Here Are the Thanksgiving Potluck Foods You Can Bring Through TSA
Yes, your stuffing and banana bread can stay in your carry-on
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TSA, ThanksgivingGo ahead — pack your Thanksgiving turkey in your carry-on.
On Tuesday, Nov. 19, TSA administrator David Pekoske appeared on the Today show to highlight important aspects of Thanksgiving travel — the "busiest Thanksgiving travel period on record."
According to Pekoske and a Nov. 19 TSA press release, "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."
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Gravy, cranberry sauce, wine, jam and preserves fall under this category. If the container is less than 3.4 ounces, or 100 ml, it can stay in your carry-on bag, but anything larger should travel in your checked luggage.
Additionally, Pekoske said, dips and canned fruits or vegetables should also go in checked bags.
However, solids — items that do not have a specific size regulation under TSA — include turkey, pie, stuffing, casseroles, baked goods, and fresh produce. These items can be placed in carry-on luggage.
But, if you're still not sure, passengers can text ASKTSA (275-872) to get answers on what is and isn't allowed through the security check.
Pekoske said over 3 million passengers are expected to travel by plane on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, and nearly the same amount on the Wednesday before the holiday.
High travel volumes can be mitigated with TSA PreCheck, Pekoske said, which generally includes wait times under 10 minutes, faster check point screening and other conveniences like getting to keep shoes and belts on.
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TSA recommends passengers "pack smart and start with an empty bag," and reminds travelers that strict regulations are for everyone's safety.
"I am extremely grateful for our dedicated employees across the agency who continue to remain vigilant and focused on the mission to ensure security of our transportation systems and keep the traveling public safe," Pekoske said.
