Traveling with gifts can be a little intimidating especially if you are not aware of what to expect at the security checkpoint, and what the TSA will do with your wrapped gifts.
Here is a quick answer.
Wrapped gift are allowed in both carry on and checked luggage, but it is better to avoid wrapping your gift before going through the security checkpoint and in checked baggage, the TSA opens the gift and knows what is inside.
Keep reading to know more about traveling with gifts in both carry on and checked baggage.
To ensure you have a smooth travel experience, it is recommended to use a solid and easy to open gift box, so it won’t be prone to damage or harm during the flight.
Take Wrapped Gifts Through The TSA Security Checkpoint
Will airport security unwrap presents?
Wrapped gifts are allowed through the security checkpoint.
But the TSA do recommend to not wrap gifts neatly as they may need to be opened at the security checkpoint for further screening.
Items that may get suspected or objects that are not fully clear in the X-ray machine, are likely to be opened and inspected manually.
Can You Take Gifts In Hand Luggage?
It is no problem to take your gift in a carry-on bag, make sure it is an item that is allowed to have on a plane.
If your gift is a liquid ( like homemade drink gifts, or a perfume ), the TSA have a policy called the TSA 3-1-1 rule which is as follows:
Each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or / 100 milliliters or less. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols.
Any item or object hat can be smeared or spread will be counted as a liquid by the TSA.
TSA Rule for liquids
If your gift is solid, (Not liquid ) like chocolate or jewelry you can take it in your carry-on without any restrictions.
Chris wanted to bring this box of chocolates wrapped as a gift on board.
They replied that gift wrapped chocolates are good to go in carry bags.
Take Wrapped Gifts In Checked Luggage
Wrapped gifts are allowed in checked baggage.
Even though just like in hand luggage there is no guarantee that the security officer won’t open your gift.
Here is an answer from @Delta stating that wrapped presenters aren’t prohibited in checked baggage but they highly encourage keeping the present unwrapped in case the TSA officers need to inspect them.
So do no not wrap your gift in a fancy wrap, ensure that you protect your gift well in a gift box that is easy to open ( like the Delta customer service recommends ), and wrap it inside with clothing or a similar item.
One other thing to keep in mind is to not send expensive and fragile gifts in your checked baggage.
Checked baggage can often be missed or damaged, and unless you don’t have an alternative it is better to stale any valuable items in your carry on bag.
Take Unwrapped Gifts On International Flights
When traveling internationally the items or the present you are taking need to be accepted at your destination country.
Solid items like perfumes and drinks can go in checked baggage in reasonable quantities.
But some types of food and flammable items have severe restrictions.
So it is best to check the exact item rules with your airline and or the country of your destination website.
How Do You Pack And Protect Your Gift In A Suitcase?
To protect your gift use a hard shell suitcase, it will prevent any hard contact with other bags that will cause your gift to break or get damaged.
Soft or semi-hard suitcases do not usually provide proper protection for fragile gifts or delicate gift wrapping.
- It is preferable to place your gift in a box or a small package.
- Surround the box with bubble wrap.
- Surround the box with a soft towel or clothes.
If your gift is a precious item and is a TSA approved item make sure to take it in your carry on, pack your carry on accordingly so it can be placed properly between your items.
Final Thoughts
You can bring both wrapped and unwrapped gifts in both carry on and check baggage.
Traveling with a well wrapped gift can be a bit risky, because it can be opened with the security officers.
But it is really a fun and kind thing to do. That moment of giving your gift will make all your flight stress and challenges fade away.
Please keep in mind that the TSA and airport security care for your safety first, make sure to read carefully the following guide and take a look also at the TSA regulation of transporting objects.
If you are traveling to another country with another airline, rules may differ but overall avoid taking some kind of hazardous and suspected items.
We hope this helps.
Happy travels.
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