Microwaves make cooking and reheating food easier and more convenient anytime and anywhere, but can you bring a microwave on a plane?
The short answer is yes, you can bring a microwave on a plane in both carry-on and checked luggage, according to TSA and CATSA regulations. It must fit within airline size / weight limits, your microwave may need to undergo extra security screening. Make sure that you securely pack it, as it will be treated as standard, fragile luggage.
In this post, I will be looking at the TSA rules for traveling with microwaves in both carry-on and checked baggage, and some tips on how to make the most of your microwave experience.
Let’s dive right in.
TL;DR:
You can bring a microwave on a plane in both carry-on and checked bags, as long as it follows your airline’s size and weight limits.
The TSA allows microwaves, but they may need extra screening at security.
In most cases, checked baggage is the better option because microwaves are bulky and may not fit in the overhead bins.
Very small portable models can sometimes work as carry-on, but space is often limited.
Always pack the microwave securely to avoid damage, and expect possible baggage fees if it exceeds airline limits.
International flights generally allow microwaves too, but airline rules may vary, so it’s best to confirm before you travel.
If it’s large or expensive, shipping it or using one at your destination is often the easier choice.
You can bring microwaves on a plane in your carry-on bag or in your checked bag.
Here is AskTSA customer service confirming it on X.
However, ensure that your microwave is within your airline’s carry-on size limits.
Screenshot from X
You should also be ready for security officers to ask you to open the package or place your microwave in a different bin for extra screening.
The TSA always reminds us that the final decision on whether an item is allowed or not rests with the security officer inspecting your bags at the airport.
What about other microwave gadgets?
If you are taking any sharp items or tools along with your microwave on a commercial flight, it is better to know what tools are allowed through the security checkpoint.
For example, all types of knives must be packed in checked baggage, unless they are plastic or rounded butter knives.
Microwaves on Planes: Carry-On VS Checked Baggage.
Small microwaves, like the portable personal microwave in the image, are easy to travel with because of their small dimensions (10.23″D x 7.48″W x 5.11″H).
But if it does not fit inside your bag, it will be counted as a carry-on item, so you might need to sacrifice one of your carry-on items.
If you’re flying basic economy, keep in mind that most airlines only allow one personal item. So you may find it hard to bring a microwave as carry-on, even if it is a small one.
Countertop microwaves, like the one in the image (17.14″D x 20.51″W x 12.83″H without packaging), or a Magic Chef microwave, will need more space in the overhead compartment, as most are above the standard size for major US airlines (22 in x 14 in x 9 in / 55 x 35 x 22 cm).
The issue here is the height of the microwave, which is 12.83 inches, while some airplane overhead bin heights are less than 11 inches.
Here is the comparison.
This means that you will have to pack your large microwave in checked baggage.
Most domestic airlines have a generous carry-on weight allowance, but remember that they advise you to be able to place the bag in the overhead bin without seeking help from flight attendants or other passengers.
Keep your expensive microwave and any valuable appliances at home and never send them in the airplane hold. Checked baggage isn’t always handled carefully, and there’s a risk it could even go missing.
Traveler pro tips
Type of microwave
Typical size / weight
Carry-on bag?
Checked bag?
Portable travel Microwave
10 x 7 x 5 in (25 x 18 x 13 cm), 2–5 lb (1–2 kg)
Yes, usually
Yes
Personal microwave oven
12 x 10 x 8 in (30 x 25 x 20 cm), 6–10 lb (3–4.5 kg)
Sometimes
Yes
Mini countertop microwave
Approx. 16 x 14 x 10 in (41 x 36 x 25 cm), 20–25 lb (9–11 kg)
Rarely
Yes
Standard countertop microwave
20 x 17 x 13 in (51 x 43 x 33 cm), 25–40 lb (11–18 kg)
No
Yes
Large family-size microwave
24 x 20 x 14 in (61 x 51 x 36 cm), 40–60 lb (18–27 kg)
No
Yes, if airline accepts oversize luggage
Convection microwave
22 x 21 x 13 in (56 x 53 x 33 cm), 35–55 lb (16–25 kg)
No
Yes
Over-the-range microwave
30 x 16 x 17 in (76 x 41 x 43 cm), 50–75 lb (23–34 kg)
No
Sometimes
Built-In microwave
24 x 20 x 18 in (61 x 51 x 46 cm), 50–80 lb (23–36 kg)
No
Sometimes
Drawer microwave
24 x 23 x 15 in (61 x 58 x 38 cm), 60–100 lb (27–45 kg)
No
Sometimes
Commercial microwave
Approx. 22 x 24 x 14 in (56 x 61 x 36 cm), 60–100+ lb (27–45+ kg)
No
Rarely
Smart microwave
20 x 17 x 12 in (51 x 43 x 30 cm), 30–45 lb (14–20 kg)
No
Yes
Camping / RV microwave
18 x 14 x 10 in (46 x 36 x 25 cm), 15–25 lb (7–11 kg)
Sometimes
Yes
Microwave air fryer combo
21 x 20 x 13 in (53 x 51 x 33 cm), 35–50 lb (16–23 kg)
No
Yes
Dorm room microwave
18 x 14 x 11 in (46 x 36 x 28 cm), 20–30 lb (9–14 kg)
Sometimes
Yes
Retro / decorative microwave
20 x 17 x 12 in (51 x 43 x 30 cm), 25–40 lb (11–18 kg)
No
Yes
Can You Take a Microwave On International Flights?
Microwaves are also okay to bring on international flights as long as they meet the airline and airport guidelines.
They must be within airline size and weight limits and must not contain any dangerous or sharp objects inside them.
But it is a good idea to contact your airline in advance and confirm that you are taking a microwave, as some may require special packaging or handling for large items.
But!
Should you pack a microwave for a flight?
It’s worth considering whether you really need to take a microwave with you on a plane, because many hotels and accommodations already have microwaves that you can use to reheat your meal or make a quick snack.
With just a simple phone call to the hotel reception desk, you can ensure your food is warm.
But if you really need a microwave at your destination, but do not want to pack your expensive one or deal with airline guidelines, you can always pack a box with all your microwave accessories and ship it to your destination.
You will need to ship it back home when you are done. This can really save you some checked baggage charges and the hassle of carrying a microwave through airports.
Can you use a microwave when camping?
It is super handy to take a microwave on a camping adventure, especially if you are traveling in a group or have kids with you.
But remember, if you want to bring a microwave to a campsite, make sure it has a place to plug in, such as an electrical hookup.
If you’re going camping at a site with no electricity, think about using a camping stove instead.
Just ensure that your stove is clean and free of any fuel or residue before packing it.
Final thoughts
The TSA will not stop you from taking over-the-range, countertop, drawer, convection, and even built-in microwaves on planes.
But if you want to bring one with you on board, it will mainly depend on how big your microwave is and how many carry-on items your airline allows.
If you show up with a large microwave, expect it to be taken in the airplane hold, and you may also have to pay additional charges.
So before you head to the airport, measure your microwave and check your airline’s luggage size and weight limits to avoid any inconvenience at the airport.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
FAQs About Bringing a Microwave on a Plane
Do you need to remove your microwave during TSA screening?
If the TSA needs to inspect your microwave, they may ask you to take it out of your bag and place it in a separate bin for X-ray screening. Think of it like a laptop or large electronic just follow the officer’s instructions and you’ll be fine.
Can you bring a microwave still in its original box?
Yes, you can, a brand new microwave in a sealed box is generally allowed in both carry-on and checked bags. Just keep in mind that a boxed microwave is bulky, so TSA or airline staff may want to open it for additional screening.
Do you need to pay extra fees to bring a microwave?
Yes if it goes in checked baggage and pushes you over your airline’s weight or size limit. Airlines don’t charge “microwave fees,” but they do charge standard overweight or oversized baggage fees if your bag exceeds their limits.
What happens if your microwave is too big for the overhead bin?
If it doesn’t fit, the airline will usually ask you to check it at the gate. That means it goes into the cargo hold last-minute, which isn’t ideal for fragile appliances.
Are travel microwaves treated differently from regular microwaves?
A mall portable or travel microwave are much easier to bring because they’re lighter and more compact. Full-size countertop microwaves are treated like bulky luggage and almost always need to go in checked baggage.
Can you place items inside the microwave while traveling?
It is better to make sure your microwave is completely empty. Don’t pack food, plates, or accessories inside it. TSA may open it for inspection, and anything inside can cause delays or issues.
Is it better to ship my microwave instead of flying with it?
Often, yes if it’s expensive or large, shipping it can be better and less stressful. It also reduces the risk of damage from airport handling or baggage movement. For many travelers, shipping is the easier option.
How risky is it to put a microwave in checked baggage?
Checked baggage is generally safe, but it’s not gentle. Bags can be dropped, stacked, or shifted around. That means there’s a real risk of dents, broken doors, or internal damage unless it’s very well protected.
Are international rules different from TSA rules?
The basic rule is usually the same microwaves are allowed but international airlines and airports can be more strict. Always check your airline before flying, because some may have extra packaging or size restrictions depending on the route.
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.
