Article Highlights:

  • Avoid packing wrapped gifts in carry-on luggage due to potential security checks.
  • Most holiday travelers avoid packing wrapped gifts in carry-on luggage, but 12% don’t.
  • Use gift bags or wrap your gifts after you arrive at your destination.
  • Shipping gifts ahead of time can save space and avoid damage.

 

As the holiday season approaches, millions of travelers are packing their bags for flights around the world, and many will include gifts for family, friends and colleagues.

Packing wrapped gifts in checked luggage is wise. But if travelers are planning to use carry-on baggage exclusively then they should know that tucking gift-wrapped presents in their rolling suitcases, backpacks or totes can pose challenges at airport security.

 

Wrapped Gifts and Security Screenings

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) strongly advises against packing wrapped gifts in carry-on luggage. “The key issue is that TSA officers may need to open wrapped gifts if an item looks suspicious or cannot be identified through the scanner,” explained Harding Bush, a former Navy SEAL and associate director of security for Global Rescue. “Unwrapping gifts for inspection at the airport security checkpoint can delay travelers and create frustration, especially during the busy holiday season.”

Bush emphasizes the importance of complying with carry-on baggage rules to avoid unnecessary delays. “If TSA cannot determine what’s inside a package, they will ask travelers to unwrap it or confiscate the item,” Bush said. “It’s best to leave your gifts unwrapped and pack them in your checked luggage or wrap them once you reach your destination.”

A recent survey by Global Rescue revealed that 44% of travelers plan to fly during the winter holidays, and 12% plan to pack wrapped gifts in their carry-on luggage, risking potential delays due to TSA agents needing to inspect the package contents.

“Gifts are a wonderful part of the holiday season but unwrapping them at a TSA checkpoint is not what anyone wants to experience,” Bush said.

 

A ticket agent checks in luggage at an airport.
Better to leave gifts unwrapped while traveling home.

The Better Alternatives: Packing Wisely

Instead of risking the hassle of unwrapping at security checkpoints, Bush recommends shipping gifts ahead of time or using gift bags, which are easier for TSA agents to inspect. “If you choose to pack them in your checked luggage, you should still be cautious about delicate or breakable items. Consider wrapping gifts after you’ve cleared security,” Bush adds.

For those traveling with gifts in carry-on luggage, it’s vital to follow carry-on baggage rules closely. Prohibited items, such as liquids over 3.4 ounces, can lead to additional scrutiny from TSA. Items like perfume, alcohol or food-based gifts that don’t comply with the carry-on luggage rules should be packed in checked baggage instead.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, travelers should carefully plan their packing strategy. Adhering to the carry-on baggage rules is essential, especially during the holiday rush. “Taking a few extra moments to consider what goes into your carry-on or checked luggage can save time and stress later,” said Bush.

By following these tips and preparing wisely, holiday travelers can avoid unnecessary delays and ensure their gifts safely reach their destination wrapped and ready for the festivities.

 

Smart Packing Tips for Holiday Travel

Travelers planning to fly this holiday season can still bring gifts but should do so with a few smart packing strategies in mind:

  • Use Gift Bags: One of the easiest solutions is to pack gifts in decorative gift bags instead of wrapping them. Gift bags are easy to access, don’t obscure the contents and can be reused once you arrive.
  • Ship Gifts Ahead of Time: Consider shipping your gifts to your destination ahead of your travel date. Not only does this save space in your luggage, but it also avoids the risk of items being damaged or unwrapped during transit.
  • Consider Wrapping After You Arrive: If you’re determined to present your gifts in wrapped paper, pack wrapping materials in your luggage and wrap the gifts once you reach your destination. This ensures you won’t have to redo the wrapping after airport security inspections.
  • Check Baggage Limitations: If your gifts are fragile or large, it might be better to place them in your checked luggage. However, keep in mind that TSA can still inspect checked baggage, and there is always the possibility of damage during transport.
  • Follow TSA Guidelines: Review the TSA guidelines before packing any gifts. Restrictions on liquids, gels and sharp objects still apply during the holiday season, so make sure that any gifts you bring comply with security regulations.

 

Give the Packable Gift of a Global Rescue Membership

You can send family, friends, colleagues and other loved ones on their dream vacations, bucket list travels, adventure excursions and business trips with the peace of mind that comes with the travel protection they need should a medical emergency arise during travel. Give them the gift of travel protection by giving them a Global Rescue membership. It’s easy to pack and provides membership in the world’s leading field rescue, medical and security evacuation, intelligence and telehealth company.