Can You Take Pans And Pots On a Plane? 2025

Ever flown on a plane and wondered if you could bring your favorite cooking utensils with you?. Just like for so many other travelers, the airports and airlines rules are confusing, and if you can take pans or pots on a plane it certainly depends on what type of item you bring.

While pans and pots are fine be transported in both carry-on and checked luggage, but some of the rules still stand: You can’t take a cast iron skillets in carry-on luggage.

Other pans and pots are good to go in both carry-on and checked luggage without any restrictions.

Keep reading to know more about traveling with pans and your utensils and how to pack them properly for your next flight.

Let’s dive right in.

Can You Take Pans And Pots On a Plane?

Why Is a Cast Iron Pan Not Allowed On Planes?

The TSA stated that all types of pans are allowed in carry-on luggage, except the cast iron cookware.

The reason why the cast iron is not allowed in carry-on luggage is because it is considered a potential weapon that can be used as self defense.

It can be used to knock someone if there is a conflict, or it can even be used with some bad guys to threaten the safety of the airplane and passengers.

So most airport security authorities prefer to not let that happen.

So if you are planning to transport your cast iron skillet make sure that you place it inside your checked luggage.

Taking Pans Through the Security Checkpoints And In Carry-on Luggage

Just as mentioned above you can take all types of pans and pots on board the airplane, but cast iron skillets are not permitted to be carried through the security checkpoint and in carry-on luggage.

Here’s what the TSA says on their website about flying with pots and pans:

You can take any other type of pan on a plane as carry-on luggage if it is not made of cast iron and it will not be considered a security concern.

However, metal items can be subject to additional screening if they trigger the alarm during the screening process or pose other security concerns based on size or weight.

And as the airport securities claim ” The final decision always rests with the checkpoint officers to decide which item can be allowed on board the airplane”.

Cathy asked the TSA if her Lovely kid can bring a 10″ frying pan back home inside his carry-on bag.

The TSA customer service replied that as long as the frying pan is not made of cast iron it is fine to be transported in carry-on luggage.

Taking Pans In Checked Luggage

It is highly recommended to take any type of pans in checked luggage, unless you are traveling with one carry on bag.

Some pans will not have any issues when transported inside your carry on bag, but still they may need additional screening and even sometimes the airport security may tend to apply certain exceptions.

You can see that the TSA replied to Joel that his Cast Iron Muffin Pan is good to carry on board.

Even though it is made from cast iron; but with no handle.

Taking those items in checked luggage will save the headache and the questions of the security officers, and even some space and weight.

Tip: A good rule of thumb is to travel with very few items if you can buy them in your destination with affordable prices, especially with kitchen appliances that may add extra weight for your luggage.

Pack Pans For Travel

Most pans and pots do not have sharp items or edges, unless with a glass lid that can be broken inside your bag.

But they still need some extra caution to void any scratches and dents, so take the time to wrap your items properly, and any other fragile items you are taking along in your luggage.

The video below will help you protect and pack neatly your pan and cookware in general.

Good Traveling Pans And Cooking Sets

If you are traveling and you want to cook your own exquisite food, it is better to consider taking a good and lightweight cooking set.

Check out this quick list of our favorite pans and cookware sets, they are lightweight and most of them can be transported in carry-on luggage.

Final Thought

While pans are generally not considered harmful items to carry on planes, but there is restrictions on the type of pan that could pass for a carry-on luggage.

Regular pans and pots are good to go on planes in carry-on bags; but cast iron pans are considered to be dangerous and are not permitted on board the airplane.

You will need to pack them in your checked luggage. Make sure they are securely wrapped and if you take any other sharp objects with them; keep them secured to avoid any possible injuries for the luggage handlers and the airport security officers inspecting your bags.

Happy travels

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Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist 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. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.