Planning to fly with Thanksgiving food? You might be wondering what dishes can come along for the ride.

Don't worry—we’ve got the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules you need to know!


The holiday season is synonymous with bustling airports and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) bracing for record-breaking numbers of travelers.

Knowing what's allowed and what's not can save you from the heartache of parting with your prized pumpkin pie at the security checkpoint.

The TSA has a straightforward guideline for travelers: “If it’s a solid item, then it can go through a checkpoint.”

This means your solid foods are generally good to go.

However, if your dish is liquid or semi-liquid and exceeds 3.4 ounces, it's likely to be a no-go unless it's in your checked luggage.

Here's a helpful rundown of what you can bring on board and what should be nestled into your checked bags:

Carry-on companions:​

• Baked goods: Whether it's your famous apple pie or a dozen dinner rolls, baked items are welcome aboard.
• Meats: Turkey, whether it's the star of the show or just a supporting slice, can fly with you, cooked or uncooked.
• Stuffing: Whether it's stuffed inside your turkey or packed in a container, it's good to go.
• Casseroles: Yes, even the green bean casserole with the crispy onion topping can go with you.
• Mac ‘n Cheese: Whether it's pre-made or you're bringing the ingredients to whip it up upon arrival, it's allowed.
• Fresh vegetables: All the fixings for your veggie sides can come along.
• Fresh fruit: Perfect for a healthy snack or the next day's breakfast.
• Candy: For that sweet tooth, candies are just fine.
• Spices: Bring the flavor of the holidays with you.

Checked luggage must-haves:​

• Cranberry sauce: It's a spread, so it needs to be checked.
• Gravy: Whether it's your secret recipe or store-bought, it's a liquid and must be checked.
• Alcoholic beverages: Wine to toast with or cider to cheer, they belong in your checked bag.
• Canned goods: They contain liquid, so they're a no-go in carry-ons.
• Preserves, jams, and jellies: Spreadable and therefore, need to be checked.
• Maple syrup: For those post-Thanksgiving breakfasts, but it must be checked.

Frozen items are a bit of a gray area.

They're allowed as long as they're frozen solid when presented for screening.

If they're starting to thaw and have any liquid at the bottom of the container, they'll be subject to the same rules as other liquids.

Extra tips for a smooth security screening​

• Pack food items in clear plastic bags to speed up the screening process.
• Consider using a cooler bag with ice packs to keep items chilled. Remember, the ice packs must be frozen solid when going through security.
• Be prepared for additional screening. Food items often require extra inspection, so allow a little more time for this.

The TSA's “What can I bring?” tool is a handy resource for any items you're unsure about.

And if you're still in doubt, reach out to @AskTSA on social media platforms like Facebook Messenger for quick answers.

As we gather our leftovers and prepare for our journeys home, let's remember that a little preparation goes a long way.

By following the TSA's guidelines, you can ensure that your Thanksgiving treats travel safely with you, ready to be enjoyed once more.
What's your must-have Thanksgiving dish that you'd take to the skies with? Share it with us in the comments below!