Can You Take Tuna Packets on a Plane? A Detailed Guide on Flying with Canned and Pouched Tuna

Tuna is a popular high-protein food that many travelers like to bring along on flights for a nutritious inflight snack But between liquid restrictions and airport security considerations, you may be wondering if tuna packets are allowed on planes

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about traveling with canned tuna, tuna pouches, tuna kits, and other tuna products when flying. We’ll outline TSA rules, packing tips, ways to enjoy tuna onboard, and more so you can confidently include tuna in your next air travel adventure.

Overview of TSA Regulations for Flying with Canned and Pouched Tuna

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines regarding canned tuna and tuna pouches for airline passengers

• Canned tuna can be transported in both carry-on bags and checked luggage. However, it may require additional screening.

• Tuna pouches without liquid can go in any bag. Pouches containing liquid must adhere to the 3-1-1 liquids rule if carried on.

• Opened cans or pouches of tuna are prohibited due to odor concerns. Only unopened, sealed containers are allowed.

• For carry-ons, the TSA suggests keeping tuna in a clear plastic bag for easier inspection access.

So tuna packets are permitted on airplanes, though certain types may prompt extra TSA scrutiny. Keep reading for deeper details based on different tuna packaging formats.

Flying with Liquid-Packed Canned Tuna

Canned tuna packaged in water or oil is a popular inflight protein source for many passengers. However, the liquid content means it is subject to the TSA’s 3-1-1 carry-on liquid rules:

• Containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less

• All liquid containers must fit within one quart-sized bag

• Only one liquid bag per passenger is allowed

Therefore, a typical 5-6 ounce can of tuna exceeds the permitted liquid volume for carry-ons. Still, the TSA confirms canned tuna can fly in carry-on luggage, likely since it poses minimal security risk. But enhanced screening is possible.

For hassle-free travel, put canned tuna in checked baggage instead. For carry-ons, pack tuna pouches or kits with the liquid drained or removed.

Tips for Flying with Tuna Pouches and Meal Kits

Tuna pouches and snack kits are gaining popularity thanks to their light weight and convenience. Here are some handy tips for smoothly traveling with tuna pouches by air:

• If the pouch has no liquid at all, there are no restrictions for either carry-on or checked bags.

• Pouches containing liquid must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule. Transferring the tuna and oil/water to a smaller leak-proof container can assist with this.

• Pre-mixed tuna salad kits cannot go in carry-ons due to mayonnaise packet liquids. Check them instead.

• Consider draining pouches before flying to avoid liquid hassles. The tuna will still stay fresh and tasty without the liquid.

• Carry an empty water bottle through security, then mix tuna with water from the airport post-screening.

Tuna pouches make awesome inflight protein snacks, so follow the liquid rules and enjoy tuna on the go.

Can You Bring Opened Cans or Pouches of Tuna?

While sealed, unopened canned and pouched tuna is permitted, the TSA prohibits bringing tuna that has already been opened onto flights. This is because spilled or leaking tuna has an extremely strong, lingering odor that can be very disruptive and unpleasant for passengers and crew in the confined space of an airplane cabin.

Even if resealed in a plastic bag, opened tuna is banned from both carry-on luggage and checked bags. This includes tuna salad kits, pouches that have been opened, as well as partially consumed cans. Make sure any tuna you pack is fully sealed in its original packaging.

Attempting to transport opened or repackaged tuna through security will likely result in confiscation and disposal of the item. Don’t risk it.

Why Does Tuna Sometimes Get Additional Screening?

You may have noticed your sealed canned or pouched tuna receives some extra attention and screening compared to other foods. There are a few reasons tuna more often undergoes additional inspections:

• Density – Tuna is very dense, so it can block or obscure other items beneath it on X-ray scans. Visually inspecting it gives officers clarity.

• Liquid – Oil or water in canned tuna can also partially mask other items under it on X-rays. Inspecting it eliminates doubt.

• Shape – Distinct container shapes like tuna cans can appear questionable on scans. Physically checking them gives reassurance.

• Common disguises – Smugglers have attempted hiding banned items within tuna cans before. Thorough checks combat this.

While an added hassle, these extra TSA tuna inspections simply help officers verify your tuna is only tuna and nothing illicit. Quickly clearing tuna enables transporting it onboard with no further issues.

Alternative Seafood Options to Pack for Flights

If the possibility of tuna receiving heightened screening worries you, consider packing other high-protein seafood snacks instead. Some easy TSA-friendly alternatives include:

• Salmon, shrimp, scallop or other seafood jerkies

• Canned salmon – Less dense than tuna when packed

• Canned sardines in 3.75 oz cans per liquid rules

• Shelf-stable foil pouches of ready-to-eat fish like mackerel

• Vacuum-sealed smoked fish products such as trout or salmon

• Crunchy dried seasoned seaweed snacks

With so many portable protein-rich fish options, you can avoid tuna hassles while still enjoying seafood nutrition inflight.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Tuna on Your Flight

Once you’ve successfully passed security with your permitted sealed tuna items, look forward to these clever ideas for savoring tuna during your flight:

• Make tuna salad with mayo and relish from airport shops post-screening. Ask crew for utensils.

• Stuff tuna salad into a pita pocket, wrap, or airport sandwich. Some have sandwich prep areas.

• Use crackers from an inflight snack pack to make mini open-faced tuna sandwiches.

• For a protein punch, simply drain or slurp the tuna right from the pouch.

• Pair flavored tuna kits with cut veggies, nuts and cheese for a balanced meal.

• Ask for a cup of hot water and whip up instant tuna noodle soup.

With some resourcefulness, you can whip up all kinds of great tuna meals without opening anything onboard.

Transporting Large Quantities of Tuna

For some travelers, especially those moving abroad, carrying bigger hauls of canned tuna to enjoy later or gift overseas can be appealing. Here are key factors to consider when transporting substantial tuna quantities:

• Verify your airline’s checked baggage limits and fees. Charges apply for excess weight.

• Distribute weight evenly across bags to prevent lifting injuries or damage from unbalanced bags.

• Wrap each can in clothing as padding in case bags shift contents during loading.

• Clearly label bags as containing canned fish to streamline the inspection process.

• Research import rules on canned fish for your destination country in advance.

• Be prepared to pay any applicable customs duties or taxes on arrival.

With proper planning and handling, transporting bulk tuna hauls is very feasible. Just anticipate inspections and potential fees.

Enjoy Tuna Courteously Inflight

Tuna makes for a protein-packed, non-perishable inflight snack you can feel good about eating. Just be mindful of a few tips while enjoying it:

• Never consume tuna from an open container onboard. Wait until deplaned.

• Dispose of any waste discreetly to avoid disturbing others with odors in tight quarters.

• Bring breath mints to keep tuna breath at bay within close cabin conditions.

• Take care not to burn yourself if heating a tuna packet. Properly dispose of the pouch after.

• Offer fellow passengers a taste of your tuna snack. Sharing is caring!

With some simple courtesies, you and your fellow flyers can enjoy worry-free travels with tuna.

Travel Confidently With Tuna in Tow

Thanks to its convenience, shelf-stability and nutrition, tuna is a beloved inflight meal for many air travelers. While this flavorful fish can prompt extra security steps, as long as you follow TSA guidelines, you’re free to fly with permitted canned or pouched tuna. Carefully pack only unopened, fully-sealed containers and refrain from opening them until you reach your destination. With the proper know-how, you can confidently include tuna