Can I Bring Vacuum Sealed Bags on a Plane? The Answer

Key Points:

  • Vacuum-sealed clothes bags are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
  • TSA does not encourage their use.
  • If they alarm, TSA officers may need to open them for inspection.
  • Limitations: Total quantity per person cannot exceed 2 kg (70 ounces) or 2 L (68 fluid ounces), with each container not exceeding 0.5 kg (18 ounces) or 500 ml (17 fluid ounces)​​.

Airline Policies Comparison

Airline CompanyCarry-onChecked Luggage
American AirlinesYes, but not encouragedYes, but not encouraged
Delta AirlinesYes, but not encouragedYes, but not encouraged
United AirlinesYes, but not encouragedYes, but not encouraged
Southwest AirlinesYes, but not encouragedYes, but not encouraged
RyanairYes, but not encouragedYes, but not encouraged

Can I Bring Vacuum Sealed Bags On A Plane in a Carry-on?

Yes. Vacuum-sealed bags are permitted in carry-on luggage. However, TSA does not encourage their use due to potential security alarms.

Can I Bring Vacuum Sealed Bags in a Checked Luggage?

Yes. These bags are allowed in checked luggage, but remember the limitations on quantity and container size.

Can you bring Vacuum Sealed Bags through the TSA?

Yes, but with caution. The TSA permits them, but if they trigger an alarm, inspection will be required.

Can you bring Vacuum Sealed Bags on an international flight?

Yes, generally. However, it’s important to check the specific regulations of the destination country and the operating airline.

Different types of Vacuum Sealed Bags

  • Clothes vacuum sealed bags
  • Food vacuum sealed bags
  • Space-saving vacuum sealed bags Each type follows the same TSA rules, but may have different uses and sizes.

Similar items with Vacuum Sealed Bags

  • Compression bags: Similar rules.
  • Plastic bags: Generally allowed, but rules may vary slightly.

Will TSA throw away my Vacuum Sealed Bags?

Unlikely. If they do not meet the requirements, you may be asked to repack.

What happens if TSA catches you with Vacuum Sealed Bags?

Inspection. If they trigger an alarm, TSA will inspect them.

Tips For Packing Vacuum Sealed Bags in Your Luggage

  1. Adhere to size and quantity limits.
  2. Consider the possibility of inspection.
  3. Avoid sealing prohibited items inside.

Are Vacuum Sealed Bags considered dangerous on a plane?

No. However, their contents and size limitations are important for safety.

⚠️ The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.

If you are unsure about an item, AskTSA team looks forward to answering your questions 365 days a year; live assistance is available from 8 am – 6 pm (ET).

⚠️ Officers may ask you to power up your electronic device, including cell phones. Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. TSA does not read or copy information from your device.

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