Everyday items that surprisingly set off airport security

There’s nothing worse than being held up at the airport before a big trip away, only to find yourself setting off the alarms while going through security.

There are common items that we all know shouldn’t be taken through airport security, but there are a few everyday objects that you might be surprised to learn aren’t allowed through.

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1. Rhinestones

They might be a common fixture on some clothing items but rhinestones may cause some trouble while heading through security. They mightn’t set off the large detectors, but they can set off the smaller handheld devices. If you do have rhinestones on your shoes, jackets or other clothing, just be sure to take those items off and pop them into the tubs provided before walking through the detectors.

2. Peanut butter

If you’ve bought a tub of peanut butter to give as a gift to someone on your travels, then make sure it is in your checked suitcase and not your carry-on luggage. Peanut butter is technically considered a liquid and will be confiscated from you if it’s not within the required liquid measurements.

3. Moisturiser

Your moisturising lotion won’t set off an alarm at airport security but they can trigger the airport explosive detectors. Even the smallest amount of chemicals can be traced during an airport explosive test and some moisturisers contain certain compounds that can set off the reactor. Chemicals like ammonium nitrate, which is “commonly used in fertilizers and occasionally used in cosmetics as a buffering agent,” is often detected.

4. Aluminium foil

You might like to carry a box of lollies on the flight with you, perhaps as a snack or to give as a gift when you touch down at your destination. But did you know that the foil wrappers on some sweets and other items can set of the detector? If you do have anything with you that does have aluminium foil or wrapping, just make sure to set it aside first or put it into your checked-in luggage.

5. Jewellery

There’s no need to worry about your gold chains and silver rings setting off the alarms while going through a metal detector at the airport, but some pieces of jewellery certainly can. If you’re wearing a magnetic metal, commonly found in costume jewellery, for example, this can often set off an alarm. If you’re unsure, place your items aside while going through security.