Can You Bring Chocolate On A Plane? TSA Rules Explained

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specified the rules and protocols on the commodities that can be brought onboard and those that are not allowable. There are only certain types of chocolates that are allowed in the carry bag of the passengers. These include the chocolates that are properly packaged and even the solid chocolates available in the form of chocolate chips, candy bars and nuts that are layered with the chocolate. The form of chocolates that tend to melt or sticky or slimy, or available in the liquid form cannot be brought onboard. These TSA rules for chocolate are important for keeping the airplane environs spick and span. 

Carry-On vs Checked Bag: Where Should You Pack Chocolate?

Travelers can travel with chocolates either in the Carry-on or Checked Bag as allowed under the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). However, the form of chocolates allowed onboard are likely to vary. Chocolates that can be carried as Carry-on luggage largely includes Solid chocolate bars, Chocolate candies, Chocolate-covered snacks, Chocolate sauces (in limited quantities) and the Specialty chocolates (e.g., gourmet or artisan chocolates). On the other hand, Chocolates packaged either as spreads and sauces categorically fall under the liquids and this is where the liquid limitations come into place. The container restrictions for liquid chocolates come as 3.4 ounces or 100 Milliliters. Such a form of chocolates is not allowed under the TSA guidelines in Carry-on. A checked Bag would be a perfect idea. The low temperatures in the cargo hold area serve as natural refrigeration and liquid chocolates remain in the state of solidification. Packaging your liquid chocolates in the Checked Bag in airtight containers and under the layers of clothing will definitely make a huge difference in the state of the chocolate and it will arrive unscathed.

Is Chocolate Allowed on International Flights?

Chocolate is definitely not included in the list of the prohibited items and is generally considered safe to travel with. Flying with either a milk chocolate, or dark chocolate, or maybe with white chocolate, these delectable sweets could be adjusted in your carry-on or checked luggage. However, you need to make sure that the chocolates you are carrying along with you should adhere to custom regulations. Still in doubt whether the chocolates are allowed on international flights or not? Check with the website of the airlines. Finally, in the screening process of the security, it is mandatory to ensure that you declare the types of chocolates you are carrying in your baggage.

Tips for Packing Chocolate Without Melting or Breaking It

Packing chocolates for long haul air journeys is an art that needs to be mastered. Here are a few tips that you should follow religiously to pack the chocolates without them reaching to verge of melting or breaking point:

Tip#1 – Pack the chocolate in the cardstock box as this will prevent the chocolates from melting. Do not use a metal canister for packing, although it may look attractive otherwise. Metal attracts more heat than the cardboard box.

Tip#2- Pad the box with tissue paper. This will possibly prevent the chocolate from breaking and also maintain the temperature, preventing the chocolate from melting.

Tip#3- The chocolate packaging should be done in a box, which is approximately 2-3 times the package. With enough space, the chocolates will have plenty of time to stay cool and remain intact. If the chocolate box is too tight, it will get overheated.

Tip#4- Plastic wrap the chocolates- Plastic wrapping the chocolates will keep them insulated for a long time and prevent them from melting.

Tip#5-Place the cold pack inside the chocolate container. To keep away from the moisture build up, place the chocolate box inside the zipper sandwich bag. Later you can place the entire unit in a package.

Can You Travel with Homemade or Gift-Wrapped Chocolate?

It is possible to travel with homemade or Gift -wrapped chocolate. The whole idea sits around packaging. You need to place the chocolate in refrigeration to pre-chill before the packaging. If the chocolate is not wrapped in plastic as the case may be with Homemade chocolates, you should pack the chocolate into a Ziplock bag after packing it with icepack and subsequently bubble wrapping everything.

How Much Chocolate Can You Bring on a Flight?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) entails that you can only bring a maximum of 12 ounces of liquid chocolate within the carry-on bag. Now this type of chocolate generally includes candy, bars, chips, and spreads. In case the chocolate weighs more than 12 ounces of chocolate, you should pack it nicely in your checked luggage.

FAQs

Q: Can I bring chocolate in my carry-on luggage? 
A: Chocolates can be packed in carry-on luggage, but make sure that you follow the TSA guidelines on packaging the chocolates. In addition, follow the custom regulations.

Q: Will the TSA allow me to carry chocolate through airport security? 
A: You are allowed to carry chocolate through the airport security only if you declare the type of chocolates you are carrying in your luggage and not otherwise.

Q: Can you bring chocolate on international flights or through customs?
A: You can bring chocolates on international flights and customs only once you declare the types of chocolates you are carrying in the luggage.

Q: Does chocolate melt in flight or at high altitudes? 
A: The temperature on high altitudes is below the freezing point, and therefore chocolates retain their shape and form on such high altitudes.

Q: How should I pack chocolate to avoid it getting damaged or seized?
A: You need to place the chocolate in refrigeration to pre-chill before the packaging. If the chocolate is not wrapped in plastic as the case may be with Homemade chocolates, you should pack the chocolate into a Ziplock bag after packing it with an icepack and subsequently bubble wrapping everything.

Q: Is it allowed to bring a chocolate cake in my hand luggage?
A: Travelers are allowed to carry chocolate cake in the hand luggage only if these cakes have high melting points. In case of liquid chocolates bigger than 3.4 Oz. These are not allowable in carry-on bags.