TSA's Rules About Bringing Candy On Planes You Shouldn't Ignore

If you're a sugar addict, a long flight might not be complete without a little candy along for the ride. Who needs that tiny bag of complimentary pretzels when the glistening crystals atop a shimmering purple fruit slice, a delightfully creamy piece of chocolate, or a bag of crunchy rainbow Skittles exists in the world? That doesn't even address the vast array of delectable sweets you can get overseas and will probably want to take home to remember your trip. You may not think twice about grabbing sugary snacks to take on the plane with you. Why would you? They're not toiletries or drinks, so very few people would worry about whether they conform to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) 3-1-1 rule. However, you may want to reconsider before you pack candy to take with you on a flight. 

While most candy isn't an issue when it's packed in your carry-on luggage, there are certain kinds that may cause a problem when you go through the TSA security checkpoint. Solid candy is fine, but if that sweet treat you love so much has any liquid or gel in it, it's going to have to be put in your liquids bag or your checked luggage. That includes candy that sprays, comes in a squeeze tube, or has gel inside. However, there is more to know before you simply throw a few wax soda bottles full of tasty juice in with your travel-sized conditioner and face wash.

While there are some exceptions to the 3-1-1- rule like liquid medication, gel-filled bra inserts, and necessities for children like breast milk and formula, liquid and gel candies don't qualify. Any gel or liquid candy has to be in your checked baggage, or in the clear plastic liquids bag you're allowed for your carry-on, according to the TSA's website. It's a good idea to keep candies in their original packaging if it fits in the plastic bag.

In addition, if you're traveling overseas, you may want to look at the regulations around things like candies made with citrus, nuts, or dairy. Some places, like New Zealand, have restrictions on certain ingredients, and while the candy may be perfectly fine, you should always declare it when you get there. In addition, no matter where you're traveling, you might want to skip anything with peanuts. If a passenger has a severe allergy, you may be asked not to eat foods containing the nut on the plane anyway. It's also important to note that anything with peanut butter is actually considered a spreadable liquid and has to go in your carry-on liquid bag or your checked luggage.

It might seem silly to pack away your candy like it's some sort of dangerous substance, but it's hardly the only funny thing the TSA has banned outright or restricted to your carry-on liquids bag. As of June 2025, items like Magic 8 Balls (with liquid inside) have to go in checked luggage, and party poppers can't be packed at all. It's enough to make you want to bring nothing more than some gum and call it a day. However, if your sweet tooth hounds you every few hours, and your craving for liquid-filled candy just can't be denied, there is more to know before your flight — how you bring your goodies can make things a lot easier for you. 

If you're looking to pack your carry-on so you can get through the TSA checkpoint quickly, organization is key. Keeping loose candy in its own baggie inside your liquids bag is important if the TSA asks you to separate your food items from the rest of your carry-on luggage. On its website, the agency says, "TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine. Travelers are encouraged to organize their carry-on bags and keep them uncluttered to ease the screening process and keep the lines moving." If candies are kept separate, you can take them out easily. (Plus, you won't get leaky shampoo on your snacks.) In addition, if you're bringing chocolate, you may want to take along a frozen gel ice pack to keep it from melting. However, ice must be frozen solid and in your liquids bag during the security check, or it won't be allowed to go through.