If you’re taking a family vacation, embarking on a romantic getaway, or traveling for work, it’s nice to know how to travel with a candle, whether you pick one up during your travels or bring one with you to have a small comfort while traveling.
One question often asked by candle aficionados is: “Can I bring candles on a plane?” The short answer is generally yes—but with a few essential guidelines to follow.
Why People Travel with Candles
Candles are more than just a light source or a way to make a room smell pleasant. They can create a sense of home and well-being. Here are a few reasons people enjoy traveling with candles:
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Stress Relief and Ambiance: After a long flight or a jam-packed day of meetings, lighting a candle in your hotel room can transform a sterile environment into a cozy, welcoming space.
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Personal Connection: Many travelers like to bring something that reminds them of home. The scent is powerful—it can boost your mood or help you unwind, even when you’re far from your usual surroundings.
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Gift Giving: Candles make excellent gifts or souvenirs; bringing them along might mean you deliver a thoughtful present or have a memento from your trip.
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Celebrations and Events: Perhaps you’re traveling for a wedding or a family gathering and want to add a decorative—and great-smelling—touch to the festivities. A few candles can make a special event feel even more enchanting.
TSA Guidelines on Traveling with Candles
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), solid candles are generally permitted in carry-on bags and checked luggage. If you’d like to confirm this information, you can visit the official TSA website. Although most solid candles are allowed, there are details worth noting:
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Solid Versus Gel Candles
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Solid Candles: Wax-based candles, scented jar candles, votive candles, and tea lights are usually not considered a security risk. You should be good to go if the candle doesn’t contain large quantities of flammable or restricted liquids.
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Gel Candles: Gel candles are sometimes treated like liquids, depending on their consistency. If the gel inside the candle is semi-liquid or fluid, it may be subject to the 3.4-ounce (100 ml) liquid rule for carry-ons.
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Size and Quantity Limits: Technically, there are no explicit size limits for solid candles in carry-on luggage, but practicality suggests smaller containers are easier to manage, as significant, heavy jars might be cumbersome.
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TSA Officer Discretion: The TSA clearly states that “the final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.” Even though scented candles are generally allowed, you might still encounter an officer who requests a closer inspection.
If you have any doubts, check the TSA website or use the “AskTSA” function on social media (such as Twitter) to clarify specific questions. Proactive research can save time and anxiety at the airport.
Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage: Which is Better?
If solid candles are allowed in carry-on and checked bags, you might wonder which option is the smartest choice. The best method for you depends on a few factors, including:
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Fragility and Protection: Candles, especially those in glass jars, can break if not properly padded. If you pack them in your checked luggage, ensure they’re surrounded by soft, protective materials (such as bubble wrap or thick clothing). Keep in mind that checked bags can be jostled around a lot during the loading and unloading process.
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Carry-On: You’ll have more direct control over your bag, and you can ensure that the candle doesn’t get damaged.
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Checked Luggage: You can pack larger quantities or bigger candles without worrying about the inconvenience of carrying them on your shoulder through the airport.
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Convenience: If you’re traveling light and only have a carry-on, packing a few small tins or votives in your item might be easiest.
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Weight Considerations: Candles can add noticeable weight. If your checked suitcase is flirting with the airline’s weight limit, be mindful of how many candles you bring. On the flip side, if you’re only carrying your luggage, you want to ensure it’s light enough to be placed comfortably in the overhead bin.
If you pack just one or two moderately sized candles, carrying them on is usually the best route. This reduces the risk of damage, and you’ll be able to breeze through security without major concerns—provided they meet TSA guidelines.
Traveling Calmly with Candles
To recap, you can bring candles on a plane, especially solid wax candles. Gel candles and other semi-liquid forms might be scrutinized and subject to liquid limitations. Always consult TSA guidelines and check with your airline if you have any uncertainties—particularly if you travel internationally.
When it comes to packing, a few simple steps—like wrapping glass containers in bubble wrap, placing them safely in your luggage, and keeping them easily accessible for inspection—can ensure a smooth process. Understanding the rules and preparing in advance can help make it a more leisurely journey, no matter how many miles you fly.
Ready to relax after a long day of travel? Take a moment to explore Habersham Candle and discover our assortment of 3-wick scented candles. Whether you’re seeking a calming scent like Lavender Chamomile to unwind at the end of the day or something lively like Sunflower Lemon Vanilla, you’ll find a range of fragrant favorites waiting to be enjoyed at home or away from home.
