There are infinite reasons you may want to bring a piece of wood or a wood sign on your next flight, but before you do it is a good idea to know if wood is allowed on planes.
Here is the short answer.
The TSA and most airlines did not specifically mention wood pieces on their rules, but wood pieces are generally allowed on planes in carry-on as long as they are small and lightweight, larger pieces that can be used as bludgeon or that exceed the airline carry-on size need to be transported in checked baggage.
Keep reading to know more about traveling with wood pieces in both domestic and international flights.
Let’s dive right in.
Take A Piece Of Wood Through The Security Checkpoint
The TSA didn’t specifically mention wood pieces on its website.
But they have rules and they will search luggage for any sharp objects and dangerous items.
So I checked Twitter to find more answers.
Miranda wonders if she can bring this small piece of wooden block past through the security checkpoint and in her carry-on bag.
The AskTSA customer service replied that this type of wood item is allowed in carry-on baggage.
Note: Even though the customer service says that wooden items and signs are allowed, the final decision rests with the TSA officers at the security checkpoint whether an item is allowed or not.
For example this long wood piece that Macy wanted to bring through the security checkpoint is not allowed on board.
They advised her to place it in checked baggage.
If you are taking other items along with your wood like carving tools, there are some concerns about sharp objects, you need to know that sharp items need to be 4 inches or less.
Any large sharp objects or blades need to be placed in a checked bag.
Most airlines do not have a certain specific weight for carry on, but usually it will be up to 10 kg of hand luggage. However, if your bag is too heavy it will be subject to gate check in and you will need to pay extra fees.
Tip: Check out this Travelpro Platinum Elite 21” Carry-On Spinner, a sleek and versatile carry-on that is designed to fit within the limits of most airlines, to save you from the hassle of the airports and the pesky airline fees.
Take A Piece Of Wood In Checked Baggage
Any type and any size of wood pieces are allowed in checked baggage.
The fact of the matter is that the TSA and most airlines do recommend placing those items in checked baggage instead of taking them on board the airplane.
Here the TSA advised Jean to place this 3 foot architectural wood trim in checked baggage.
You don’t need to declare any piece of wood at the airport when flying within the United States.
If you are traveling on an International flight or heading to the US, it is better to inform your airline that you have wood pieces in your checked bag, you may even need to declare them at the customs.
I don’t want to be pessimistic but expensive souvenirs or valuable wooden boxes are better if transported on board the airplane or just leave them at home.
Expensive items are more prone to be lost or damaged in checked baggage.
Final Thoughts
You should be able to pack wood items and pieces in carry-on luggage if they are small and they do not have any sharp objects.
It doesn’t matter if you bring a wooden mallet or a real hammer on board, the damage can be done with both of them, that is why they are not permitted.
On the other hand any type of wood pieces is allowed in checked baggage, the same rules are applied in both domestic and international flights.
We hope this helps
Happy travels
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