Snow globes make charming souvenirs, but they can be tricky to transport by air. You might wonder if you can bring these delicate keepsakes on your flight home.
You can bring snow globes on a plane, but there are size limits for carry-on luggage. Small snow globes that hold less than 3.4 ounces of liquid (about the size of a tennis ball) can go in your carry-on bag. They must fit inside your quart-sized liquids bag with your other toiletries.
Bigger snow globes need to go in your checked luggage. This keeps them safe and follows airline rules. If you’re unsure about the size, it’s best to pack your snow globe in your checked bag. This way, you can bring home your special souvenir without any trouble at security.
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Understanding TSA Regulations on Snow Globes
TSA rules for snow globes can be tricky. You need to know the size limits and packing requirements to bring these souvenirs on planes.
TSA Liquid Guidelines
The TSA treats snow globes as liquids (obvioulsy because they contain liquid). You can only bring liquids in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less in carry-on bags. These must fit in a single quart-sized clear plastic bag.
Larger liquid containers must go in checked luggage. This includes bigger snow globes.
Special Instructions for Snow Globes
Small snow globes can go in your carry-on if they meet certain rules. They must appear to hold less than 3.4 ounces of liquid. This is about the size of a tennis ball.
The entire snow globe, base included, must fit in your quart-sized plastic bag. Remember, you’re only allowed one of these bags per person.
Larger snow globes have to go in your checked baggage. This is safer for fragile items anyway.
When in doubt, pack your snow globe in your checked bag. This avoids any issues at security checkpoints.
Pre-Travel Preparation
Proper planning is key when bringing snow globes as souvenirs. You’ll need to pick the right size and pack them correctly for security checks.
Choosing the Right Size
Pick snow globes that fit TSA rules. For carry-on bags, choose globes that look smaller than a tennis ball. These should hold less than 3.4 ounces of liquid. Bigger snow globes must go in checked bags.
Measure your snow globe before buying. Make sure it can fit in a quart-sized bag if you want to carry it on. This includes the base too.
For checked bags, size limits are less strict. You can pack larger snow globes there.
Packing for Security Screening
Pack small snow globes in your carry-on liquids bag. This clear, quart-sized bag should zip closed. Put the globe inside with your other liquids, gels, and aerosols.
Wrap snow globes in soft clothing in checked bags. This helps protect them during travel. Put them in the middle of your suitcase, away from the edges.
Label any fragile items. This tells baggage handlers to be extra careful with your bag.
Consider buying travel insurance. It can cover broken souvenirs if your bag is mishandled.
Tips for Carrying Snow Globes on a Plane
Bringing snow globes on a plane requires some planning. You need to follow size limits and pack them carefully to avoid damage.
Securing the Snow Globe
Pack small snow globes in your carry-on bag. They must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit in a quart-sized plastic bag. Wrap the globe in soft clothing or bubble wrap for protection.
Put larger snow globes in your checked luggage. Use a hard-sided suitcase if possible. Wrap the globe in layers of clothing or bubble wrap. Place it in the center of your bag, surrounded by soft items.
Consider buying a special travel case made for snow globes. These offer extra protection during flights.
Handling During the Flight
Keep carry-on snow globes in your personal item, not the overhead bin. This prevents them from getting knocked around during the flight.
Don’t open or shake the snow globe during the flight. Changes in air pressure can cause leaks.
When you arrive, check your snow globe for any damage. If it’s leaking, wrap it in plastic bags to protect your other items.
Let the snow globe sit still for a few hours after the flight. This allows any disturbed liquid or “snow” to settle.
International Travel Considerations
Taking snow globes across borders requires careful planning. Different countries have unique rules about bringing in souvenirs and liquids. Knowing these regulations can help you avoid issues at customs.
Customs Regulations
Many countries limit the amount of liquid you can bring in. This affects snow globes, which contain liquid. Check the customs website of your destination before packing. Some places allow small snow globes in carry-on bags if they fit in a quart-sized plastic bag. Larger ones often need to go in checked luggage.
You might need to declare snow globes at customs. Some countries have taxes on imported items, even souvenirs. Keep receipts for your purchases. This helps prove their value if asked.
Country-Specific Rules
Rules can vary greatly between countries. The U.S. allows snow globes under 3.4 ounces in carry-on bags. Other nations might be stricter.
Some countries ban certain materials in snow globes. For example, some restrict items with animal products. Others have limits on religious or cultural symbols. Research your destination’s specific rules.
Consider buying snow globes at your final stop. This avoids issues with multiple border crossings. You can also ship snow globes home to bypass air travel restrictions.
Alternatives to Carrying Snow Globes
If you can’t bring a snow globe home, don’t worry. There are other ways to get your souvenir or find similar items. Let’s look at some options.
Shipping Options
You can ship your snow globe home instead of carrying it. Many tourist shops offer shipping services. This lets you avoid luggage rules. You can also use postal services or shipping companies.
Pack the snow globe carefully with bubble wrap. Put it in a sturdy box. Mark the package as fragile. Consider insurance for valuable items.
Shipping may cost more than carrying it yourself. But it’s safer for delicate snow globes. You won’t have to worry about it breaking in your suitcase.
Snow Globe Alternatives
Look for flat ornaments or postcards with similar scenes. These pack easily in luggage. Magnets, keychains, or small figurines can also work. They often show the same landmarks or characters as snow globes.
Consider a photo in a nice frame instead. You can capture the exact view you want. This is more personal than a pre-made souvenir.
For kids, try stuffed animals or toys that represent the place. Books about the location are another good choice. They’re easy to pack and educational too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Snow globes make popular souvenirs, but traveling with them can be tricky. Here are some common questions about taking snow globes on planes.
Are snow globes permitted in carry-on luggage on airplanes?
Small snow globes are allowed in carry-on bags. They must be tennis ball-sized or smaller. The entire snow globe needs to fit in your quart-sized liquids bag.
Larger snow globes aren’t allowed in carry-ons. You’ll need to pack them in your checked luggage instead.
What is the protocol for bringing snow globes on international flights?
The rules for snow globes are the same on international flights. Small ones can go in carry-ons if they fit in your liquids bag. Bigger snow globes belong in checked bags.
Check with your airline about any country-specific rules. Some places may have stricter limits on liquids.
How should snow globes be packed in checked luggage to avoid damage?
Wrap your snow globe in soft clothing like shirts or socks. Place it in the middle of your suitcase, surrounded by other soft items.
Consider using bubble wrap for extra protection. A hard-sided suitcase can also help keep your snow globe safe.
What restrictions exist for transporting snow globes on planes?
Snow globes count as liquids. In carry-ons, they must follow the 3.4-ounce (100 ml) liquid rule. Each passenger can only bring one quart-sized bag of liquids.
There are no size limits for snow globes in checked bags. But remember, airlines have weight limits for luggage.
Are there size or volume limitations for snow globes as airplane carry-on items?
Yes, there are size limits for carry-on snow globes. They should be about the size of a tennis ball or smaller. The liquid inside must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less.
The whole snow globe, base included, must fit in your quart-sized liquids bag.
What alternative methods are recommended for safely transporting snow globes after traveling?
Ship your snow globes home separately. Use a shipping service with package tracking. Wrap the snow globe well and mark the box as fragile.
Another option is to buy snow globes at your final destination. This way, you avoid any travel issues altogether.
I have been traveling around the world by air since the early 70s and living overseas too. I worked for British Airways for a number of years and I am also a private pilot. About Me
