Can You Bring Paint On a Plane? 2025

So, can you bring paint on a plane? And can you bring acrylic paint in both carry-on and checked baggage?

Whether you are traveling with your infant paint, for a new project, or you are moving to explore a new area, it is critical to bring your painting set and artwork with you.

Non-flammable paints, like water based or certain acrylics, may be allowed, but it’s essential to check TSA and airline rules before traveling to avoid issues at security checkpoints.

Flammable paints and solvents are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.

This post covers everything you need to know about taking paint on a plane carry-on and checked bags.

Let’s dive right in.

Bring paint through the security checkpoint

For your safety and the safety of all passengers, the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) does not allow oil or flammable paints through the security checkpoints because they are classified as flammable and hazardous materials.

I checked the TSA website and found that they don’t mention other types of paints but they have spray paint.

Which has a no go in both carry-on and checked bags.

If you want to bring water-based paints, you are good to go; however, you should consider the TSA liquid rule 3-1-1:

• Liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-size containers no larger than 3.4 oz (100 milliliters).
• Each traveler is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels, and aerosols.

Can I bring acrylic paint in my carry-on?

Acrylic paint that is not flammable because it is water-based is permitted in carry-on baggage.

Other paints that contain flammable solvents are not allowed in your carry-on bag. If you are not sure, check the packaging to see if the paint contains flammable solvents.

One passenger asked the TSA if small watercolor paints are allowed in carry-on baggage, and the TSA replied:

“If paints are packed in carry-on bags, they must be in travel-sized containers, 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or smaller. The items must fit comfortably in a quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; one bag per person.”

Can you take oil paint in checked baggage?

Oil paint with flammable ingredients is not allowed in checked or carry-on baggage on most airlines.

@MelodyFae asked the TSA if water-based acrylic paints are permitted in checked baggage, and the TSA confirmed:

Thanks for reaching out. Non-flammable acrylic paints are allowed in checked bags. However, they recommend contacting the airline about additional rules on traveling with nonflammable paints and solvents.

Can you take watercolor paint on a plane?

Yes, watercolor paints are allowed on planes because they are not flammable. In addition, they are small and easy to pack.

Liquid watercolor can be transported in carry-on baggage if the containers are no more than 3.4 oz; otherwise, you can place them inside your checked bag.

How to pack and travel with acrylic paints?

Some passengers may suggest indicating or attaching a note on your oil paint container that it is water-based or made with vegetable oils, but I don’t recommend doing that.

TSA and other airport security will read the manufacturer information on the original package or the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet), which lists the substances your paints are made from.

So please make sure that you follow the regulations to avoid any inconvenience or unnecessary situations at the security checkpoint.

How to protect your paint when traveling?

Your acrylic paint must be stored and protected in a solid and trustworthy box that keeps all of your arts and crafts supplies such as paint tubes, brushes, ribbons, or stamps organized and in one place.

Even if your paint leaks, it won’t spread through your suitcase.

This Supply Storage Paint Box is sturdy, transparent plastic. It can hold all your art supplies and measures 11.2 x 7.87 x 5.57 inches, so it can fit perfectly in your suitcase.

In addition to transporting your art supplies, these boxes are versatile and the perfect size to keep and protect daily or small kitchen supplies and accessories.

Go ahead and give them a shot they are affordable and cost no more than $$.

Will paint tubes explode on a plane?

If your paint tubes are non flammable and no more than 3.4 oz, you can take them in your carry-on.

Other paint-related solvents are considered flammable and are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.

There is a higher chance they could explode if exposed to heat.

Though such accidents are rare, air travel authorities regulate these items as dangerous to be carried on flights.

Final Thoughts: Can you bring paint on a plane?

To sum up: flammable items are not allowed on planes. If your paint contains flammable ingredients, you shouldn’t risk taking it on your flight.

You can read the label, or if you are not traveling with all your artwork, you can purchase some paint at your destination.

If your paints are permitted, consider the carry-on baggage rules: any liquid paint must be no more than 3.4 oz per container, in a sealed and transparent bag, and must be removed from your carry-on at airport security.

After passing through the checkpoint, you can repack your items as you prefer.

When packing your paint, keep in mind that your carry-on bag will end up in the overhead locker, and sometimes it could be gate-checked if the overhead lockers are full, so make sure it is well protected and sealed.

It also makes sense to transfer any expensive painting that you are afraid of losing to your personal item.

I hope this helps.

Happy travels.

People also ask:

• Can I Bring Framed Art On A Plane?
• Can you bring a pencil on a plane?
• Can You Bring Rocks On A Plane?
• Can You Bring Art Supplies On a Plane?

Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.