Whether it’s a spinner, a cube, a ring, or a pipe, fidgeting can help you relax, and have fun especially on a long flight. But can you bring your fidget toys and spinners on a plane? Will they cause any trouble at the airport security? How to go through airport security with it. Will they annoy your fellow passengers?.
Well, before you start packing, let’s tackle all these questions.
Let’s get started.
The TSA rules
In a survey by Statista, 25% of respondents in the U.S stated that they own a fidget spinner.
This means a lot of people will bring them to airports.
I visited the TSA website for information.
Fidget spinners are good to go in both carry-on and checked bags according to the TSA website.
Even though a fidget spinner is not a big deal or will be a security concern, often the TSA officer might ask you to remove it from your bag for additional inspection.
Remember that the TSA officers are just doing their job, and they have the final say on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.
So it’s always a good idea to be polite and cooperative if they ask you to show them your fidget toy.
Getting answers from the AskTSA on X
The TSA didn’t mention other fidget toys on their website.
But if you’re planning to bring a different type of fidget toy with you, feel free to reach out to the AskTSA customer service on X.
Simply Tweet your question using the @AskTSA hashtag, and they’ll answer promptly.
For example Jesse (@anakin059) wondered if he could bring this beautiful Brass Fidget Spinner in carry-on to England.
The AskTSA team gave him the green light “fidget spinners are allowed in carry-on.”
Even this DIY fidget toy is good to go through security.
But even though the AskTSA team gave Okay to Bill, usually, these type of might get inspected more carefully at the airport.
If you are traveling with fidget toys that have some type of liquid or gel inside like stress balls, be aware that the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids will be applied in carry-on.
Which means that you can only take 3.4 fl ounces (100 milliliters) for each container in one quart-sized bag, and only one bag is allowed per person.
Don’t worry most fidget spinners are unlikely to set off the metal detector
Another common concern about bringing fidget toys on a plane is whether they will set off the metal detector at the security checkpoint.
Some metal fidget toys might set them off the detector but most fidget spinners are unlikely to do so, as they are usually made of plastic, wood, or metal alloys that are not very magnetic.
Read also: Can You Bring Metal On a Plane?
Packing fidget spinners in your checked bag
If you want to avoid any inconvenience at the security checkpoint, bring your fidget spinner collection or you want to bring different types of spinner toys, you can always pack them in your checked baggage.
This way, you don’t have to worry about them being scrutinized or causing any delays. However, the downside of this option is you won’t be able to access your fidget toys during your flight, which might make you more anxious or bored. or run the risk of losing or damaging your fidget toys if your luggage gets lost, delayed, or even stolen.
Read also: Can You Bring Baby Toys On a Plane?
Can you bring fidget spinners on a plane internationally?
You’ll find that even if you are flying internationally, the same rules will apply.
So Spinner toys like Fidget Spinners can be packed in both your carry-on and checked bags.
What are the best fidget toys to bring on a plane?
If you decide to bring your fidget toys on the plane with you or for your kid, you might wonder which ones are the best for travel.
Of course this will depend on your own preference and what kind of fidgeting you enjoy. However, there are some general criteria that you can use to choose the best fidgets for travel.
Size: You want to choose fidget toys that are small enough to fit in your pocket, purse, or backpack, so you can easily carry them and take them out when you need them.
Noise: You want to choose fidget toys that are quiet, not loud, squeaky to not disturb your fellow passengers or the flight crew.
Final thoughts
The TSA generally approves various fidget toys, even homemade ones, but those with liquids or gels must adhere to the TSA 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids.
Internationally, the rules for carrying fidget spinners remain the same as for domestic flights.
Remember, fidgeting on a plane is not a crime, but it’s also not a right. It’s a privilege that you can enjoy as long as you do it responsibly and respectfully.
Hope this helps
happy travels.
