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  • Can You Bring Snacks on a Plane?

    If you’re about to take a flight, it is not surprising that you may want to bring snacks with you to keep you going through the journey. So, you might be wondering if it is just ok for you to bring snacks on a plane in your carry on.

    The answer isn’t quite as simple, as the word snack obviously covers a huge amount of different goods, and the rules differ depending on whether your snacks are dry, wet, a paste, fresh food ingredients like vegetables or something in-between.

    Generally, you are not limited to the snacks you can bring if they are dried – so things like potato chips, nuts, cereal bars, candy cakes and snack bars are all fine.

    You should also be fine with cut vegetables and crudites and other hard fruits, for example. If you decide to bring something that is a liquid, or paste such as a dip, humous etc., this will be counted within your carry-on liquid allowance, will need to be under 100ml and fit into your liquids bag. Below, we’ve outlined country to country if there are any specific rules you need to be aware of when taking snacks on a plane.

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    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Snacks in Carry-On Luggage?

    One of the main reasons you wouldn’t be allowed to take snacks on a plane is because the word ‘snacks’ covers such a wide range of food items you could bring.

    It’s a liquid and doesn’t fit within your allowance. Many people don’t realize that if your snack is a paste, or liquid, it will fall under your liquids allowance.

    Things like hummus, salsa, cream cheese and other such items all fall within this. If you bring a snack and it is not under 100ml, then you will not be able to bring it with you in carry-on.

    If your snack that falls into this category also doesn’t fit into your liquids bag, you will not be able to bring it either. So, any snack you bring, you should make sure it easily fits both of these criteria.  

    It could leak or rupture. This is especially important where things like fruits are concerned. Indeed, there are rules around bringing snacks like fruit and vegetables on board, which you can find out more about in our linked to fruits article here. If this is the case, you’re better of traveling with hard fruits, such as apples.

    It isn’t sealed. Some security officers will not let you bring snacks that have an opened bag. This can include things like chips, nuts etc. This isn’t always practiced, but it is best to make sure any bag of snacks you bring is correctly sealed to avoid having them taken away from you at the airport.

    So, Can I Bring Snacks on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    The answer to this question is generally yes, and the limits are more on liquids, pastes and similar items brought as snacks as opposed to dried snacks like chips and nuts for example. However, this can vary from country to country and below we’ve outlined how these rules apply around the world.

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Snacks?

    Snacks are generally considered ok to carry by the TSA and can be carried in both carry-on baggage and also checked bags too. This is applied to solid food items, and any liquids or pastes that are with your carry-on baggage must fit within 100ml and will need to be contained in your liquids bag.

    You may need to take any food items or snacks out of your carry-on bag to be scanned separately. This is to avoid any problems with the x-ray scanner being able to read what you are bringing with you.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Snacks in Hand Luggage?

    Solid food items are OK to bring in your hand luggage in the UK, and the gov.uk website says that this is perfectly acceptable. So, anything like crisps, nuts, sandwiches, cakes, snack bars etc. are all fine.

    The only rules are around liquids and pastes which must be within 100ml and fit within your single liquids bag to be allowed through security.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Snacks?

    It is possible to bring solid food and snacks on a plane when leaving from the EU, provided it fits within your hand luggage. The only real restrictions are if what you’re wanting to bring is not solid – and if this is the case, it will need to fit within your 100ml liquids allowance and within your 20x20cm liquids bag which contains the rest of your toiletries.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Snacks?

    According to the ABF, there are some limits to the kind of snacks you can bring with you on a flight. Generally, things like sandwiches (which must be wrapped up or sealed in a box), fruits and salads, chips, cookies, snack bars and chocolates are fine to take as carry-on. Anything considered a paste or liquid needs to be within a 100ml container and fit within your allowed liquids bag.

    You are however not allowed to bring items such as spreads like peanut butter or jam, sauces, dressings or salsa, or soup as some examples. As the rules aren’t quite so simple, it is a good idea to check your specific snack before traveling.

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Snacks?

    The CBSA of Canada specifically list many different categories or types of snacks within their website with information about any restrictions. Generally, when leaving Canada, you are able to bring most types of snacks in your hand luggage. The only restrictions are on pastes and liquids, which do need to fit within your 100ml and one liquids bag allowance.

    The Rest of the World

    Generally, as you will have seen above, the most observed rule for whether you can take snacks on a plane is related to if the snack is solid or classed as a liquid or paste. There are only a few exceptions to this rule, mainly in Australia for example.

    How this applies to the rest of the world can be taken similarly, but it is always a good idea to check with your specific country of departure to see what the rules are and if there is anything you need to be aware of.

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Snacks?

    If you want to bring a snack with you for your flight, one of the main areas that comes up time and time again is the restrictions around liquids and pastes. As anything classed as a liquid or paste needs to fit into 100ml and within your 20x20cm plastic bag, you will need to think carefully about the snacks you bring with you.

    You are generally ok to bring hard snacks with you, and you are more likely to be allowed through security if this is still sealed. For example, you will be more likely allowed to bring a bag of potato chips if they are not already open.

    If you are not sure if the snack you want to bring is allowed, it is generally a good idea to check with your airline or more in depth with your country of departure.

    Avoid taking anything that has a strong odor as a snack – and you will likely find that things like durian or even boiled eggs and fish will likely be prohibited by airport staff due to the discomfort they could cause other passengers.

    What Happens If Your Snacks Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    The main reason your snacks are likely to be flagged by security for further inspection is if they are not recognized by the x-ray scanner and needs to be looked at manually. You should remain as calm as possible, and this will hopefully speed up the process.

    You will likely be advised when putting your items through to be scanned what needs to be taken out of your bag and placed in a separate tray. This will often include food items so that they can be scanned separately and avoid any delays. If you haven’t done this, it may be that this causes your bag to be checked in greater detail.

    If you are held aside to have your bags inspected, remember that the security officer is just trying to do their job and to keep you and other passengers safe. So, it is important to remain friendly and answer any questions they may have to help you get on your way as quickly as possible.

    It is important to remember that the security officer looking over your belongings decision is final and there is no point arguing with them if they decide ultimately not to let you travel with your snacks in your carry-on luggage.

    How to Pack Snacks in Your Luggage

    There are some general good practices you should adopt to be able to travel with snacks in your luggage, whether in your carry-on or your checked bags. Following these should hopefully help avoid any problems at the airport.

    Packing Snacks in Carry-On Luggage

    As there are some restrictions around liquids, gels and pastes in regards to carry-on luggage, you should try to avoid taking items that fall into this category as snacks where at all possible as they are more likely to be subject to further inspections or not allowed at all.

    If you do, these will need to fit into a 100ml container and also within your 20x20cm plastic bag, which is limited to one per passenger on most airlines and in most airports around the world. You should always check that your liquid snacks fit into your liquids bag before traveling and you will need to make sure you can close this too.

    For hard and dried snacks, it is a good idea to make sure any packages have not been opened and are sealed well to prevent any spillage. You should also check that the specific snack you want to bring is not listed as a prohibited item before travel and to avoid any disappointment at the airport.

    Packing Snacks in Hold Luggage

    You are less limited in terms of size when it comes to the kind of snacks you can take in your hold luggage – especially so when looking at snacks that might be a liquid – anything like oils, salsas or pastes can go in at any size.

    The main thing you will need to be aware of here is making sure they are well packaged and sealed to avoid any spillages that might damage the rest of your personal items whilst traveling.

    You should check that anything like fruit snacks, vegetables or specific items that may be considered unusual or exotic are allowed to be brought into the country.

    There are quite a lot of rules surrounding certain fruits and vegetables or meat and dairy that would need to be declared depending on where it has come from. With this in mind, you will need to check directly with your country of departure and arrival to make sure you don’t need to declare what you are planning to bring.

    Conclusion

    It is generally considered ok to bring snacks on a plane with you provided they are hard or dried snacks. This seems to be the rule that is followed over most of the world and made even easier if the dried snack you plan to bring is sealed, such as an unopened bag of potato chips. There are only certain countries where there are more restrictions around hard or dried foods, such as Australia.

    Things get a little more complicated when it comes to pastes, liquids and fruit and vegetables, which there can be more restrictions on as liquids do need to fit within the 100ml/20x20cm plastic liquids bag rule. So, something like humus and vegetable crudites might not be the best snacks to bring.

    Generally, you’re best bringing an unopened dry snack with you on a plane if you want to clear security with no problem. But, due to the fact that ‘snack’ is a fairly broad term, it is best to check the exact snack you want to bring before travel, just be on the safe side.

  • Can You Bring Fruit on a Plane?

    There is a good chance that if you’re heading off on a flight, you may want to bring a snack with you to keep you refreshed for the duration of your journey. Of course, a natural snack to want to bring is fruit.

    However, you may have wondered if it’s actually ok to bring fruit on a plane. The general rule is, some fruits are more accepted than others, and in the same vein, some ways of preparing are more accepted than others.

    Generally, hard fruits are acceptable, and if you plan to take something like a fruit salad containing liquid, if bought before security, you’ll need to make sure it is within 100ml and if bought after, that you keep it sealed in its packaging until you consume. It is also worth looking at the rules applied to both your outbound and arrival destination.

    If you’re not planning to eat all the fruit you bring with you in your carry-on on your flight, you may need to declare this with customs upon arrival. Though, if you’re planning to eat this on the way, you should be fine.

    Below, we’ve outlined what the rules are on fruit, and what you can and can’t bring as much as possible per area/country to help you make the best decision for your flight.

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    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Fruit in Carry-On Luggage?

    As harmless as fruit may seem, the idea of just bringing a fruit snack for your flight may not be quite as straightforward, especially if the fruit you want to bring doesn’t fit with the recommendations.

    They can attract pests. Soft fruits like mango, jackfruit or similar can attract pests. This is one of the reasons you’re unlikely to be able to take fruits like this on a plane – as they can fester in the overhead locker and can cause problems in the cabin. This can also introduce invasive pests from one country to another, which can cause significant problems with non-native species.

    They can have a strong odor. Many fruits have a strong odor, such as durian or lychee and it can cause disruption to other passengers.

    They can bruise and leak. Very overripe fruits can bruise and leak – this can cause problems for not just your luggage, but other people’s, especially if the bag that has your fruit in leaks in the overhead locker.

    They can be classed as a liquid. If you try to carry fruit that is in a liquid or puree form, it will be seen as a liquid, and if this falls over 100ml, you will not be able to transport this on a plane, if bought before security.

    So, Can I Bring Fruits on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    The answer to if you can bring fruits on a plane in your carry-on baggage will depend on the type of fruit and if it is deemed to be safe for travel or not.

    Below, we’ve outlined by area how the rules apply, and what kind of fruits are acceptable. It is important, if you plan to bring more fruit with you than you’ll eat on your flight, to check the customs rules for your destination to see if you’ll need to declare it.

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Fruit?

    The TSA has special recommendations for fruit, and this is mostly down to the type of fruit you’ll be carrying, generally hard fruit that is not overripe should be fine to bring in your carry-on luggage – so fruits like apples, oranges, bananas etc.

    However, anything that is overripe, could bruise or break and leak is considered non acceptable. If your fruit is very soft, or there is a chance it could leak, you may be less likely allowed with it if it is deemed possible to leak or cause problems on the flight.

    If you want to travel with something like a fruit salad which contains liquid, puree or liquidized fruit, it will be considered a liquid and will need to be under 100ml.

    Generally, fruit is accepted in hand luggage if you are traveling within the United States, so long as it fits the above. If you are flying from Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands to mainland USA, you will not be able to bring fruits into the country.  

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Fruit in Hand Luggage?

    The UK don’t pose any specific instructions on taking fruit on a plane with you when leaving the country. However, you will need to make sure that your hard fruit poses no risk of bruising and leaking and that any soft fruit is well packaged to avoid any leaking on the plane. If you are planning to bring liquidized fruit, a fruit salad containing liquid or puree with you, it will be classed as a liquid and will need to fit within 100ml.

    If you are entering the UK from outside with fruit, you will need to follow the rules based on where you’re entering from. If you’re traveling from the EU back into the UK, you can bring fruit with you, with no real restrictions (though this is subject to change as Brexit laws come further into effect and is worth double checking before you fly).

    If you’re traveling from outside of the EU to the UK, you will be limited to 2kg of fruit per person, to enter the country and they must be free from pests or disease.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Fruit?

    Within the EU, you can take solid fruit in your hand luggage provided it is not overly ripe and poses no risk of breaking and causing problems on the plane. If you wish to bring liquid fruit, such as purees, they must be under 100ml. Each container must fit within your liquids bag, and you are only allowed one per passenger.

    If you want to travel within the EU with solid fruit, you are allowed to bring as much as you like with you, provided it is for your own consumption, and so long as they are free from pests and disease.

    If entering the EU from a non-EU country, you are allowed to bring a ‘limited amount’ (2kg) of fruit with you in your carry on baggage. This must be for personal consumption and must be free of disease and pests.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Fruit?

    You will have no problem bringing dried fruit through airport security with you in Australia, however the rules aren’t quite as straight forward for other fruits. You are required to make sure any food you bring with you in your carry-on baggage is put separately to your main bag for scanning at the airport.

    However, you are generally restricted from bringing fresh fruit on a flight with you in Australia – if you do, make sure it is something small that you don’t mind giving up if needed to avoid the spread of invasive species and pests.

    You will not be able to bring fruit into Australia with you from outside either, so make sure any fruit you do have is consumed before arrival.

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Fruit?

    Generally, you can take a small amount of fruit for your personal consumption with you on a flight from New Zealand. However, this must not be overripe and must be free from pests and disease.

    Therefore, it’s advised to just take a small amount of hard fruit, such as apples, bananas or oranges with you – or alternatively buy at the airport once through security.

    However, you cannot bring fruit into New Zealand as it can pose a biosecurity risk and you may be subject to a fine if you do not declare this properly and dispose of it in the correct way before entering the country.

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Fruit?

    In Canada, you are fine to travel with hard fruit such as apples, oranges and bananas in your hand luggage provided it isn’t bruised and likely to rupture or cause problems in the overhead locker. Anything that is a puree or liquidized will need to be within 100ml and fit into your liquids bag.

    When traveling into Canada, you are generally able to bring most fruits into the country if entering from the continental United States. However, if traveling from outside of Canada, you are generally prohibited from bring fruit into the country.

    The Rest of the World

    As the rules vary so much from country to country, with some being stricter than others, it is a really good idea to make sure that you check the rules for the country you’re traveling from and to. You can do this usually by checking through your airline or the country’s immigration website.

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Fruit?

    Similar to other items like plants, if you want to bring fruit with you on a plane, you’ll need to first make sure that you’re allowed to from your country of departure. Using the above information is a great start, but if the fruit you’re planning to bring isn’t listed or obvious, you’ll need to check with your airline in more depth and with the customs or border force agency of that country.

    Generally, it is advisable to travel with fruit that is harder (such as apples etc.) as they are less likely to cause any concern at security and be let through. If you do decide to travel with softer fruit, you do so at your own risk and there is a good chance you may have it taken away from you at the airport.

    It is also important to remember that any fruit that is in more liquid form will be subject to the 100ml liquids rule and must fit inside your liquids bag. This will also include things like a fruit salad if it has a heavy liquids content.

    You should also generally avoid any cut fruit or fruit packages that are not sealed up properly. If there is a chance that the fruit you want to bring with you could leak, you will be unlikely allowed to bring it with you.

    Any fruits that have a strong odor, such as mango, jackfruit, durian, and lychee will likely be prohibited too, as this can cause upset to other passengers, and can be very strong smelling for the duration of the flight.

    Generally, if you want to be allowed through security with fruit, you’re best trying to travel with hard fruit such as apples, oranges, and bananas. Though, to make things easier, we’d advise trying to buy your fruit at the airport if possible. As there are many rules surrounding bringing fruits into other countries that might be different from the country you’re traveling from, it is always advised to make sure you have eaten the fruit before disembarking the plane.

    What Happens If Your Fruit Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    It may seem a little over the top if your bag is flagged by security for the fruit you’re carrying – after all, it’s just a snack. However, there are many rules surrounding the transportation of fruit, not just for other passengers’ comfort, but also for the biosecurity risks that it can cause.

    One of the main reasons your fruit is likely to cause your bag to be inspected is because it does not show up as a recognized object on the scanner. In this case, you’ll need to wait for the security officer to call you over and you may be asked to answer questions about the item if it is not obvious.

    If flagged, and your fruit is bruised or there is a chance it may leak, you may be asked to dispose of it. If asked to get rid of your fruit, there is no point arguing with the security officer. They are just doing their job and are just trying to keep everyone at the airport safe.

    The other reason it may be flagged is if it is a puree or in liquid form and you haven’t followed the 100ml rule, as per other liquids, and if it is not in your liquids bag. You will be asked to put it in for rescanning. If it doesn’t fit in your liquids bag, or if it is larger than 100ml, you will unfortunately be asked to dispose of it.

    Because there is a chance that you could have your fruit removed, we would always advise, if possible, buying the fruit you want for your flight at the airport.

    How to Pack Fruit in Your Luggage

    If you’re wondering what the best way to carry fruit with you on a plane is, we’ve outlined the best way to transport it, both in your carry-on and in your checked luggage.

    Packing Fruit in Carry-On Luggage

    To take fruit with you in your carry-on baggage, you’ll want to look after it in a similar way to what you would with the rest of the food you’ll be taking with you. It is good to remember that if you take fruit (and other food) in a separate bag, this will count as one of your pieces of luggage, so make sure you have the allowance for this.

    It is generally a good idea to keep fruit separate from your main belongings. If you have a side pouch in your backpack, this can be a great place to keep an apple, orange or similar. Likewise, if you have a backpack with a mesh section on the front, this can make a great place to store food.

    If using a suitcase, try to find a pocket or an area you can keep your fruit that is as separate as it can be from your other belongings.

    It’s important to remember that if you’re looking to bring fruit puree or similar with you that it will be classed as a liquid, so you should make sure these fit in your liquids bag before traveling, to avoid any problems at the airport. Generally, you’ll want to make sure the container says 100ml or less on it too.

    Generally, you’ll be carrying fruit for just your flight and your own consumption, but if you are carrying more fruit and are going to still have this with you when you land at your destination, you’ll need to see what the country you’re arriving ins instructions and restrictions around fruit are.

    Packing Fruit in Hold Luggage

    It isn’t generally advised to pack fresh fruit in your hold luggage, this is because it can end up rupturing without you knowing about it and this could cause harm to your belongings. In many circumstances depending on what the fruit is, it could even ruin your personal items. It could even leak outside of your bag causing damage to other passengers’ items too.

    However, if you do need to travel with fruit in your hold luggage, you’ll want to make sure that it is well packaged. You should wrap the fruit well, and if possible, keep it in an airtight container. Generally hard fruit that isn’t overly wet or juicy is better to travel with as there is less chance of any serious problems if it does become damaged.

    Conclusion

    As you can see, there are many restrictions from country to country about whether you can take fruit on a plane and if you can, the types of fruit you can bring with you.

    On the whole, harder fruits such as apples, oranges and bananas are easier to take on a plane in your carry-on than softer fruits. You’ll also find that fruits that are turned into pastes are classed as liquids, so it is important to keep in mind what you’re planning to bring before you travel.

    If you want to bring fruit as a snack on a plane, we’d suggest it would usually be better to buy this once you’re through airport security, to avoid any potential issues where you are not allowed to travel with the fruit you’ve already bought.

    If traveling with fruit that you’re not going to eat on the plane you will need to look at what the country you’re entering says about bringing fruits into the country – as this can differ from place to place and is to help ward off biosecurity threats from pests and invasive diseases.

  • Can You Bring Toothpaste on a Plane?

    Travelling with your personal products in your hand luggage can make all the difference, but you should only pack what you need in your hand luggage if possible.

    If you’re traveling, and especially on a long flight, or one with connections, there is a good chance you’ll want to take toothpaste with you to freshen up and to have on hand easily. So, can you take toothpaste in your carry-on? The answer is yes, but there are restrictions.

    In recent years, the rules on whether you can bring liquids, gels and pastes on planes, which includes toothpaste, have become more confusing to understand.

    This is made even more so by some airports and airlines relaxing their rules on quantities of liquids that you can take in your carry on – making them different from others.

    Though generally, you should air on the side of caution. This article explains any differences in rules per location of taking toothpaste with you in your luggage, be that carry-on or hold.

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    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Toothpaste in Carry-On Luggage?

    As toothpaste is counted as a gel (airport security count all gels, liquids and pastes in a similar way), there are strict rules around how much of these kind of substances you can take with you in your carry on.

    Toothpaste is of course an everyday essential, much like deodorant, shampoo or snacks that you’re likely to want to take with you in your carry on, so it’s important to understand the reasons you may not be allowed.

    It’s over the size restriction. All liquids, pastes and gels taken in your hand luggage need to be under a certain size. If the toothpaste you try to take in your carry on is over 100ml or 3.4oz, you will not be allowed through security with it. Therefore, if your toothpaste is above 100ml or 3.4oz, you’ll need to make sure you buy a travel sized or mini toothpaste if you want to take this in your carry on.

    It doesn’t fit into your allowed bag of liquids, gels and aerosols. You are generally limited to one 20x20cm or a quart-sized resealable, clear plastic bag for your toiletries at the airport. It’s advised to get hold of a travel bag in advance for this so that you can put all of your toiletries in to make sure they fit. Anything that doesn’t will likely be confiscated from you at security.

    So, Can I Bring Toothpaste on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    Generally, the answer to the question of whether you can bring toothpaste on a plane in carry-on baggage is yes, but there are rules around it which you need to follow.

    Below, we’ve broken this down by area of travel to make it easier to refer to before you board the plane and to hopefully avoid having your bag searched.

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Toothpaste?

    The TSA clearly states that toothpaste is classed within their rules for liquids, gels, pastes, aerosols and perfumes. Therefore, if you wish to take toothpaste in your carry on, it will need to follow their 3-1-1 liquids rule. This means that every passenger can carry these items up to 3.4oz or 100ml and has a limit of one quart sized or 20x20cm sized see through plastic bag.

    Everything that falls into this category in your checked baggage must fit into this plastic bag for scanning at security or you will not be able to take it through.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Toothpaste in Hand Luggage?

    Similar to the USA, the gov.uk website clearly states that liquids can be taken in hand luggage, but these need to be in containers no bigger than 100ml.

    This is also the same for pastes, gels and aerosols, which toothpaste falls into. You must keep your toothpaste in your carry-on in a small transparent and resealable plastic bag. You are limited to one and it shouldn’t be bigger than 20x20cm.

    You cannot use a knotted bag or one that is tied at the top. They also state that even if your container isn’t full, but it is marked as over 100ml on the container, you are also not allowed to travel with these in your carry on, other than for certain medical and dietary reasons.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Toothpaste?

    The EU has similar restrictions when it comes to liquids and limits the amount you can take in your hand luggage. Their website clearly states that you can carry liquids, which must be in individual containers, to a capacity of 100ml and this must be in one transparent plastic bag that doesn’t exceed a liter (roughly 20x20cm).

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Toothpaste?

    Australia has different rules depending on whether you are travelling domestically or internationally. Within Australia, if traveling domestically, there are no restrictions on liquids, powders, aerosols or gels that you can carry.

    They do note that if you are departing from an international terminal, such as T1 in Sydney or T2 in Melbourne, that you will need to follow the rules for international flights when it comes to liquids and gels. They also state that all aerosols need to have a cap that fits or a way of locking it ‘off’.

    If you’re traveling internationally, or traveling from an international terminal as above, you will need to fit within the 100ml/100g rule. If traveling with toothpaste, you must put this in a clear plastic bag of 20x20cm, and you’re only allowed one bag per passenger.

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Toothpaste?

    Similar to many of the other countries already listed, if traveling from New Zealand, you will need to make sure your toothpaste is under 100ml to be able to fly in your carry-on. It will also need to fit into a re-sealable 20x20cm plastic bag.

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Toothpaste?

    The CBSA states that liquids, gels and aerosols must be within 100ml/100g/3.4oz packages or less and they must be held within one clear resealable plastic bag per traveler. This bag must be around 20x20cm and hold up to 1 liter (1 quart).

    The Rest of the World

    The general consensus is that if you follow the 100ml/3.4oz liquids, gels and pastes rule and have it fit into a 20x20cm clear, resealable plastic bag, you can air on the side of caution. However, if traveling within the rest of the world, it is a good idea to check out the individual airline that you’re traveling with for further information.

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Toothpaste?

    Like many other toiletries you may want to take on a plane with you to keep you refreshened up on a long flight, or if you’re just traveling with your carry on, you need to carry your toothpaste in the best way to avoid any problems at the airport.

    If traveling with toothpaste in your carry-on, you should follow the liquids, pastes and gels rule based on the country you’re flying from. Generally, this is set at 100ml/3.4oz if traveling internationally (as some countries have more relaxed rules if traveling domestically). However, to air on the side of caution it is best to follow this rule for all flights, whether domestic or international.

    Of course, toothpaste is generally not an expensive item, so if you forget and this is taken away from you, replacing it isn’t a great worry. The main concern is if you are flagged by security for trying to travel with toothpaste which is larger than 100ml in your carry-on, you could be waiting a while to have your bag checked. This can lead to delays, and if you are already running a little late for your flight, can cause unneeded stress.

    With this in mind, it is always best to plan ahead, to make sure that your toothpaste fits the 100ml/3.4oz rule and that all of your toiletries fit in one 20x20cm clear, plastic resealable bag (these are also usually available at the airport too). You will also need to make sure that you take this plastic bag out from your travel bag and leave it in a tray to be easily seen and scanned by the airport staff.

    What Happens If Your Toothpaste Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    If your toothpaste is flagged by security, your whole tray that includes your toothpaste will need to be checked and scanned again. This can take a little while sometimes and can of course be frustrating, especially if you’ve experienced lengthy lines so far and are in a rush for your flight.

    It is important to try and remain as calm as possible if your items are flagged by security, and you need to remember that the security officer is just doing their job to keep you and other passengers safe.

    The main reason why you are likely to find that your toothpaste is flagged by security is if it is over 100ml in size. It is important to remember that even if you have less than 100ml of toothpaste in the container, if the container is bigger than this, you will not be able to travel with it.

    It could also be that the items you’re taking in your toiletries bag do not fit into one bag – this needs to be closed so it’s always a good idea to make sure this fastens and isn’t overloaded before you get to security to avoid any mistakes.

    If there are any problems, unfortunately, any items that can’t travel with you will be disposed of, so a little prep work can go a long way. It’s important to remain nice and kind with the security officer as their decision is final and will make the whole process move along a lot faster.

    How to Pack Toothpaste in Your Luggage

    Due to the rules surrounding carrying pastes, liquids and aerosols in your luggage, there are different ways you can pack toothpaste to avoid any problems at the airport.

    Packing Toothpaste in Carry-On Luggage

    As above, you should make sure to pack your toothpaste into a 20x20cm clear plastic bag. This should be resealable, and you should avoid knotting it. This could have your liquids bag searched. You should also make sure that your toothpaste is in a container that is 100ml or less. This may mean you need to buy a toothpaste tube that is smaller than your regular one and most brands will do a travel sized toothpaste now that fits in with this restriction.

    You should always make sure that the lid is tightly fastened on your toothpaste, as the last thing you want when arriving at your destination is to find that it has leaked out all over the rest of your toiletries. Worse still, all over your clothes. You can also protect things even more by putting your toiletries bag inside a waterproof and sealable washbag once you have completed security.

    Packing Toothpaste in Hold Luggage

    Packing toothpaste in your hold luggage is much easier than packing it in your carry-on baggage. There are no real restrictions at all when it comes to liquids, creams, pastes, and gels in your hold luggage. This means that you do not need to get a smaller sized toothpaste than normal, and you can just put this with the rest of your toiletries.

    However, you should always make sure that when you pack liquids and pastes/gels into your checked baggage that it is securely fastened and there is no chance of it leaking all over the rest of your items. Generally, a waterproof and sealable washbag will help here, and try to keep this away from any electricals you might have in your bag too. The last thing you want after a long flight is to arrive at your destination and find your luggage ruined!

    What Are the Different Types of Toothpaste?

    There are a lot of different types of toothpaste on the market right now, which have different properties and are suited to various concerns. Here are just a few.

    Fluoride toothpaste: This is by far one of the most common types of toothpaste and 90% of those on sale in general drug stores or supermarkets fall into this category. They strengthen your teeth and mineralizes to help with decay.

    Sensitive toothpaste: If you suffer with sensitivity, you may benefit from this kind of toothpaste. This works to block nerve endings, and therefore helps with your sensitivity to hot and cold.

    Herbal toothpaste: If you want something more natural, and want to avoid chemicals, then this might well be for you. They are also biodegradable, so these can make a great option if you’re traveling for a backpacking trip.

    Powder toothpaste: Another option to think about when traveling is powder toothpaste. This is a good option as there are no real restrictions in hand baggage and carry on when it comes to powders, and they can also last a very long time. The idea is that you mix up a small amount of the powder as and when you need it.

    Conclusion

    As you can see, it is generally ok to travel with toothpaste in your hand luggage and carry-on, provided you follow the rules relating to liquids, pastes, gels and aerosols. Generally, this is the same for most countries if traveling internationally. Some countries do have different rules when it comes to internal flights, but we’d advise to avoid any confusion, to stick to the 100ml/3.4oz rule in a 20x20cm bag.

    If you do have your toothpaste confiscated at the airport, it will generally be because it doesn’t fit into your clear plastic bag or it is oversized, and this can be avoided by traveling with a travel sized toothpaste.

  • Can You Bring a Blanket on a Plane?

    A blanket can be a great way to remind yourself of home when traveling, it can also be a lovely way of helping give some sense of familiarity and helping you and children sleep on the journey. You may have experienced less than perfect airline blankets in the past that don’t cover your whole body and want a bit of an upgrade to your flight experience. 

    This is especially so if you are heading off on a long flight and want to try and make the most of sleeping on the plane. So, if you’re about to head off on a flight and want to stay comfy, you might be wondering if you can bring a blanket on a plane.

    The answer is generally yes, you can bring a blanket on a plane, but it can vary from country to country about the best way to bring a blanket with you in your carry-on baggage, and most of the time, this is related to its size. So, this should be one of your biggest considerations when packing.

    Below, we’ve outlined around the world what you’ll need to consider if you want to bring a blanket with you on the plane to keep snuggly for your flight.

    Table of Contents

    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take a Blanket in Carry-On Luggage?

    When you’re getting ready for a flight, especially if you are trying to keep things down for your carry-on baggage, you can have the best of intentions, but you might find that everything you want to bring with you on the plane simply just doesn’t fit.

    It doesn’t fit in your luggage. Given that blankets can become quite large, especially if they are not purpose made travel blankets, can make it hard to fit your favorite blanket in your carry-on baggage. As most airlines class a blanket as a personal item, it will either need to fit in your small ‘laptop’ sized bag to go in front of you, or your bigger case or bag that goes in the overhead locker.

    You will generally not be allowed to carry a blanket under your arm and you will need to demonstrate if asked that you can pack it away. With this in mind, you may want to look at buying a blanket that packs down really small and has its own stuffy sack, for example. If you’re going backpacking at your destination, you could even look to use a high-end sleeping blanket to minimize excess packing.

    So, Can I Bring a Blanket on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    Generally, the answer is yes, you can bring a blanket in your carry-on luggage, provided it fits within various size and packable requirements. If you stick to this, you should be fine. However, to be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to check if there are any specific rules with your country of departure before flying to know the best way to pack and avoid any nasty shocks at the airport.

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Blankets?

    The TSA and USA have no restrictions around taking a blanket with you in either your carry-on or checked luggage. Provided your blanket fits within your allocated luggage allowance and this can be demonstrated if asked, you will be able to travel easily with a blanket.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Blankets in Hand Luggage?

    The gov.uk website makes no special notes about bringing a blanket on a plane, but because it is not in a list of restricted items, you are fine to carry a blanket with you on a plane in the UK. Some information suggests that you could just carry your blanket on the plane under your arm, much like you can a duty-free bag, however, it is important to air on the side of caution here.

    Some airlines, especially budget airlines can be extremely stringent about what they will allow you to go on board with based on what you have paid for on your ticket. It is not uncommon to have a last check at the gate when leaving the UK on a flight. So, it is always best to have a blanket that you know easily fits into your carry-on and that you can demonstrate if asked at the gate.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Blankets?

    As you would probably assume, a blanket is not on the EU’s list of prohibited items. Therefore, you are fine to travel with a blanket in your carry-on luggage in the EU.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Blankets?

    The ABF of Australia does not specify blankets on their lists of items you cannot take with you on a plane, nor do they mention them anywhere. Therefore, provided a blanket fits within your carry-on allowance, and doesn’t exceed any weight limits exceeded by the airline, you will be fine to bring a blanket with you in your carry on.

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Blankets?

    Similar to many other places, the CAA of New Zealand does not have any specific rules stopping you from bringing a blanket on a plane. Therefore, you will be fine to bring your blanket in your carry-on to use on a flight. As with anything, it is important to just make sure it fits within your allowance and can be easily stowed away if needed so as to not run into any problems at the airport.

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Blankets?

    The CBSA doesn’t say anything specifically about taking a blanket with you on a plane, the only thing they really mention is weighted blankets. This is just in regards to certain powders, or granular materials that can be used to create the weighted blanket. If these exceed 350ml, you won’t be able to take your blanket in your carry-on baggage.

    The Rest of the World

    As with most countries there are generally not many rules around bringing a blanket on a flight in your carry on and it is generally considered ok. With the rest of the world, this means it should be seen as ok, and it is a good idea to just make sure that your blanket fits easily inside your carry-on baggage and that you can demonstrate so if needed. However, if in any doubt, it is a good idea to just check with your airline in advance.

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with a Blanket?

    As a blanket is generally considered as OK to fly with, if it is within your carry-on baggage, the main advice is to just make sure that you are meeting the weight allowances for your baggage.

    Some airlines actually impose weight restrictions on carry-on baggage too, and you may be asked to weigh your bag when you check in and any time before you board the plane. Given that a blanket can be quite heavy, you should just double check that it doesn’t put you over your allowance before you head to the airport.

    The other thing to consider is if your blanket easily fits inside your carry on. Blankets can naturally be quite bulky, so you’ll want to consider this. You may be asked to make sure that your blanket will go inside your bag and that your bag fits inside a certain size. If your bag is bulging and won’t fit into the size measurement given by the airline, they may make you pay extra – which if course, you surely will want to avoid.

    The best option would be to take a travel blanket that is intended for exactly that. Generally, a travel blanket will compress down small and once you open it, will expand, so it can be perfect for fitting into a small bag for the plane.  

    What Happens If Your Blanket Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    It is generally unlikely, if you’ve packed your bag well, that you will have your blanket flagged by security and this will likely only happen for a couple of reasons.

    The first is if your blanket is loose and won’t fit into the storage bin to go through the scanner. This may well be flagged if it gets caught in the scanner and holds things up. So, it is always a good idea to make sure it fits into your luggage easily.

    The second is if you are wearing your blanket around you, you may need to then put it in the scanner, and this may slow things down.

    It is important if you’re asked to have your bag checked to remain as calm and friendly with the security officer as possible. They are just doing their job and want to keep everyone safe. If you are nice, you are more likely to have a smooth experience, and getting frustrated generally won’t make things move any faster. Though, if you follow the suggestions above, you likely won’t have this happen with a blanket anyway.

    How to Pack a Blanket in Your Luggage

    It should be fairly self-evident how to pack a blanket in your luggage, but there are a few things you can do to maximize the space you have for your other items, given a blanket can be quite large.

    Packing a Blanket in Carry-On Luggage

    The main thing to consider with packing a blanket in your carry on luggage is it’s size. A blanket can be quite large, and as tempting as it may be to bring your childhood blanket or a blanket of sentimental value with you, it may be better to bring one that it specifically designed for travel.

    This will allow you to pack your blanket up very small in your bag and leave plenty of room for other things. These can often come in a stuffy sack, much like a backpacking jacket and work in much the same way as a sleeping bag. They’re still an awful lot more comfortable than an airline blanket! That said, if you can make your own blanket work, then you should absolutely bring it if you wish!

    You should try to make sure that your blanket is packed away in your checked bag, and that you can just get it out once it is safe to do so into your flight. This way, you will avoid any costly surprises if it doesn’t fit, and isn’t within your carry-on weight limit

    Packing a Blanket in Hold Luggage

    If it isn’t so much that you want a blanket for the flight, but you just want some of the familiarities of home, then bringing a bigger blanket with you in your hold luggage can be much easier.

    As it is a soft item, there isn’t really a lot to consider when thinking about packing a blanket in your hold luggage. The main thing is its weight and size and how that effects things for your trip.

    Obviously, if bringing a bigger blanket from home, this is likely to be heavier than a specifically designed travel blanket, so it is important to consider if this will take up too much of your luggage allowance. If you have plenty to play with though, you could even use your blanket to pack around anything that might be slightly fragile – and it can be great for this purpose if you decide to buy anything to bring back in your destination.

    What Are the Different Types of Blanket?

    There are quite a lot of different types of blanket on the market now, some of which are likely less practical for travel than others.

    Travel blanket. This is a type of blanket that is specifically designed for travel and is made to pack down small. It will generally stuff down smaller than it is when fully expanded, making it easier to put in your carry-on for your flight and to conserve space. They obviously don’t have the same feel as your old school blanket at home might do, but they can be extremely helpful if you want that extra comfort on a flight without sacrificing on other items you can bring.

    Comforter. This is more your traditional style, thicker blanket that may also be described as a bedspread. These, whilst they are comfortable and generally quite sentimental for most people as to what they symbolize, can be fairly impractical to travel with. Though if you have the space, they can really help you feel more at ease on your flight.

    Weighted blanket. These types of blankets use beads or granular matter inside to give a feeling of weight on top of the body when using. Because these can be quite a lot heavier and bulkier than traditional blankets, they can be even more impractical still for a flight.

    Microfiber blanket. This is made of synthetic materials, and as such can be made to be lightweight and also very warm, so they can actually be a great blanket to take on a flight. The only thing to consider is they don’t always pack down very small, so can take up quite a bit of space. Therefore, the best thing to do if wanting to bring a microfiber blanket on a plane is to try and get the smallest one possible that will still cover your body, as they come in different sizes.

    Conclusion

    As you can see, it is generally considered as ok to bring a blanket on a plane with you in your carry-on luggage. Unlike things like plants, aerosols and sunscreen, there are no real restrictions and the main thing you need to consider is its size and if it fits ok within your bag.

    It is worth looking at your country of travel to see if there are any specific recommendations, as mentioned above, but as a blanket is not classed as a dangerous or potentially harmful item, there should be no problems at the airport.

  • Can You Bring Plants on a Plane?

    It may be that you’ve fallen in love with a plant at your destination and want to bring it back with you, or that you’re relocating and just can’t say goodbye to your cherished house plants.

    The question of whether you can bring plants on a plane might seem like one that would raise eyebrows or cause confusion, so it is important to take into consideration the different rules and regulations that need to be adhered to.

    Similar to bringing things like fruit, some countries are very relaxed about bringing plants on a plane, especially if traveling domestically, whereas others have restrictions on certain plants, which may need certain certificates to bring if they could potentially cause soil related diseases if planted in alien soil.

    When it comes to taking plants on a plane, you also need to consider the rules of the country to which you’re bringing the plant into as well, and if this needs to be declared at customs.

    Below, we’ve outlined what you need to consider and what the different rules are from country to country so that you, hopefully, don’t have to give up on your precious cargo!

    Table of Contents

    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Plants in Carry-On Luggage?

    There are various reasons why you wouldn’t be able to bring plants in your carry-on luggage and this really varies from location to location and country to country. Whilst some are more relaxed about taking plants in and out of the country, others are much more cautious. Here are the main reasons why.

    Pests and diseases. Bringing plants to non-native countries can be a real problem. Whilst your pot plant may seem harmless enough, that doesn’t just answer the question.

    If someone brings a plant from another area and decides to plant it into the ground, it can actually introduce non-native pests and can create a pathway for diseases which can have a significant effect on biodiversity.

    It can be illegal. There are some plants where it is actually illegal to transport them out of their country of origin and into another. Because of this, and because it would require specialist knowledge at the airport, it can make it trickier, and most countries will air on the side of caution.

    It can be messy. If you were to take a plant on a plane with you, you would either need to have it in another bag, which means you’d need to pay extra for carry on, or carry it in your luggage. This could become messy and could actually be disruptive for the plant and cause damage to both the plant and your belongings.

    So, Can I Bring Plants on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    The answer, as you might expect isn’t a simple yes or no and it really depends on each country. Some countries and areas are stricter and more cautious than others, whereas others are a little more relaxed. Though, as a general rule, and especially if the plant you’re hoping to travel with was expensive, you should air on the side of caution. 

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Plants?

    The USA and TSA website very clearly states that you can take a plant on a plane with you, in both your carry-on baggage and also your checked baggage. The only information and advice they give is to say that the final decision does rely on a security officer at the airport.

    Therefore, even though it is technically ok, a security officer could decide that they aren’t ok with it, and they may confiscate it from your possession.

    They also advise to check with your airline to make sure that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath your seat, as you would not be able to keep the plant out for your flight and it must be stowed away.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Plants in Hand Luggage?

    The UK’s rules aren’t so straight forward, and the gov.uk website says there are different rules depending on where you are bringing a plant into the UK from.

    If you’re bringing plants that are to be planted into the ground, trees, cut branches and certain tubers, you may need a phytosanitary certificate. This suggests that if you’re traveling with a pot plant, that you are not subject to any specific regulations, and it should therefore be ok. These rules aren’t explicitly suggested to apply to outbound and inbound flights, but it seems to suggest that they are.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Plants?

    Generally, you can travel through the EU and to other EU countries with plants in your carry-on baggage if they were grown in the EU and are healthy, free of pests and are for your own personal use.

    If you are traveling out of the EU or are bringing in plants to the EU from countries outside of the EU, then there are much stricter instructions. This is to prevent diseases and non-native pests from infiltrating.

    However, this generally refers to plants that are to be planted into the ground, so if you plan to travel with a potted plant, you should be ok to take this in your carry-on baggage. It is also important to note that plants are not included in the EU’s list of banned or dangerous goods.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Plants?

    Whilst Australia doesn’t specifically state plants as an item on their list that you cannot take on a plane, there is further information on bringing plants in and out of Australia on the ABF website.

    They say that taking live plants in and out of Australia is not allowed, so therefore, this suggests that you should not intend to travel with a plant, either in your carry on or hold luggage. This appears to be the same for inbound and outbound travel.

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Plants?

    Whilst the CAA of New Zealand don’t specify plants as such in their ‘What Can You Bring’ section of their website, it is also clear from the New Zealand Customs Service website that bringing plants in and out of New Zealand will need to be declared and therefore there is the potential that if it is decided that it could cause a threat to the local environment, it could be confiscated.

    Traveling internally within New Zealand with a plant should be ok, but as the rules mean you’ll need to declare your plant, we’d advise it best to avoid traveling with a plant in New Zealand if at all possible.

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Plants?

    As with many other places, the CBSA in Canada has different rules for traveling with plants depending on if you are traveling domestically within Canada or outside of Canada.

    If traveling domestically within Canada, you are fine to take a plant (or flowers for that fact) on a plane. You are also fine to travel with a plant in your carry-on or checked baggage.

    However, if traveling internationally, or entering Canada from outside, things become trickier. Generally, you will need to check and verify the exact item you are looking to bring before traveling, to see what special requirements are needed.

    You can use the Canadian Food Inspection Agencies Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) to check this. This is due to potential diseases and threats to eco systems which can be caused by bringing in non-native plants.

    The Rest of the World

    If you’re traveling outside of the areas covered above, you will need to check directly with your country of travel from and to – and remember to check both your inbound and outbound points as traveling with plants can need checking with authorities on arrival too.

    You should also check with your airline as they should be able to advise you on the best thing to do if trying to take a plant with you on a plane.

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Plants?

    If you are planning to travel with a plant on a plane, whether it is in your carry-on or your hold luggage, it is really important to make sure you are doing so correctly to avoid any disappointment before (or after) your flight.

    Unlike many items, plants are something that you need to consider not just for your outbound flight, and going through security in your departure country, but also upon arrivals too.

    Many countries list plants as something of concern, and something that you may well need to declare once you arrive. This is because plants that are non-native to the area can introduce diseases, new insects and pests that were not present before which can create a threat to biodiversity and ecology.

    Therefore, it is really important that you check not just the rules for the country that you’re leaving from but also the country you’re entering too. These rules can often be different depending on whether you’re traveling with a potted plant, or something that is intended for the ground. In some countries you may even need a special certificate or similar to travel with a plant.

    This is the best way to avoid any potential upset, but it is also important to remember that if you are flagged by security and you need to give up your plant, that it may be a costly experience you want to avoid.

    What Happens If Your Plant Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    It is really important to remember that if you are flagged by security for traveling with a plant in your carry-on, you need to stay calm. As frustrating and annoying as it can be, especially if you feel like you’ve followed the rules, the security officer is just doing their job, and they are just being cautious to protect you and other passengers.

    If the plant you’re traveling with is flagged in your carry-on baggage, you will usually have your tray or bags taken aside for a manual search. This is because the person working on the machine will have flagged something as being unidentified or not looking right.

    If you are asked to explain what your plant is, it is worth trying to oblige and be as helpful and friendly as possible. If you are friendly with the officer, you are more likely to make it out of security with your plant by your side – so keep things nice and light. If you are running late for your flight, try to make them aware of this in as friendly a way as possible.

    If the security officer ultimately decides that traveling with your plant as carry-on poses a problem, and your plant is confiscated, there is very little you can do about this. Their decision is final.

    It is unlikely that a plant will be held for you for later collection by your airline, so it really is important to consider if traveling with a plant is worth it, especially if it was a costly purchase.

    How to Pack Plants in Your Luggage

    Considering plants can be easily damaged when knocked and need to be well protected, there are certain things you will need to consider if you want to take a plant on a plane with you, either as carry-on or in the hold.

    You will also want to consider how you can carry your plant to avoid any damage to the other items in your luggage – due to potentially wet or damp soil spillages.

    Packing Plants in Carry-On Luggage

    One of the best ways to take a plant with you in your carry-on luggage is to have the plant be a separate item to your main bag. However, depending on your luggage allowance, this may mean you need to pay for an extra bag.

    Depending on your airline’s policy, and depending on the size of your plant, you may be able to count your plant as your one small personal bag alongside your slightly larger flight case or backpack.

    However, if you do decide to go for this approach, you’ll need to ensure that the plant is well packaged for the flight. If it is going to sit in the overhead bin for a while, it will need to be able to withstand any potential movement, and not pose a problem to other passenger’s belongings.

    If there is any chance that soil or other items from the plant may damage another passenger’s items, the airline crew may tell you that you cannot fly with your plant.

    You could also look to travel with your plant actually inside your carry on – but this will need more protection. If possible, use a plastic box with padding to make sure the plant doesn’t move in your case and ideally, you want to make sure that the plant can be stood up at all times.

    With this approach, you will also need to make sure that your plant doesn’t damage any of the other items in your suitcase and that the soil is as dry as possible before the flight.

    Packing Plants in Hold Luggage

    Packing a plant in your hold luggage is fairly similar to packing a plant into your carry-on baggage, except it is really important to make sure that it is well secured and looked after for the duration of travel.

    Try to wrap your plant as well as possible – you can use a plastic container for this to ‘encase’ the plant and try to put packing materials around it to keep it from moving about inside the plastic container.

    This is to avoid any damage to the plant and also your personal items too as arriving at your destination with everything covered in soil won’t be a great start or end to your trip!

    You should also try to make sure that your plant is as dry as possible before traveling to avoid leaking and again damaging your personal items. Generally, it may be better, though, to travel with a plant in your carry on if you’re going to, as you can keep a better eye on it throughout.

    Conclusion

    Whether you’re looking to see if you can take a plant on a plane with you either in carry-on or in the hold, the rules vary from country to country. Generally, you can see that the rules are a little more relaxed if you are traveling domestically, but understandably, the rules do change depending on what you are entering or exiting the country with if you are traveling internationally.

    Unlike other everyday items such as sunscreen, perfume and even electric toothbrushes where you can just think about your outbound journey and the best place to pack, you need to remember for plants to check both your outbound and inbound destinations for both departures and arrivals to see what the rules are.

    You may have to declare your plant at customs once you arrive, and be checked there, too. This is different to many things you travel with and is to protect the ecology of the area you’re visiting from non-native bugs, pests and other such potentially harmful problems.

    If in doubt, it may be best, as sad as it may be, to try and avoid traveling with a plant – especially if the plant you’re looking to travel with was costly.

  • Can You Bring Batteries on a Plane?

    Batteries power the modern world and when packing for a trip or holiday there are numerous battery-powered devices we might want to bring with us including phones, tablets, laptops, wireless headphones, digital cameras (and many film cameras too!), smart watches, portable chargers or power banks, electric razors and toothbrushes – and that just scratches the surface!

    This list could go on and on!  The fact is that batteries are so prevalent that it would be practically impossible for airlines to ban them on flights. Batteries typically make use of volatile or hazardous materials in their construction. If a battery is physically damaged, its contents can leak or become exposed and present a hazard. Whilst all types of batteries can be hazardous if damaged, the real issue airline and airport security have is with the lithium batteries used in most electronics. A damaged lithium battery can present a very real fire hazard.

    This is not just the case with batteries carried by passengers: the Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft suffered several on-board fires early in its service life due to failures in on-board lithium batteries.

    Many travelers are not aware that there are regulations and restrictions related to carrying batteries on flights and whilst airport security will often turn a blind eye to these restrictions, they may also choose to enforce them.

    So, it makes sense to understand the restrictions and plan accordingly, not just to reduce the risk of delays at the airport, but also to minimize the chances of having your equipment or devices confiscated or worse still, destroyed by airport security. 

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    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Batteries in Carry-On Luggage?

    Batteries are generally very safe technology, and, by and large, airlines are happy for you to carry them. However, there are several reasons why they can present hazards or threats and why, consequently, airport security may not allow them on a flight:

    • Batteries can contain corrosive substances such as strong acids and alkalis. If a battery is damaged, these can leak and can cause serious chemical burns to skin and other materials and damage equipment on planes and in security scanners.
    • Damaged or overheating batteries can be a fire hazard. This is especially the case with the lithium batteries that power almost all modern electronics. Lithium battery fires are also notoriously difficult to extinguish.
    • Batteries can be used to smuggle explosives onto aircraft. There is evidence that terrorist groups have disguised explosives as batteries in the past to get them past airport security.

    So, Can I Bring Batteries on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    The short answer is yes, provided you are carrying undamaged batteries suitable for use in or built into consumer devices. So, the batteries in your phone, tablet, laptop, camera are generally good to carry. Very high-capacity batteries, or older designs such as spillable wet batteries will generally not be allowed on flights. 

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Batteries?

    America’s TSA has extensive guidelines on batteries – and you can read more at the links below. In brief, dry cell batteries (these are regular disposable batteries like AA, AAA, C, D and button cells) may be carried in either checked or carry-on luggage.

    Smaller lithium batteries are similarly OK to carry either in checked or carry-on, however restrictions do apply to very high-capacity lithium batteries (those over 100 Watt-hour – the vast majority of batteries in consumer electronics are well below this capacity) which are limited to carry-on luggage only and also subject to a limit of two per passenger.

    Wet cell batteries – provided they are a non-spillable design – are also permitted on flights, though these are not used in consumer electronics. The TSA also advises that devices that cannot be powered up at the request of security will not be permitted to fly – so make sure all your devices are charged when packing.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Batteries in Hand Luggage?

    The UK Government does not offer guidelines on batteries – only battery powered equipment, however the UK’s CAA has broadly similar guidelines on carrying batteries to America’s TSA. The CAA publishes an extensive list of different types of batteries and the restrictions associated with them that’s well worth checking out – it even covers how to calculate the Watt-hour value of your battery if it’s not printed on it.

    In short, dry cell batteries (these are typical disposable batteries like AA, AAA, C or D and button cells) are safe to carry as are non-spillable wet batteries.

    The lithium batteries in most consumer products are also fine to carry in either checked or hand luggage. Restrictions only come into play with very high-capacity lithium batteries – those over 100 Watt-hour – which must be carried in hand luggage and are limited to two per passenger.  As with the TSA guidelines, the CAA advises that you ensure your devices are charged and that staff may ask you to power them up at security. If the devices won’t power up, it likely won’t be allowed to travel. 

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Batteries?

    The EU/EASA’s guidance focusses on lithium batteries and in this regard, their regulations are in line with those of the UK and USA: Smaller batteries are fine to carry, but very high-capacity lithium batteries – those over 100 Watt-hour – are limited to carry-on luggage only and limited to two per passenger.

    Batteries of 160 Watt-hour and above are not permitted on flights in the EU – such high-capacity batteries are very specialist items and are not found in consumer electronics.

    The EU guidance recommends that all lithium batteries, regardless of capacity should be carried in hand luggage, though this is not a legal requirement.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Batteries?

    The Australian CASA’s guidelines on carrying batteries more or less follow those issued by Europe, America and the UK.  Dry cell batteries have no restrictions. 

    Low-capacity lithium batteries can go in hold luggage so long as they are installed in equipment, but higher capacity lithium batteries and all loose or spare lithium batteries must be packed in hand luggage. 

    Wet cell batteries are not explicitly mentioned, but these are items that it’s fair to say most travelers would seldom if ever carry.  CASA’s Dangerous Good web app allow you to search different types of battery to learn more about the specific restrictions on each. 

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Batteries?

    New Zealand has stricter regulations on carrying batteries than other countries. Loose or spare batteries of any kind are not permitted in checked baggage and a maximum of twenty per passenger are allowed in hand luggage which must be in their original packaging or have terminal covers fitted or tape over their terminals to prevent shorting. 

    The New Zealand Government’s website has thorough information on the subject and this is well worth researching if you intend to travel to our through New Zealand. 

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Batteries?

    Canada’s guidelines on carrying batteries fall mostly in line with those of America, Europe and the UK.  Most restrictions relate to higher-capacity (100 Watt-hour and above) lithium batteries and spare or loose lithium batteries of any capacity.

    The Canadian government site also clearly states that individual airlines may enforce stricter guidelines on what may be carried – so it’s always good to check on these too.

    The Rest of the World

    The good news is that the guidelines for various international carriers on batteries tend to follow the same pattern as those listed above. You should always check with your carrier before travelling, but in general, loose, or spare batteries of any kind should be carried in hand luggage.

    Batteries can go in the hold if they are installed in a device, but, if in doubt, it’s best to carry them in hand luggage.  Whilst it’s beyond the scope of this article, bear in mind that some countries have restrictions on the kind of battery-powered electronic devices you are allowed to bring with you when you travel (eg. drones and satellite phones are banned or very heavily restricted in some countries)

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Batteries?

    The best advice is to travel with a reasonable amount of batteries that are in good physical condition and pack them in your hand luggage whenever possible. The main reason a battery will be confiscated by security is if it appears to be damaged – this is when they pose the most risk – so inspect any batteries you plan to bring for dents, punctures and deep scratches. 

    Damaged batteries can damage your equipment and should be retired from use and recycled, so this is good general practice regardless of whether you are flying or not! If you are carrying a number of spare batteries, you may be asked to separate them so they can be scanned or checked separately. With this in mind, it’s smart to have your spare batteries somewhere easily accessible and all together to minimize delays at security.

    What Happens If Your Battery Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    Airport security have the final say on whether an item is allowed on a plane or not. They have a legal power to confiscate items they do not think are safe or permitted to fly.

    Remember that it is airport security’s job to investigate anything that they think looks suspicious so, if you are travelling with equipment that requires unusual or very large batteries (say, professional video equipment or a larger drone), you can expect it may get flagged.

    At the very minimum, if your battery is flagged, you’ll be subject to further security checks which can be very time consuming so, if you are planning on traveling with batteries that you think may cause an issue at security – even if you know for sure they are permitted – be sure to allow extra time to clear airport security.

    If a battery powered item is confiscated, be sure to check with security what steps (if any) you can take to retrieve it. Airline security generally disposes of confiscated items very quickly, and often charge hefty fees to store or forward items.

    How to Pack Batteries in Your Luggage

    It’s important to pack your batteries appropriately to avoid falling foul of airport security and airline restrictions. These vary from region to region and by airline, so it always pays to check restrictions before you fly, however, the following is a good starting point:

    Packing Batteries in Carry-On Luggage

    Devices should be switched off when packed in carry-on luggage but remember that they should be charged as security staff may ask to see the device switched on before clearing it to go on board. Legally, security staff can confiscate equipment that cannot be powered up.

    Loose batteries should be packed away from metal (that includes small change and keys) or with covers on their terminals to eliminate the risk of short circuiting – which can lead to fires.  Airlines generally allow battery powered devices to be used during flights but be sure to check each individual airline’s restrictions to ensure you stay compliant. 

    Packing Batteries in Hold Luggage

    Devices packed in your hold luggage should be powered down and packed in such a way that they cannot accidentally be powered on.  Loose batteries not installed in devices should be packed away from metal or with covers over their contacts to remove the risk of them shorting – which can cause a fire hazard. Be aware that certain types of battery – specifically lithium batteries and especially so high-capacity lithium batteries – are not permitted in hold luggage in various territories. 

    What Are the Different Types of Batteries?

    There are several different types of battery in use in consumer electronics and each has its own restrictions:

    Dry Batteries or Alkaline Batteries

    These are the regular disposable batteries most of us are familiar with – such as AA, AAA, C or D batteries. These are used in a wide range of devices such as toys, torches and remote controls and there are generally no restrictions on them. This category also covers the small button cells used in non-smart wrist watches, calculators, hearing aids etc.

    Wet Batteries

    These are often filled with a caustic gel-like substance and are very seldom used in consumer electronics, though some equipment like uninterrupted power supplies (UPS) still make use of them.  Electric wheelchairs and mobility devices may also use wet cell batteries. Wet batteries carried on planes must be the ‘non-spillable’ type.

    Lithium Batteries – including Lithium Ion (Li-ion) and Lithium Polymer (Li-po)

    Lithium batteries have been the go-to choice for rechargeable batteries in consumer electronics since the 1990s and show up in devices such as phones, cameras, electric toothbrushes and laptops.

    Whilst generally a very safe technology, there have been some widely publicized incidents of these batteries catching fire which causes airlines to place restrictions on how they can be carried. Generally, smaller lithium batteries are fine to carry, but very high-capacity models – typically beyond what’s found in consumer electronics – are subject to restrictions and you may need advance permission from your airline to carry them.

    Nickel-Cadmium (NiCad or Ni-Cd) and Nickle metal-hydride (NiMH or Ni-MH)

    These are older types of rechargeable batteries. These have largely been replaced by Lithium batteries, though you might find them in older devices, and they are still sometimes used in new devices too. Whilst they don’t pose the same fire hazard as lithium batteries, expect airport security to treat them in the same way as they are often used in the same type of devices.

    Conclusion

    The restrictions around travelling by air with batteries can seem complex and, in the wake of several well-publicized stories of devices catching fire on aircraft, it’s understandable that airport security and airlines want to be seen to be taking their customer’s safety seriously be imposing extra safety checks. 

    However, the fact is that batteries are a largely very safe and well-proven technology. Restrictions are not applicable to the vast majority of batteries in consumer and even professional electronics, so most travelers have nothing to worry about here and the rules are fairly clear-cut for those who intend to travel with higher capacity batteries – It’s just a shame they are not completely standardized around the world.

    However an understanding of the rules along with what might cause security to check further is always helpful for all travelers, as it can help minimize delays and hassle at security. 

  • Can You Bring an Electric Toothbrush on a Plane?

    Given how popular electric toothbrushes are, you’re more than likely to want to take your electric toothbrush and toothpaste with you when you go on holiday.

    You may be used to how well it cleans and just don’t want to give this up for a cheap toothbrush that is just going to get thrown away at the end of your trip.

    However, given that an electric toothbrush contains batteries, there are many rules surrounding the best way to transport these and where they need to be packed. This can become even more confusing when the specific rules vary depending on the country you’re travelling through.

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    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take an Electric Toothbrush in Carry-On Luggage?

    Unlike many other items where the instructions aren’t as clear, such as curling irons, perfume or aerosols, an electric toothbrush is generally considered ok to take in your carry-on luggage.

    In fact, given that your electric toothbrush will generally contain a lithium metal or lithium ion battery it is considered better to carry it in your hand luggage.

    Even though in some countries you can place your electric toothbrush in the hold, it is advised that all personal items containing batteries should be carried on your person and that they are removed from your luggage and put into the trays to go through the scanner. In much the same way you would for your laptop, tablet, cell phone, any other batteries or portable chargers.

    The main reason you may be denied passage with your electric toothbrush in carry on is if the device isn’t charged. If requested, the security officer checking your bags may ask you to switch the toothbrush on, and if the battery is dead, they may prohibit you from taking it through. So always make sure to charge it up before you leave to prevent something like this from happening.

    So, Can I Bring an Electric Toothbrush on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    Generally, the answer to the question of if you can bring an electric toothbrush on a plane is yes, but there are a few caveats and special instructions to take into consideration depending on where you’re flying from.

    So, it’s always wise to double check before travelling to avoid any nasty mistakes at the airport (especially given electric toothbrushes can be quite an expensive purchase).

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Electric Toothbrushes?

    The information on the TSA’s website is actually slightly confusing as they say that electric toothbrushes can be taken in both your carry on and hold luggage.

    This is mostly down to the battery types and comes with specific instructions that devices containing lithium batteries should be taken in carry on. This is because lithium batteries can pose a fire risk when packed in the hold.

    Most modern electric toothbrushes contain lithium batteries, so therefore you will be required to take your electric toothbrush in your carry-on bag. If it runs on AA batteries for example, you can store it in any place.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning an Electric Toothbrush in Hand Luggage?

    The information provided by the gov.uk website isn’t quite as straightforward on the rules for traveling with an electric toothbrush. They are not explicitly mentioned in their list of items with special concerns, and instead, the information can be found in their ‘items containing batteries’ section.

    This still doesn’t mention electric toothbrushes, but you can deduce that the information that applies to electronic cigarettes and similar is the same for electric toothbrushes.

    ‘Content of Lithium metal batteries must not exceed 2 grams. Lithium-ion batteries must not exceed a Watt hour rating of 100 Wh’. It also suggests you will not be able to take your electric toothbrush in the hold, and it should be taken in your carry on.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Electric Toothbrushes?

    The EU doesn’t list electric toothbrushes specifically as a prohibited item on their website, and therefore, it suggests that you will be fine to travel with your electric toothbrush in both your carry-on and the hold.

    Though if your toothbrush was expensive, it is always best to air on the side of caution and travel with it in your carry on, if possible.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Electric Toothbrushes?

    The Australian Border Force (ABF) have no specific recommendations for whether you can carry and electric toothbrush on a plane, but it is not included in their restricted items.

    With this in mind, you can assume that you are fine to travel with your electric toothbrush either in the hold or in your carry on. If in any doubt, we’d advise you travel with it in your carry-on, to avoid any costly problems at the airport.

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About an Electric Toothbrush?

    The website of the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA) state that electronic devices, including an electric toothbrush with the battery installed can go in either your carry on or checked baggage. Any spare, loose batteries must be stored in your carry-on baggage.

    For carrying your electric toothbrush in the hold, they state that any batteries inside a device carried in checked luggage must be properly stored to prevent inadvertent activation and must be completely switched off. We’d advise you to carry your electric toothbrush, if possible, in your carry-on baggage to avoid any problems at the airport.

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Electric Toothbrushes?

    The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) states that devices containing lithium batteries should be taken in your carry on and not in your hold luggage.

    However, they also later state that a device with a Watt-hour rating of under 100Wh can be carried in both your carry-on and checked baggage, so it is best to check this with your toothbrush before travelling. To avoid any upset at the airport, it’s always best to travel with this in your hand luggage.

    The Rest of the World

    Each country has a requirement depending on the size of the lithium battery in your electric toothbrush – though generally, this will be under 100Wh.

    Generally, you should be ok to travel with an electric in your carry-on baggage or the hold, but it is worth checking with your carrier/airline before you travel.

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with an Electric Toothbrush?

    As you can see, there aren’t always completely clear rules on travelling on a plane with an electric toothbrush. The rules generally seem to state that in most instances, you should be fine to travel with it either in the hold or carry on, but it isn’t always clear.

    With this in mind and given that most of the information says that you can travel no problem with your electric toothbrush in your carry on, you should take it in the carry on.

    In order to get through security quickly and easily and hopefully avoid having your bags checked, you should always follow the rules provided to you by staff.

    This will generally mean all battery-operated devices should be taken out of your carry-on baggage and be placed in a tray/bin to go through the scanner. They may ask you to use a different tray for your devices.

    It’s also always a good idea to make sure that your toothbrush is charged, as if it is flagged at security, they may want you to demonstrate it working – if it is not working or the battery is dead, it may well be confiscated and cause a costly problem at the airport.

    You should be fine, but if you’re worried about travelling with your electric toothbrush and want to avoid any problems, you could consider having an electric toothbrush specifically for travel.

    Many electric toothbrushes can be costly, so the idea of potentially loosing this could be a real problem. Opting for a cheaper one for travel would give you more peace of mind, and you could always go with a traditional, non-electric toothbrush for your trip.

    What Happens If Your Electric Toothbrush Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    This is unlikely to happen when it comes to an electric toothbrush, and they are, on the whole considered ok to have in your carry on, but if you are flagged by security, it is important to remain calm.

    Generally, when an electric toothbrush is flagged, it may be because it didn’t look quite the same as other items going through the scanner and needs a second look.

    Try to remember that the security officer is not trying to make your day harder and is simply doing their job to help protect you and other passengers. So, it is important to stay courteous and talk to them with respect.

    Generally, you’ll find that you’ll be allowed through quickly and easily if you’re nice – and it doesn’t cost anything. The decision is ultimately up to the officer in charge.

    They may ask you to show that the electric toothbrush is operational – and this is just to show there are no fire hazards present with the batteries in the device. If your device is dead and needs charging, they may prevent you from taking it through with you.

    If your electric toothbrush is confiscated, it will usually be handed over to the airline you’re travelling with, they will sometimes hold items for an amount of time, and you can possibly collect this once you return. There is sometimes a fee for this.

    How to Pack an Electric Toothbrush in Your Luggage

    Given that an electric toothbrush generally contains a lithium battery (though some do contain AA or AAA batteries), it is important to pack your item in the best possible way to avoid any problems at the airport.

    Packing an Electric Toothbrush in Carry-On Luggage

    You will likely be asked at the airport to remove your battery-operated devices from your luggage and place in a tray separately. This includes your electric toothbrush, so you should make sure that it is easy to get out of your bag.

    We’d generally advise that for the security process, you keep your devices as close to each other as you can so that when you get to the scanners, you can move though quickly and not hold up the line any more than you need to try to find your items. This will also help you get on your way as quickly as possible.

    Always make sure your electric toothbrush is charged ready too, as you may be asked to show that it is operational and does not pose any kind of fire risk due to its battery.

    Packing an Electric Toothbrush in Hold Luggage

    As there is different advice for different countries and airlines for carrying lithium battery operated devices in the hold, it is generally a good idea to check with your specific airline or country of departure before deciding to pack your electric toothbrush in the hold.

    If you are able to pack your toothbrush in the hold, make sure that it is in good working order and charged to avoid any operational problems. Make sure it is fully switched off and try to pack it in such a way that it can’t be turned on in transit – you could wrap it in some clothes or a well packaged packing cube to avoid this.

    What Are the Different Types of Electric Toothbrush?

    There are currently really only two main types of electric toothbrush on the market, one includes sonic technology, and the other uses 3D cleaning.

    Ultrasonic toothbrush: This type of electric toothbrush uses ultrasound to help with removing plaque and bacteria from the mouth and teeth. This usually uses a frequency of 1.6 MHz or 96,000,000 pulses or 192,000,000 movements a minute.

    3D cleaning: It is said that a 3D toothbrush can provide a superior clean to that of an ultrasonic toothbrush, as it rotates, oscillates, and pulsates to break up plaque and tartar in the mouth and on the teeth.

    Conclusion

    Given electric toothbrushes generally contain lithium batteries, it is actually usually easier to take your device with you in your hand baggage than it is in the hold. It is always a good idea to check with your country of departure and your airline if you are unsure, or to take a cheaper one with you to travel with.

    Generally, as electric toothbrushes are such a common, day to day item, it is generally seen as a non-hazardous item, and you should therefore have no problem travelling with it in your carry on baggage. Though it’s always a good idea to make sure it is charged and in good working order in case you are asked to demonstrate it’s working and doesn’t pose any kind of fire hazard.

  • Can You Bring Umbrellas on a Plane?

    Packing to go away on holiday can be a really stressful time before the main event and knowing what you can and cannot carry in your luggage can be confusing.

    Even items that you may not think would be, could be seen as a potential threat by aviation authorities, and there are often restrictions to what you can bring with you because of this.

    Naturally, an umbrella is an item you may want to pack when going on holiday, especially if you’re not sure of the weather you can expect at your destination, but it’s also confusing to know whether you can take an umbrella on a plane.

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    Why Wouldn’t You Be Allowed to Take Umbrellas in Carry-On Luggage?

    There are several reasons why you may not be able to take an umbrella in the cabin with you as part of your carry-on allowance.

    • It can be seen as a weapon. Whilst most airlines don’t have a problem with you carrying an umbrella in the hold, it is important to take into consideration the characteristics of your umbrella before you travel, and if this could be considered a threat or not to safety. If it is pointed, has sharp edges or ends, then you are likely to struggle. If the handle is also made of metal, this is likely to cause extra inspection and may even be taken away from you at security.
    • It doesn’t fit the size requirements. Generally, if your umbrella exceeds 50-55cm in length (though this can vary per airline) it will not be allowed in your carry-on luggage, therefore it’s a wise idea to travel with an umbrella that folds down small, or even a specific umbrella designed for travel like this one. There are generally no weight restrictions, it is mostly length that is the problem as this will need to go in the overhead locker – this is much the same as the reason you may not be able to take hiking poles on a plane with you.
    • It could damage airport equipment. If you take your umbrella loose in the side of your backpack and it falls out in the airport scanner, it could get stuck on the machinery and cause problems and hold ups, Therefore, if travelling with an umbrella in your hand luggage, it’s always wise to have this packed away in your suitcase or travel bags, or put it into one of the provided trays/bins that pass through the scanner to avoid any problems.

    So, Can I Bring Umbrellas on a Plane as Carry-On Luggage?

    Whilst it is generally regarded as OK to travel with an umbrella in your hand luggage, it isn’t always completely straight forward, and the reasons we’ve listed above are the most common reasons why you may have your umbrella confiscated at the airport. It’s also worth checking what the guidelines from country to country say about travelling with an umbrella.

    USA – What Does the TSA Say About Umbrellas?

    The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) states that you can bring your umbrella in your hand luggage, but with special instructions, and this is related to size.

    They recommend that you check with your airline directly to find out if they will allow you to travel in the cabin with an umbrella and the specific size they will accept.

    However, the final decision is with a TSA officer as to whether you can bring an umbrella or not, and they will check for sharp points at security.

    The UK – What Are the UK Government’s Regulations Concerning Umbrellas in Hand Luggage?

    The Gov.UK website states that it is fine to travel with an umbrella in hand luggage without any need to check with your airline, and you are of course free to travel with it in the hold too.

    Europe – What Are the EU’s Guidelines Regarding Umbrellas?

    The EU guidelines do not specify on whether you can bring an umbrella on a plane directly, but it is not listed in their outline of forbidden items. They have a list of items with a sharp point or sharp edge, and it is not included here, nor are they included in the blunt instruments section.

    Logically, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be allowed you travel with an umbrella in your carry-on, but this is of course down to a security officer’s discretion.

    Due to the size of some umbrellas, it is advised to travel with a smaller umbrella that can be folded down, and to try and ensure its placement inside your backpack or travel bags to avoid problems.

    Australia – Does the ABF Have Laws About Umbrellas?

    Similar to the EU above, Australia doesn’t list umbrellas specifically as an item that you cannot take with you on a plane.

    Quite a long time ago, their list included many things you can take in your hand luggage today, such as nail clippers, tweezers and lighters but it has been updated and they are no longer included, alongside many other items like umbrellas.

    With this in mind, if your umbrella has no sharp edges or points and more so if it folds down small, you should be fine travelling in the cabin with it. You do need to keep in mind, as always, the final decision is with the security officer checking your bags.  

    New Zealand – What Are the CAA of New Zealand’s Rules About Umbrellas?

    The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA) clearly states in its helpful dropdown list of items to be considered that umbrellas have no restrictions for either hand luggage or checked luggage and you are free to travel with them. Given this, you are not subject to any restrictions on being able to take your umbrella with you.

    Canada – What Does the CBSA Say About Umbrellas?

    The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) clearly states that there are no restrictions at all on carrying an umbrella in either your hand luggage or checked luggage – so you are free to travel with an umbrella and there do not appear to be any restrictions on size either.

    The Rest of the World

    If you’re travelling to different areas in the world outside those listed above, then the simplest thing to do is to check with your airline to see if they have any specific regulations about bringing an umbrella with you in your carry on and hand baggage. However, most airlines will allow you to travel with an umbrella in your hand luggage, and only some have restrictions on the length this can be.

    What’s the Best Advice for Travelling on a Plane with Umbrellas?

    If you can, we would always advise you to travel with your umbrella in your checked luggage, much the same as you would for many other items like batteries, electric toothbrushes, razors, hiking poles and even scissors.

    Even though many countries state that you are fine to travel with an umbrella in the cabin, it is still up to the security officer to decide whether to let you travel with a certain item and whether they deem it a threat to the safety of other passengers.

    It is important to keep in mind that if you travel with an umbrella in your carry-on bags, you could lose it, and it could be confiscated – this is of course not ideal and packing it into your checked bag will help to secure your item.

    If it was expensive, you don’t want to run the risk of losing it. If you really need an umbrella but don’t want to lose the one you have, you could always look at buying a cheap one specifically for travelling and choose one that packs down small too, as this is less likely to cause any alarms at the airport.

    If you do need to travel with an umbrella in your hand luggage, here are some steps you can take to ensure you are most likely to be able to take the item with you and pass security.

    • Make sure it can’t be used as a weapon. If in any doubt, travel with a small, compact, and foldable umbrella. One that wraps up neatly is a bonus. If possible, always pack this in your actual hand luggage. This will also help with putting your bags into the cabin overhead bins, and some airlines do have restrictions on the length of umbrella you can bring.
    • Ensure there are no sharp edges that could cause injury. If your umbrella is particularly old, there may be some sharp parts that have appeared over time, this is the sort of thing that will come up in an inspection by a security officer, so make sure there are no areas that could snag or cause harm.
    • Ensure they can’t damage scanning equipment. Make sure you pack your umbrella in your bag or suitcase for scanning at the airport to prevent it from falling out and being able to get caught in machinery. If trays/bins are available and your umbrella is loose, always make sure it goes in a tray rather than just placing loose on the conveyor. This may slow things down and could cause tension at the airport, which you don’t want!

    What Happens If Your Umbrella Is Flagged by Airport Security?

    If your bag or the tray with your umbrella in is flagged at security, it is important to stay calm. Once this has been flagged it will be taken off and moved to a holding area – if you are worried about the time of your flight and are running late, you can try and have a word with one of the security staff.

    Though it is important to remember they are under no obligation to help you skip a line and this will be under the judgement of how full the terminal is at that point and the officer. Always remain friendly as this is more likely to have you seen quicker.

    The security officer will usually ask you about the item that was flagged and may ask you to empty the contents of your bag if needed. They are not trying to slow you down, and it’s important to remember they are just doing their job to keep everyone safe.

    If they do decide that you cannot keep your umbrella, there is no point in being rude or arguing, and you may find that your politeness will go a long way.

    If your umbrella is removed, it will usually be given over to the airline and they might allow you to collect the item, though sometimes this can be at a cost, and they may only hold it for a small amount of time before it’s disposed of.

    This is why it is always best to travel with a cheaper umbrella in case this happens, and you can also make this easier by travelling with an umbrella that is small, compact and easily put away.

    How to Pack Umbrellas in Your Luggage

    There are certain ways in which you can ensure you pack your umbrella when travelling to make sure you arrive at your destination with it. This is a little different for carrying your umbrella in your hand luggage to what it is for your checked or hold baggage.

    Packing Umbrellas in Carry-On Luggage

    One of the easiest ways to travel through the airport with your umbrella is to make sure it is stored safely in your luggage. If travelling with a carry-on suitcase, place your umbrella inside, and this is something you can always do if needed on the day of travel. You could carry a plastic bag or drybag and wrap the wet umbrella in it before placing in your luggage.

    If using a backpack, you should put this inside it if possible. If it is wet or has been raining and you’ve been using it, if you have a side compartment, such as where you’d put your water bottle, you could carry this in the side.

    When you come to the scanner, make sure you put the umbrella in a tray, or your full backpack with this in the side in a tray with no option for it to fall out and cause obstruction to the scanner.

    Packing Umbrellas in Hold Luggage

    Generally, there are no massive points to consider when it comes to checking a bag into hold luggage containing an umbrella. If you need to use your umbrella on the way to the airport, you could always leave a zipped compartment free on the front of your suitcase, with a bag, or small dry bag inside to add your umbrella before travelling.

    Though if doing this, be mindful that a wet umbrella will increase the weight of your luggage more than a dry one. Otherwise, simply placing your umbrella inside the main compartment of your suitcase should be all you need to do – and just wrap it inside with some other clothes or soft items so as to ensure it doesn’t scuff your suitcase or bend in any way during transit.

    What Are the Different Types of Umbrellas?

    There are various types of umbrellas available now, and generally the main difference is their size, but mostly their packed size. They come in different materials, fabrics and some have different patterns and styles to suit those who want something a little more fashionable.

    • Classic umbrella: This is one of the most common umbrella types you’ll find, and it usually has a wood, metal or polyester shaft. The canopy (the thing that keeps the rain off) is usually made of plastic/microfiber and it is becoming common for these to be made of recycled materials.
    • Pocket: These are generally very small (and the type we’d recommend the most when it comes to travelling on a plane with an umbrella). They can be stowed very small and are great for travelling with, but they are not always designed for strong winds and prolonged rain.
    • Automatic: These types of umbrellas usually have a button to press that opens them in one motion and this can be done with one hand. They are usually quite small so fit well into a backpack or bag.
    • Golf: These are used by golfers – the canopy usually offers a big diameter to keep large areas dry for prolonged periods. As a result, they are often very large to stow too, and are designed to be carried in a golf bag or caddy.
    • Storm: These are made to withstand strong winds and rain and are extremely durable.

    Conclusion

    As you can see, it is usually possible to take an umbrella on a plane with you in your hand luggage if it meets the general requirements of airlines and the country you’re travelling to or through.

    It’s worth checking both your in and out point before you travel, but as a general rule, the smaller the umbrella, the more likely you are to pass security with it in your hand luggage.

    Most security officers are looking out for objects that could cause harm or obstruction, so making sure the umbrella you carry is free from these and packed safely and securely in your hand luggage will make a huge difference.

    As some countries do have some restrictions as to the size that is permitted for an umbrella on a plane, it is important to remember that the final decision always lies with the security officer who is checking your belongings.

    Therefore, you need to be mindful that you may have to give up your umbrella if you’re told to do so. The safest method is always to pack your umbrella in the hold or carry a cheap umbrella that you aren’t too bothered about.  

    Disclaimer: This article contains Affiliate Links. You won’t pay any more for buying through these links, but we may receive a commission from any purchases made through them. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to support us by buying through our links, we thank you as it helps us to continue providing the resources we do to help you enjoy the outdoors more!

  • Compare Waterproof Hiking Backpacks

    There is a lot to consider when looking at a large backpack, whether that’s for an overnight camping trip or a much longer expedition. That’s why we’ve put together our comparison table which puts all of the backpacks we’ve reviewed side by side to make it easier for you to compare their main features. Below, we’ve outlined our awards, size, weight, capacity, load, pockets, torso length and whether the backpack comes with a rain cover. You’ll also find buying options which will take you straight through to see current and up to date prices for each backpack.

    Product
    Osprey Atmos AG 65
    Osprey Kestrel 48
    Osprey Aether Plus 70
    Gregory Paragon 58
    Gregory Baltoro 65
    Big Agnes Parkview 63
    Osprey Aether 65
    Granite Gear Blaze 60 Women
    The North Face Women’s Terra 55
    Dueter Air Contact Core 60+10
    Osprey Atmos Ag 65 Backpack, Rigby Red, Small
    Kestrel 48L Men's Backpacking Backpack
    Osprey Aether Pro 70L Men's Backpacking Backpack, Kepler Grey, Large
    Gregory Paragon 58L Unisex Lightweight Backpacking Pack, Breathable Backpanel, Raincover Included, Water Bladder Sleeve (Reservoir not Included), Small/Medium, Ferrous Orange
    Gregory Mountain Products Men's Baltoro 65, Onyx Black, Small
    Big Agnes Parkview 63L Backpack for Multiday Hiking, Fog, Large
    Osprey Aether 65L Men's Backpacking Backpack, Garlic Mustard Green, L/XL
    Granite Gear Blaze 60L Backpack - Black/Black Gingham Long
    THE NORTH FACE Women's Terra Backpacking Backpack, Agave Green/Pale Lime Yellow, XS-S 55 L
    Deuter Women's Aircontact Core 60+10L SL Hiking Backpack - Shale-Ivy
    Buying Options
    Our Award
    Best for Men
    Best Lighter Backpack for Men
    Best Large Capacity Backpack for Men
    Best for Women
    Best Lighter Backpack for Women
    Best Large Capacity Backpack for Women
    Size
    S/M – L/XL
    S/M – L/XL
    S/M – L/XL
    S/M – M/L
    S – M – L
    M – L
    S/M – L/XL
    WS – UL
    XS/S – M/L
    W – Regular
    Weight
    2 – 2.2 kg
    1.9 – 2.1 kg
    2.5 – 2.8 kg
    1.5 – 1.6 kg
    2.1 – 2.4 kg
    1.6 – 1.8 kg
    2.2 – 2.3 kg
    1.3 – 1.4 kg
    1.6 – 1.7 kg
    2.1 – 2.3 kg
    Capacity
    65 – 68 liters
    46 – 48 litres
    68 – 70 liters
    58 litres
    65 litres
    63 + 10 liters
    65 – 68 liters
    60 liters
    55 litres
    60 + 10 liters
    Load
    13.6 – 18 kg
    9.1 – 15.9 kg
    14 – 27 kg
    22.7 kg
    22.7 kg
    22.7 kg
    14 – 27 kg
    22.7 kg
    N/A
    15 – 20 kg
    Pockets
    9
    10
    8
    6
    10
    8
    5
    6
    5
    8
    Torso Lengths
    43 – 58.9
    40.5 – 58.5 cm
    43 – 58.5 cm
    38 – 60 cm
    40.6 – 55.9 cm
    46 – 56 cm
    43 – 58.5 cm
    38.1 – 60.9 cm
    35.5 – 47.7 cm
    35 – 62 cm
    Rain Cover
    Yes
    Yes
    Yes
    Yes
    Yes
    No
    Yes
    No
    No
    Yes

    Editor’s note: This article is part of our buyers guide to waterproof hiking backpacks. See other articles in this series: 

    Looking for other waterproof gear? Check out our buyers guides on:

    Conclusion

    If you’ve already read our individual reviews for large waterproof backpacks, or our individual reviews for each of the backpacks featured, you’ll see that there is a lot to consider between each pack. Whilst outwardly, the majority of backpacks may look the same, it is important to get a backpack that is right for you – this can be down to things like sizing and torso length, weight and carrying capacity, so it’s really important to compare the models out there and see what makes the most sense for you. We hope our comparison table makes things easier for you to choose the right backpack for your needs.

    Disclaimer: This article contains Affiliate Links. You won’t pay any more for buying through these links, but we may receive a commission from any purchases made through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to support us by buying through our links, we thank you as it helps us to continue providing the resources we do to help you enjoy the outdoors more!

  • How We Tested Waterproof Hiking Backpacks

    Table of Contents

    Where We Test

    As with all our reviews, we test the products we recommend to you in the mountains! Whilst lab tests are great (and we love them) they don’t give you an exhaustive look at the differing conditions you can expect in the outdoors – be that extreme conditions or a whole range of things happening at once. We want you to feel confident when you purchase a product through our recommendations, and we believe this is the only way to get that level of assurance. We live and breathe the outdoors at This Expansive Adventure and our recommendations come based on our passion for everything adventure and making it easier to get out there.

    Editor’s note: This article is part of our buyers guide to waterproof hiking backpacks. See other articles in this series: 

    Looking for other waterproof gear? Check out our buyers guides on:

    Testing Metrics

    When it comes to backpacks, and especially backpacks that are intended for backpacking there is so much that needs to be taken into consideration. So, when we tested, we were paying particular attention to the backpack’s durability (if you’re going on a big trip, you need to know it’s going to be up for the job of carrying heavier loads). We also paid strong attention to the comfort levels, cushioning and placement of hip pockets etc. Water resistance was a big part of our tests too, with our main metric being waterproof backpacks! Read on to get a more exhaustive look at the kind of areas we focused on.

    Materials

    When you’re looking at the manufacturers listings for fabrics and materials used on a waterproof backpack, it can be hard to know what some of the terms actually mean and what that gives you in terms of the product you’ll receive after ordering. We like to look at everything in terms of our tests as ‘real world metrics’ and feel. Does the pack stand up to the kind of conditions it is being tested in? Do the materials pose any potential waterproofing or durability concerns? How do the materials handle things like sweat, oil, grease etc.? When comparing products, we are always looking for what gives the most of both worlds, and if there are standouts within the range of products that fit more categories than others.

    Breathability

    Breathability is incredibly important on a waterproof backpack and especially when it comes to the best waterproof backpacking packs – you are likely to become sweatier when backpacking or wearing a bigger pack, and so the way the suspension system is created can make the difference between removing your pack to a back covered in sweat or not. We tested the breathability of the packs we have recommended in our round up in a range of locations and heat settings – from hotter temperatures through to full on rain storms to get a full sense of how each backpack handles breathability and in turn the comfort it offers the wearer.

    Water Resistance

    Depending on the manufacturer of the backpack, each backpack will have a different level of waterproofing, and a different technology. Some manufacturers make use of their own, in-house technologies, whereas others make use of standardized waterproofing technologies or partnered solutions specific to brand. What we test is how this translates in the real world and how things like the DWR perform in harsh conditions. One thing that is vitally important when it comes to backpacking is that if you experience heavy rain, your gear is going to stay dry in transit. For more information on waterproofing, read our full guide here.

    Dimensions

    You might think that all backpacks of a certain size would hold the same level of gear – and whilst in theory they do, it can be a completely different story when it comes to actually testing the backpack’s capacity. Some packs come in narrower designs, which can make it harder to fit certain items in, whereas others can be shorter and make it harder to fit longer tents or sleeping bags in neatly. We tested a whole range of different kit samples to see how each pack filled up and how well distributed the weight was within it. We were also looking at how the different pack sizes felt on the back depending on the wearer’s height.

    Fit

    All manufacturers make a slightly different fit, and really, the fit you like from your backpack will be determined by personal preference. However, all of the packs we have tested make use of a suspension system, waist pockets and a variety of levels of cushioning in the strap areas and other contact points with the body. We tested all of these elements on a variety of length hikes to see how they felt comfort wise after long periods of time. We also tested on a number of wearers, to see if any packs were particularly suited to certain frames, which you’ll see recommended in our main and individual reviews.

    Storage

    As above with the dimensions of the pack, the amount of storage your waterproof backpack has is incredibly important and an area we paid particular importance to when testing, We weren’t just looking at the main space either, but paying close attention to pockets and their placement, which can make all the difference when it comes to ease of use when backpacking (always made so much easier when you don’t have to remove your pack to get to an item you need in a hurry). Generally, storage is a personal preference, but we’ve tested a range of gear and likely scenarios to make our recommendations.  

    Comfort

    Comfort will be a personal preference as a lot of comfort on a backpack comes from the size of a frame compared to the wearer, but we paid a lot of attention in our tests to how each pack felt when filled at different weights. You may think that a backpacking pack will be at its most uncomfortable when fully weighted out, however, this isn’t entirely the case and some packs can actually feel incredibly uncomfortable and drag or slouch when not at full capacity, as intended. We also tested the hip belt comfort of each pack, once fitted correctly, and how the cushioning felt after a long days hiking (and if there were any rub points) in the same way we tested shoulder straps and cushioning.

    Features

    Each backpack has its own interesting parts and quirks, and what you go for will really depend on what you need, want and what you find of interest. However, we were always looking for great integrations in our tests – such as hydration systems, and how these sit apart from the main section of the bag (or how they don’t) and if this may cause any leakage problems. We were also looking at rain covers and how these allowed access to other areas of the pack, well cushioned and finished zips and any straps that helped keep everything in place.

    Durability

    There is no better place to test the durability of waterproof backpacks then outdoors – we tested the packs we’ve recommended in the mountains, in the harshest conditions we’ve had access to (a lot of rain, snow and heavy winds are very common). We’ve paid particular attention to how the packs handle being stuffed to the brim and how the fabric holds and stretches throughout this/if there are any pressure points. We’ve also looked at how the packs hold up against any knocks and scuffs and how this may impact the DWR and waterproofing properties of the packs.

    Price

    We hate the fact that there are so many barriers to the outdoors – and one of the biggest ones is the price of gear. We are actively trying to change this by recommending a range of products for a whole range of budgets, from more entry level products to higher end technical gear. Let’s be honest – outdoor gear can be pricey! If treated correctly, your outdoor gear can last you a long time, and there is no reason your waterproof backpack for backpacking can’t be with you for many adventures to come. When testing, we were looking at which packs give the greatest value for money, and all of our recommendations come off the back of this – we want your money to get you the right pack for your needs. 

    Disclaimer: This article contains Affiliate Links. You won’t pay any more for buying through these links, but we may receive a commission from any purchases made through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to support us by buying through our links, we thank you as it helps us to continue providing the resources we do to help you enjoy the outdoors more!