Lois Larson
Traveling with the cremated remains of a loved one can be stressful, especially when you're unsure about airport security procedures. Many people choose to keep a small amount of the cremated ashes with them in the form of cremation jewelry, which can be engraved or personalized. When traveling with such items, it's important to understand the policies and procedures of both the airport and the airline. While the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows passengers to wear jewelry through security, certain items may trigger a secondary search. It is recommended to place jewelry in a carry-on bag to ensure it remains safe and within your control.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can I wear cremation jewelry through airport security? | Yes, the TSA has no restrictions on passengers wearing or traveling with memorial jewelry. |
| Do I need to remove jewelry during screening? | Small jewelry items like necklaces, rings, and earrings generally do not need to be removed during screening. |
| Can I carry cremated remains in my checked luggage? | Some airlines do not allow cremated remains in checked bags. Cremated remains must be carried on, and cannot be checked, according to some sources. |
| What type of container should I use for cremated remains? | TSA-compliant urns are typically made from materials like bamboo, wood, plastic, or glass. These materials can be easily screened by X-ray machines. |
| What documentation do I need to carry cremated remains? | You should carry a copy of the death certificate and a copy of the Disposition Permit, which is given along with the cremated remains. A burial transit permit may also be required. |
| Are there any specific airline policies for carrying cremated remains? | Yes, different airlines have varying policies. For example, American Airlines treats cremated ashes as a passenger's carry-on bag, while Delta Airlines requires a death certificate or a certificate of cremation. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA guidelines for travelling with cremated remains
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a clear process for screening crematory remains. Here are the guidelines for travelling with cremated remains:
Domestic travel
When travelling within the United States, you can bring cremated remains onto the plane either in your carry-on luggage or checked baggage. The TSA requires you to have the cremation permit that accompanies the cremated remains, as well as a certified copy of the death certificate. It is also important to use a container that can be X-rayed, such as those made of wood, composites, biodegradable paper, or plastic.
International travel
When travelling internationally, different rules may apply. It is important to verify with the destination country about their requirements for bringing in cremated remains. Some countries may require specific documentation, such as a death certificate, disposition permit, or certificate of cremation. Contacting the consulate or embassy of the country you are travelling to is advised.
Airline policies
In addition to TSA guidelines, it is crucial to check with your airline to learn about any specific restrictions or policies they may have regarding the transportation of cremated remains. Some airlines may not allow cremated remains in checked bags, so it is best to confirm in advance.
Cremation jewelry
Cremation jewelry, which holds a small portion of the ashes, is another option for transporting cremated remains. When choosing this method, ensure that the jewelry can be X-rayed and will not set off any alarms.
Respectful handling
The TSA understands the sensitivity of transporting cremated remains and trains its officers to treat all travellers' belongings with care and respect. Officers will not open containers with cremated remains, even at the request of the passenger.
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Domestic vs international travel with ashes
Transporting the cremated ashes of a loved one can be a stressful and emotional experience. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) treats cremains with respect and allows passengers to carry them in their hand luggage or checked baggage, provided the container is made of a lighter, scannable material. TSA officers will not open the container, even if requested by the passenger, but if they cannot determine the contents, they may ask the passenger to remove the ashes and send the container and ashes separately through the X-ray machine.
When travelling domestically within the United States, passengers should bring a cremation certificate and a right of disposition. However, different airlines have different rules and regulations regarding transporting cremated ashes, so it is important to check with the airline before travelling. For example, Southwest Airlines does not accept cremated ashes as checked baggage, but they can be brought onboard as carry-on luggage. In contrast, JetBlue Airways requires a certified copy of the death certificate and a certified document from the funeral director or crematorium.
International travel with cremated ashes requires more planning and research. Each country has its own laws and regulations regarding the transport of cremated remains. For example, Germany and Austria do not allow "laymen" to carry human remains. It is recommended to contact the Embassy or Consulate of the destination country to understand their specific requirements. In addition to a death certificate and cremation certificate, some countries may require additional documents from a local customs office or a vital statistics and records office.
When travelling with cremated ashes, it is important to use a special cremation urn made of non-metallic, scannable material such as wood, plastic, or glass. This allows for easy X-ray screening during security checks. Alternatively, cremation jewellery can be worn through security, although items may trigger a secondary search.
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Container requirements
X-Ray Scannable Materials
To facilitate the screening process, it is recommended to use a container made of lightweight materials that are X-ray scannable. This allows TSA officers to clearly determine the contents of the container without having to open it. Suitable materials include wood, bamboo, plastic, composites, biodegradable paper, or glass. These materials ensure compliance with TSA guidelines and respect for the deceased.
Secure and Padded Containers
To prevent damage or spillage, it is essential to use a secure and padded container for your jewellery. This is especially important if the jewellery contains cremated remains. A padded container can protect fragile items during transit and handling. Consider using a padded case or a temporary travel urn specifically designed for transporting cremated ashes.
Clear Labelling
Clearly label your container to avoid confusion during security checks. Include your contact information and a clear indication that the container holds cremated remains. This can help security personnel understand the nature of the item and handle it with care.
Documentation
While not directly related to the container, having the proper documentation can aid in the smooth passage of your jewellery through security. Carry copies of relevant documents, such as the death certificate, cremation permit, or disposition permit. These documents can help verify the contents of the container and expedite the screening process.
Research and Advance Notification
Before your travel, research the policies of both your departure and arrival airports, as procedures may vary. Contact your airline in advance to confirm any specific requirements or recommendations they may have for travelling with memorial items. This proactive step can help you prepare the necessary containers and documentation.
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Airline policies
Contact the Airline
It is recommended to contact your airline before travelling to inform them of your plans and to check their specific policies and requirements. Some airlines may request documentation, such as a death certificate, cremation permit, or disposition permit, so it is worth sending these in advance to avoid any issues.
Domestic vs International Travel
The requirements for travelling with cremated remains can vary significantly between domestic and international flights. For domestic travel within the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows passengers to bring cremated remains on board as carry-on items or checked luggage. However, for international travel, the requirements can vary greatly depending on the destination country. It is advisable to contact the consulate, embassy, or customs authority of the destination country to understand their specific regulations.
Container Requirements
To facilitate screening, it is suggested to use a container made of lightweight, X-ray-friendly materials such as wood, plastic, bamboo, glass, composites, or biodegradable paper. Containers that generate opaque images may not be allowed, as TSA officers will not open or tamper with the container, even at the passenger's request. It is also illegal for airport personnel to open any container holding cremated ashes.
Screening Process
Small jewellery items like necklaces, rings, and earrings generally do not need to be removed during the screening process. However, if the screening agent cannot determine the contents of the container, they may request alternative measures, such as sending the jewellery and ashes separately through the X-ray machine. To avoid confusion and facilitate a smoother screening process, clearly label your jewellery and consider carrying documentation from the funeral director explaining the contents of the item.
Carry-On vs Checked Baggage
While some airlines allow cremated remains in checked baggage, others require them to be carried on. It is generally recommended to keep cremated remains jewellery with you in your carry-on bag to ensure it remains safe and within your control.
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Screening process
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) treats cremated remains with respect and allows passengers to carry them as hand luggage, provided certain criteria are met.
Small items of jewellery, such as necklaces, rings, and earrings, generally do not need to be removed during screening. However, some items may trigger a secondary search, so it is advisable to remove any items that may cause an alert before reaching the security area.
To facilitate screening, the TSA recommends purchasing a temporary or permanent container made of a lighter-weight material such as wood, plastic, bamboo, or glass. These materials can be easily screened by X-ray machines, and TSA officers will not open a container, even if requested by the passenger. Out of respect for the deceased, it is illegal for airport personnel to open any container that holds cremated ashes.
If the screening agent cannot determine what is in the container, they may ask the passenger to remove the ashes and send the container and ashes separately through the X-ray machine. If secondary measures do not clear the ashes of containing a prohibited item, they will not be allowed through security or on the aircraft.
Passengers are advised to contact their airline in advance to confirm any specific requirements or recommendations for travelling with memorial items. It is also a good idea to carry documentation from the funeral director to explain the contents of the urn or keepsake and to have a copy of the death certificate and cremation permit.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the TSA has no restrictions on passengers wearing or traveling with memorial jewelry. Small jewelry items like necklaces, rings, and earrings generally do not need to be removed during screening.
If your jewelry sets off the metal detector, you may be asked to go through a secondary screening process. This may involve removing the item and sending it through the X-ray machine separately.
The TSA recommends using a container made of lightweight materials such as wood, plastic, or glass, which can be easily screened by X-ray machines. Avoid containers made of materials that generate opaque images, as these will not be allowed through security.
