Pepper spray or self-defense sprays are not completely banned by TSA. However, there are some rules set by the governing agencies to carry with you.
This post is written with reference to TSA rules for carrying pepper spray on domestic flights. The rules may change from one country to another. Hence, don’t forget to check local laws before traveling. Moreover, the final decision to allow a certain item through the checkpoint rests with the TSA officer.
Rules for Carrying Pepper Spray or Self-Defense Sprays on a Flight
Carry-on Bags: You are not allowed to bring pepper spray on board.
Checked Bags: You can pack one 4 fl. oz (118 milliliters) of mace or pepper spray in checked bags. The release button must be locked with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge. FAA says that a recessed button can’t be the only safety feature. The spray bottle must have a cap that flips up.
Moreover, self-defense sprays containing more than 2% by mass of tear gas (CS or CN) are prohibited in checked bags.
TSA recommends checking with your airline before packing, as some airlines don’t allow pepper sprays or self-defense sprays in checked bags.
Tips for Carrying Pepper Spray in Checked Bags
- Check that the pepper spray container size is not bigger than TSA’s limit (4 fluid ounces or 118 milliliters).
- Ensure the release button is locked with a safety mechanism to avoid accidental discharge.
- Check the airlines you are flying with.
- Check local laws if you are on an international flight.
- Don’t argue with the TSA staff if they remove pepper spray from your bags. You’ll probably fail at convincing them and may be removed from the security line or detained for further questioning.
Why is Pepper Spray Restricted in Carry-on Bags?
Pepper spray is a self-defense device, but it can land in the wrong hands on a plane. It is hazardous and can cause chaos on a plane, leading to dangerous situations you don’t want to happen on a plane. It can even lead to plane hijacking.
Pepper spray can cause respiratory problems, burning sensation in eyes, nose, and mouth, and temporary blindness. It can also damage electronic equipment and set things on fire.
Can you Bring Pepper Spray on Delta Airlines?
Delta Airlines doesn’t allow carrying mace, pepper spray, or beer deterrents.
Can you Bring Pepper Spray on United Airlines?
No. You cannot bring pepper spray in checked or carry-on bags on a United Airlines Plane.
Can you Bring Pepper Spray on American Airlines?
Pepper sprays and tear gas are not allowed on American Airlines in carry-on or checked bags.
Can you Bring Pepper Spray on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines prohibits all passengers from carrying pepper spray in either carry-on or checked bags.
Can you Bring Pepper Spray on Hawaiian Airlines?
Self-defense sprays, including pepper spray and mace, are prohibited on a Hawaiian Airlines plane as carry-on or checked luggage.
Can you Bring Pepper Spray on JetBlue Airlines?
JetBlue Airlines doesn’t allow you to take pepper spray in either carry-on or checked bags.
Can you Bring Pepper Spray on Frontier Airlines?
You can take one container of 4 fluid ounces complying with TSA rules on Frontier Airlines as checked baggage.
Can you Bring Pepper Spray on Alaska Airlines?
You cannot take pepper spray in carry-on baggage, but you are permitted to carry pepper spray in checked luggage as per TSA rules.
Can you Bring Pepper Spray on Spirit Airlines?
Spirit Airlines uses TSA’s policies for deciding prohibited items. It is safe to say that it allows pepper spray in checked bags. However, make sure you call them before packing.
Can you bring pepper spray on an international flight?
International aviation regulations (ICAO/IATA) prohibit self-defense sprays in carry-on and checked baggage. You can buy pepper spray upon reaching your destination but don’t forget to check the country’s laws before carrying a self-defense spray.
What to do if your airline doesn’t allow carrying Pepper Spray?
You can pre-order pepper spray at your destination. You can also ask your local USPS office if you can send pepper spray via mail. Almost all sellers use USPS to deliver sprays to their customers.
Search pepper sprays around me and get a list of nearby shops selling pepper sprays. Don’t forget to check local laws before buying or carrying pepper spray.
Looking for something else? TSA’s web portal is the place to look. It lists almost all items you’ll think of carrying on a plane. You can also download TSA mobile app or contact TSA officials via its Facebook and Twitter page.