Traveling with a lantern can provide you with a sense of comfort, especially when camping and exploring new destinations.
But before taking your camping lantern on a 33,000 feet, it is important to understand the TSA rules and regulations.
Here is a quick answer.
Powered battery camping lanterns are good to go in both carry-on and checked bags, but oil lanterns must be free from oil, residue or any liquid traces in order to accept them in carry-on bags.
Fuel-based lanterns require extra caution due to their potential fire hazard.
Keep reading to know more about traveling with all types of lanterns in both carry-on and checked luggage.
Let’s dive right in.
Can You Take a Camping Lantern on a Plane?
Take Camping Lantern Through The TSA Checkpoint
According to the Washington Post more than 1 in 5 passengers attempt to take a prohibited or dangerous itemIntentionally or unintentionally onto an aircraft.
And It’s the job of the TSA ( The Transportation Security Administration) to stop any dangerous item from getting on board or in the airplane hold.
However, in this case they don’t specifically mention anything about camping Lanterns on their website.
So I checked Twitter to find some answers.
This passenger already asked them if he can bring Lanterns and their rechargeable batteries as carry-on.
The TSA customer service replied that lanterns with rechargeable batteries are permitted on board the airplane without any issues.
But what about vintage oil lanterns?
Adam wanted to take this old lantern in his carry-on ( which had Kerosene 60 years ago ).
They replied that ” oil lanterns need to be free from all oil, residue and any traces of fumes in order to go in carry-on bags.“
Can You Take Camping Lanterns In Carry-on Baggage?
Lanterns come in various types, each with its own characteristics and size.
However, even though the TSA permits them on board the airplane, you still need to take into consideration your airline size and weight limits.
If a lantern fits inside your suitcase or backpack then there is nothing to worry about, but if not there is a higher chance that it will be counted as a piece of luggage.
And your airline standard luggage allowance will apply.
Can You Take Camping Lantern In Checked Baggage?
The TSA and most airlines prefer transporting camping items in checked bags rather than carry-on baggage especially on international flights.
So you can bring battery operated camping lanterns in checked baggage without any restrictions.
But as I already mentioned above fuel-based lanterns need to be clean and free from any remaining liquids or residue in order to be accepted in checked baggage.
It is important to note that if you are taking an expensive or a vintage lantern ensure that you protect it neatly to avoid any possible damage or break.
Unfortunately, there are also cases when high value and vintage items can be stollen from checked bags, and this can happen in different stages, when the luggage is loaded, during transit or even at the airport security.
So keep that in mind.
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.
Packing Your Camping Lantern For Air Travel
When packing your lantern for air travel, it’s important to ensure that it is properly secured and won’t pose any risk.
The goal here is not to sneak a camping lantern on board the airplane, but to ensure the overall safety of the passengers and the aircraft.
If you’re traveling with a battery-powered lantern, make sure to remove the batteries and place it in a separated pocket.
Final Thoughts On Taking Camping Lanterns on Planes.
While fuel-based lanterns are generally not allowed if they have any residue or flammable liquids, battery-powered lanterns ( like this Coleman Lantern ) are a convenient and travel-friendly alternative as the air travel authorities accept them in both carry-on and checked bags.
When choosing a lantern for air travel and your adventure, opt for a compact and lightweight battery-powered option that meets your illumination needs.
Remember to remove the batteries and pack them separately to prevent the lanterns from turning on accidentally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can bring camping rechargeable lanterns in carry-on bags. However, it is advised to remove the batteries and pack them separately somewhere safe to avoid any potential or unexpected activation.
No, for safety reasons it is not recommended to use any type of lanterns on planes.
Lanterns operated with batteries are handy and safe to take for air travel, they are lightweight, and do not contain or use any flammable liquids.
The FAA allows both disposable and rechargeable batteries in carry-on bags. You can check more about traveling with lithium batteries in this detailed post.
Yes, you can bring a lantern as a gift for someone on a flight, just ensure that you respect the TSA and your specific airline guidelines to avoid any inconvenience at the airport.
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