TSA rules on carrying self-defense items depend on the airline as well as how they are packed. You will not be allowed to travel with them in carry-on luggage. But you have to pack them safely in the checked-in bags. When carrying firearms, they must be packed in a hard case.
Don’t forget to declare them in the check-in luggage to the TSA agent. For those who wish to bring pepper spray, stun guns, and knife sets, pack them safely in checked bags.
It is best to be prepared to show a firearm license and answer any questions that TSA agents may ask. Note that planning in advance for the additional checks will ensure you clear the security check quickly to board your plane. Also, any item that is allowed and safe to carry with the right packing can be denied, depending on the agent.
They may do additional checks in case your items trigger any alarms, which are the security checks. The goal is to ensure passengers’ safety, and if the TSA agent thinks the objects are not safe or are tampered with, they might get confiscated. Ensure that you ask in advance if the self-defense items you’re carrying are not listed on the official website.
Traveling & want to bring self-defense items with you? They must be packed properly. For firearms, that means in a locked, hard-sided case & declared at check-in. For knives, pepper spray, stun guns – those need to be securely packed in checked bags.
More: https://t.co/52LgtdaUbS pic.twitter.com/4g3ctUhouj
— TSA (@TSA) June 18, 2025
For ammunition, you can carry it in a checked bag but not in carry-on bags. They should be packed in metal, fiber, or wool boxes. Make sure you check in with the airline beforehand for any limitations or fees. Moreover, you may only carry small amounts.
Read the local, state, and international laws when bringing firearms on board. If you’re carrying BB guns, securely pack them in checked baggage. Compressed air guns are also allowed; however, make sure the cylinder is detached before packing.
See that the firearms, silencers, and suppressors you’re carrying are unloaded and packed in a hard container. Something to avoid carrying in check-in as well as carry-on luggage are loaded guns, rocket launchers, gunpowder, flare guns, lighters, and flares.
Flying with guns is easy. Small pelican. Put in a normal duffle/rolling bag. Declare. Done. Southwest allows flying with loaded mags making it even easier. Pro tip: NEVER use TSA locks. pic.twitter.com/4pQ2fkw2sf
— Lucas Botkin (@LucasBotkin) April 4, 2025
The rules for rifle scope, and rifle are different. Carry the scope in your carry-on luggage. When it comes to the rifle, bring it in a locked hard container in the check-in bag. Empty shell casings may be allowed in the carry-on only if the projectile is not connected.
You must carry the ones that are still intact at check-in. Read the guidelines for packing and special instructions. Starter pistols, pellet guns, gun replicas, and parts of firearms are also allowed in checked bags.
Lastly, it’s entirely up to the TSA officials to allow you to carry self-defense items, and not much can be done if they confiscate your belongings.
