Can You Take Tuna Packets on a Plane? A Guide to Flying With Canned and Pouched Tuna

Tuna is a convenient, protein-packed snack that many travelers like to bring on flights. But between liquid restrictions and airport security, you may wonder if tuna packets are allowed on planes. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with canned tuna, tuna pouches, and other seafood products when flying.

Overview of TSA Rules for Carrying Tuna

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines regarding canned and pouched tuna for air travel

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

• Tuna pouches with no liquid can go in any bag. Pouches with liquid must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-ons.

• Opened cans or pouches of tuna are prohibited items due to odor concerns. Pack only unopened, sealed containers.

• In carry-ons, the TSA recommends keeping tuna within a transparent plastic bag for easy inspection.

So tuna packets are allowed on planes in most forms, though some may invite extra scrutiny. Keep reading for more details on different types of packaged tuna when flying.

Flying With Canned Tuna in Liquid

Canned tuna packed in water or oil is a passenger favorite for flights. However, the liquid content means it falls under TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons:

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

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

• Only one liquids bag is permitted per passenger

So a normal 5-6 ounce can of tuna exceeds the permitted volume. Still, the TSA states canned tuna can fly in carry-on bags, likely since it poses minimal risk. But it may draw extra inspection.

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

Tips for Flying With Tuna Pouches and Kits

Tuna pouches and snack kits have increased in popularity thanks to their light weight and convenience. Here are some tips for flying with them:

• If the pouch contains no liquid at all, it faces no restrictions for carry-ons or checked bags.

• Pouches with liquid must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule. Transferring the tuna and oil/water to a smaller container can help.

• Pre-mixed tuna salad kits cannot go in carry-ons due to liquid from mayo packets. Check them instead.

• Consider draining pouches before flying to avoid hassle. The tuna will keep just fine without the liquid.

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

Tuna pouches make great travel snacks, so follow the liquid rules and enjoy tuna on the go.

Can You Bring Open Cans or Pouches of Tuna?

While sealed canned and pouched tuna is permitted, the TSA prohibits bringing opened containers on flights. This is because spilled or leaking tuna has a very strong odor that can be disturbing to passengers and crew in an enclosed plane cabin.

Even if resealed in a plastic bag,opened tuna is banned from carry-on and checked luggage. Tuna salad kits and pre-made pouches are also prohibited, as are partially eaten cans. Make sure any tuna you pack is fully sealed in its original packaging.

Attempting to bring opened or repackaged tuna through security will likely result in the item being confiscated and disposed of. Don’t risk it.

Why Does Tuna Get Additional Screening?

You may notice your sealed canned or pouched tuna gets an extra look by TSA agents compared to other foods. There are a few reasons tuna sometimes goes through additional screening:

• Density – Tuna is very dense, so it can block X-ray images underneath it. Agents may need to visually inspect it.

• Liquid – The oil or water in canned tuna can also partially obscure other items beneath it on scans.

• Shape – Items with distinct shapes like tuna cans can appear suspicious. Inspecting them gives clarity.

• Common disguises – Smugglers have tried hiding prohibited items in tuna cans. Checking thoroughly combats this.

While an inconvenience, these extra checks help the TSA confirm your tuna is just tuna and nothing illicit. A quick look lets you carry it onboard hassle-free.

Seafood Alternatives to Pack for Flights

If the thought of tuna getting flagged at security worries you, consider packing other high-protein seafood snacks instead:

• Jerky – Salmon, shrimp, scallop, and other seafood jerkies make tasty, TSA-friendly options.

• Canned salmon – Packed the same as tuna cans but with a less dense consistency.

• Canned sardines – Oil-packed sardines offer an intense flavor in a TSA-compliant 3.75 oz can.

• Foil pouched fish – Shelf-stable, ready-to-eat mackerel, herring, oysters and more. No liquid.

• Smoked fish – Vacuum-packed smoked trout, mackerel, or salmon travels easily.

• Seaweed snacks – Crunchy dried seaweed packs light. Look for wasabi flavored ones!

With so many portable protein-packed fish options, you can avoid tuna hassles while still enjoying the bounty of the sea in the air.

Clever Ways to Enjoy Tuna on Board Your Flight

Once you’ve made it through security with your sealed tuna, look forward to these creative ways to enjoy it during your flight:

• Make tuna salad with mayo and relish packets from airport eateries post-security. Ask for a knife and fork to eat it.

• Stuff tuna salad into a pita pocket, wrap, or sandwich. Some airports have sandwich prep stations in concourses.

• Use crackers from a flight snack pack to make mini open-faced tuna sandwiches.

• For a protein power-up, simply drain or slurp tuna from the packet and enjoy it on its own.

• Pair flavored tuna pouches with cut veggies, nuts, and cheese for a balanced in-flight meal.

• Ask your flight attendant for cup of hot water and make tuna noodle soup with the noodles from a salad pack.

With some creativity, you can whip up all kinds of tasty tuna meals without ever opening the can or pouch onboard.

Transporting Larger Quantities of Tuna

For some travelers, especially those moving abroad, it can be appealing to pack bigger hauls of canned tuna to enjoy later or gift to relatives overseas. Here are some key considerations when transporting large tuna quantities:

• Check your airline’s baggage limits. Fees apply for excess weight.

• Distribute weight evenly across bags to avoid problems lifting heavy bags.

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

• Label bags clearly as containing canned fish to streamline inspection.

• Research import restrictions on canned fish products for your destination country.

• Declare your items and be prepared to pay any applicable customs duties or taxes.

With proper planning and handling, checking big tuna hauls is doable. Just be ready for potential inspections and fees.

Enjoy Tuna Safely and Courteously While Flying

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

• Never eat from an open container. Wait until you’re out of the airport.

• Dispose of waste discreetly so as not to disturb others with strong smells.

• Bring breath mints and gum to keep tuna breath at bay in tight quarters.

• If heating a tuna packet, take care not to burn yourself and properly dispose of the pouch afterward.

• Offer fellow passengers sitting nearby a chance to sample your tuna snack. Sharing is caring!

With some common courtesy, 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 meal for many travelers. While this flavorful fish can prompt extra security steps, as long as you follow TSA guidelines, you are free to fly with canned or pouched tuna. Carefully pack unopened, sealed containers and don’t open them until you reach your destination. With the right know-how, you can include tuna in your next jet-setting adventure!