Airports And Sees Candy: A Traveler's Sweet Treat?

Candy lovers, rejoice! You can bring your favourite sweets on a plane, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Most airports will allow you to bring candy on board, and you can even buy some at the airport before your flight. However, it's essential to be aware of the rules and regulations set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to ensure a smooth travel experience. The type of candy you bring matters – solid candies like chocolate bars, gummy bears, and hard candies are typically permitted, while liquid or gel-filled candies are subject to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule. This means that liquid or gel candies must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces and must fit into a single quart-sized clear plastic bag.

Solid vs. liquid candy

When it comes to travelling with candy, it's important to know the difference between solid and liquid candy, as this will determine how you can transport it. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), solid food items can be carried in your hand luggage or checked bags, while liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz (100 ml) are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in checked bags if possible.

So, what exactly constitutes a solid or liquid candy? Well, most types of candy fall into the "solid food" category, including chocolate bars, gummy bears, hard candy, and candy-coated fruit. These types of candy are typically allowed on planes and can be packed in either your carry-on or checked luggage, as long as you adhere to the standard baggage size and weight restrictions.

However, liquid, spray, or gel candies are subject to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule. This means that they must be in containers no larger than 3.4 oz (100 ml), they must fit into a single quart-sized clear plastic bag, and each passenger is only allowed one sealed bag. Examples of liquid or gel candies include liquid-filled candy, spray candy, and gel candies like candy that can be spread or poured.

It's worth noting that the distinction between solid and liquid candy can sometimes be blurry. For instance, granular candies like Skittles, M&M's, and Nerds are technically made up of small solid particles that can flow like liquids. Additionally, the TSA does not provide an exhaustive list of what items are considered gels, so it's always a good idea to check their official website or contact your airline before your trip to confirm any specific restrictions or updates.

In conclusion, understanding the difference between solid and liquid candy is crucial for travellers looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while complying with TSA regulations. By following the guidelines for solid and liquid food items, you can ensure a smooth travel experience and indulge in your favourite treats during your flight.

TSA rules

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows you to bring candy on board and consume it during the flight. This applies to both domestic and international flights departing from the USA.

According to the TSA, you can bring candy in either your carry-on luggage or checked bags. Solid food items can be transported in either, while liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in checked bags.

The TSA's 3-1-1 rule dictates the regulations around the carry-on transportation of liquids, gels, and aerosols on airplanes. According to this rule, passengers may bring such items in their carry-on luggage with limitations. The rule states that liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 3.4 oz or 100 ml or less, all of which must fit into a single quart-sized clear plastic bag. Each passenger is permitted only one sealed bag.

Candy that is considered a gel or a liquid includes items that can be spread, spilled, poured, or pumped, such as squeezable candy tubes, liquid candy tubes, or spray candy. These types of candy must comply with the 3-1-1 rule.

For candy that is not in its original packaging, it is recommended to wrap it or place it in a resealable bag or container with a secure lid.

It is important to note that bringing food items, including candy, into a foreign country may be subject to different regulations. Be sure to check the rules of your destination country before travelling. Additionally, when bringing food items into the United States, they must be declared to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

While the above information is based on applicable TSA and CBP guidelines, the final decision for whether to allow a food item through airport security rests with the TSA and CBP officers on duty at the airport.

Candy weight restrictions

When packing candy for a flight, it's important to be aware of any weight restrictions. While there are no quantity limits on solid candy, your treats will need to fit within the standard weight restrictions for your checked bags or the size restrictions for your carry-on baggage.

For carry-on luggage, the weight limit is typically around 7-10 kg (15-22 lbs), but this can vary depending on the airline and cabin class. It's always a good idea to check with your airline before your trip to confirm the specific weight restrictions for carry-on bags.

For checked baggage, the weight limit is usually higher, ranging from 23-32 kg (50-70 lbs) for economy class. Again, it's best to verify this information with your airline, as weight limits can differ.

When packing candy, it's also important to consider the type of candy you're bringing. Solid candies, such as chocolate bars, gummy bears, and hard candies, are generally permitted without quantity restrictions. However, liquid or gel-filled candies, such as squeezable candy tubes or liquid-filled chocolates, are subject to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule. This means they must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and fit into a quart-sized plastic bag.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, it's recommended to familiarise yourself with the TSA's food rules and pack your candy accordingly. Additionally, if you're travelling internationally, be sure to check the customs regulations of your destination country, as some countries have strict rules regarding the importation of certain food items.

Candy packaging

When it comes to candy, there are a few things to keep in mind regarding packaging, especially if you're planning to travel with it. Here are some guidelines and tips for candy packaging, specifically addressing the query about See's Candy:

It's important to note that solid candies are generally permitted in carry-on luggage and checked bags without restrictions on quantity. However, liquid, spray, or gel candies are subject to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule. This means they must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 ml) and fit into a single quart-sized clear plastic bag per passenger. This rule also applies to candy that can be spread, spilled, poured, or pumped.

When packing candy for travel, it's recommended to use clear, resealable bags. This makes it easier for TSA officers to inspect and ensures your candy meets solid food requirements. If your candy is not in its original packaging, using clear bags can help avoid any issues. Additionally, allow extra time for screening, as candy may need to pass through the X-ray machine more than once.

See's Candy Packaging:

See's Candies offers a variety of packaging options for their chocolates and candies. They have custom mix boxes that allow customers to choose up to 10 different candy varieties. The number of pieces in each box depends on the weight of the selected candies. See's Candies uses a percentage system to pack the candies into appropriately-sized packaging. They offer gift boxes, such as the Classic Collection, Snack Collection, and various themed sets like the Happy Birthday Gift Set and Thank You Gift Set. The weight and number of pieces vary across these options.

Airports and See's Candy:

Regarding the availability of See's Candy at airports, there are reports of See's Candy stores inside some airports, specifically mentioned at SLC and BWI. It's always a good idea to check with your specific airport or the See's Candy website to confirm their locations.

In summary, when packing candy for travel, opt for clear, resealable bags, especially for solid candies that meet TSA requirements. For liquid, spray, or gel candies, adhere to the 3-1-1 rule. As for See's Candy, their packaging varies depending on the type of candy and the number of pieces selected, and they offer customisation options as well as gift sets. Lastly, See's Candy may be available at certain airport locations, but it's best to check before your travel.

Candy and international travel

When it comes to travelling with candy, there are a few things to keep in mind, especially if you're flying internationally. Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure you're well-prepared for your next trip:

Types of Candy Allowed

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) categorises candy as a "solid food item". This means that most types of candy, including gummy bears, jelly beans, chocolate bars, and hard candies, are generally permitted on flights. However, it's important to note that liquid or gel-filled candies, such as squeezable candy tubes or liquid-filled chocolates, are subject to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule.

The 3-1-1 rule dictates that liquid or gel candies must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and must fit into a single quart-sized clear plastic bag. Each passenger is allowed only one sealed bag. This rule ensures that liquids and gels are easily visible and accessible for inspection during security screening.

Packing and Quantity Guidelines

You can pack as much solid candy as you like in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage, as long as you adhere to the standard baggage size and weight restrictions set by your airline. It is recommended to keep your candy in its original packaging or a clear, separate bag to facilitate the screening process and ensure TSA officers can easily assess whether it meets the solid food requirements.

International Travel Considerations

When travelling internationally, it is crucial to check the customs regulations of your destination country before packing any candy. Some countries, like Australia, have strict rules regarding food items, and candies containing dairy, meat, or fruit may be prohibited. Additionally, if you're bringing candy into the United States, remember to declare all food items, including candy, to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to avoid penalties.

Candy Storage and Durability

Most commercially packaged candies will remain safe to eat for several months at room temperature after opening. However, it is always a good idea to check the packaging for specific storage instructions and best-before dates.

In conclusion, while travelling with candy is generally permitted, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the rules and regulations of the TSA and your destination country. By following these guidelines, you can confidently satisfy your sweet tooth while exploring the world!

Frequently asked questions