Anyone who’s flown knows that passing through airport security can be a stressful experience. Between ensuring all your liquids are under 3.4 ounces, removing your shoes, and dealing with long lines, it’s no wonder travelers feel a bit frazzled. But while most of us follow the standard procedures, there are always a few passengers who try to push the boundaries—and sometimes in the most bizarre ways.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents have seen it all. From live animals to strange contraband, the TSA has had to confiscate some truly mind-boggling items over the years. In this article, we’re sharing some of the most ridiculous things passengers have tried to bring through airport security, along with a few tips to help make your own experience as smooth as possible. So, sit back, enjoy the laughs, and get ready to rethink your packing list.

Live Animals: Because Why Not Bring a Snake?

While it’s not uncommon for travelers to bring pets like cats or dogs through airport security, some passengers have taken it to the next level by attempting to sneak far more unusual creatures onto planes.

Snakes, Turtles, and Spiders, Oh My!

One of the most famous incidents involved a passenger who tried to smuggle a live python through security—by hiding it inside their pants. Needless to say, the TSA agent was more than a little surprised when they saw the unusual bulge on the body scanner and realized that the traveler wasn’t concealing contraband, but rather, a slithering reptile. Let’s just say the snake wasn’t flying that day.

In another wild incident, a passenger attempted to bring a pet turtle through security… inside a hamburger bun. The reasoning? They thought the TSA wouldn’t notice if it looked like a sandwich. Spoiler alert: they noticed.

Then there are the cases of travelers trying to sneak tarantulas, exotic birds, and even squirrels through the TSA checkpoint. While some of these animals might technically be legal to transport with the right paperwork, trying to stuff them in your carry-on luggage or clothing is not the way to go about it.

Weapons Disguised as Everyday Items

It’s no secret that the TSA is on the lookout for dangerous items like firearms and knives. But what happens when passengers attempt to smuggle weapons in plain sight, disguised as everyday objects? As it turns out, this happens far more often than you might think.

Knives Hidden in Lipstick and Hairbrushes

TSA agents have confiscated some pretty strange weaponry over the years. One of the most unusual finds was a knife hidden inside a tube of lipstick. The innocent-looking makeup item turned out to be far more sinister when agents discovered the concealed blade. Another passenger was caught trying to bring a knife through security hidden inside a hairbrush.

These kinds of “disguised” weapons are more common than most travelers realize. TSA agents have found knives concealed in everything from pens to belt buckles and even canes with hidden swords.

Historical Artifacts and Odd Souvenirs

When returning from a vacation, it’s only natural to want to bring home some souvenirs. However, not every item is meant to pass through TSA screening—especially when your “souvenir” is an ancient artifact or a particularly odd object.

The Case of the Cannonball

One of the stranger items confiscated by TSA was a live cannonball. Yes, you read that right—a passenger attempted to bring an unexploded cannonball through security. The traveler had apparently found it while exploring a historical battlefield and thought it would make a great keepsake. Unsurprisingly, the TSA disagreed, and the cannonball was swiftly confiscated. The situation also prompted a brief evacuation of the terminal until the TSA could confirm the explosive was safe.

Coconuts Filled with Contraband

In a somewhat more tropical scenario, a passenger once tried to smuggle drugs inside hollowed-out coconuts. While it’s not uncommon for travelers to bring tropical fruits back from vacation, TSA agents found something suspicious about the weight and sound of the coconuts in question. Upon further inspection, they found the coconuts had been carefully hollowed out and filled with illicit substances.

Crazy Food Items That Don’t Fly

Airline food is notorious for its limited options, so it’s not unusual for passengers to pack snacks for their flights. However, some travelers take this a bit too far by attempting to bring through food items that raise eyebrows at security.

Thanksgiving Turkey (With a Side of Mashed Potatoes)

One traveler, determined not to miss out on their holiday meal, tried to bring a fully cooked Thanksgiving turkey through security, complete with stuffing and sides. While the TSA doesn’t ban cooked food, the passenger had failed to account for the fact that transporting a massive turkey in a carry-on would raise suspicions—and likely won’t fit in the overhead bin.

Another incident involved a traveler trying to bring a giant block of cheese—so large that it wouldn’t fit through the X-ray machine. Although cheese is typically allowed, its sheer size made it impossible to inspect, and the passenger was forced to either discard it or miss their flight.

Peanut Butter, Soup, and Other Liquid “Foods”

As most of us know, liquids over 3.4 ounces aren’t allowed in carry-on bags. But this rule often confuses travelers when it comes to liquid-like foods. TSA agents have had to confiscate jars of peanut butter, canned soups, and even soft cheeses that don’t meet the guidelines. If you can spread it, pour it, or drink it, chances are it counts as a liquid in the TSA’s eyes.

Odd and Bizarre Confiscations: You Won’t Believe It

TSA agents have seen it all, but even they are sometimes surprised by the truly bizarre things passengers try to sneak through airport security.

Human Skulls and Bones

In one particularly strange case, a traveler attempted to bring human skulls and bones through security. The passenger was carrying the items for “scientific research,” but failed to declare them, leaving the TSA agents understandably concerned. After a thorough investigation, it was confirmed that the bones were legitimate research materials, but this didn’t stop the story from making headlines.

A Suitcase Full of Eels

If you thought the snake in the pants was strange, wait until you hear about the traveler who attempted to smuggle a suitcase full of live eels. TSA agents noticed something unusual about the luggage as it passed through the X-ray machine, and upon inspection, they discovered hundreds of wriggling eels. Needless to say, the eels didn’t make it onto the plane.

Tips for Making Your TSA Screening a Breeze

After hearing these crazy stories, you might be wondering how you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience at the TSA checkpoint. Here are some practical tips to help you sail through security without raising any alarms:

1. Know the 3-1-1 Rule for Liquids

The 3-1-1 rule is simple: liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, all packed in a single quart-sized bag. If you’re bringing anything that even remotely resembles a liquid, like peanut butter or yogurt, pack it in your checked luggage to avoid any issues.

2. Keep Your Luggage Organized

One of the easiest ways to get through TSA quickly is to have an organized bag. Pack your electronics (like laptops and tablets) in an easy-to-reach spot, as they’ll need to be placed in a separate bin. The same goes for liquids—keep your quart-sized bag at the top of your luggage so you can quickly remove it.

3. Avoid Wrapping Gifts

If you’re traveling with gifts, avoid wrapping them before your flight. TSA agents may need to inspect the contents of your bag, and wrapped gifts will likely be unwrapped. It’s better to bring gift bags or wrap items at your destination.

4. Check TSA’s Prohibited Items List

Before you pack, always check TSA’s list of prohibited items. This includes weapons (obviously), certain sporting goods, and sharp objects. Even seemingly harmless items like large lighters or tools can be confiscated.

5. Opt for TSA PreCheck

If you’re a frequent traveler, TSA PreCheck is a game changer. It allows you to use a faster screening line, keep your shoes and belt on, and leave laptops and liquids in your bag. Plus, it can save you a ton of time during busy travel periods.

Final Thoughts: The Weird World of TSA Confiscations

While most travelers pass through TSA checkpoints without issue, the bizarre items people try to sneak through security never cease to amaze. From live snakes and ancient artifacts to outrageous food items, TSA agents have certainly seen it all—and then some.

The next time you’re packing for a trip, take a moment to think about what you’re putting in your carry-on. Are you really going to need that extra-large block of cheese? And if you’re traveling with any “souvenirs,” be sure to check the guidelines before you end up starring in your own TSA horror story.

Have you ever witnessed a strange TSA confiscation or had an unusual experience at security? Share your story in the comments below and let us know what’s the craziest thing you’ve seen at the airport!