A traveller has shared a costly warning after a little-known airport security rule led to the confiscation of her £300 hair styling tool. Ellie Tran was left more than $515 out of pocket and deeply confused after her ghd Unplugged cordless hair straightener was taken at South Korea's Incheon Airport.
The Costly Confiscation at Incheon
Ellie Tran was returning home to Sydney from South Korea when her journey took a stressful turn. Security officials at Incheon Airport pulled her aside and informed her that the cordless hair straightener in her checked luggage could not fly. The device was confiscated because its built-in lithium-ion battery was not removable, posing a potential fire risk in the aircraft's hold.
'I felt quite confused due to the lack of clear information and the inconsistencies in regulations within different airports and airlines,' Ellie explained to the Daily Mail. She had travelled out of Australia with the same £300 tool packed identically without issue, highlighting the confusing disparity in rules enforcement.
Understanding the Battery Rules for Flights
The incident underscores a critical but often overlooked aviation safety regulation. Wireless devices with non-removable batteries that cannot disconnect the heating element from the power source are considered a significant fire hazard. They are typically prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage unless they feature a specific flight-safe mode.
In contrast, corded styling tools are universally permitted. On its website, ghd advises customers to check their airline's specific requirements before travelling with cordless products. Countries including New Zealand and Japan are known for particularly strict enforcement of these battery rules.
A Warning to Other Travellers
Devastated to lose her 'ride or die' styling tool, Ellie decided to share her experience on social media. 'I think there's a lot of talk around it right now because people don't really know if it's allowed in carry-on or checked luggage,' she said in a video.
Her advice to others is clear: 'From what I've gathered, I think it's best that you don't bring it at all, or if you can, get one that has a removable battery. Double check with your airline because each airline seems to have different guidelines.'
Following the trip, Ellie replaced her expensive ghd with a £15 cordless straightener from Kmart. She now plans to stick to wired tools or devices with removable batteries when flying. Her story resonated online, with many commenting they had no idea about the rule, while others shared similar confiscation experiences in Japan and other airports.
'Moving forward, I plan to stick to wired hair tools when travelling,' Ellie stated, hoping her story helps others 'travel feeling more informed and avoid unnecessary stress'.
