Those cute stuffed animals and plushies provide comfort, especially during stressful times like travel.
But what if you want to take your stuffed animal or teddy bear on a plane? And are teddy bears even allowed through TSA airport security?
The short answer is yes, you can bring a stuffed animal in both your carry-on or checked luggage, according to TSA website. Just make sure it fits within your airline size and weight limits.
I’ve put together this detailed guide for traveling with stuffed animals on airplanes.
Let’s dive right in.
TSA Rules for Stuffed Animals
The TSA “What Can I Bring?” The page has a handy search tool to check your items before you pack, though again, the final call is up to the TSA agent at the airport.
According to the TSA, you can bring any kind of stuffed animal in either your carry-on or checked baggage with no limits as long as it complies with your airline’s size and weight restrictions.
The final decision always rests with the TSA officer at the checkpoint.
Bringing A Stuffed Animal on a Plane, TSA Says Yes On X
I checked X (formerly Twitter) to find out what passengers are asking about traveling with stuffed animals, and here’s what I found:
Majorie asked if she could bring her teddy bear with a voice recording battery pack in her carry-on.
The TSA responded that teddy bears are good to go in carry-on bags.
Delay asked if a teddy bear with a small battery was allowed through security.
TSA replied that stuffed animals with electronics are permitted on the plane.
The TSA team answered that teddy bears are good to go in carry-on bags .
Can You Bring a Stuffed Animal with Batteries?
Some stuffed animals these days are high tech they might talk, play music, or even have built in lights, all thanks to small batteries inside.
The good news: yes, you can bring them on the plane, even in your carry-on.
That said, TSA officers may still inspect anything with electronics inside.
If your stuffed animal has a voice box or battery pack, you’ll need to send it through the X-ray machine like everything else.
Most passengers report no issues at all, but before heading to the airport, make sure it doesn’t contain loose lithium batteries, and be ready to explain what it is during screening.
Also, be sure not to leave your toy behind after security.
Pro tip: If your toy has a switch, turn it off before your flight.
Should You Pack Stuffed Animals in Checked Luggage?
It might seem easier to toss a stuffed animal in your checked bag, especially if it’s a bit bulky.
But here’s the thing: sometimes luggage gets lost.
And unfortunately, sentimental stuffed animals are often the things that never come back.
If the stuffed animal is special or belongs to a child who might get upset if it goes missing it’s better to keep it in your carry-on.
Do Stuffed Animals Count As Carry-on On Airlines?
I did a little digging to some airlines social media answers and found that airline policies can vary when it comes to large stuffed animals especially if they don’t fit in a personal item or carry-on bag.
American Airlines replied to Patti that stuffed animals and neck pillows are allowed in addition to the carry-on and one personal item.
So American Airlines will not consider a stuffed animal a carry-on or a personal item.
But this answer from Delta to Madison is incomplete. All they said is, “you are allowed to have a carry-on and a personal item.”
No mention if the stuffed animal will be counted one of those two items, or if it can be brought in addition without counting toward the allowance.
So I searched more too ind this answer, you can bring a stuffed animal outside your carry-on bag and personal if it is very small, if it is larger it may be considered your personal item.
Southwest Airlines responded to Anna’s Tweet , explaining that the stuffed animal will count as one of her carry-on items.
They advise her to ensure she only brings the purse and the stuffed animal to comply with their baggage policy.
So Don’t Forget Your Lovely Stuffed Animal.
So many passengers accidentally leave their stuffed animals behind on the plane or at security.
Especially kids, who often tuck them into their seats for a nap. Sadly, not all are reunited with their beloved plushies.
Before getting off the plane, double-check your seat, the floor, and the seat-back pocket.
Some parents even teach their kids to ask: “We didn’t forget anything, right?”
It’s easier than explaining to a 4-year-old why their favorite plush is now flying to another country.
Final Thoughts: Can I Bring My Teddy Bear on a Plane?
As a frequent traveler and parent, I’ve flied with small stuffed animals without any issues.
So you can bring your teddy bear or stuffed animal on board or you can check it in with your luggage. Just make sure it fits within your airline size limits.
Large stuffed animals might be considered oversized by some airlines, so it is bets if you bring a small stuffed animal.
Also always check your airline carry-on size and weight limit before you decide which one to pack.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels
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