Arielle

I'm leaving next week for Belgium/Great Britain. Really want to bring my butane curling iron with me, but I read conflicting information about whether or not I can take it with me on an airplane. This is such an incredibly handy tool to have with me on international trips as it eliminates the need for a converter and adaptor - which run too hot anyway and fry my hair. I have read that it is permissible to bring it with me in either carry-on or checked baggage as long as the protective cover is in place, but that extra cartridges are not allowed. I have also read where these items are not allowed at all. The TSA website doesn't explain in detail the policy for this type of appliance. Does anyone have the answer to this question?

Thanks

Leburta

I have taken mine with me on domestic flights as well as overseas flights in my carry-on luggage. The butane container is less that 3 oz., but still has to be put into your 1 qt. plastic bag of liquids.

janisj

'Theoretically' Butane tanks are allowed by TSA. They are not specifically banned that I've ever been able to find. But there is no guarantee they will be let through.

However - if you are traveling through a UK airport, butane is not allowed. (not sure about the rule in Belgium, but I'd guess it's the same). At various UK airports, I have personally twice seen butane tanks/curling irons confiscated from hand luggage and at least two friends/acquaintances have had it taken from checked bags.

I wouldn't bother - just get a cheap dual voltage one. Or better yet, buy a European model - it will work better than a dual volatge iron.

greg

This is the case of multiple jurisdictions.

FAA: The section 6 describes their position:

http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/...ersAndCrew.pdf

TSA: many postings on the web with passengers having theirs confiscated.

Airlines: each airline can impose additional restrictions.

Countries: as noted by above, countries can impose additional restrictions. For example, Switzerland http://www.delta.com/traveling_check...oods/index.jsp

sashh

I think the butane is a problem but if it is a canister that you can take out, not the older ones you could fill with lighter fuel then just take the gas out and buy a new canister where you land?

Arielle

I guess I am in luck! So, if any of you out there are in need of this information regarding butane curling irons, this is the email response I received from the TSA:

"Thank you for your email message concerning traveling with a butane curling iron.

"Passengers may place the curling iron in carry-on or checked baggage. The safety cover must be in place over the heating element. You may not carry any extra butane cartridges in carry-on or checked baggage.

"The website has information about prohibited and permitted items, the screening process and procedures, and guidance for special considerations that may assist in preparing for air travel. You can find these tips and more under the "Our Travelers" heading on our website at www.tsa.gov.

TSA Contact Center"

I will be returning to the U.S. from Heathrow airport in London via Delta. The security page of the airport website (http://www.heathrowairport.com/asset...oodsOffice.pdf) states basically the same conditions. These curling irons can be carried in either checked or carry-on luggage as long as the protective cover is intact but no additional canisters are allowed. I will be traveling from Belgium to London via train and do not know of any extreme security measures currently being taken at the train stations.

So, I'm hopeful I will be able to have this item with me. I have printed out all the information received to show the security agent if that becomes necessary.

Thanks to all of you for your responses.

djkbooks

Years ago, I travelled with a butane curling brush. I took several trips with a spare canister, as one never lasted long enough, before knowing they were not allowed. Back then, the canisters were relatively easy to find/purchase during my travels. But, when those got difficult/impossible to find, I bought a dual voltage model I've been travelling with ever since. I actually like it far better, because the barrel is longer. The shorter barrel tended to catch hair, which would get tangled and stuck.

kybourbon

Just know that you take a risk even if the website says it's allowed. Restrictions can and do change and some TSA agents make their own decisions as they don't seem to be up on the restrictions. I would print the pages with the pictures in case there is a question which is still no guarantee they won't take it from you.