Pepper spray (also called mace or pepper gel) is a self-defense aerosol containing Capsaicin, which causes burning, pain, and tearing when it comes into contact with eyes, but can you bring pepper spray on a plane? And will pepper spray explode on an airplane?
The short answer: pepper spray or Mace is not allowed in carry-on bags, but it may be permitted in checked luggage under very strict rules. Some airlines, however, ban it completely.
This post covers everything you need to know about taking pepper spray in both domestic and international flights.
Let’s dive right in.
TL;DR
- Pepper spray is not allowed in carry-on bags.
- TSA permits one can in checked luggage if it is 4 fl oz (118 ml) or smaller, has a safety lock, and contains no more than 2% tear gas.
- Many airlines ban pepper spray completely.
- Some countries prohibit pepper spray altogether, even in checked bags.
- If allowed, pack the can in a sealed plastic bag to prevent leakage.
Take Mace Pepper Spray Through The TSA Checkpoint
Is pepper spray TSA approved?
Pepper spray can be used for both self-defense and to attack someone.
The TSA is clear about pepper spray: you can not place pepper spray in your carry-on or take it through the security checkpoint.
No, because in checked bags, one container per passenger is permitted, but it needs to meet the following conditions:
- The container is no larger than 4 fl. oz. (118 ml).
- It has a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge.
- It contains no more than 2 percent tear gas (CS or CN).
If a spray is larger, missing a lock, or stronger than allowed, TSA officers will remove it from your checked bag.
Here is a screenshot from the TSA website:
Will Pepper Spray Explode On An Airplane?
No, pepper spray or any other aerosol will not explode. Airplanes are pressurized and temperature controlled, so exploding is not something that you need to worry about.
What can happen, however, is leakage. Aerosols under pressure may leak if not packed the correct way.
The safest way is to place the spray inside a sealed plastic bag before putting it inside your suitcase.
Why Airlines Are So Strict About Pepper Spray?
Pepper spray is a hazardous material ( check more on this post on Medical News Today ).
Federal laws and airlines do not allow to pack hazardous materials in both checked and carry-on bags.
I checked the social media to find more information.
There are some exceptions, and You may transport this item in checked bags. but they require special handling and storing.
The TSA guidelines are applied to all airline flying within or from the United States (like United Airlines, American Airlines, Spirit, Allegiant etc…), if the TSA banned an item so you are not able to bring it on any of those airlines.
Here is a screen shot from the American Airlines website.
Hawaiian Airlines stated that any objects that could be used as a weapon can not be carried in carry-on baggage but rather in checked baggage, but mace or pepper spray are not permitted in carry-on and checked baggage.
Some states or countries may regulate the maximum amount of pepper spray you are allowed to have and often it may not be allowed to have in their public area or the airport.
Other international airlines may ban carrying those items permanently in both carry on and checked baggage, like British Airways.
Explosives and flammable substances and devices that can be used (or appear capable of being used) to cause serious injury or to pose a threat to the safety of an aircraft, are completely forbidden, including:
disabling and incapacitating chemicals, gases and sprays, such as mace, pepper sprays, capsicum sprays, tear gas, acid sprays and animal repellent sprays
BA website
Can You Bring Pepper Spray On A Plane In Checked Luggage?
You can bring pepper spray on most airlines checked baggage; however, it is better to confirm with your specific airline first.
If your airline does allow them then don’t forget to place your container inside a Ziploc bag.
The plastic bag will help protect your bag in case of leakage, also will protect your belongings from getting spoiled.
Will Pepper Spray Set Off a Metal Detector?
Most sprays are made with metal parts, so there is a high chance that they will trigger the metal detectors.
Attempting to sneak it through security may cause your pepper spray to get confiscation, fines, or worse.
International and Local Laws
Even if the TSA permits pepper spray in checked bags, your destination country may not allow it.
Many countries, and even some U.S. states, may completely ban pepper spray.
So it is best to always review the laws at your destination before packing it.
Where To Buy Pepper Spray? ( Legally)
Yes, it is possible to buy pepper spray in stores and online. In fact, you can order pepper spray for pickup or delivery in your state, depending on state laws.
But buying online, especially on Amazon means more options and is easy to return. You can find more brands than you can in any specific store. Plus, online stores offer a much wider variety than a storefront.
Pom pepper spray are the most popular in addition of Sabre pepper spray, but before you invest in the product, check the product Legal disclaimer to know if the item will be legally shipped to your state if not check another item or brand.
Traveling With Pepper Spray, Airlines Regulations
Can you bring pepper spray on a plane Southwest?
Southwest Airlines currently prohibits self-defense sprays on any flight regardless if it is checked or carried on.
Can you bring pepper spray on a plane Delta
According to Delta Gunpowder (e.g., Pyrodex, black powder, mace, pepper spray and tear gas) is never permitted.
Can you bring pepper spray on a plane Delta?
According to Delta Gunpowder (e.g., Pyrodex, black powder, mace, pepper spray and tear gas) is never permitted.
Can you bring pepper spray on a plane JetBlue?
Mace/pepper spray is prohibited per JetBlue policy. We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause.
Can you bring pepper spray on a plane Spirit Airlines
Certain items are considered hazardous by federal law, and are prohibited from all Spirit Airlines flights including firearms and Pepper spray.
Can you bring pepper spray on a plane Alaska Airlines
According to Alaska Airlines Firearms, ammunition, mace, tear-gas, or pepper spray may transport firearms as checked baggage only.
Final Thoughts: Can You Bring Pepper Spray On a Plane?
Here’s the takeaway: pepper spray is never allowed in carry-on bags.
In checked luggage, TSA allows one small (4 oz) can with a safety lock and less than 2 percent tear gas, but many airlines prohibit it altogether.
And even if your airline allows it, local laws at your destination may not.
I hope this helps
Pepper Spray on a Plane: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring pepper spray in my personal item or purse?
Pepper spray is banned from all carry-ons, including purses, laptop bags, and backpacks.
Can I bring pepper spray in my checked luggage on an international flight?
The TSA rules apply only to U.S. airports. Many countries prohibit pepper spray entirely, even in checked bags, so it is always best to check local laws first.
Can I mail pepper spray to my destination instead of packing it?
In most cases, yes, but shipping restrictions apply. Carriers like USPS and UPS classify pepper spray as a hazardous material, so it must be shipped ground only.
Is pepper spray the same as mace?
Not exactly. “Mace” is a brand that originally sold tear gas sprays, while modern pepper spray contains capsaicin. Both are treated the same under TSA rules.
What’s the difference between pepper spray and pepper gel for air travel?
TSA and airlines treat them the same. Gel formulas still count as aerosols and must follow the 3.4 oz / 100 ml, safety-lock, and tear gas limits in checked bags.
Can I carry pepper spray in my car rental after landing?
Only if it’s permitted in the state or country where you’re driving. Some regions that ban personal possession extend the restriction to vehicles as well.
People also ask:
- Can You Bring A Pocket Knife On A Plane?
- Can You Bring Lighters On a Plane?
- Can you bring hair products in checked luggage?
- Are Tactical Pens Allowed On Planes?
- Can You Bring Brass Knuckles On a Plane?
