Travelling with beach sand in carry-on
I'm making a trip back home (to the coast) shortly, and I would like to bring back sand from the beach with me as a keepsake or memento. It's just a short weekend trip, and I won't be checking any luggage, so I was wondering if it's even worth bothering trying to bring sand aboard the plane in my carry-on?
If so, what can I do to make the security screening as smooth as possible? I was planning on putting the sand in sandwich-sized plastic bags, enclosed in a larger quart- or gallon-sized bag.
Best Answer
While I was going to add this as a comment, I think it's more suitable as what SHOULD be the answer.
While it may be fun to do, environmentally you really shouldn't do it. In addition to potential disease transfers, bugs or contamination, if everyone did this, think how it'd affect the beach! You're essentially doing what would take erosion a lot longer to achieve, and is really not a good idea.
Further reading on countries / places where it's been a big problem: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sand_theft
Note that they're now actively fining people in Italy for doing this.
Updated article on CNN today about sand theft problems and fines.
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Quick Answer about "Travelling with beach sand in carry-on"
- According to the TSA, travelers can bring some pretty bizarre things in their carry-on luggage.
- Some of the items passengers are allowed to bring in their carry-ons include fresh eggs, light sabers, and body armor.
Can you fly with sand from the beach?
Checked Bags: Yes page. The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.Can you fly with kinetic sand?
Kinetic Sand But it also has the ability to end up on the floor of the plane. You've been warned. But I chose to include it because we've always had positive experiences keeping it off the floor. It's kinetic sand so it sticks together and comes in a handy travel container.What Cannot be packed in carry on?
Here's what you can't pack in your carry on:- Liquids, gels, or pastes in bottles larger than 3.4 ounces (100 ml)
- Guns and ammunition (including BB guns and cap guns)
- Stun guns and tasers.
- Sharp objects (knives, axes, razor blades)
- Self-defense items (such as pepper spray, brass knuckle, billy clubs)
Pack With Me! Suitcase + Carry On for Beach Vacation
More answers regarding travelling with beach sand in carry-on
Answer 2
Internationally is a problem for soil, but not domestic. You shouldn't have an issue with TSA at all.
Answer 3
It is not a problem with TSA.
Last year, the only suitcase that was opened by the TSA was the one with a small bottle of sand.
The airport was San Fransisco
The destination was Europe
Answer 4
I brought black sand back to Canada from Dominica (an island in the Caribbean) last month. I kept the sand in a water bottle and I travelled carry on only. When TSA opened my bag, they asked me what it was and I told them “oh that’s some black sand I brought home with me from Dominica. I’m going to put it in a bottle and keep it as a trinket to look at” TSA shrugged and let me keep the sand. My advice is don’t act nervous, be honest, and everything should sail smoothly. When you’re cool with security, they’re cool with you.
Answer 5
I had a small amount of beach sand from a Florida beach and it was confiscated by TSA agents at the Tampa airport. The sand came from a relatives beachfront home and they said it was ok for me to have it.
Answer 6
TSA held up my backpack containing a bag of beach sand. They did a chemical test for explosives on it, then sent me on my way. Eugene, Oregon.
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