Can You Bring Pepper Spray On a Plane 2024?

So can you bring pepper spray on a plane? and will pepper spray explode on an airplane?

Mace pepper spray or pepper gel is a self defense aerosol that contains Capsaicin, a chemical compound, that causes burning, pain and tears when contact with eyes.

Pepper spray is not permitted in hand luggage as it is considered dangerous and a potential weapon. Only less than 4 oz / 118 ml of pepper spray is allowed in checked baggage, the container must have less than 2 percent of mass tear gas when transported in checked baggage.

Keep reading to know more rules on bringing pepper spray on a plane, and if pepper spray will blow up on planes.

Let’s dive right in.

Take Mace Pepper Spray Through The TSA Checkpoint

According to the TSA Pepper spray is not permitted through the security checkpoint and in carry-on luggage, so you will be required to carry in checked baggage with a limited quantity of 4 oz (118 ml).

Here is a screenshot from the TSA website:

Your item must be protected and with a safety mechanism in order to accept it inside your check in bag, Containers more than 4 oz (118 ml) will not be accepted in both carry on and checked baggage.

If you opt to bring your pepper spray to another country or state, it is recommended to review the regulations and rules of that country or state about taking pepper spray that will help you avoid any inconvenience with the local law.

Important

Will Pepper Spray Explode On An Airplane?

While the pressure does change slightly on high altitudes it’s not enough to make pepper spray to explode.

Even tough Pepper spray will not explode on airplanes but it still poses a risk.

If the pepper spray stays in a dry environment within the appropriate and the right conditions it will not explode.

Pepper spray can explode also under the heat, by Keeping it under the sun will help increase the pressure accumulation in the can.but since there are no hot conditions in the airplanes so the odds of an explosion are very low.

Why Airlines Are So Strict About Pepper Spray?

Pepper spray is a hazardous material ( check more on this post on Medical News Today ).

Federal laws and airlines do not allow to pack hazardous materials in both checked and carry-on bags.

I checked the social media to find more information.

There are some exceptions, and You may transport this item in checked bags. but they require special handling and storing.

The TSA guidelines are applied to all airline flying within or from the United States (like United Airlines, American Airlines, Spirit, Allegiant etc…), if the TSA banned an item so you are not able to bring it on any of those airlines.

Here is a screen shot from the American Airlines website.

Hawaiian Airlines stated that any objects that could be used as a weapon can not be carried in carry-on baggage but rather in checked baggage, but mace or pepper spray are not permitted in carry-on and checked baggage.

Some states or countries may regulate the maximum amount of pepper spray you are allowed to have and often it may not be allowed to have in their public area or the airport.

Other international airlines may ban carrying those items permanently in both carry on and checked baggage, like British Airways.

Explosives and flammable substances and devices that can be used (or appear capable of being used) to cause serious injury or to pose a threat to the safety of an aircraft, are completely forbidden, including:

disabling and incapacitating chemicals, gases and sprays, such as mace, pepper sprays, capsicum sprays, tear gas, acid sprays and animal repellent sprays

BA website

Can You Bring Pepper Spray On A Plane In Checked Luggage?

You can bring pepper spray on most airlines checked baggage; however, it is better to confirm with your specific airline first.

If your airline does allow them then don’t forget to place your container inside a Ziploc bag.

The plastic bag will help protect your bag in case of leakage, also will protect your belongings from getting spoiled.

Will Pepper Spray Set Off The Metal Detector?

It is illegal to sneak prohibited items to airplanes, and most Pepper sprays are made of aircraft grade aluminum that will set off the metal detectors if you try it.

It is preferable to place your pepper spray inside your check in bag, before heading to the airport security,

Packaging pepper spray in your carry-on will keep the airport security or TSA guard moving and take it further as they will search for any prohibited item or whatever else you forgot to take out.

Where To Buy Pepper Spray? ( Legally)

Yes, it is possible to buy pepper spray in stores and online. In fact, you can order pepper spray for pickup or delivery in your state, depending on state laws.

But buying online, especially on Amazon means more options and is easy to return. You can find more brands than you can in any specific store. Plus, online stores offer a much wider variety than a storefront.

Pom pepper spray are the most popular in addition of Sabre pepper spray, but before you invest in the product, check the product Legal disclaimer to know if the item will be legally shipped to your state if not check another item or brand.

Traveling With Pepper Spray, Airlines Regulations

Final Thoughts: Can You Bring Pepper Spray On a Plane?

You can take Pepper spray in hold luggage. They must be in cans smaller than 4 oz.

There is no danger of taking pepper spray on an airplane, and they are not going to explode while in checked baggage,if they are not prone to the pressure or in hot conditions.

However any aerosol that contains gas or sensitive liquid still has some risk and the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration ) are trying hard to avoid them to maintain a level of safety and confidence in the air travel industry and for passengers.

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Happy travels

Lee, is passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Lee enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.