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Liquid Limits

Can I take ashes on a plane? Flying with cremated remains

Cremated remains are allowed in cabin and checked baggage on virtually every airline and through every major security regime. The single hard rule: the container must be X-ray transparent (wood, plastic, cardboard or a TSA-approved temporary urn). Metal, lead-lined or stone urns will be refused.

Last updated · Reviewed against current airport security guidance

Short answer

Cremated remains are allowed in cabin and checked baggage on virtually every airline and through every major security regime. The single hard rule: the container must be X-ray transparent (wood, plastic, cardboard or a TSA-approved temporary urn). Metal, lead-lined or stone urns will be refused.

General guidance

Rule basis: General airport security guidance — rules can vary between airports and change over time. Confirm with your departure airport before you fly.

What to do: Pack to 100ml per container in a single 1-litre clear bag unless you've confirmed a larger allowance at both your departure airports.

Liquid Limits is a travel planning tool, not an official aviation source. Always confirm with the airport before you travel.

At a glance

Security

Will this pass the checkpoint?

Check rules

Rules vary by airport — some still enforce 100ml, others now allow 2L containers in CT scanners.

Source: Airport operator pages
Airline

Can this travel in cabin or checked baggage?

Cabin OK

Most airlines defer to airport security on liquids in the cabin.

Border

Can you bring this into the destination country?

Usually OK

Liquids themselves are rarely a customs issue — but contents (alcohol, dairy, CBD) might be.

Three separate rule systems · Any one can stop your item

Quick answer

Yes, cabin or checked. Container must be X-ray transparent.

Funeral directors can supply a temporary travel urn that meets TSA and international rules. Most do this routinely.

What to carry

  • X-ray transparent urn (wood, plastic, cardboard, biodegradable)
  • Death certificate copy
  • Cremation certificate from the funeral home
  • Letter from the funeral director (recommended)

By country

DestinationNotes
US (TSA)Cabin or checked. Container must be X-ray transparent.
UKAllowed; some airlines require advance notice.
EUAllowed; documentation strongly recommended.
Australia / NZAllowed; declare on arrival with certificate.
Middle EastAllowed but extra paperwork — check with airline.

Practical advice

  • Tell the airline at booking — they often have a free service for bereaved passengers
  • Pack in cabin baggage if possible — checked baggage gets lost
  • Keep all paperwork in a single envelope with the urn
  • Allow extra time at security

FAQs

Can ashes go in checked baggage?

Yes on most airlines, but cabin is strongly recommended.

Will security open the urn?

Only if the X-ray is unclear. They won't open a sealed metal urn — they'll refuse it instead.

Do I need documents?

Always carry the death and cremation certificates. International flights usually require them.

Check your trip

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