Replica explosives, live animals hidden in clothing and weapons concealed in everyday objects top the list of the most unusual discoveries made by airport security officers in 2025, according to US authorities.
In its annual round-up, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) published its top 10 most unexpected items discovered during passenger screening, offering a reminder that creativity is rarely rewarded at airport checkpoints.
The most unusual TSA finds of 2025
According to the TSA’s official press release, officers across the United States encountered a range of items that few travellers would expect to raise alarms – but did.
Replica pipe bomb
A checked bag at Boise Airport triggered immediate concern after officers discovered PVC pipes, wires and blocks clearly labelled “C4”. Although the passenger insisted it was a harmless training aid, the realistic appearance placed it firmly at the top of the list.
Live turtles concealed in clothing
In two separate incidents at Newark Liberty and Miami International airports, travellers attempted to hide live turtles inside their pants and bra. The TSA stressed that small animals may travel legally if properly transported – but never on a person.
Razor blades sewn into garments
At Denver International Airport, officers found razor blades stitched directly into items of clothing, a discovery that was swiftly flagged as a serious security violation.
Drugs hidden inside shoes
Security officers at Kona International Airport uncovered narcotics concealed in footwear, another example of travellers attempting to disguise prohibited items as personal belongings.
Knife hidden in a knee brace
At Quad Cities Airport, a knife was discovered carefully concealed inside a medical knee brace, raising concerns over deliberate concealment.
Pills stored in a shampoo bottle
Anchorage TSA officers uncovered medication hidden inside a shampoo container, a method designed to bypass liquid restrictions.
Knife inside a car seat
At Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, officers found a knife hidden within the cushioning of a child’s car seat.
Bullets in a Nesquik container
Once again at Miami International Airport, ammunition was discovered stored inside a chocolate drink powder container.
Firearm in a golf bag
Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport reported the discovery of a firearm concealed inside a golf bag.
Bullets and knives wrapped in tinfoil
Security officers at Akron-Canton and Newark airports intercepted ammunition and knives wrapped in aluminium foil, a crude attempt to evade detection.
A long history of bizarre attempts
The TSA’s annual list follows a decade of similarly unusual discoveries. Previous years have included live snakes hidden inside trousers, firearms concealed in strollers, gaming consoles and LEGO boxes, and drugs disguised as peanut butter or candy.
In some of the most extreme cases, passengers have attempted to smuggle live animals inside computer hard drives or transport eels and reptiles in carry-on luggage, often prompting the involvement of wildlife authorities.
While the stories may sound absurd, the TSA emphasises that each discovery represents a potential safety risk. The agency continues to urge passengers to familiarise themselves with security rules before travelling – and to leave creativity at home.
Source: TravellHost.com