Can you bring canned food on a plane?
Also known as: soup cans, canned tuna, spam
Restricted status
Allowed in hold
Official TSA Rules & Reason
Canned food containing liquids or gels is subject to carry-on liquids rules (must be 3.4 oz or less). Because most cans exceed this, packing them in checked bags is highly recommended.
Official TSA SourceTraveler Packing Tip
Place canned food in a clear pouch near the top of your carry-on luggage. Security officers often request passengers to remove restricted items for standalone X-ray screening.
Important Packing Guidelines
- ✓Cans may trigger additional screening or manual bag inspection because of their density.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is canned food allowed on a plane?▼
According to the TSA, canned food is restricted in carry-on bags and allowed in checked baggage. Canned food containing liquids or gels is subject to carry-on liquids rules (must be 3.4 oz or less). Because most cans exceed this, packing them in checked bags is highly recommended.
Can I bring canned food in carry-on luggage?▼
Yes, canned food is restricted (subject to conditions) in carry-on bags. Cans may trigger additional screening or manual bag inspection because of their density.
Are there any special rules for packing canned food in checked baggage?▼
In checked bags, canned food is allowed without restrictions. Cans may trigger additional screening or manual bag inspection because of their density.
TSA Officer Discretion
The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the security checkpoint. Rules and regulations can vary depending on international travel destinations or dynamic airport security alert levels.
Reviewed by BringOnPlane Editorial Team
This document has been reviewed and verified by our travel reference editors. All statuses, notes, and guidelines are checked against live security feeds from the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) and FAA (Federal Aviation Administration).
Official Regulation Citations
49 CFR § 1540.111
TSA General Security Carriage Regulations — Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
This regulation mandates baggage safety constraints, hazardous materials classifications, or general prohibited carriage parameters for airline passengers flying within or into the United States.
Rule Change & Review History
Verified baggage allowance statuses and aligned conditions with TSA What Can I Bring updates.
Regulation Source