For many travelers and coffee lovers like myself, a cup of coffee is a morning ritual that cannot be skipped – even when traveling.
However, if you are flying and want to bring your favorite coffee beans or grounds with you, you may be wondering if it is allowed to pack them in your checked luggage.
In this article, we’ll explore whether or not you can bring coffee in your checked luggage on a flight, both domestically and internationally.
In this post, you'll find...
Bringing coffee on Domestic Flights
When it comes to domestic flights within the United States, the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) does not have any restrictions on bringing coffee in your checked luggage.
Good news!
This means that you can pack your favorite coffee beans, grounds, or even brewed coffee in your checked bag without any issues.
I’d recommend keeping your ground coffee or coffee beans in its sealed, original packaging. This way it can be easily identified by TSA officers during the screening process. It can also help to reduce any chance of a false positive on an x-ray machine or being pulled aside for additional screening.
However, it is important to note that if you are bringing brewed coffee in your checked luggage, it must be in a spill-proof container.
Additionally, it is always a good idea to pack coffee in a sealed bag to prevent any spills or messes in your luggage.
Bringing coffee on International Flights
Can you bring coffee in your checked luggage on an international flight?
Well, yes and no.
When it comes to international travel, there are different rules for bringing coffee in your checked luggage. The rules can vary depending on the country you are traveling to or from.
Some countries have restrictions on bringing certain types of food or agricultural products, including coffee beans.
For example, if you are traveling to Australia, you are not allowed to bring coffee beans into the country unless they have been commercially packaged and labeled.
Similarly, if you are traveling to New Zealand, you must declare any food items, including coffee, on your arrival card.
When traveling internationally, it is important to check the customs and quarantine regulations of the country you are traveling to before packing coffee in your checked luggage.
If you are unsure about the rules, you can contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are traveling to for more information.
Can you bring coffee in your luggage on a plane? The FAQ
Can I take tea and coffee in a suitcase?
Yes, you can take tea and coffee in a suitcase, both in checked luggage and carry-on luggage.
However, it is important to note that some countries may have restrictions on bringing certain types of food or agricultural products, including tea and coffee.
It is recommended that you check the customs and quarantine regulations of the country you are traveling to before packing tea and coffee in your luggage.
Can coffee grounds go through customs?
Yes, coffee grounds can go through customs, but it depends on the country you are traveling to.
Some countries have restrictions on bringing certain types of food or agricultural products, including coffee grounds.
Check the customs and quarantine regulations of the country you are traveling to before packing coffee grounds in your luggage.
How much coffee can I have in my suitcase?
There is no set limit on how much coffee you can have in your suitcase.
However, it is important to note that airlines may have restrictions on the weight and size of checked luggage, so it is recommended that you check with your airline before packing a large amount of coffee in your suitcase.
Can you take tea bags and coffee in carry-on bags?
Yes, you can take tea bags and coffee in your hand luggage, but it is recommended that you pack them in a sealed bag to prevent any spills or messes. This same rule applies to coffee powder, coffee pods, and coffee capsules.
Additionally, if you are carrying liquids in your hand luggage, they must adhere to the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule, which means that they must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less and placed in a clear, plastic, quart-sized bag.
In general, it’s best to limit the amount of ground coffee you pack in your carry-on to containers of 12 ounces (350 ml) or less.
Can I bring a coffee grinder on a plane?
You can bring a coffee grinder on a plane, but it must be placed in your checked luggage.
The TSA agents have strict regulations on what can and can’t be taken in carry-on baggage. Coffee grinders can contain sharp blades, which makes them prohibited items for being taken onboard the plane.
It is recommended that you pack any coffee grinders in your checked luggage to avoid any issues at the security checkpoint.
Contact your airline for more information on their regulations regarding coffee grinders and other items.
Can I bring a coffee machine on a plane?
No, you can’t bring a coffee machine on a plane. Coffee machines are not allowed in carry-on luggage due to the size and weight of the item.
Additionally, many airlines do not allow large electrical items to be taken as checked baggage either.
If you need to take a coffee maker with you, it is best to contact your airline to find out if it can be taken as cargo.
Can you take coffee on a plane after security?
Yes, you can take coffee on a plane after security! Typically, anything being sold in the airport past the security checkpoint can be taken on the plane. So yes, a stop at Starbucks for an iced coffee is allowed!
However, keep in mind that you can’t bring a full-sized thermos of coffee onto the plane with you. All containers must adhere to the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule described above.
Additionally, if you are bringing liquid coffee on the plane, it must be in a spill-proof container.
The spill on packing coffee in your luggage
Overall, coffee enthusiasts will be happy to know that they can bring their favorite beverage with them on the plane.
Although it can be tricky to figure out what can and cannot go in your carry-on or checked luggage, the best way to make sure you don’t have any problems is to always follow the airline’s rules and check the customs regulations of the country you are traveling to.
The official TSA website can always give you up-to-date information on what is and what isn’t allowed to fly with you.
Generally, airplanes allow tea and coffee in both checked luggage and carry-on bags, as long as they are sealed properly and in reasonable quantities.
Have a great flight!
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Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!