Can You Fly With Pepper Spray? If so, can you take it in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage? This is a question that many people have when they are traveling.
The answer depends on the airline and how much pepper spray you want to bring. In this article, we will go over ways to travel with pepper spray, as well as some airlines that allow it for either carry-on or checked bags.
One four-ounce container of mace or pepper spray can be brought onto a plane in checked baggage on most airlines. But, it has to have a safety lock that prevents spilling. It also has to have less than 2% tear gas in it. Pepper spray containing more than 2% tear gas is not allowed in your checked baggage or carry-on handbags.
Read on to see which specific airlines don’t allow you to fly with paper spray in your checked bags.
Can you fly with pepper spray in your carry-on?
No, you cannot carry pepper spray on a plane. It’s best to leave your pepper spray at home. You might be thinking: what if I am carrying the pepper spray for self-defense? That’s fine, but the TSA can’t take your word for it. Pepper spray can be used as a weapon too.
A high-profile organization like the TSA can’t take any risks when it comes to bringing potential weapons on planes.
Four ounces of pepper spray can be brought in your checked baggage, but it must contain less than 2% tear gas. Many travelers don’t know that they aren’t allowed to carry pepper spray on board, and they end up having to leave it at the TSA security checkpoint.
When the TSA confiscates pepper spray, travelers have a few options.
1) Give the pepper spray to the TSA agents.
2) Return the pepper spray to your car.
3) Give it to someone who is not traveling.
4) Put it in your checked baggage.
Note: In some states, it’s illegal to carry pepper spray under certain conditions. Do some research beforehand to make sure that you are traveling to a state where it’s allowed.
If pepper spray is accidentally sprayed on a commercial plane, this can be dangerous for passengers and may lead to an emergency landing in some cases.
What Size Pepper Spray is Travel Size?
According to the TSA, you can pack one four-ounce (118 ml) container of pepper spray in your checked baggage.
Can you take pepper spray abroad?
For international travel, one four-ounce container of pepper spray is allowed in checked baggage. International travel follows the same TSA guidelines as travel within the USA. Pepper spray is not allowed in carry-on bags under any circumstances.
Is it illegal to carry pepper spray?
You can carry pepper spray in all 50 states and Washington D.C. But many states have restrictions, which include the following:
- Age (must be at least 18 years old)
- The concentration of pepper spray
- Size of the container
- Criminal history – convicted felons cannot carry pepper spray
Pepper spray laws vary by state, and you can check out a complete breakdown of each of the state’s regulations in the chart at the bottom of this article.
What self-defense weapons can you fly with?
Here is a list of the most common self-defense weapons and their TSA rules and regulations.
1) Bear spray – not allowed on the plane or in checked baggage. Most animal repellents have more than 2% concentration of tear gas, which the TSA prohibits in checked baggage and on the plane.
2) Blackjacks (self-defense weapons) – not allowed on the plane, but allowed in checked baggage
3) Body armor – allowed on the plane and in checked baggage
4) Brass knuckles – cannot be carried on the plane, but can be brought in checked luggage
5) Pocket knife – not allowed on the plane, but allowed in carry-on luggage. Sharp objects are typically not allowed on the plane for the passengers’ safety.
6) Stun guns, tasers, and other shocking devices – are not allowed on the plane. You can bring them in checked baggage, but they must not have lithium batteries. Stun guns also must be secured so that they can’t be accidentally turned on en route to your destination.
7) Swiss army knife – not allowed on the plane, permitted in checked baggage
8) Tear gas – not allowed on the plane or in checked baggage
Each of the major American Airlines answers: ‘Can You Fly With Pepper Spray?’
In visiting each airline’s website, none of the major airlines allow pepper spray or other similar sprays on their planes.
Concerning checked baggage, none of the websites appear to mention TSA’s specific regulation which allows one four-ounce container in your checked luggage.
So, it might be best to call the airline beforehand to clarify. But here’s a quick summary of the pepper spray regulations for the major airlines.
Can you fly with pepper spray on a plane on American Airlines?
American Airlines does not allow mace, tear gas, or pepper spray in checked bags or carry-on bags. One four-ounce container is allowed in checked baggage per TSA’s guidelines.
Can you fly with pepper spray on a Southwest Airlines plane?
Southwest Airlines does not allow self-defense sprays of any kind on flights.
Can you fly with pepper spray on a United plane?
United Airlines does not allow mace, pepper spray, or tear gas on a plane or in checked baggage. One four-ounce container is allowed in checked baggage per TSA’s guidelines.
Can you fly with pepper spray on a Delta plane?
Mace, pepper spray, bear spray, or tear gas are not allowed on a Delta plane at any time. One four-ounce container is allowed in checked baggage per TSA’s guidelines.
Can you fly with pepper spray on an Alaska Airlines plane?
Alaska Airlines allows a single four-ounce container of pepper spray in your checked baggage, according to the TSA’s regulations. Like the other airlines, pepper spray, mace, or other self-defense sprays are never allowed on a plane.
Can you fly with pepper spray on a plane to Mexico?
Traveling with pepper spray depends on the airline’s regulations, not where you are traveling.
Generally, airlines do not allow pepper spray in carry-on luggage since it can be used as a weapon. But most airlines allow them in checked baggage.
Be sure to check the airline’s website to make sure you can travel with pepper spray.
Once you get to your destination, the question is: is it legal to carry pepper spray? In Mexico, carrying pepper spray is legal if you’re 18 and not a convicted felon.
In America, some states restrict the use of pepper spray depending on the container’s size, concentration, the person’s age, and criminal history.
Does mace explode on a plane?
Pepper spray, mace, and other self-defense sprays will not spontaneously explode under normal conditions.
If a fire starts in the airplane cabin, the extreme heat may cause the mace to explode. Mace could also explode if it is punctured with a large object. But the chances of mace exploding on a plane are incredibly low.
How to Travel with Pepper Spray
Airlines across the board do not allow pepper spray in carry-on baggage. The TSA allows one four-ounce container in checked baggage, but not all airlines allow pepper spray in checked baggage.
Here are a few things you can do before traveling with pepper spray to make your experience smooth.
- Double-check pepper spray requirements on your airline’s website.
- Keep pepper spray out of your carry-on luggage or your pockets while going through airport security. The TSA will confiscate it or ask you to put it in your checked baggage.
- Make sure that it’s legal to carry pepper spray where you are traveling. You don’t want to get to your destination and then realize that you aren’t allowed to carry your pepper spray. Convicted felons and people under 18 years of age are not allowed to carry pepper spray in several states.
- Make sure that your pepper spray contains less than 2% of tear gas. This is the maximum amount of tear gas allowed in checked baggage according to the TSA.
Best Pepper Sprays for Self Defense
SABRE RED Pepper Spray Keychain with Quick Release for Easy Access
- #1 PEPPER SPRAY BRAND TRUSTED BY POLICE AND CONSUMERS WORLDWIDE: Including New York PD, Chicago PD and U.S. Marshals; RELIABLE & LONG-LASTING: 4-year shelf life (2X the industry standard) for the best self-protection available; Made in the USA
- GUARANTEED MAXIMUM STRENGTH: SABREs professional-grade OC Spray is backed by our in-house HPLC lab testing, guaranteeing maximum heat and stopping power in every burst and eliminating the 30% failure rate experienced with other brands (U of Utah study)
- MAXIMUM STOPPING POWER AT A SAFE DISTANCE: ½ oz container with impressive 10-foot (3M) range with 25 bursts (up to 5x other brands) delivered in powerful stream to decrease wind blowback, plus UV marking dye aids in identifying suspect
- EASY ACCESS IN STRESSFUL SITUATIONS: SABRE is one of the only brands to offer the Quick Release Key Ring providing fast, immediate access; PREVENTS ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE with reinforced trigger twist lock for safe storage in purse or backpack
- STAY SABRE SAFE WITH FREE TRAINING: Feel confident and secure; In addition to your defensive spray, packaging includes links to free training videos and safety tips to help maximize your personal safety when in the face of danger
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Have you seen the new SABRE Pepper Spray? The company is trustworthy and effective, trusted by police departments around the world.
This spray has a 4-year shelf life–twice as long as other brands! It offers maximum stopping power at a safe distance of up to 10 feet (3 meters).
Plus it’s easy to access in stressful situations with an on/off keyring that can release your bottle quickly for use anytime. You’ll also receive free training videos so you’re well-prepped before looking into this purchase.
Check out the SABRE RED Pepper Spray on Amazon below.
POM Pepper Spray Flip Top Pocket Clip – Maximum Strength OC Spray for Self Defense
- POMClear - 1.4% M.C. w/ UV Dye - Strongest Legal Formula For Civilian Market - Law Enforcement Grade Formulation – Accurate and Powerful Stream Spray Pattern
- Flip Top - Safe, Accurate & Easy To Use Patented Firing System - Prevents Against Accidental Misfire
- POM Clip – Tactical & Stealth For Everyday Carry – Easy Access for Pocket, Purse or Armband – Ambidextrous Clip
- POM Bands - Patented Index Ring - w/ 10+ colors - Personalize Your POM Unit The Way You Want!
- POM - Next Generation Pepper Spray - Perfect Gift - Provides Peace of Mind - Stay Safe With POM!
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The POM clear line of pepper spray is made with one of the strongest formulas on the market.
It offers high accuracy, a powerful stream spray pattern, and a flip-top mechanism for easy deployment that prevents accidental misfires.
The band allows you to personalize your unit with up to 10 colors, making it perfect whether as a gift or everyday carry item. This next-generation pepper spray can provide peace of mind by staying safe when out in public!
POM is truly the perfect gift for someone looking to stay safe. Check out the POM Pepper Spray from Amazon below.
Vexor Pepper Spray w/ Belt Clip for Self-Defense – 3 Pack
- √ FULL AXIS (360 degree) FLIP TOP WITH BELT CLIP: This canister is equipped with our full axis technology that fires from any angle, even upside down. With a flip top safety simply flip the top of the lid and press for easy, non-lethal, 360-degree protection. Safely attached to your belt with integrated belt clip
- √ FIRE-HOT SPRAY: Each of these mini cans have a potent 4-year shelf life, making it a great addition to your self-defense kit. This powerful, non-toxic, spray is fiery hot to provide you with the best non-lethal protection possible. Our formula can even affect those wearing glasses and contacts, causing eye and respiratory irritation that can last up to 30 minutes.
- √ LARGE 20-FOOT RANGE: This convenient pepper spray canister can emit sprays that can measure up to 20 feet away from the can itself. Due to its powerful capabilities, this hand-held can should be kept safe. out of reach of kids, either hidden or secured in the holster. This pepper spray is not available for sale in all states.
- √ BEST PROTECTION YOU CAN BUY: This Vexor Pepper Spray is among the best repellent tools and products on the market. With over 35 years manufacturing pepper sprays for US State and Federal Law enforcement you get the same quality as our Police and Military customers.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
With a belt clip and the ability to shoot from any angle, this canister is perfect for carrying in your pocket. Its powerful 4-year shelf life means you’ll always be prepared with some defense against attackers.
And if that’s not enough protection, it has a 20-foot spray range, so nobody will get within arms’ reach of your body without feeling the heat!
Also, if you’re looking for protection with 360-degree coverage this canister has it all. The VEXOR line of pepper sprays has 35 years of a proven track record to ensure your safety in a dire situations.
Learn more about the VEXOR Pepper Spray at the Amazon button below.
Is it legal to take pepper spray onto an airplane?
While pepper spray can be carried in all 50 states legally, TSA does restrict passengers from bringing it onboard an airplane. They consider it a defensive weapon. Pepper spray can be carried in checked baggage though if it is 4 ounces or smaller.
Pepper Spray Regulations and Laws By State 2023
| State | Must Be 18yrs old | Is it Legal? | Size Limits? | Misc. Notes |
| Alabama | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Alaska | Yes | Yes | Yes | Not allowed in schools |
| Arizona | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Arkansas | Yes | Yes | Yes | It is not permitted to fill a container that exceeds 150 cubic centimeters |
| California | Yes | Yes | Yes | It is prohibited for people who are addicted to drugs of any kind. There is a limit of 2.5 ounces per container. |
| Colorado | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Connecticut | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Delaware | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Florida | Yes | Yes | Yes | The container cannot exceed 2 ounces and cannot be possessed by felons who have been convicted of a crime. |
| Georgia | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Hawaii | Yes | Yes | Yes | In order to be mailed, the container must not weigh more than .5 ounces. |
| Idaho | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Illinois | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Indiana | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Iowa | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Kansas | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Kentucky | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Louisiana | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Maine | Yes | Yes | Yes | The use of pepper spray in criminal activity is prohibited. |
| Maryland | Yes | Yes | Yes | between right before sunset and right before sunrise, minors should not use pepper spray. |
| Massachusetts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Shipment of human formula pepper spray is illegal. Pepper spray cannot be obtained by those prohibited from possessing pistols. |
| Michigan | Yes | Yes | Yes | Contains no ultraviolet dyes and must not contain more than 18% oleoresin caprolactam. The oleoresin content of the capsicum cannot exceed 18%. |
| Minnesota | No | Yes | Yes | Those who cannot possess a pistol cannot possess pepper spray. The age requirement is 16 years or older. |
| Mississippi | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Missouri | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Montana | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Nebraska | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Nevada | Yes | Yes | Yes | Minors are prohibited from possessing. Containers must be 2 ounces or less. |
| New Hampshire | Yes | Yes | No | |
| New Jersey | Yes | Yes | Yes | There must be a pocket-size container and no more than 3/4 oz. of pepper spray can be released from the container. It is illegal for felons to possess pepper spray. |
| New Mexico | Yes | Yes | No | |
| New York | Yes | Yes | Yes | There is a limit of two pepper spray containers per transaction. The possession of pepper spray is prohibited for felons and those who have been convicted of assault. A human formula cannot be shipped. Pocket-sized containers are required. |
| North Carolina | Yes | Yes | Yes | There is a maximum weight limit of 5 ounces for containers. |
| North Dakota | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Ohio | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Oklahoma | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Oregon | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Pennsylvania | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Rhode Island | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| South Carolina | Yes | Yes | No | |
| South Dakota | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Tennessee | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Texas | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Utah | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Vermont | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Virginia | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Washington | No | Yes | Yes | In order to participate, you must be at least 14 years old and have permission from your parents. At 18 years old you no longer need parental permission. |
| West Virginia | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Wisconsin | Yes | Yes | Yes | A pepper spray container must not exceed 2 ounces in weight. There is no camouflaging or disguising pepper spray. Oleoresin capsicum must not contain more than 10% of pepper spray. |
| Wyoming | Yes | Yes | No |
That wraps up our article ‘Can you fly with pepper spray?’ We hope you learned more about the rules and regulations when it comes to self-defense sprays and weapons.
So, are you ready to travel?
If not, check out more of our ‘Can I bring?’ articles below!