Tattooing is a popular hobby, and tattoo artists know how important it is to take care of their equipment. But can you bring tattoo equipment on a plane?
Generally, you can bring tattoo equipment on a plane in both carry-on and checked bags. Ink is also allowed in carry-on bags, but the ink containers must be 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less and must be placed in a single quart-sized bag with other liquids.
In this post, you’ll learn everything about traveling with tattoo equipment in both carry-on and checked baggage.
Let’s dive right in.
TL,DR
- You can bring tattoo equipment on a plane.
- Tattoo machines, needles, power supplies, cables, and other accessories are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
- Tattoo ink is also allowed, but carry-on containers must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller and fit inside your liquids bag.
- If your tattoo machine uses lithium batteries, keep it in your carry-on luggage.
- For the safest trip, pack your equipment securely in a hard case and keep needles sealed in their original packaging.
Can You Bring Tattoo Equipment Through TSA?
The TSA regulates what items you can take through the security checkpoint and on planes in the United States.
And you will need to make sure that your tattoo supplies (tattoo gun, needles, tubes, tips, grips…) are compliant with their rules.
The TSA mentions only tattoo guns and ink on its website, which we are going to talk about in more detail below.
So I checked X (formerly Twitter) to get a general idea about the other equipment.
This passenger wanted to bring her tattoo kit in her carry-on, specifically needles.
Clear as mud?
The TSA agreed that tattoo needles are good to go in carry-on bags. However, ink must be in containers of 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less.
Can You Bring a Tattoo Gun / Tattoo Machine on a Plane?
Tattoo guns are accepted in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, tattoo guns with lithium batteries are only allowed in carry-on baggage.
Here is a screenshot from the TSA.
Can You Bring Tattoo Ink on a Plane?
Tattoo ink has the same exact rules as traveling with toiletries. If you are not familiar with the TSA liquid rules, here is an idea.
Liquids are only allowed in carry-on baggage in containers that are 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less, and they need to be placed inside a quart-sized bag.
You can bring as many containers as will fit inside that quart-sized bag.
Can You Take Tattoo Equipment in Checked Baggage?
You can pack your tattoo kit in checked baggage.
If you are placing all your tattoo equipment in checked baggage, ensure that you pack everything carefully so it won’t get damaged and so that TSA or security officers do not get hurt while inspecting your bag.
You can use a sturdy hard case.
That way, you won’t have to worry about your equipment being damaged, even when it is tossed around by airline baggage handlers.
| Tattoo equipment | Carry-on bag | Checked bag |
|---|---|---|
| Tattoo machine / tattoo gun | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless tattoo machine | Yes | No |
| Tattoo needles | Yes | Yes |
| Tattoo cartridges | Yes | Yes |
| Tattoo Ink (3.4 oz / 100 ml or less per container) | Yes | Yes |
| Tattoo Ink (over 3.4 oz / 100 ml) | No | Yes |
| Power supply | Yes | Yes |
| Charging cables | Yes | Yes |
| Clip cords | Yes | Yes |
| Foot pedals | Yes | Yes |
| Tattoo grips | Yes | Yes |
| Tattoo tips | Yes | Yes |
| Tattoo tubes | Yes | Yes |
| Ink caps | Yes | Yes |
| Practice skin | Yes | Yes |
| Transfer paper / stencil paper | Yes | Yes |
| Tattoo stencil solution | Yes | Yes |
| Nitrile or latex gloves | Yes | Yes |
| Tattoo aftercare ointment | Yes | Yes |
| Battery packs for tattoo machines | Yes | No |
Final Thoughts
You can pack your tattoo equipment (tattoo machine, tattoo needles, tubes, tips, and grips) in both carry-on and checked baggage on most airlines.
It is only tattoo ink that has limits in carry-on baggage.
It needs to be in containers of 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less.
On the other hand, you can place tattoo ink in checked baggage without any restrictions.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
FAQ About Bringing Tattoo Equipment On A Plane
Can You Bring Tattoo Needles in Your Carry-On?
Tattoo needles are allowed in carry-on bags. It’s best to keep them sealed in their original packaging so they’re easy to identify if TSA wants to take a closer look.
Do Tattoo Needles Need to Be Sterilized?
It’s a good idea to travel with sterile, unopened needles whenever possible. Not only is it safer, but it also helps avoid questions during the security screening.
Do You Need to Tell TSA About Your Tattoo Equipment?
You don’t need to declare tattoo equipment before going through the security. If an officer asks about your gear during a bag inspection, just explain that it’s tattoo equipment.
Can You Bring a Wireless Tattoo Machine on a Plane?
Wireless tattoo machines are allowed on planes. Just remember that lithium batteries must travel in your carry-on bag and not in checked luggage.
Can You Bring Tattoo Power Supplies and Cables?
Absolutely. Power supplies, charging cables, foot pedals, and clip cords are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage.
How Should You Pack Tattoo Equipment for a Flight?
A hard case is usually the safest option. It protects your machines and keeps sharp items like needles secure during the flight and baggage handling.
What If TSA Wants to Inspect Your Tattoo Equipment?
Tattoo gear can look unusual on an X-ray machine, so an inspection is sometimes normal. As long as everything is packed properly, you should be on your way in a few minutes.
Can You Bring Tattoo Equipment on International Flights?
Most airlines allow tattoo equipment on international flights, but it’s always smart to check the rules of your destination country before you travel.
People also ask:
- Can You Bring Sewing Needles On a Plane?
- Can You Take Nail Clippers On A Plane ?
- Can you Bring an Electric Razor on a plane?
- Can You Bring Lighters On a Plane?
- Can You Take Glass On A Plane?
