There are numerous varieties of tape, duct tape, masking tape, double sided or mounting tape, electrical tape, flooring tape, packing and painter’s tape, and in this post I’m going to look at what are the rules on bringing them on planes.
Here is the short answer:
In general any sort of tape is allowed on planes in both carry-on and checked baggage, the TSA or other airlines does not have any restrictions or exception for certain type of tape as it is considered a safe item.
So feel free to bring any sort of tape you want, whether it is duct tape, packing tape, masking tape, scotch tape or any other brand.
Let’s find out if there are any more rules, in both domestic and international flights.
Let’s dive right in.
Take Tape Through The TSA Security Checkpoint
The TSA didn’t mention all types of tape on their website but they did mention duct tape which is allowed through the security checkpoint, without any issues.
Here is a screenshot from the TSA website.
But obviously, there is nothing wrong with other sorts of tape, as most airlines and airports do not list them as dangerous items.
I checked Twitter to find more answers from the TSA customer service and see what their responses were.
Hilary wanted to know if duct tape is allowed in her carry on.
The AskTSA customer service replied that duct tape is good to go in a carry-on bag.
Eben even did some creative work during his flight using masking tape.
Important: Please note that the final decision whether an item is not allowed or not is for the security officer at the checkpoint, if the security agent suspects that an item will pose a safety threat it will not be accepted on board the airplane.
Here is an answer from the TSA advising Jennifer to place a serrated tape dispenser in a checked bag, even though the cutter is not listed as prohibited on board the airplane.
Take Tape In Checked Baggage
As we have mentioned above you are free to bring tape in both carry-on or checked baggage, but generally it is better to place any type of tape in a checked bag, especially duct tape or if you are traveling with a card box.
Checked baggage has less restrictions compared with carry-on baggage, as some items in carry-on can be reached and used as a possible weapon.
And even if the airline you are traveling with has different regulations for certain destinations, your tape won’t get confiscated as long as it is inside your checked bag.
Furthermore, tape is not something necessary that you will need during your flight, or it can be damaged or break during transportation.
Take Tape on International Flights
In international flights, tape does not have restrictions if you bring it for personal use.
If you want to bring large quantities for any reason, you will find it hard to go through customs of your destination country.
But overall it is better to always place tape in checked baggage, as some countries have different rules and regulations.
Key Points
To sum up, you can bring all sorts of tape on a plane in carry-on and checked bags, if you are traveling with a tape dispenser, ensure that you place it in your checked bag, even though the TSA didn’t list them in their prohibited list it may get confiscated with a kookie security officer.
The same rules apply for international flights, it doesn’t matter what type of tape you bring in both carry on and checked baggage.
We hope this helps.
happy travels.
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