Flight attendant shares top 10 strangest items confiscated at airport security

The list includes fluffy handcuffs and even human skulls

Airport security teams deal with items confiscated from passengers every day, all over the world, as people often forget the liquid limit allowances when it comes to their hand luggage, or pack unusual food items that can pose biosecurity risks.

But sometimes, items that get taken away from passengers are a bit more unusual - and occasionally they are downright alarming.

Now, a senior flight attendant has teamed up with leading travel operator, Ski Vertigo, to reveal some of the most unusual items that have been confiscated at airports, and why they were confiscated.

1. Large sums of undeclared cash – Security personnel have previously discovered passengers carrying significant amounts of undeclared cash, sometimes amounting to tens of thousands of pounds. Such large sums can raise suspicions, and are often confiscated for investigation.
2. Human skulls – Intended for medical research or personal collections, human skulls have been confiscated in airports due to their alarming appearance. The transport of human remains is heavily regulated, leading to thorough investigations when discovered.
3. Taxidermy animals – Stuffed animals, especially those without proper documentation, are seized due to wildlife protection regulations. These items can raise concerns about illegal animal trade and poaching.
4. Stun guns disguised as everyday items – Weapons hidden in items like lipstick containers or mobile phones pose significant security risks. Disguised weapons are strictly prohibited, and are confiscated immediately upon discovery.
5. Shrunken heads – These culturally significant and rare items are confiscated to prevent discomfort among passengers, and due to legal restrictions. Shrunken heads can be highly valuable, but are inappropriate for air travel without proper documentation.
6. Luxury pet products exceeding liquid limits – Passengers carrying expensive pet shampoos or grooming products often have them confiscated for exceeding the liquid limit for hand luggage. Security regulations apply equally to pet products.
7. Unusual food items – Items like canned tuna or exotic delicacies are frequently seized when they breach food and liquid hand luggage restrictions. Such foods can also pose biosecurity risks.
8. Novelty items like furry handcuffs – Fluffy handcuffs and similar novelty items are surprisingly common confiscations. They may be prohibited due to their unusual nature or potential to cause disruption.
9. Kitchen Utensils Considered Weapons – Bizarre kitchen tools like wooden meat mallets are seized as they can be considered potential weapons. Passengers often pack such items without realising the security risks.
10. Martial arts weapons – Items like throwing stars (shurikens) are illegal to carry on board. Security officers are vigilant in detecting and confiscating these dangerous weapons.

Commenting on these findings, the flight attendant said: "Travellers often overlook everyday items that can be confiscated at airports, costing them time and money.

"It's crucial to be mindful of liquid restrictions, and consider how unusual items might be perceived by security. Something as simple as carrying oversized bottles of pet shampoo or kitchen tools can lead to unnecessary expenses and delays.

"To avoid issues, limit yourself to travel-sized liquids, and ensure anything unusual, like kitchen utensils or novelty items, is packed in checked luggage.

"If you're carrying large sums of cash, always declare it ahead of time. This not only prevents it from being confiscated, but also keeps you compliant with customs regulations. Being proactive about what's allowed in your carry-on will ensure a smoother airport experience, and help avoid last-minute stress."