Seasoned travelers know that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has some very strict rules about what you are (and aren’t) allowed to pack in your carry-on. And while some of the items on the agency’s no-fly list include the obvious — like weapons and certain oversized items — there are other items that may come as a surprise.
Well, it looks like the TSA is having a little fun with one of the more questionable items people are packing in their carry-on, and the agency took to Facebook to share photos of the object. According to the post, several people have been spotted bringing hammocks to the airport so they can rest in style between flights.
And while the agency says that hammocks are perfectly fine to pack in your bag in theory, there are some really important things you should know before you add one to your luggage. Commenters wasted no time poking fun at the TSA for the post, which is now going viral with publications like USA Today getting in on the fun.
Here’s what you need to know if your pre-flight itinerary includes “hanging loose” in the airport.
Free-Standing Hammocks Need to be Hung with Care
The TSA’s Facebook post couldn’t be clearer about where the agency stands on hammocks. However, the real important info was tucked away in the second half of the caption, which instructed passengers on how people could avoid making themselves (and their hammocks) persona non grata when they fly.
The post read: “To reduce tension, or to avoid having a falling out with the airport, check with them about where you can and can’t hang your napping apparatus.”
People Loved the Idea of Airport Hammocks
The TSA may have shared the photos for a laugh, but commenters think that adding hammocks to the airport experience could be a way to help people stay comfortable during long delays or layovers. “They should just make this a thing at the airports an actual hammock cafe spot for all those painful layovers and delays,” one person wrote in part.
“Hey, why don’t you create a designated pod/hammock [area] at the airports? Just a suggestion,” another person added. Making airports BYOH (bring your own hammock)? Sounds like a great idea!
What Other Surprising Items Get the Green Light from the TSA?
Okay, now that the TSA’s cleared the air when it comes to hammocks, you may be curious to know what other items can be brought on a flight. For example, air mattresses with built-in pumps are okay (though the website says you’ll need special instructions about how to pack it), which could also help making those long wait times a bit more comfortable.
Antlers and artificial bones are also okay (though they won’t help you catch up on your sleep), but bowling balls are a no-no (who knew)!
As always, if you have something unique to bring on your next flight, you should check with the airline before heading out the door. While you may technically be allowed to bring it, there may be special rules that need to be followed, or accommodations that need to be made.