7 Surprising Items You Didn't Know You Can't Bring On A Plane

We've all double-checked our bags to make sure we didn't accidentally pack a full-sized bottle of shampoo or a forgotten bottle of water. But airport security rules go way beyond toiletries. Some everyday items-things you might never guess-are flat-out banned or seriously restricted in your carry-on or checked luggage. Whether you're planning a tropical holiday or just heading home with souvenirs, it's worth knowing what not to bring. From a seemingly harmless coconut to a nostalgic snow globe, here are seven surprising things you can't bring on a plane (at least, not without a headache at security).

Also Read: 10 In-Flight Safety Rules Every Traveller Should Actually Follow

Here Are 7 Surprising Items Banned On Flights:

1. Fresh Durian

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If you've ever walked past a durian stand in Southeast Asia, you'll understand this one. The smell of fresh durian is so potent that it's banned not just on planes, but also in many hotels and public transport systems across the region. While some airlines allow it in checked baggage (if properly sealed), others prohibit it altogether due to its intense odour and the potential for it to disturb passengers mid-flight. Pro tip: Durian-flavoured snacks are usually fine, but always check with your airline first.

2. Party Poppers

You might be in the mood to celebrate, but don't pack the party poppers. These tiny festive favourites are considered explosives under aviation rules-yes, even the ones you pull with a string. They contain a small amount of gunpowder, which makes them a no-go in both carry-on and checked luggage. Fireworks, sparklers, and novelty bang snaps fall into the same banned category. So if your birthday trip includes a celebration, leave the bang at home.

3. Canned Food

You'd think a tin of baked beans or canned tuna wouldn't cause a fuss, but security might disagree. Cans are often flagged because they contain liquids, and the pressurised metal can make them tricky to scan. Some canned goods also fall foul of weight restrictions or raise concerns about leaking. While technically allowed in checked baggage (depending on the contents), many airlines discourage it unless sealed properly and within liquid limits. TSA and UK security have been known to confiscate cans at their discretion.

4. Coconuts

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Yes, really. That innocent-looking coconut from your beachside escape could get flagged at airport security. While not explicitly banned by all airlines, coconuts often fall into the "restricted" category due to their high oil content and potential to leak or rot. Plus, if it's whole and uncracked, it's technically considered a liquid hazard due to the water inside. Some countries also restrict coconuts for agricultural reasons-meaning customs might seize it upon arrival. Bottom line: your tropical souvenir might be better off as a pina colada.

5. Live Plants

Bringing home a leafy memento from your travels? Think again. Live plants are a quarantine nightmare. Most countries, including the UK, have strict biosecurity rules around importing plant material. It's not just about soil and pests-plant diseases can travel too. You might be allowed to bring small plants in the EU (with a phytosanitary certificate), but outside of that, customs will almost certainly bin it. Even a seemingly harmless succulent could trigger a fine or delay.

Also Read: 10 Smart Ways To Beat Holiday Travel Stress

6. Soft Cheese

This one is a heartbreaker for foodies. Soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and goat's cheese are considered liquids under most airline liquid rules if they're spreadable or semi-soft. That means if you're trying to carry them in your hand luggage, they'll likely get confiscated at security. Hard cheeses like cheddar usually pass through without issue, but soft cheeses must go in your checked bag-and only if they're well-packaged and legally permitted into your destination country. Always double-check import rules; some places are very strict about dairy.

7. Snow Globes

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Yes, those charming little keepsakes are actually problematic. Snow globes are banned in carry-on luggage unless they hold less than 100ml of liquid (which most don't) and fit within your clear plastic liquids bag. Because the liquid inside can't be verified, they're often confiscated during security checks. The safest way to bring one home? Pack it in your checked luggage with plenty of padding-or skip it altogether.

It's not just about space in your bag-it's about staying within the rules. Some restrictions are about safety, others about international laws or even odour control. Before your next trip, take a few minutes to check your airline's prohibited items list and your destination's customs regulations. It could save you money, hassle, and heartbreak (no one wants to see their camembert binned at Heathrow).