What Are The TSA's Rules For Traveling With Candles?

Whether you crafted your own or bought some as a gift, you might find yourself needing to pack candles for a trip. When not lit, candles can seem like the furthest thing from a flight hazard. However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a few strict rules when it comes to traveling with this common household item and popular souvenir.

The type of candle you have will determine whether you're allowed to bring it on board. Solid candles made from soy, paraffin, and other opaque waxes are permitted in both carry-on and checked luggage, according to TSA's rules. There are no restrictions on how many of these candles you can bring with you — just be sure to never light them on the plane, of course.

Gel candles are a different story. If your candle is made of a translucent, jiggly material, it's allowed in a checked bag but generally banned in carry-on luggage. With that said, TSA shared in a 2017 post on X (formerly known as Twitter) that gel candles were allowed through security if they were no larger than 3.4 ounces, in accordance with TSA's liquid rules. With this in mind, you may be able to bring a small gel candle on board but know that the final decision rests with the TSA officer at your airport. Finally, make sure to leave any sparkler-style candles at home. These are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage.

All candles, including both solid and gel types, may need to be inspected by an airport security agent before being allowed on a plane. Therefore, don't be surprised if you get flagged by TSA or receive a note stating that an officer looked through your checked suitcase. These inspections are to ensure the candles don't contain dangerous substances or materials.

If your candles are in your carry-on bag, expect to devote a few extra minutes at the airport security checkpoint to these additional screenings. Typically, the TSA agent will do a swab test of the candle wax and/or the jars, and may also require a test of your hands. If you have multiple candles, note that the agent will likely perform the test on each one, so if you're short on time, consider keeping your candles in a checked bag rather than hauling them through security.

Given the additional security screenings often conducted on candles, it's a good idea to avoid wrapping these items in special packaging or gift paper until you arrive at your destination. Remember, just because the candle is tucked into a pretty bag with a bow doesn't mean TSA won't ask to perform a swab test. Making your candles easily accessible will help you get through airport security faster and prevent damage to any packaging you plan to use.

However, that doesn't mean you need to keep candles completely exposed. The candle or glass jar could break if not cushioned properly, and oil from the wax or gel can leak if not covered. Heavily scented candles left unwrapped may also irritate other travelers, particularly when brought into the plane cabin.

One way to prevent these issues is to keep each candle in a plastic, sealable bag that can be opened by TSA officers when needed and zipped back up before boarding your flight. Then, add some padding with bubble wrap or soft clothing. You may also want to use packing cubes to keep the candles from moving around in your bag.