I like to read self-help books and mystery books like the Through the Fire by Valerie K, to refresh my brain and pass the time on a long, boring flight, but can you bring books on a plane? And can you take your library books on a plane?
Yes, the TSA and airlines allow all kinds of books on board. You just need to stay within your airline’s luggage weight and size limits, though most airlines let you carry a book by hand without it counting toward your baggage allowance.
For example, if an airline allows one carry-on and one personal item, you can also take an umbrella, a jacket, and a book in addition to your main luggage.
This post covers everything you need to know about bring books I both carry-on and checked bags.
Let’s dive right in
TL;DR
- Books are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage.
- Library books can be brought on a plane, but keep the return date in mind.
- TSA may inspect your bag if it’s heavy or densely packed.
- There’s no limit to the number of books as long as airline weight and size rules are followed.
- You can read eBooks offline or paper books during your flight.
- Pack books flat and use padding to prevent damage.
- Cabin crew may help store large or delicate books safely.
- Books should fit under the seat or in the overhead bin.
Can I bring books to a TSA checkpoint?
Here’s what the TSA say about books:
First, According to the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), books are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage without specific restrictions.
However, you may notice that the TSA agent requires additional security procedures. The TSA officer may ask you to remove your books from the bag for a manual inspection.
As always, the final decision rests with the TSA agent when screening items, though I don’t see any reason to stop taking books on airplanes.
Can You Bring Books in Your Carry-On?
You can bring books on a plane in your carry-on bag without any restrictions and free of charge.
This traveler joked that she always brought a book on a plane and never read it. Honestly, it happens to me so many times.
In addition to your personal book, you can also place additional books inside your bag.
The TSA agents won’t stop you from taking books through the security checkpoint. However, if you have many books inside your bag, the density of your books may block the TSA agent from screening the contents of your bag.
Can I Put Books in My Checked Luggage?
Yes, you can bring books in your checked baggage when boarding a flight within the United States or at other international airports.
Unlike carry-on baggage, you have more space in checked baggage, especially if you want to bring several books as gifts. However, you need to pack them neatly to avoid any possible damage.
Can You Bring Library Books on a Plane?
Yes, as long as you have checked out your books, you can bring them with you on a plane.
However, you will need to take into consideration the return time. For example, if you have three days to return the book to the library, you should keep that in mind, as some libraries may apply a late charge to your account.
Can You Read on a Plane?
Most travelers prefer to have fun on airplanes, play games, and watch entertainment, but reading books can also help pass the time quickly in addition to the other benefits of reading.
Here are some benefits of reading books from Healthline:
- Reduces stress
- Increases your ability to empathize
- Builds your vocabulary
- Helps prevent age-related cognitive decline
- Prepares you for a good sleep
- Helps alleviate depression symptoms
- May even help you live longer
Before you bring your book on the plane, prepare yourself to enjoy your flight and reading, ensuring things go as smoothly as possible.
Prepare your book before heading to the airport. You can either choose a paper book as described above or read on your tablet or phone. Books at the airport may seem pricey, and you will also be limited in certain categories that you may not like.
Take a travel pillow to help you when you get tired. You can also use it to support your book. A travel pillow will be useful not just for reading but to make your flight more comfortable.
Wear noise-canceling headphones; they will help reduce the noise around you so you can concentrate more.
Can I Read eBooks Without Internet on a Plane?
Yes, you can read eBooks even if the internet is off on your phone. As long as you have the book downloaded, you can open it normally and read it. If you are in another country and turn on internet connectivity, you may have to pay more than usual if using another network.
Not Sure What to Read While on Your Flight? Here Are Some Great Ideas
You can take along a copy of a self-help book or a novel. I always take both. When I get bored and tired of reading the self-help book, I switch to the novel because stories make time pass faster and make the flight more fun.
You can also listen to your favorite books on Audible if you finish your paper book during your flight.
How Do You Pack Books for Flying?
When traveling with many books, it is preferable to pack them in a way that ensures they arrive in good shape.
Put some time and effort into protecting them properly so you won’t find your books damaged when you reach your destination.
Here are some tips to protect your books while flying:
- When traveling with multiple books, a small box will do the trick.
- Don’t pack your books vertically; there is a higher chance they will get damaged when other items are placed on top. Lay them flat.
- Use newspaper or clothes to protect books from the sides. You can also fill any large gaps.
- Last but not least, don’t forget to label your box. If you put books in your suitcase, put a luggage tag and also include another label inside with your name and email.
The Verdict
You can bring books on a plane, and there are no problems on taking them through the security checkpoint.
It is the quantity and weight that you need to keep within your airline’s limits, so it doesn’t matter how many books you have.
After you have passed through the security checkpoint, you can organize your books in your bag however you like stacked neatly, in a small box, or with extra padding for protection.
If you ask nicely, the cabin crew might help you store larger or delicate books safely during the flight.
You may need to keep your books under the seat or in the overhead bin. It might not be practical to carry all your books in your lap during the flight, so plan accordingly.
I hope this helps
Happy travels and reading.
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