This Thanksgiving, airports are about to get super busy. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is bracing for over 18 million people to take to the skies this week, which could make 2024 one of the busiest Thanksgiving travel periods ever.
And with so many of us heading to family gatherings, plenty of Thanksgiving treats are bound to pass through those airport security scanners—whether it’s dishes traveling to dinner or leftovers coming home.
To help everyone get through the checkpoint drama-free, the TSA has shared some helpful tips on what foods you can pack in your carry-on and what needs to go in a checked bag. Let’s break it down!
What Thanksgiving Food Can You Bring in Your Carry-On?
Good news! You can pack a lot of your favorite Thanksgiving dishes in your carry-on. Here’s what’s allowed to fly with you:
- Baked goods: Think pumpkin pie, cookies, or that bread you’re so proud of—store-bought or homemade, it’s all good to go.
- Meats: Whether frozen, cooked, or even uncooked, turkey, ham, and other proteins can join you on the flight.
- Side dishes: Mac and cheese? Yes. Stuffing (cooked or uncooked)? Also yes.
- Casseroles: From green bean casseroles to the more creative ones, feel free to bring them along.
- Spices and candy: Pack your cinnamon, candy canes, or any seasonal treats without worry.
- Fresh produce: Seasonal goodies like yams, squash, Brussels sprouts, and cranberries are all TSA-approved.
If you’re packing an ice pack to keep things cool, just make sure it’s completely frozen when you go through security. If it’s melted or slushy, it might not make the cut.
A heads-up: Even though these items can pass through security, they might need extra screening. To make things smooth, keep them in an easily accessible spot in your carry-on and be ready to take them out for inspection.
What’s Not Allowed in Your Carry-On?
Here’s where you’ll need to be careful: liquids and sauces. Anything that you can spill, pour, or spread should go in your checked bag if it’s over 3.4 ounces.
This includes:
- Cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- Gravy (sorry, your famous recipe will need to be packed away)
- Canned fruits or veggies with liquid
- Preserves, jams, jellies, and maple syrup
And don’t forget the festive drinks. Wine, champagne, and sparkling cider also need to be checked.
The TSA sums it up like this: “If it’s solid, it can go through the checkpoint. But if you can spill it, spread it, spray it, pump it, or pour it, and it’s over 3.4 ounces, it needs to go in your checked bag.”
Need Help? There’s an App for That
Not sure about a specific item? Download the myTSA app and use the “What can I bring?” feature to double-check. You can also reach out to TSA on social media or text their AskTSA line (275-872) for quick answers.
So, pack your pies and prep your turkeys, but remember to check the cranberry sauce. Safe travels, and may your Thanksgiving feast—wherever it’s happening—be absolutely delicious!