Air travel this year will be more festive thanks to new TSA standards that allow small snow globes and pies in carry-on luggage.

With 1.8 million travelers and 2.2 million carry-ons passing through security checkpoints every day, according to the Transportation Security Administration, travelers are urged to prep their luggage accordingly to avoid being the Grinch that slows down the security line.

This year, if snow globes appear to hold less than 3.4 ounces of liquid -- about the size of a tennis ball -- and fit in a quart-sized, clear bag, they’re OK.

Solid foods, like pies, fruitcakes, cookies, turkey and ham, are also allowed on the plane. But jams, jellies, curds, sauces and dips still have to abide by the 3.4-ounce rule, travel in a checked bag or be shipped ahead of time.

If "you can spill it, spread it, smear it, squeeze it, spray it, pump it, or pour it," then travelers should check it, TSA's Lisa Farbstein told KPCC.

Travelers are urged to wait ‘til they arrive to wrap gift because while they are allowed in carry-on bags, if an agent needs to take a closer look at a concealed present, travelers will have to rewrap the gift when they land.

Firearms, weapons, sharp objects and these items are still prohibited, no matter the season.

These quintessential holiday items are cleared to fly in travelers’ carry-on luggage:

• Glass ornaments
• Cookies
• Pies, cakes, bread, doughnuts
• Turkey
• Unwrapped presents
• Snow globes about the size of a tennis ball
• Garland
• Lights
• Cookware, crockpots, casserole dishes, etc.
• Candles
• Egg nog (if less than 3.4 ounces)

The following items are not allowed in carry-on luggage:

• Wrapped presents (They’re allowed in carry-ons, but if an agent wants a closer look, you’ll have to rewrap it when you land)
• Jams, jellies, cranberry sauce, maple syrup, dips and spreads (including cheeses and peanut butter)
• Gift baskets with edible items
• Snow globes larger than 3.4 ounces
• Matches
• Knives
• Wine, liquor and beer

If you're not sure if one of your items is allowed in carry-on luggage, the TSA has a search engine on its homepage that allows travelers to type in an item and get an answer. The agency also has a mobile app.

Leave Comments