Let’s Talk Talc: New TSA Rules on Packing Powder

We get it. A little talc on the toes goes a long way towards comfort when your FitBit says you’re putting 10 miles on your feet, walking your industry’s biggest tradeshow of the year. Given the TSA’s new rules, should you pack it, or just buy some at the local drugstore when you arrive at your destination?

A new TSA rule goes into effect on June 30, 2018 for travelers flying to the United States. Powder-like substances over 12 ounces, or 350 milliliters, must be packed in the bag you are planning to check and not carry on board. If you do plan to carry your powder on board, it will require a secondary screening and may just be absconded at the checkpoint. This new rule for international flights has already already in play for flights within the United States.

The good news is, if we use Gold Bond powder as an example, they sell one-ounce, travel-sized containers, as well as a 7-ounce spray. Their largest container is 10 ounces, under the mandated 12-ounce restriction, so even if you’re traveling with the big bottle you quickly grabbed from your dresser, you’re still good to Gold Bond.

The TSA cited concerns about powders such as pepper powder and fentanyl, which, according to TSA spokesman Mike England, “could be used to irritate or harm aircraft passengers and air crew if released during flight.” Additionally, they are screening for any powders that could be used in making in-flight improvised explosive devices.

Passenger safety is always first and foremost for airlines. For travelers coming into the United States with Madagascar vanilla, saffron from Spain, or spices from Morocco or India, the best solution is to simply pack it in the checked baggage and remove the worry of losing it altogether at the checkpoint. Why set yourself up for the pain of opening your spice cabinet and seeing the empty jar where your golden Spanish saffron could have been, had you only packed it in your checked baggage.

If you have any questions about what to pack and what to check per the TSA rules, please visit this link, or contact your AmTrav representative at 1-800-795-8371.

By: Denise D.