Cleared to Pack

Can you bring a curling iron on a plane?

Yes. Corded curling irons can go in carry-on or checked bags. Cordless lithium or butane curling irons are carry-on only (one butane iron per person), with a safety cover over the heating element; spare gas refills are banned.

Carry-on bagAllowed

Corded curling irons are unrestricted. Cordless curling irons with lithium batteries or butane cartridges are allowed only in carry-on bags, with a securely fitted safety cover over the heating element and protection against accidental activation; FAA limits butane curling irons to one per person.

Checked bagWith limits

Corded curling irons are allowed in checked bags. Cordless (lithium or butane) curling irons are not allowed in checked bags.

Checked against official TSA, FAA and government pages on . These are US rules unless we say otherwise; the TSA officer at the checkpoint makes the final call.

The rules in numbers

  • Corded curling irons: no restriction
  • Cordless lithium or butane curling irons: carry-on only
  • Butane curling irons: 1 per person, safety cover fitted over the heating element (49 CFR 175.10(a)(6))
  • Spare butane/gas cartridges: forbidden in carry-on and checked bags
  • Lithium-ion batteries: up to 100 Wh allowed without approval; 101-160 Wh needs airline approval; over 160 Wh forbidden

Packing tips

  • Let the iron cool fully before packing; a heat-proof travel mat often doubles as the required safety cover.
  • Butane irons usually have a lock switch; engage it so the tool counts as protected from accidental activation.
  • Buying butane refills at your destination is the only option, since you cannot fly with them.

Outside the US

  • CanadaCATSA permits electric hair dryers, curling irons and flat irons in both carry-on and checked bags, the same as the US. Source

Flying somewhere else? See the rules for the UK, EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Japan.

Questions people ask

Can I bring a butane curling iron on a plane?

Yes, one per person in your carry-on only, with a safety cover over the heating element. Spare butane refills are not allowed in any bag.

Can I pack a curling iron in checked luggage?

Corded curling irons, yes. Cordless lithium-battery or butane curling irons must go in your carry-on.

Sources