Your stress-free guide to flying with presents

Traveling with gifts sounds simple, until TSA opens your bag, unwraps your carefully wrapped present, or confiscates something you didn’t realize was restricted! If you’re flying in 2025 with gifts in tow, a little planning goes a long way.

Here’s exactly what gifts you can bring through TSA, what has restrictions, and what should never go in your carry-on, so you can breeze through airport security without any surprises.

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First Things First: Should You Wrap Gifts Before Flying?

Short answer: No – at least not before security.

TSA officers must be able to clearly see items on X-ray. If a wrapped gift can’t be identified, they may need to unwrap it during screening.

• Pack gifts unwrapped
• Use gift bags, boxes with removable lids, or tissue paper
• Wrap presents after you arrive at your destination
• Or ship gifts ahead if they’re large or fragile

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Gifts You Can Bring Through TSA in 2025

Most everyday gifts are perfectly fine to bring through airport security, either in a carry-on or checked bag.

These items usually cause no issues:

• Clothing, shoes, scarves, handbags
• Jewelry and watches
• Books, puzzles, board games
• Toys and stuffed animals
• Candles (solid wax only)

Solid Food Gifts

Solid foods are allowed through TSA:

• Cookies, brownies, cakes, pies
• Candy, chocolates, fudge
• Dry snack mixes or baked goods

Tip: Pack food neatly and be ready to remove it from your bag if TSA requests a closer look.

Electronics

Electronics are allowed but must be screened:

• Laptops, tablets, cameras
• Gaming consoles
• Headphones and smart devices

You may need to remove larger electronics from your bag at security, so pack them where they’re easy to access.

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Gifts With TSA Restrictions

Some gifts are allowed only if they meet certain rules.

Liquids, Gels & Creams

The TSA 3-1-1 rule applies to carry-on bags:

• Containers must be 3.4 oz (100 mL) or less
• All liquids must fit in one quart-size clear bag

This includes:

• Perfume and cologne
• Lotions, skincare, and cosmetics
• Liquid makeup
• Syrups, sauces, jams, honey

Over 3.4 oz? Pack it in your checked luggage.

Alcohol

Alcohol can be gifted, but rules apply:

• Must be under 70% alcohol (140 proof)
• Carry-on bottles must follow liquid size limits
• Checked bags allow larger bottles, but quantity limits may apply

Always check airline rules in addition to TSA guidelines.

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Gifts You Cannot Bring Through TSA

These items are prohibited or heavily restricted and should not be packed in carry-on luggage – and sometimes not at all.

Weapons & Sharp Objects

• Knives, multi-tools, box cutters
• Firearms or firearm replicas
• Martial arts weapons

(Some items may be allowed in checked bags if properly declared.)

Explosives & Flammables

• Fireworks, sparklers
• Fuel canisters, lighter fluid
• Butane, propane, camping gas

Hazardous Materials

• Large aerosol cans
• Strong chemicals or cleaners
• Self-defense sprays over allowed limits

When in doubt, leave it at home or ship it separately.

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Carry-On vs. Checked Bag: What’s Best?

Carry-on is best for:

• Valuable gifts
• Electronics
• Fragile items you don’t want tossed around

Checked bags are better for:

• Wrapped gifts
• Liquids over 3.4 oz
• Bulky or oddly shaped items

If a gift is expensive, sentimental, or breakable, it’s usually safest to keep it with you — as long as it’s allowed.

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Final Tips for Flying With Gifts in 2025

• Don’t wrap gifts before TSA screening
• Follow liquid rules carefully
• Pack gifts so they’re easy to remove for inspection
• Ship large or fragile gifts ahead of time
• Use the TSA “What Can I Bring?” tool if you’re unsure

A little preparation ensures your gifts arrive safely – and your airport experience stays smooth.