The Transportation Security Administration has issued a stern warning to travelers about prohibited camping equipment after security agents intercepted a passenger attempting to bring a camping stove with an attached propane tank onto a flight.

According to Daily Mail, the incident occurred at Pensacola International Airport in Florida, where TSA agents discovered the item during routine screening.

The passenger reportedly claimed he was unaware that propane tanks were prohibited on aircraft, prompting the TSA to use the incident as a teaching moment for all travelers. The agency emphasized that propane tanks are strictly forbidden in both carry-on and checked luggage due to their flammable nature.

Alarming discovery sparks public notice

TSA officials took to Facebook to address the situation, using a touch of humor while delivering a serious safety message. Their post began with a light-hearted reference to cooking shows before firmly stating the rules regarding camping equipment on flights.

"Listen, friends, we love watching cooking shows as much as you do, but any top chef has to know that you cannot bring a stove with a propane tank attached through airport security in your carry-on bag," the TSA wrote in their public announcement. The agency noted that while the item was "hard to miss," they commended their team at Pensacola International Airport for discovering it during standard checkpoint screening.

The agency clarified that while camp stoves themselves can be transported in carry-on luggage, this is only permitted if they are completely empty of fuel and thoroughly cleaned to remove any fuel vapors or residue. Propane tanks, however, are never allowed in either carry-on or checked baggage under any circumstances.

Public reaction to traveler's mistake

Many social media users responded to the TSA's post with disbelief that someone would attempt to bring such an obviously prohibited item through airport security. The incident generated significant engagement on the agency's Facebook page.

"A propane tank?!? Someone is sorely lacking in common sense!" wrote one commenter, expressing the sentiment shared by many who were surprised by the passenger's claimed ignorance of basic flight safety rules. Others suggested the passenger must have known better, with one person writing, "He knew! If you have to bring travel-size shampoo you know."

Another commenter praised the security officers, stating: "This is truly a weird carry-on in the airport. Great catch TSA." The general consensus among respondents seemed to be appreciation for the agency's vigilance in preventing potentially dangerous items from being brought aboard aircraft.

TSA clarifies travel regulations

The incident provided the TSA with an opportunity to remind travelers about various items that are permitted and prohibited on flights. The agency regularly posts information about security screening regulations on their social media accounts.

In a recent post, the TSA shared information about which food items passengers can bring through security checkpoints, specifically mentioning that donuts are allowed. The agency also provided a comprehensive list of guidelines covering everything from alcoholic beverages to breast milk and even live lobsters.

Regarding alcohol, the TSA explained that beverages containing between 24 and 70 percent alcohol are limited to 5 liters per passenger in checked bags and must remain in unopened retail packaging. Beverages with less than 24 percent alcohol face no limitations in checked baggage, while mini bottles in carry-on luggage must fit within a single quart-sized bag.