What Can't You Carry On An Airplane?

By Amy E. Feldman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Ok, what are the current regulations on what you can't carry on an airplane?

For all the reports about the TSA's 95 percent failure rate in detecting banned items brought by undercover investigators through security, they still manage to flag you every time you forget to take your toothpaste or sunscreen out of your carry-on. In fact, the TSA actually found more than 2,000 firearms last year that dummies had in their carry-on's, 83 percent of which were loaded.

But what are the regulations about pocket knives, lighters, or other items that you're not sure about? According to current regulations, there are some items that just have to stay home—things that explode, things that catch fire, and things that can kill people—in legal speak, explosives, incendiaries, and weapons.  Sports equipment like bats or poles that can be used to bash someone in the head can be checked through but not carried on the plane. Sharp items that don't explode can be checked through; if the blade is shorter than four inches like a pocket knife regulations say you can carry them on but that the TSA reserves the right not to let you. As for disposable lighters, you can carry them on although again, the TSA reserves the right to stop you if see fit.  Or are having a bad day. Sort of. As for that sunscreen, unless it is less than 3.4 ounces, you have to check it through because you can't carry it on. Luckily, you probably won't be tanning while you're on the plane.