Whether you are going camping or just wanted to take a box of matches in your bag, you may wonder if matches are allowed on planes.
Here is a short answer before we go deep into the topic.
According to the TSA one box of safety matches are allowed in carry-on baggage, but all kinds of matches are not allowed in checked baggage, strike everywhere matches are not allowed in either carry on and checked baggage.
In this post, we will provide all that you need to know about traveling with matches . By the end, you are going to have all the answers and you won’t need to look anywhere else.
Let’s dive right in
Can You Take Matches Through The TSA Security Checkpoint?
The TSA and FAA regulates what you can and can’t take on US airports and airplanes, and just as the TSA mentioned on its website Safety matches are only allowed through the security checkpoint in carry-on baggage but not in checked baggage.
Strike anywhere matches are not allowed in both carry on and checked baggage.
@Jab asked the TSA about taking her special gifts including matches on her flight,and the TSA confirmed that one box or the packet of matches are allowed in carry-on and matches of any type are not allowed in checked baggage.
Can I Take a Packet, Book, or Box Of Matches On Carry-on?
Yes, one box, packet, or book of safety matches are allowed in carry-on baggage on most airlines.
Ensure that you don’t exceed these limits, these items are sensitive and there is more chance they will be removed from your bag.
Can You Take Matches In Checked Luggage?
Nope.
To clarify more why matches are not allowed in checked baggage, because they are prone to be ignited when they meet the appropriate surfaces, especially strike everywhere matches, even if they are inside the box there is more chance they will ignite.
So just bring your single box if it is necessary, and the TSA officer won’t stop you.
Are Safety Matches Safe To Take On Cabin Baggage?
Safety matches are more safe than strike-anywhere matches, however the FAA puts some restrictions for taking such items on airplanes to avoid any unwanted surprises.
Safety matches are safe because of the separation of the active ingredients between the match head on the end of a paraffin-impregnated splint and the special striking surface.
What Kind Of Matches Can I Pack On a Plane?
Only safety matches, leave any other matchboxes at home.
If you take a strike everywhere matches , they will get confiscated and they can’t pass through the airport security.
If you are taking safety matches and your carry-on bag is gate checked, ensure that you remove them and take them along with you on board in your personal item.
@Maan asked the TSA if cigars, Matches and a cigar cutter are allowed in carry-on baggage, and the TSA replied that all of his items are allowed, however only safety matches are allowed on airplanes, meaning other types of matches aren’t allowed on board the airplane.
Not Sure What Is The Difference Between Safety Matches And Strike Everywhere Matches!!
Some people are still confused as to what is the key difference between both types of matches.
Safety matches or (strike on box matches) as the name referred can ignite when only struck with its special surface, like in the side of the matches box, while strike everywhere can almost ignite anywhere if it meets the appropriate surface.
What About Lighters?
This guy asked the TSA if he can bring his Bic lighter and matches on his flight.
The TSA customer service replied that one disposable lighter and one book of safety matches are allowed on board the airplane without any problem .
Where You Can Store Your Matches When Flying?
It is illegal to place any type matches inside your checked baggage on most airplanes, as matches can be a danger for the aircraft and safety of passengers.
You can either place your matches inside your pocket during your flight, or secure it inside your carry-on bag,to replace your matches container, or box with a well secured box. At home I always have a waterproof match case and whenever I get a new box of safety marches I replace the box.
That will prevent matches from getting wet or spoiled and it works also when traveling with safety matches on planes.
Airlines Regulations On Taking Matches
| Airlines | Regulations |
| American airlines | Checked bags – no Carry-on bag – yes |
| Delta airlines | All type of matches are not allowed in checked baggage, and strike-anywhere matches are completely banned, but you are permitted to have one book or box of safety (non-strike anywhere) matches with you in cabin baggage. |
| United Airlines | For domestic flight the TSA rules are applicable All matches and lighters are banned from checked and carry-on bags on flights departing from Beijing. |
| Frontier airlines | Lighters and matches are accepted in limited quantities per TSA guidelines. |
| British Airways | You can carry one small packet of safety matches or a small cigarette lighter for personal use that does not contain unabsorbed liquid fuel (other than liquefied gas) on your person but not in your hand or checked baggage. These items need to be for personal use. Strike anywhere matches are completely forbidden. |
Final Thoughts
You already know you can bring safety matches in planes only in carry on baggage, and only one box or book for one person; strike everywhere matches are not permitted in both carry on and checked baggage.
Yet you still have to understand that it is still not recommended to have any suspected or hazardous item when flying as it can cause a lot of disturbances for you during the screening process, matches can be found everywhere in your destination.
Do follow the rules and regulations properly and have a safe travel!
We hops this helps
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