Can You Bring Candles on a Plane?
Whether you are bringing someone a candle as a gift or you like to take your own on the go, many people understandably ask: "Can you bring candles on a plane?" Given how many travel regulations there are to observe and the differences between domestic and international travel, the answer may not be immediately obvious. Learn more about traveling with your candle purchases and how to take them safely on a plane.
Can You Bring Candles on a Plane?
The good news is that no restrictions exist for traveling on a plane with solid candles. The Transportation Security Administration specifies that passengers can bring solid wax candles onto planes in both checked and carry-on bags. This covers any size, shape, or variety of commonly available candle.
Since wax candles are solid at room temperature, they are not subject to the rules governing the transport of liquids. Additionally, given that candles are considered solids, there is no limit to how many you can bring onboard, assuming your bags meet the weight requirement.
It is important to note that regardless of the current regulations and rules, the TSA reserves the right to determine whether you can bring candles on a plane. While it is unlikely that a TSA agent would deviate from the prescribed guidelines, it is always possible. In the unlikely event that an item is held back, airports often have services that allow you to ship prohibited items to your home to avoid losing them.
What Restrictions Should You Be Aware of When Flying With Candles?
The critical component of the current plane travel guidelines is the distinction between solids and liquids. Wax candles are considered solids, but you might find other scent-diffusing objects that are liquids at room temperature. Be aware of this when purchasing candles or candle-like items. Given that the vast majority of candles are solid at room temperature, it is doubtful that a candle you purchase would cause problems when going through airport security.
Can you bring candles on a plane if they come in liquid form? You are required to put liquid items in a checked bag if over a specific volume. This most typically applies to gel candles, considered a liquid by the TSA. This means that you can take them with you as long as they are in checked baggage. As they would be subject to regulations on the volume of liquids you can take in your carry-on luggage, verify the airport's rules and limits before you pack.
What Precautions Should You Take When Taking Candles on a Plane?
While there are no restrictions on bringing candles on a plane, there are some important points to consider when traveling with them. Keep the following tips in mind to avoid any mishaps on your journey.
Packaging
As always, pay special attention to how you pack your items for travel, including any candles. More delicate candles may have to be carefully packaged to avoid breaking while in transit, while thicker candles in sturdier containers are less susceptible to damage. This is especially true if you plan to pack candles in your checked baggage, which will travel separately from you. Additionally, if you plan to fly with gel or liquid candles, be sure to package them securely to avoid spillage.
A convenient way to ensure it is safe to bring candles on a plane is to purchase ones that come in secure packaging. If they are sold without a box, consider asking the store to gift wrap them for you or provide protective covering like bubble wrap.
Candle Weight
If you plan to take many candles on your trip, pay attention to baggage rules. Any items placed in checked baggage will be subject to size and weight restrictions, meaning that you should mind the weight of your bags if they contain heavy objects. Larger candles in thick containers can add extra mass to your suitcases, so use a scale before arriving at the airport to avoid overweight fees.
Flammability
You can bring candles on a plane as long as they are not considered overly flammable or a firework. The TSA explicitly prohibits the transit of such items. Keep this in mind if you purchase candles from novelty stores. Most candle retailers will not carry such items, but it never hurts to check with the TSA if you are unsure.
Additionally, note that there are travel restrictions on items such as matches and lighters. Current rules allow for a lighter or one book of matches in your carry-on bag. The latter cannot travel in your checked bag, although they are typically easy to find at most destinations. In addition, while you can bring items like matches or lighters on the plane, it is not permitted to light candles while in transit, either in the airport or on board.
Can You Bring Candles on a Plane for International Travel?
For international travelers who would like to take their candles abroad (or bring them home!), there is no need to worry. The regulations for traveling domestically with candles are also valid for almost all international destinations. Therefore, excluding cases where the candles contain substances restricted for overseas trips, you should be able to pack candles in your luggage for international travel. If you are unsure about specific substances in your candle, research your destination to confirm.
What If You Have Further Questions About Traveling With Candles?
To stay up to date on the latest travel regulations, including questions about whether you can bring candles on a plane, contact the TSA. They can address any specific concerns you have and provide guidance about traveling with candle purchases or other items that you are unsure about. Aside from helpful information on their website, the TSA can be reached by phone or email for any concerns.
Bringing Candles on a Plane When You Travel
If you've been asking yourself, "Can you bring candles on a plane?" rest assured that you can safely and legally take them on your travels. Explore our full line of candles at Nomad Noé and find your new favorite scent to pack for your next adventure.
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/solid-candles
https://neocandle.com/take-scented-plane/
https://executiveflyers.com/can-you-bring-candles-on-a-plane/
https://tourgossips.com/can-you-bring-candles-on-a-plane/
https://www.jackpotcandles.com/blogs/news/can-you-bring-candles-on-a-plane
https://www.uponarriving.com/candles-plane-tsa/