the cut, but your two-foot tree might.) Plus, trees flying into Hawaii will have to be declared, and they will have to pass an agricultural inspection.
4. Pies and cakes
jeffreyw / FlickrYou need to dump your water bottle before security, but you can still bring pies and cakes on board. On the TSA’s website, it clearly states that these baked goods are welcome on planes. (I’ve actually tested this one, and it’s true.)
5. Cremated remains
AP/Rajesh Kumar
Human ashes are permitted on planes, provided that they go through security. Passengers carrying cremated remains are asked to use a special container that will not generate an opaque image on the scanning machines.
7. Parachutes
Yakinodi/Flickr
Afraid of flying? Perhaps bringing a parachute on board will give you peace of mind. Just make sure it is packed separately from your other bags.
8. Bowling balls
Steve Snodgrass/flickrEach airline has different rules when it comes to how many bowling balls you can bring in a carry-on, and in some instances, bowling balls have to be checked.
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