Items prohibited by the TSA

[Fridays Child]

I'd like to take Emergen-C, herbal tea bags, foil-packets of tuna, and crackers on an upcoming international trip. It looks like vitamin supplements and dry foods are allowed.

I can't find prohibitions of any of these items, at the TSA web site. But, when a family member went to France earlier this year, the TSA confiscated her Emergen-C, leaving a note that said her bag was inspected and some items were removed.

Has anyone else had non-prohibited items confiscated? In your experience, do you think there's anything on my list that might be removed?

[uppityperson]

1. I often get the TSA note but have never had anything removed from my checked bag. In my

carryon I make sure to have each medicine in its own properly labeled med bottle, or at least each different looking pill in its own bottle. I have experienced much more trouble coming into the US customs than other countries. Not sure why tSA would take emergenCs though, seems odd since they are in their own little packettes.

That note is the same when they open and inspect a bag, as they do for me. I put all my wires in a plastic bag on top or in a pocket so they can find it easily, look and not worry about losing pieces or plugs.

[Fridays Child]

2. Good advice.

Thank you!

[intaglio]

3. Just a thought

You might have trouble bringing herbal teas back into the States. There are some fairly arcane rules on the importation of vegetable matter. You might want to contact US customs before flying back.

[Fridays Child]

4. I'll check.

It's my favorite tea so I hope I can take it for use over there. If I can't bring back what's left, that's okay. Maybe I'll just leave it there. I can always get more when I return home.

[Retrograde]

5. And make sure you declare it

If it is prohibited and you declare it, they'll (usually) give you the benefit of the doubt and just confiscate it. If you don't and they find it, there's a big fine.

Most dried teas are permitted - at least I've never had any problems - especially if they're commercially packaged and labeled.