Thanksgiving is fast approaching, and with the holiday comes one of the busiest travel periods of the year. For many college students, especially those out-of-state, this could be the first time they are traveling home since the beginning of the semester. Along with that, this Thanksgiving is predicted to be the busiest for travelers on record according to the TSA, with Americans flying all over the country to see their loved ones. If you’re hopping on a plane this Thanksgiving, keep in mind what Thanksgiving foods you are permitted to bring in your carry-on, and what Turkey Day dishes should stay stowed away in your checked bag.
What Thanksgiving foods can I bring in my carry on?
As a general rule, you cannot bring any liquids in your carry-on that exceed 3.4 ounces. This means that Thanksgiving foods like gravy, cranberry sauce, wine, jam, and preserves must all be in your checked bag if you’ve packed more than the allowed 3.4 ounces, and each container should be stored in a quart-sized resealable bag. All of these foods are considered liquids or gels by the TSA.
“If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it or pour it, it is a liquid, aerosol or gel and must be packed in your checked bag if it exceeds the 3.4-ounce limit,” a TSA press release about preparing for Thanksgiving travel said.
According to David Pekoske, a TSA administrator who appeared on the TODAY show to discuss Thanksgiving travel, this rule also applies to dips and canned fruits or vegetables. It looks like you’ll have to save the snacking on Thanksgiving goods for when you arrive at your destination.
Solid foods, like pie, stuffing, casseroles, baked goods, fresh produce, and the coveted Thanksgiving turkey, can all remain in your carry-on for the duration of your flight, Pekoske said on the show.
If you’re looking for the perfect Thanksgiving recipe but still want to be able to bring it in your carry-on, check out these recipes for classic stuffing and cheesy cornbread, which are easily stored in airtight containers
When you’re packing these items, make sure that they are securely stowed in your carry-on, with no chance of the dishes tipping over or being damaged.
If you still aren’t sure what you are allowed to bring in your carry on, check out the “What Can I Bring?” page on tsa.gov or ask @AskTSA on X.
What to expect during Thanksgiving travel
TSA recommends that all passengers “pack smart and start with an empty bag.” This is because passengers who do this are less likely to make a mistake and bring a prohibited item through the TSA checkpoint.
With such high travel rates for the holiday, TSA advises travelers to take advantage of their travel tips and programs like TSA PreCheck, which expedite the checkpoint screening process.
As you prepare for your travels, keep the TSA’s tips in mind, and make sure that all of your Thanksgiving goodies make it to your destination without a hitch.