The TSA released a “Top 10 Best Catches” video showing the most unusual and dangerous items found at airport checkpoints in 2025. Explosive replicas seized at Boise Airport were the year’s headline catch, while turtles hidden on passengers at Newark and Miami made the list of bizarre finds. Other confiscations included concealed knives, bullets, drugs and pills. Travelers are urged to consult the TSA’s "What Can I Bring" tool, the MyTSA app, or AskTSA for packing guidance.
TSA’s Top 10 Worst Packing Decisions of 2025 — From Replica Bombs to Hidden Turtles
A TSA agent at an airport security checkpointShelby Tauber/Bloomberg via Getty
The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has published a “Top 10 Best Catches” video highlighting the strangest and most dangerous items intercepted at airport security checkpoints in 2025. The compilation showcases how everyday objects — or attempts to disguise prohibited items — can create serious safety risks for travelers and aviation staff.
Headline Finds
Explosive replicas seized at Boise Airport topped the list: authorities discovered a replica pipe bomb and fake C4 blocks complete with wires, an initiator and a detonator. The TSA stressed that both real and imitation explosives have no place at an airport and urged travelers to “leave them at home.”
Hidden animals were among the year’s most bizarre discoveries. A turtle was found concealed in a passenger’s pants at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and two turtles were discovered tucked into a traveler’s bra at Miami International Airport (MIA). The agency reminded passengers that pets and live animals must be transported safely and declared for screening when appropriate.
Luggage at an airport security checkpointShelby Tauber/Bloomberg via Getty
Other Notable Confiscations
- Razor blades sewn into clothing.
- Illegal drugs hidden inside shoes and pills concealed in a shampoo bottle.
- A knife tucked inside a knee brace and another hidden in a child car seat.
- Bullets stashed in a Nesquik container and additional bullets and knives wrapped in tinfoil.
- A firearm discovered in a golf bag.
These examples underscore how attempts to disguise weapons, explosives, contraband or live animals can lead to confiscation, travel delays, fines or criminal charges. The TSA encourages travelers to pack thoughtfully and to avoid bringing prohibited or suspicious items to the airport.
How To Check Before You Pack
The TSA highlighted its online "What Can I Bring" tool and recommended additional resources: the MyTSA mobile app, texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275872), or messaging @AskTSA on X or Facebook Messenger. These services can help passengers confirm whether an item is allowed in carry-on or checked luggage.
Reporting note: This summary is based on the TSA’s public video and related materials. Credit: Shelby Tauber/Bloomberg via Getty.
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