The Unexpected Travel Companion TSA Will Let You Bring Onboard
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has no shortage of rules and practices when it comes to the flying public, resulting in some of the most bizarre items ever confiscated by the agency. For example, why is it that the TSA considers peanut butter and other strange items to be a liquid, and therefore allowed only in limited amounts, but uncooked, raw eggs are not? And why do I need to take my laptop out of my bag most times, but other times, agents ask me not to? Most regulations are in place to ensure safety and security of passengers and airport workers alike. Still, one cannot help but raise an eyebrow about what's permitted and what's not.
For example, one odd thing you probably had no idea you could bring through TSA in your carry-on luggage is live fish. People travel with pets all the time, though they're usually cats and dogs. Can't say I've ever seen someone carrying a live fish through a terminal or on a plane, but that is totally something you can do as long as the fish is in water (duh) and in a clear, transparent container. So if you're ever making a big move and don't want to leave your aquatic friends behind, or if you simply want them to experience the world with you, you can rest assured knowing TSA won't give you a problem.
What it's actually like bringing a fish on a plane
Traveling on a plane with live fish is allowed, but is it really that easy? Many YouTubers and content creators have put this to the test. One video that stands out is from TikTok creator Project Medaka (@projectmedaka) discussing his experience flying live medaka (also known as Japanese rice fish) from Hawaii to San Diego. He transported his fish separately in clear plastic bags and placed them in an insulated cooler to keep the fish's water temperature consistent. Upon arriving at TSA, he informed agents that he was traveling with live fish. The agents ended up taking him aside to inspect the fish further and gave him the all-clear. From the video, it seems that he stored the soft-sided cooler containing the fish in the plane's overhead compartment. The fish ended up making it through the six-hour flight safe and sound.
@projectmedaka Flying with fish?!🫣 Here's everything I did to successfully bring fish from Hawaii to San Diego. Hawaii can be strict about what can and cannot be brought from their islands, for good reason. Luckily TSA allows live fish as long as they are in a clear bag, brought as a carry on and checked through security. Hope you enjoyed! -SDShrimp fish fishtank travel traveltips medaka aqua aquascapes airplane aquarium
Another TikTok user by the name @isabelbowenn shared a video about her experience bringing her fish through TSA checkpoints with no issue. Her fish traveled in a mason jar rather than a plastic bag. Similarly, TikTok user @jadenlaux brought her fishy friend in a clear Starbucks cup as she traveled by plane to Chicago. So while TSA may spend some more time with you if you decide to travel with your fish, you can expect a smooth and safe journey.