Can I Bring a Cutting Board On Plane? TSA Rules

If you are a big foodie like me, it comes as no surprise that you might want to bring your cutting board in addition to other kitchen essentials on a flight.

But can you take a wooden chopping board on a plane?

Here is a quick answer.

Generally you can bring small cutting boards on planes. However, when carried in your carry-on luggage, the final decision rests with the security officer at the security checkpoint.

Keep reading to know more about taking chopping boards on planes, in addition to some tips to help you pack them effectively for travel.

Let’s dive right in.

Can You Bring a Cutting Board Through The Security Checkpoint?

The Transportation Security Administration (the TSA) is the clerks in charge of overseeing security measures at the majority of U.S. airports.

They did mention on their website that small plastic and wood cutting boards are ok to bring in both carry-on and checked baggage.

cutting boards TSA — _{Screenshot from the TSA website}

But some cutting boards, especially those made of heavy wood like Acacia wood, appear to be quite bulky.

What the TSA says about those heavy cutting boards?

I checked the TSA social media to find more answers.

Jeff already have a question about his wooden cutting board.

Wooden cutting boards aren’t specifically listed as a prohibited item for carry-on bags. However, our officers have the discretion to not allow an item through security if it poses security concerns based on its size or weight. We recommend you place the item in a checked bag.
— AskTSA (@AskTSA) December 19, 2019

The TSA customer service replied that ” Wooden cutting boards aren’t classified as a prohibited item in carry-on bags. However, the TSA officers at the airport have the final call on whether an item will be allowed through the security checkpoint, especially if it poses security concerns based on its size or weight.”

So the key lies in the size and weight of your cutting board.

You may find it challenging to pass a heavy board through the security checkpoint.

The TSA set these rules primarily to avoid any potential security threats, including items that could be used as weapons or pose safety risks during a flight.

I remember one time a passenger waving a hefty cast iron pan, because someone placed his suitcase right above his seat in the overhead compartment.

Fortunately the fight attended solved the problem peacefully, but the TSA and the airlines always works hard to keep you safe and prevent things like this from happening.

Can You Bring a Cutting Board In Carry-on Or Checked Baggage?

The size of your cutting board matters when it comes to carrying it on a plane in both domestic and international flights.

Aside of the security concerns, If your cutting board is small enough to fit into your carry-on bag or personal item and complies with the airline size and weight restrictions, then you can bring it on board with you.

However, if the cutting board is large and exceeds your airline carry-on size limits, you may need to pack it in your checked bag instead.

In fact if you don’t have enough space or you have more items to take in your carry-on bag or backpack, it is wise to place your board or even many of them in your checked bag.

Just ensure that you protect it properly.

Packing Tips For Traveling With a Cutting Board

Before heading to the airport follow these tips to properly protect your cutting board:

Wrap your cutting board in a protective layer to prevent scratches or damage.
Adding more padding around the wrapped cutting board. This will add protection from potential bumps or jolts during the journey.
Make use of clothing items or towels you are already bringing on your trip.
If your cutting board is not too large, placing it in a sturdy bag or case designed for kitchen utensils can offer an added layer of protection.
consider checked luggage for large cutting boards.
Inform the security officer if you have other sharp object along with your cutting board.
If you are packing any sharp objects along with your cutting board in checked baggage, make sure that it is sheathed and securely wrapped to prevent injuries to baggage handlers and inspectors.

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.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with your trusty cutting board doesn’t have to be a complicated task, but it may not always be easy due to some airport security regulations.

Some bulky cutting boards might be subject to additional screening, and may not even accepted by the security agents.

So, pack that bulky and heavy cutting board in your checked luggage, and navigate the airport security like a master chef.

I hope this helps

Happy travels