Is Hair Spray Allowed on Planes? And Why Do Bananas Always Look So Suspicious at Airport Security?

Is Hair Spray Allowed on Planes? And Why Do Bananas Always Look So Suspicious at Airport Security?

Traveling by air can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to navigating the labyrinth of rules and regulations surrounding what you can and cannot bring on board. One common question that arises is: Is hair spray allowed on planes? The answer, like many things in life, is not as straightforward as one might hope. But let’s dive into the details, explore the nuances, and maybe even question why bananas seem to get more scrutiny than they deserve at airport security.


The Rules on Hair Spray: Aerosols and Air Travel

Hair spray, being an aerosol, falls under the category of liquids, gels, and aerosols (LGAs) as defined by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and other international aviation security agencies. The general rule is that aerosols are allowed in carry-on luggage, but with restrictions:

  1. Volume Limits: The container must not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). This is part of the broader 3-1-1 rule, which allows passengers to bring liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, all fitting into a single quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag.

  2. Pressure and Flammability: Aerosols are pressurized containers, and some hair sprays contain flammable propellants. For this reason, certain types of hair spray may be restricted or prohibited altogether, especially if they are labeled as hazardous materials.

  3. Checked Luggage: If your hair spray exceeds the 3.4-ounce limit, you can pack it in your checked baggage. However, there are still restrictions. The FAA limits the total amount of aerosols in checked luggage to 70 ounces (2 kilograms) per passenger, and each container must not exceed 18 ounces (500 milliliters).


Why the Restrictions?

The restrictions on aerosols like hair spray are primarily rooted in safety concerns. Aerosols are pressurized containers that can explode under certain conditions, such as changes in cabin pressure or exposure to high temperatures. Additionally, the flammable nature of some propellants poses a fire risk, which is a significant concern in the confined space of an airplane.


The Curious Case of Bananas at Airport Security

Now, let’s address the elephant—or rather, the banana—in the room. Why do bananas often seem to attract extra attention at airport security? While they are not explicitly banned, bananas can sometimes trigger suspicion for a few reasons:

  1. Density and Shape: Bananas are dense and have an irregular shape, which can look unusual on X-ray scanners. Security personnel might need to inspect them manually to ensure they are not concealing anything dangerous.

  2. Cultural Context: In some countries, bananas are considered a potential biohazard due to concerns about agricultural pests. This can lead to additional scrutiny, especially on international flights.

  3. The Human Factor: Let’s face it—bananas are just inherently funny. Their presence in a suitcase might prompt a double take or a chuckle from security staff, leading to a more thorough inspection.


Tips for Traveling with Hair Spray (and Bananas)

If you’re planning to bring hair spray on your next flight, here are some tips to ensure a smooth experience:

  1. Check the Label: Make sure your hair spray is not labeled as flammable or hazardous. If it is, leave it at home.

  2. Stick to the 3-1-1 Rule: Pack your hair spray in a quart-sized bag with your other liquids, and ensure the container is 3.4 ounces or smaller.

  3. Consider Alternatives: If you’re worried about space or restrictions, consider using a non-aerosol hair product, such as a hair gel or mousse, which may have fewer limitations.

As for bananas, if you must travel with them, pack them in a way that makes them easy to inspect. A clear plastic bag or a designated fruit compartment in your luggage can help avoid unnecessary delays.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I bring hair spray in my checked luggage?
A: Yes, but there are limits. Each container must not exceed 18 ounces, and the total amount of aerosols in your checked luggage must not exceed 70 ounces.

Q: Why do bananas get extra attention at security?
A: Bananas can look unusual on X-ray scanners due to their density and shape. They may also be subject to agricultural inspection on international flights.

Q: Are there any hair sprays that are completely banned on planes?
A: Hair sprays labeled as flammable or hazardous materials are generally prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage.

Q: Can I bring a travel-sized hair spray in my carry-on?
A: Yes, as long as it is 3.4 ounces or less and fits within your quart-sized bag of liquids.

Q: What other common items are often mistaken for security risks?
A: Items like snow globes, jars of peanut butter, and even certain types of cheese can sometimes raise eyebrows at security checkpoints due to their density or liquid content.


In conclusion, while hair spray is generally allowed on planes, it’s essential to follow the rules to avoid any hiccups during your journey. And as for bananas, well, they’ll always be a little suspicious—but that’s part of what makes air travel so endlessly fascinating. Safe travels!