Laser pointers are really useful tools, and there are so many reasons why you might want to bring one with you on a plane.
But can you bring laser pointers and devices on planes?
In the United States laser pointers and any other laser devices are permitted on planes in both carry-on and checked baggage, the TSA didn’t have any restrictions about class 3B and class 4 which generate powerful light, but any type of high-power lasers or that is built in a weapon shape needs to be transported in checked bags.
In this post I will share everything I know about traveling with laser pointers on both domestic and international flights.
Let’s dive right in.
Bring Laser Pointers Through The TSA Security Checkpoint
If you are traveling within the US, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) stated that you can bring a laser pointer on a plane and through the security checkpoint without any problems.
Here is a screenshot for their website.
This means any small type of laser pointers are ok to bring in your carry-on bag or personal item without being worried about the security at the airport.
Laser pointers are small devices and you don’t need to take them out from your bag before going through the security checkpoint, however sometimes the security officer may ask you to remove it to perform an additional screening.
On the other hand if you have a laser point that has a weapon shape ( like a tactical green laser sight ), you won’t be able to take it on board, and you may end up leaving behind at the airport.
So ensure that you place it inside your checked bag before heading to the airport.
I also checked the TSA social media to fond any other responses from the TSA customer service.
Edgardo wonders if he can place laser pointers in his carry-on bag.
The TSA customer service replied that laser pointers are allowed in carry-on bags.
Even pens with laser pointers are permitted according to the AskTSA customer service.
Small home improvement tools (self leveling laser) that use lasers are also good to go in carry-on.
The most important thing to know is that the TSA always claims that the final decision whether an items is allowed or not rest with the security officer at the airport, so even if an item is generally classified as a safe item, the security agent has the right to not allow it onboard the airplane if they sees it as a safety threat so use your common sense and avoid any item that you think is a dangerous item.
Note
Can You Take Bring Laser Pointers In Checked Baggage?
Travelers can bring laser pointers in checked baggage without any restrictions.
But even though it is recommended to place any electronics in carry-on baggage.
The best way to travel with laser pointers is in checked baggage, since some types of laser pointers are powerful, the security officer may prevent them from going on board the airplanes.
Max replied to Jon that laser range pointers are prone to be confiscated at the security checkpoint, even though the TSA listed them as permitted devices
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Pack Laser Pointers Safely When Traveling
Usually you can just toss your small laser pointer in your personal bag and head to the airport, without any issues, but it is really not the best idea.
Laser pointers batteries are small and safe, but it’s better to remove them and keep them separate to avoid any activation incidents.
If you still have the original box your laser came in, it’s a good idea to use it for traveling.
This will keep the device safe and helps airport staff know what it is inside the box, especially if you’re putting it in your checked bag.
Take Laser Pointers On International Flights
For international flights you need to check any rules for your destination country or contact your airline.
If you are traveling with a lot of brand new laser devices it will look like you are importing products, the customs will ask you the reason why you are traveling with a large quantity, in some cases you may ned up paying Taxes.
| Countries | Laser Pointers Rules |
|---|---|
| Canada | The Canadian air travel authorities didn’t specifically refer to laser pointers on their prohibited items, so class 1 and class 2 laser pointers are okay to bring, but lasers over 1 milliwatt (mW) are illegal to have in some public areas, and apparently they will not be allowed on planes. |
| United Kingdom | The UK authorities didn’t specify pointers as dangerous items but they said that they are not toys, so class 1 and 2 are safe to bring on board the airplane, on the other hand powerful laser pointers will not be permitted on board the airplane. |
| Australia | Safe personal laser pointers are allowed on planes in Australia, but laser pointers above 1 mW will not be allowed, in addition you will need to provide a real reason why you wanted to take these items on board. |
| Europe | There are no restrictions on small personal laser pointers when transported in carry on or checked baggage but, powerful laser pointers will not be allowed on planes and even to own.. |
Final Thoughts
You can pack laser pointers in your carry-on and checked bag without any restrictions.
However; if possible It is better to pack these devices in your checked bag especially if you are traveling with a class 3 or 4 which will cause some serious eye injuries.
If you take high density laser pointers in carry-on baggage they might not be accepted by the security officer and you may end up leaving them at the airport.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
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