Understanding Prohibited Items: Your First Line of Defense
When preparing for air travel, understanding what not to bring on a flight is paramount to avoid delays, confiscations, and potential security issues. Airlines and aviation security agencies have strict regulations to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew. These rules govern both checked and carry-on baggage, with a particular focus on items that could pose a threat.
- Certain items are universally banned for safety reasons.
- Liquids have specific size and quantity restrictions in carry-on bags.
- Sharp objects and potential weapons are strictly prohibited.
- Flammable materials and explosives are never allowed.
The primary goal of these regulations is to prevent the introduction of dangerous goods into the aircraft cabin or cargo hold. This includes items that are flammable, explosive, corrosive, or could be used as weapons. Familiarizing yourself with these restrictions before you pack can save you significant inconvenience at the airport. It’s always prudent to check the specific guidelines of your airline and the departure/arrival countries’ aviation security authorities, as rules can vary slightly.
The TSA's Role in Air Travel Safety
In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) sets the standards for what passengers can and cannot bring through security checkpoints. Their guidelines are designed to be comprehensive, covering a vast array of items, from everyday objects to more specialized equipment. The TSA's website serves as a primary resource for travelers seeking to confirm the permissibility of specific items, acting as a vital tool in preventing travelers from bringing prohibited articles onto a flight.
Why These Restrictions Exist
The rationale behind these stringent rules is rooted in aviation security. The potential for items to be misused, whether intentionally or accidentally, necessitates a cautious approach. Historically, security incidents have led to the refinement and introduction of many current prohibitions. For instance, the ban on liquids in carry-on baggage above a certain volume was implemented following a thwarted terrorist plot in the early 2000s that involved liquid explosives. Similarly, rules around sharp objects and tools are designed to mitigate risks associated with potential hijackings or onboard disturbances. The overarching principle is to maintain a secure environment for everyone on board, making awareness of what not to bring on a flight a shared responsibility among travelers.
Commonly Confused Items
Many travelers are unsure about common items that might seem innocuous but are restricted. For example, while small scissors with less than a 4-inch blade from the tip to the joint are often permitted in carry-on baggage, larger or pointed scissors are not. Similarly, tools like utility knives or box cutters are generally prohibited, even if they seem necessary for a specific task. Understanding these nuances is key to a smooth security screening process. Always err on the side of caution and double-check if an item’s status is unclear. Consulting the TSA's 'What Can I Bring?' tool online is an invaluable step for specific queries.
Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols: The 3-1-1 Rule Explained
One of the most common areas of confusion regarding what not to bring on a flight pertains to liquids, gels, and aerosols. The TSA's 3-1-1 rule is a standardized guideline for carry-on baggage designed to manage these items safely. Understanding this rule is fundamental for avoiding confiscation at the security checkpoint.
The 3-1-1 rule stands for: 3 ounces (or 100 milliliters) per container; 1 quart-sized, clear, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger. Each passenger is allowed only one such bag, which must be removed from your carry-on luggage and placed in a bin for screening. This applies to all liquids, gels, creams, and aerosols, including toiletries, cosmetics, and even some food items like yogurt or peanut butter. These items must fit comfortably within the bag. If a container is larger than 3 ounces, it will need to be placed in your checked baggage, regardless of how full it is.
What Qualifies as a Liquid, Gel, or Aerosol?
It's important to recognize the broad definition these categories encompass. Beyond obvious items like shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste, consider items such as hairspray, mousse, hand lotion, liquid makeup, contact lens solution, and even canned foods. Items that are spreadable, pourable, or foam-like generally fall under these restrictions. Even items like gel-filled pillows or novelty items with liquid inside are subject to the rule. When in doubt, it is best to pack such items in your checked luggage.
Exceptions to the 3-1-1 Rule
There are a few key exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage. Medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols are permitted in larger quantities, provided they are declared to security officers at the checkpoint. This includes items like prescription medications, saline solution for contact lenses, and breast milk or formula for infants. While these items are exempt from the 3-1-1 size limit, they must still be presented separately for screening. Keep them in a separate bag and inform the TSA officer before your bag goes through the X-ray machine. It's advisable to have documentation, such as a doctor's note, for prescription medications, though it's not always required.
Pack non-essential liquids over 3.4 ounces in your checked luggage to streamline your carry-on security screening and avoid last-minute decisions about what to leave behind.
Special Considerations for Perfume and Scented Candles
The status of perfume and scented candles when considering what not to bring on a flight requires careful attention. Perfume, typically sold in bottles larger than 3.4 ounces, must generally be packed in checked baggage. Smaller travel-sized perfumes or those in containers compliant with the 3-1-1 rule are permissible in carry-on. Scented candles, however, can be tricky. While the wax itself isn't restricted, if the candle contains any flammable components or is considered a potential fire hazard, it might be prohibited. Aerosolized scented sprays fall under the liquid rule. It is always best to check with your specific airline for their policies on such items, especially if they are intended for personal use beyond standard toiletries.
Sharp Objects and Potential Weapons: What's Off-Limits
When assessing what not to bring on a flight, the category of sharp objects and potential weapons is one of the most strictly enforced. The TSA's primary concern is passenger and crew safety, making any item that could be used to cause harm a high priority for prohibition.
This prohibition extends to a wide range of items. Knives of any kind are generally not allowed in carry-on baggage, with very few exceptions like plastic or round-bladed butter knives. This includes utility knives, box cutters, swords, and even certain craft knives. While small scissors with blades less than 4 inches from the pivot are permitted, larger or pointed scissors are not. Tools such as axes, hatchets, drills, saws, and crowbars are also prohibited in carry-on luggage. If you need to transport such items, they must be securely packed in your checked baggage, adhering to specific airline regulations regarding their packaging and declaration.
Understanding the 'Small Knife' Ambiguity
The question of whether a small knife is allowed on a flight often arises. While the TSA does permit small scissors, the rules for knives are much stricter for carry-on. Generally, any knife with a blade longer than a certain length (often cited as 2.36 inches or 6 cm, but always verify with current TSA guidelines) is forbidden. Even smaller blades can be confiscated if they have a locking mechanism or are deemed too sharp. For everyday carry items like pocket knives, it is almost always safer to pack them in checked luggage. If you are unsure, assume it is not allowed in your carry-on and pack it away.
Sporting Goods and Self-Defense Items
The restrictions on what not to bring on a flight also cover many sporting goods and items designed for self-defense. Baseball bats, cricket bats, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks, and golf clubs are too large and potentially dangerous to be carried onto the plane and must be placed in checked baggage. Similarly, martial arts weapons like nunchucks or throwing stars are strictly prohibited. Items like pepper spray or mace are also typically not allowed in carry-on bags and may have specific regulations for checked baggage, often requiring them to be in aerosol cans of a certain size and to be equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge. Firearms are a separate category with very specific, complex rules for checked baggage only, requiring declaration and secure locking.
Tools and Construction Equipment
Tools that could be used as weapons or for sabotage are a significant concern for aviation security. This includes items like hammers, screwdrivers (even small ones with sharp tips), wrenches, pliers, and crowbars. While some very small tools might be permitted if their blades or points are under a certain length (similar to scissors), it's a gray area where confiscation is common. For construction or repair work, it is advisable to purchase or rent necessary tools at your destination rather than attempting to fly with them. If a tool must be transported, it belongs in checked luggage, properly secured.
When packing tools or sharp objects, always check the TSA's 'What Can I Bring?' tool online and then pack them in your checked baggage to avoid disappointment at the security checkpoint.
Flammable Materials and Explosives: Absolute Prohibitions
The absolute prohibition of flammable materials and explosives is a cornerstone of aviation safety, making them high-priority items to understand when considering what not to bring on a flight. These substances pose the most significant risk of fire or detonation, which could have catastrophic consequences onboard an aircraft.
This category includes a wide array of hazardous materials. Fireworks, flares, dynamite, and blasting caps are strictly forbidden in both carry-on and checked baggage. Gasoline, lighter fluid, and flammable paints or thinners are also prohibited. Even seemingly less dangerous items like certain aerosols (e.g., spray paint, aerosols containing flammable propellants) fall under this restriction. The risk of ignition in the confined space of an aircraft makes these items non-negotiable exclusions from passenger travel. Travelers should never attempt to carry these substances onto a plane.
Common Household Items That Are Flammable
Many common household products can be surprisingly flammable. Aerosol cans, even for personal care products like hairspray or dry shampoo, can be problematic if they contain flammable propellants and exceed size limits. Lighters are a point of contention; while disposable lighters (without fuel) are often allowed in carry-on, not in checked bags, and torch lighters are prohibited entirely. Strike-anywhere matches are forbidden in both carry-on and checked baggage. Understanding the propellants and contents of everyday items is crucial. If an item is labeled as flammable, it's best to leave it behind or ship it separately via a qualified carrier.
Chemicals and Corrosives
Beyond flammables, strong chemicals and corrosives are also strictly prohibited. This includes items like bleach, ammonia, chlorine, and strong acids or alkalis. Even cleaning supplies that contain these substances can be grounds for confiscation. The danger lies in their potential to cause severe damage to the aircraft structure, cargo, or to passengers and crew through contact or fumes. If you need to transport industrial chemicals or large quantities of cleaning agents, they must be handled through specialized shipping channels, not as passenger baggage.
Batteries and Electronics: A Specific Focus
While not strictly 'flammable' in the same sense as gasoline, batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries, require special attention due to their fire risk. Spare lithium-ion batteries (like those for portable chargers or power banks) and most battery-powered devices must be carried in carry-on baggage, not checked. This is because if they overheat or short-circuit, the cabin crew can more easily detect and extinguish any resulting fire. Devices containing large lithium batteries (e.g., e-bikes) often have specific regulations or may be prohibited altogether. Portable chargers, also known as power banks, fall under this category and are a common item travelers want to bring. They are permitted in carry-on only, and airlines may have limits on their capacity (watt-hours). It is crucial to check airline policies regarding power banks and portable chargers, as they are a frequent source of confusion.
Transporting Fuel and Combustibles
Any form of fuel, including gasoline, diesel, propane, or kerosene, is strictly forbidden in passenger aircraft. This extends to fuel canisters, even if empty, which may still contain residual fumes. Devices that operate on fuel, such as chainsaws or some camping stoves, must have their fuel source completely removed and cleaned before being packed in checked baggage. Even then, airline policies can vary, so consulting the specific airline is essential. Items like lighter fluid are also prohibited.
Sporting Goods and Recreational Items: When to Check Them
Many recreational and sporting goods can pose a safety risk if brought into the aircraft cabin, necessitating careful consideration of what not to bring on a flight. While these items are often essential for a traveler's activities at their destination, their size, weight, or potential to be used as blunt instruments means they typically belong in checked luggage.
This includes a wide array of items. Large sporting equipment like baseball bats, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks, golf clubs, and skis must be placed in checked baggage. These items can take up significant space, obstruct aisles, and potentially cause injury. Even smaller items like tennis rackets or cricket bats are usually best checked. The general rule is that if an item can be used as a blunt weapon or is too large to fit comfortably and safely under the seat or in the overhead bin, it should be checked.
Bicycles and Large Sports Gear
Traveling with a bicycle requires specific preparation. Bicycles must typically be disassembled, have their tires deflated, and be packed in a protective case or box. This is a requirement for checked baggage. Similarly, large camping gear like tents, sleeping bags, and camping stoves (with fuel removed) usually need to be checked. Surfboards and kayak paddles also fall into this category. Airlines often have specific guidelines for the dimensions and packaging of oversized sports equipment, so checking with your carrier well in advance is crucial.
Protective Gear and Accessories
Protective gear such as helmets, pads, and gloves are generally allowed in carry-on or checked baggage. However, some items that are part of protective gear might be restricted. For example, if a helmet has sharp protrusions or is excessively large, it might be subject to scrutiny. It is advisable to pack these items in your checked luggage if space is limited in your carry-on or if you have other items that are more critical to have accessible during the flight.
Recreational Equipment with Special Considerations
Certain recreational items have unique restrictions. Drones, for instance, usually need to have their batteries removed and carried in carry-on baggage, following the rules for lithium-ion batteries. If the drone itself is large, it might need to be checked. Items like skateboards, roller skates, and scooters are often permitted in carry-on if they fit, but many airlines prefer them in checked baggage due to their size and potential to obstruct aisles. This is especially true for electric scooters, which may have battery restrictions similar to drones or power banks.
To avoid unexpected baggage fees or last-minute repacking, check your airline's specific policies for sporting equipment and oversized items well before your travel date.
Musical Instruments: A Special Case
Musical instruments are a common item travelers wish to bring. Smaller instruments like violins or ukuleles can often be brought into the cabin as carry-on, provided they fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat, and the airline permits it. Larger instruments, such as guitars or cellos, typically require purchasing an additional seat for the instrument or must be checked as oversized baggage, with specific packing requirements to prevent damage. Always confirm your airline's policy on musical instruments, as rules vary significantly.
Electronic Devices and Batteries: Navigating the Rules
When considering what not to bring on a flight, the regulations surrounding electronic devices and their batteries are increasingly important. The primary concern is the fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries, which power most modern portable electronics. Understanding these rules is key to avoiding confiscation and ensuring safety.
The general rule is that most portable electronic devices (PEDs) like laptops, tablets, cameras, and smartphones are permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, spare batteries for these devices, including power banks and portable chargers, MUST be carried in carry-on baggage only. They are strictly prohibited from checked luggage due to the risk of fire in the cargo hold. This is a critical distinction: the device itself can go in checked baggage, but its spare power source cannot.
Portable Chargers and Power Banks
Portable chargers, commonly known as power banks, are essentially external batteries. Therefore, they must adhere to the rules for spare batteries. They are only allowed in carry-on baggage. Airlines often impose limits on the capacity of these power banks, usually measured in watt-hours (Wh). While many common power banks fall within these limits, larger capacity ones might be prohibited or require specific airline approval. It's essential to check your airline's specific policy regarding the size and quantity of power banks you can bring.
Laptops and Larger Electronics
Laptops, larger cameras, gaming consoles, and other substantial electronic devices are generally permitted in carry-on baggage, allowing you to keep them with you. However, they often need to be removed from your carry-on bag and screened separately at the security checkpoint, similar to liquids. Some airlines may allow these items in checked baggage, but it is strongly discouraged due to the risk of damage, theft, or accidental activation and battery issues. If you must check a device with a battery, ensure the battery is either removed (and carried in your carry-on) or that the device is completely powered off and protected from accidental activation.
E-readers and Tablets
E-readers and tablets are treated much like smartphones and smaller electronic devices. They are typically allowed in carry-on baggage and may need to be removed for separate screening. Spare batteries or chargers for these devices must follow the same rules as other spare batteries – carry-on only. The convenience of having these devices during the flight makes carrying them in your carry-on the preferred method for most travelers.
To ensure your electronic devices are permitted, remove them from their cases if they are bulky and place them in a way that the TSA officer can clearly see and screen them.
Batteries: Understanding Watt-Hours (Wh)
The capacity of lithium-ion batteries is measured in watt-hours (Wh). This calculation is typically (Battery Voltage x Battery Capacity in Ah) / 1000 for Wh. For example, a 100Wh battery can be brought in carry-on. Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh are usually permitted with airline approval, and batteries over 160Wh are generally prohibited. Most personal electronics fall well below these limits, but it's crucial to verify for larger batteries or custom setups. Always check the battery's specifications, which are usually printed on the battery itself or its packaging.
Miscellaneous Items and Items to Double-Check
Beyond the common categories, several miscellaneous items often cause confusion when considering what not to bring on a flight. These can range from personal care items to recreational gear, and their permissibility often depends on specific regulations, quantities, or whether they are in carry-on versus checked baggage.
For instance, while many toiletries are allowed under the 3-1-1 liquid rule, certain items require more scrutiny. Items like nail polish remover (which contains flammable solvents) may have quantity limits or be restricted. Dry ice, sometimes used for preserving food or medical supplies, is allowed in checked baggage but with strict limits on quantity and must be declared. It must also be able to vent, preventing pressure buildup. Similarly, some medical devices require pre-approval from the airline and TSA.
What About Empty Bottles?
An empty water bottle is a common and smart item to bring through security. You cannot bring liquids over 3.4 ounces in carry-on, but an empty bottle is not subject to this restriction. Once you clear security, you can refill it at a water fountain or a cafe. This saves money and reduces plastic waste. Reusable bottles are excellent travel companions and are never prohibited in carry-on luggage themselves.
Laser Pointers and Small Tools
Laser pointers are often a point of confusion. While not inherently dangerous like firearms, they can be misused to distract pilots or cause injury to others. The TSA generally prohibits laser pointers in carry-on baggage. If you must bring one, it should be packed in checked luggage. For small tools, as mentioned previously, anything with a blade or sharp point exceeding a certain length is prohibited in carry-on. This includes small utility knives, craft knives, and even some multi-tools. Always check dimensions and err on the side of caution by packing them in checked bags.
Lubricant and Personal Items
The permissibility of lubricant depends heavily on its type and quantity. Small quantities of personal lubricants, usually under 3.4 ounces, can be carried in your 3-1-1 liquid bag. However, larger containers or industrial lubricants would likely be considered prohibited in carry-on and may require special handling for checked baggage, potentially falling under hazardous materials rules if they are flammable or corrosive. Always check the product's safety data sheet if you are unsure.
Scented Candles and Other Novelties
Scented candles, while common household items, can be problematic. The wax itself is generally fine, but if the candle contains any flammable elements or if it's a large, heavy item, it might be questioned. Aerosolized scented sprays fall under the liquid rules. If you are traveling with items that are not standard toiletries or electronics, it is always best to consult the TSA website or your airline for clarification. Items that could be construed as weapons or fire hazards, regardless of their intended use, are often prohibited.
If an item's permissibility is unclear, do not pack it in your carry-on. Either leave it at home, ship it separately, or pack it securely in your checked baggage.
Medications and Medical Supplies
Essential medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter, are permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage. It is advisable to keep them in their original packaging with prescription labels intact. For liquid medications exceeding 3.4 ounces, you must declare them to security personnel for special screening. Medical devices like CPAP machines are generally allowed in carry-on, but it's wise to notify your airline in advance. Items like needles for medical use are permitted, but they should be in a hard, clear container clearly labeled to indicate their purpose.
Packing Smart: Strategies for a Smooth Journey
Successfully navigating the complexities of what not to bring on a flight boils down to smart packing strategies. Proactive planning and adherence to guidelines can transform a potentially stressful experience into a seamless one, ensuring you arrive at your destination without issues related to your baggage.
The first step is always to consult official sources. The TSA website (tsa.gov) provides a searchable database of items and their restrictions. Additionally, your specific airline will have its own policies, particularly concerning baggage size, weight, and any special items like sporting goods or musical instruments. Understanding these resources well before you begin packing is non-negotiable. Create a checklist based on these regulations to ensure you haven't overlooked anything critical.
Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage: Strategic Placement
Deciding what goes where is a crucial part of smart packing. Items you will need during the flight – such as medications, essential electronics, a change of clothes, and travel documents – should always be in your carry-on. Items that are prohibited in carry-on but allowed in checked baggage, like larger liquids, sharp tools, or certain sporting equipment, must be placed in your checked luggage. Remember that spare batteries and power banks are carry-on only.
Prioritize essential items for your carry-on to ensure you have what you need during the journey.
Utilizing Packing Aids
Packing cubes, compression bags, and toiletry organizers can significantly improve how efficiently you pack and how much you can fit. For items that must be checked, using sturdy luggage is essential. For carry-on, consider a bag with multiple compartments to keep essentials organized and accessible. A clear, quart-sized bag for your liquids is mandatory, so have one ready. Rolling clothes instead of folding can save space and reduce wrinkles. For electronics, use padded sleeves or compartments to protect them.
What to Do When in Doubt
If you are unsure about an item, it is always best to assume it is prohibited in carry-on and pack it in your checked baggage. If it is prohibited in both, you will need to make alternative arrangements, such as shipping it, leaving it behind, or purchasing it at your destination. Trying to sneak a prohibited item through security will likely result in its confiscation, potential delays, and possibly a fine. The TSA's mission is safety, and their enforcement reflects that.
Take photos of your packed checked luggage before sealing it, which can be helpful for insurance purposes in the unlikely event of loss or damage.
Preparing for Security Screening
Make your time at the security checkpoint as efficient as possible. Have your boarding pass and ID ready. Remove your liquids bag and electronics that require separate screening from your carry-on. Wear slip-on shoes if possible, as you'll likely need to remove them. Ensure all your pockets are empty before going through the metal detector or body scanner. A well-organized carry-on makes this process much quicker and less stressful.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced travelers can fall into common traps when packing, making it essential to review frequently overlooked items and potential pitfalls regarding what not to bring on a flight. Awareness of these mistakes can prevent last-minute scrambles and item confiscations.
One of the most frequent errors is misinterpreting the liquid rule. Travelers often pack a single large bottle of shampoo or lotion in their carry-on, forgetting that all liquids must be in containers 3.4 ounces or smaller and fit within a single quart-sized bag. Another common mistake is packing prescription medications in checked baggage; these should always travel with you in your carry-on. Similarly, forgetting that spare batteries and power banks are carry-on only is a recurring issue.
The Misconception About Small Tools
Many people believe that a small multi-tool or a pocketknife is acceptable in carry-on luggage. While the TSA has specific rules about blade length for scissors, knives generally face much stricter prohibition. Even small blades can be confiscated, leading to frustration. If a tool has any sort of blade, point, or edge, it is safest to pack it in checked luggage. If it's not essential for your trip, consider leaving it at home.
Overlooking Battery Regulations for Electronics
The rules for lithium-ion batteries can be confusing. While a laptop or phone can go in checked baggage, its spare batteries or power bank cannot. This is a critical distinction. Travelers may pack their power bank in their checked bag only to have it removed and confiscated at the gate or during screening. Always ensure all spare batteries and power banks are in your carry-on. Also, be aware of airline-specific limits on battery capacity (Watt-hours).
Forgetting About Checked Baggage Limitations
While carry-on restrictions get a lot of attention, checked baggage also has rules. Flammable items, self-defense sprays (like pepper spray), and certain types of batteries are often prohibited or highly restricted in checked luggage. Exceeding weight limits for checked bags can also incur significant fees. It’s important to check your airline’s baggage allowance and any specific prohibitions for checked items.
If you're traveling internationally, research any specific country regulations that might add to or differ from general aviation rules regarding prohibited items.
Packing Prohibited Items in 'Checked' Carry-Ons
Sometimes travelers pack items that are prohibited in carry-on into their carry-on bag, thinking they will simply check the carry-on at the gate. This is usually not how it works. If an item is prohibited in carry-on, it remains prohibited even if the bag is later handled as checked baggage. The security screening happens before bags are gate-checked. If a prohibited item is found, it will be confiscated regardless of the bag's final destination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flight Restrictions
Navigating airline regulations can bring up specific questions. Understanding common queries and their answers helps demystify the process of what not to bring on a flight, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
What can I not bring on a flight? Generally, you cannot bring items that are flammable, explosive, corrosive, or could be used as weapons. This includes fireworks, gasoline, sharp objects like knives (with few exceptions), firearms (unless declared and in checked baggage), and certain tools. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on are restricted to 3.4-ounce containers within a quart-sized bag.
Is a portable charger allowed on a flight? Yes, portable chargers (power banks) are allowed on flights, but they must be carried in your carry-on baggage only. They are prohibited in checked luggage due to the fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries.
Can I bring a laser pointer on a plane? Laser pointers are generally prohibited in carry-on baggage by the TSA. If you need to bring one, it should be packed in your checked luggage. They can be misused to distract pilots or cause harm.
Is shampoo and conditioner allowed in carry-on? Yes, shampoo and conditioner are allowed in carry-on baggage if they are in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less. All such containers must fit into a single, transparent, quart-sized zip-top bag. Larger bottles must be packed in checked luggage.
Is a small knife allowed on a flight? Small knives are generally prohibited in carry-on baggage. While there are specific exceptions for scissors with blades under 4 inches, knives of almost any kind are not permitted in the cabin. For safety, pack any knives in your checked luggage.
Can I bring scented candles on a plane? Scented candles can be a gray area. While the wax is typically not an issue, if the candle contains flammable elements or is considered a fire hazard, it may be prohibited. Aerosolized scented sprays fall under the liquid rules. It's best to check with your airline or TSA if you are unsure, or pack them in checked baggage.
Is an empty bottle allowed in flight? Yes, an empty water bottle is perfectly fine to bring through security in your carry-on. You cannot bring liquids over 3.4 ounces, but an empty container is not subject to this restriction. You can refill it after passing through security.