Can You Take a Coconut On a Plane? TSA Rules 2024

Coconut flesh is tasty, it is a source of protein, magnesium, copper, fiber and iron, but can you take a coconut on planes?

Here is a quick answer: you can bring coconut in both carry-on and checked baggage, but coconut cream, milk or oil must comply with the 3-1-1 TSA liquid rule, only 3.4 oz / 100ml or less in each container in carry-on bags.

Keep reading to know more about taking fresh and cream coconuts on planes, and the best way to protect your coconut when traveling.

Let’s dive right in.

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ProductsCarry-on bagCheck in Bag
Whole CoconutAllowed Allowed
Coconut milk3.4OZ / 100 ML per container Allowed
Coconut oil3.4OZ / 100 ML per container Allowed
Coconut sugar Allowed Allowed
Coconut water 3.4OZ / 100 ML per container Allowed
Coconut cream3.4OZ / 100 ML per container Allowed
Coconut butter3.4OZ / 100 ML per container Allowed
Coconut flakes Allowed Allowed
Coconut flour Allowed (read more rule for traveling with powders )Allowed
Coconut Aminos Allowed Allowed
Coconut chips Allowed Allowed
Taking Coconut on domestic flights

Can You Take Coconut Through TSA?

On flights within the US the TSA regulates what you can bring through the security checkpoint.

And even though the TSA doesn’t specifically mention coconut on its website.

But the TSA guys do not have any problem with taking a coconut through the TSA security checkpoint.

Rob already asked the AskTSA customer service if he can bring a coconut from Fort Myers to Boston.

The TSA answers a passenger that a whole coconuts are allowed in cary on and checked bag

The whole coconut are good to go through the security checkpoint.

What about those mouthwatering creamy coconuts?

Tina wonder if her coconut Jelly jar is allowed in carry-on luggage on a domestic flight.

They replied liquid, creamy and spreadable food ( like creamy coconuts ) need to be in containers of 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less and placed inside a quart sized bag.

The Melo Melo coconut jar is more than 3.4 oz / 100 ml, so she could place the jar in her checked bag or refill small containers of 3.4 oz / 100 ml and take them onboard which is not a convenient solution for food products .

And i notice that she has two of them, which more challenging.

Please note that opened or packaged coconuts may be subject to additional screening or not allowed so the TSA officers at the security checkpoint always have the final decision whether an item is allowed or not on board the airplane.

So bringing coconut on a plane is always at the discretion of the security officer that you deal with.

Also coconut blades and coconut scrapers must be packed in checked bags as they are considered sharp objects.

Learn more about what to not take in carry on baggage or check the video above.

How Much Coconuts Are Allowed In Carry-on Baggage?

The TSA does not specify a limit or a number of coconuts that you can bring on board the airplane.

But it is important to note that the weight and size of the coconuts will affect their transportation.

So it is always best to check your airlines luggage size and weight, and ensure that you stay within their limits.

Can You Take Coconut In Checked Baggage?

Yes, you can bring coconuts in check in suitcase, on domestic flights.

Solid coconuts and other coconut products are OK to bring anywhere.

Just ensure that you pack your coconut neatly and near the top of the bag so the security officers can easily inspect what is inside the bag. 

Are Coconut Allowed On International Flights?

There are so many contradictions on whether you can take coconuts on international flights or not.

The rules differ from airline to another.

And the best way to confirm is to contact your airline and check out the rules for bring food products to the country of your destination.

Some international airports may ask passengers to bring opened coconut in carry-on baggage so they can ensure that there is nothing hidden inside, which is not a practical solution.

If that the case on your flight i would recommend doing some extra packaging for your coconut or just get another one at your destination .

Tips For Traveling With a Coconut

If you’re planning to bring coconuts on a plane, here are some tips to help you properly pack your coconut and ensure that it is safe during your flight:

  • Wrap the coconut or use a plastic bag: If you’re bringing a whole coconut, it’s a good idea to wrap it on a piece of cloth, bubble wrap or newspaper to prevent it from breaking during the transport, you can also place it inside a plastic bag as that will help in case of any leaking.
  • Take packaged products : If you’re not sure if fresh coconuts are permitted on planes (especially on international flights), or you don’t want to deal with the hassle of packing them, consider bringing packaged coconut products instead, there are plenty of packaged products out there you can choose from.
  • Be prepared for additional screening: Always be ready for additional security screening, whether your coconut contains liquids or not, be patient with the TSA agents, remember they may even open your check in bag if they needed to inspect manually the content of your bag.

Final Thoughts 

You can freely bring a whole coconut on flights within the United States, coconut oil and cream are allowed also In carry-on but only 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less for each container and packed inside a quart sized bag.

Ensure that you neatly pack your coconut to avoid any damage or spelling inside your bag.

We hope this helps 

Happy travels 

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