Traveling with candles on a plane can be a tricky endeavor. Frustratingly, most countries and airlines don’t give any specific information about candles. If possible, pack your candles in your hold luggage. If you have no option and you have to put your candles in your hand luggage then be aware that they could be classed as liquids. If your candle is in a a container, for example tin, glass or porcelain, make sure it’s capacity is under 100 ml or 3.4 oz.

Our Personal Experience

As you can see from this article, guidance on if you are allowed candles on a plane is difficult to find. If candles are mentioned in guidelines they seem to be allowed in both carry-on and hold bags. However, my personal experience shows it’s not as straightforward to travel with candles as it may seem.

I was returning to the UK after a trip to Canada in 2023. My Dad and I had traveled up the west coast of America and while we were wandering around Pike Market in Seattle I spotted a candle that I though Aidan would love. We were taking the train to Vancouver and since my Dad had more room in his suitcase than I did he packed, the candle inside a mug in his hand luggage. We went through the USA/Canadian border with no problems. We flew from Vancouver to Calgary and again the candle in my Dad’s carry-on bag caused no issues.

Things changed when we started our journey home. We flew out of Calgary to JFK airport in New York. When we went through the security check in Calgary my Dad’s bag was flagged. He was taken to one side and he had to empty everything out of his backpack. We were very surprised when we found my candle was the problem. As you can see from the photo below, the candle was not in any kind of container. Initially the customs officer wanted to confiscate the candle. I politely pointed out that candles were not usually classified as dangerous. After some consideration we were allowed to keep the candle because it was still in it’s original packaging and obviously unopened.

We thought that the customs officer is Calgary had just been very conscientious but when we went through the security check at JFK the same thing happened. Just like in Calgary the only reason we were allowed to keep the candle was because it was unopened. We had a layover of several hours in JFK so we decided to go to a lounge in a different terminal which involved going through a security check again. This time my Dad put the candle in the tray to make things easier. This customs officer was surprised to see it in the tray and said there was no need to take it out of  the cabin bag. We had another security check when we went back to the terminal we were flying out of and again my Dad put the candle in a tray. This customs officer also said that there was no need to put the candle in the tray and there was no problem having it in our hand luggage.

We landed in Heathrow early in the morning and then we had to take a domestic flight. This meant going through security again. We were tired and jet-lagged and forgot about the candle. Once again my Dad’s backpack was flagged and he had to empty everything out. When the customs officer saw that it was a candle that had shown up on the scanner he said there wasn’t an issue.

As my experience shows, if you put a candle in your hand luggage you may have issues. Candles seem to show up on the scanners as something that needs to be checked. It is then entirely up to the officer examining your bags to decide if you are allowed to keep your candle. Thankfully, we managed not to lose Aidan’s candle but we are never going to pack a candle in our cabin bags again!

Are Candles Considered Liquids on a Plane?

As we are all aware, if an item is considered a liquid by aviation authorities it is subject to restrictions. Typically liquids must be in containers that are under 3.4 ox or 100 ml. When it comes to finding out if candles are viewed as liquid it is difficult to get a definite answer. The majority of countries don’t classify solid wax candles as a liquid. However, gel or jelly candles are treated as liquids.

If your candle is in a decorative container, such as tin, glass or ceramic you may have issues. The restrictions on liquids in cabin bags were brought in after a failed terrorist attempt. In 2006, British police stopped a plan to smuggle explosives on board a plane disguised as soft drinks. In response, the UK government brought in rules restricting liquids in hand luggage to 100 ml. The majority of rest of the world brought in similar regulations. The size of the container containing liquids must also be 100 ml. So you can not have 100 ml of liquid in a 200 ml bottle. This is to make sure that liquid explosives can not be mixed and combined.

Logically, if you have a solid candle in a container that was more than 100 ml then you may find security officers will not let you take it on a plane in your cabin luggage. I don’t think I have ever seen a candle in a holder that is less than 100 ml! There are numerous first-hand accounts online of people having large solid candles confiscated when they took them through security. Yankee Candles seem especially prone to being refused on board planes. So if you put your candle in your hand luggage you run the risk of losing them!

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Guidelines

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is the US agency responsible for airport security, and they have clear guidelines about what can and cannot be carried onto a plane.

• Solid Candles: The TSA allows solid candles in both checked luggage and carry-on bags. There’s no size limit, but it’s always smart to ensure they’re well packaged to prevent damage.
• Gel or Jelly Candles: These candles are not allowed in carry-on bags as per the TSA guidelines. They can be included in checked baggage.

Specific Airline Regulations

Although the TSA allows solid candles on planes, individual airlines might have their own regulations. It’s crucial to check with your airline before packing to avoid any unforeseen circumstances.

• Checked Baggage: Most airlines allow candles in checked bags, provided they’re well-packaged and secure to avoid damage to other items in the luggage.
• Carry-on Bags: Policies may vary, but most airlines follow TSA guidelines and allow solid candles in carry-on bags.

Can you bring candles on a plane in the USA?

• Solid candles – https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/solid-candles
• Gel candles – https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/gel-type-candles

Customs Regulations in Destination Country

When traveling internationally, you also need to consider the customs regulations of your destination country.

• Import Restrictions: Some countries might have specific restrictions on the types of candles that can be imported. It’s recommended to check the customs regulations of your destination before packing candles in your luggage.
• Duty Fees: Depending on the country and the value of the candles, you might be required to pay duty fees upon arrival.

Can you bring candles on a plane in Canada?

The CAA say candles are “permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage”. Gel candles are treated as liquids.

https://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/en/what-can-bring/item/candles

Can you take candles on a plane in Europe?

Rather unhelpfully, the EU’s guidelines on what you can and cannot take on plane makes no mention candles. If you can’t pack your candles in your hold baggage it would be advisable to contact your airline and see if they could give you clearer advice.

https://transport.ec.europa.eu/transport-modes/air/aviation-security/information-air-travellers_en

Can you take candles on a plane in the UK?

Similar to the EU, the UK government is very reticent about whether candles can be packed in your hand luggage or hold suitcase. However, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) say that solid wax candles can be packed in both hold and cabin bags but gel type candles are classed as liquids.

https://www.gov.uk/hand-luggage-restrictions/personal-items
https://www.caa.co.uk/publication/download/16116

Can you take candles in hand luggage on flights in Australia?

This may sound familiar but the ABF don’t give any specific guidelines about candles. You can see how this is confusing! Check with your airline but if in doubt it is safest to put your candles in your checked bags.

https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/travelsecure-subsite/Pages/Items-you-cannot-take-on-plane.aspx

Can you take candles in hand luggage on flights in New Zealand?

New Zealand doesn’t seem to have any guidelines about candles either. However, if your candles are made from beeswax you should probably declare them on arrival. It sounds like a big deal but it just involves filling in a form and going through a different line (the queues are usually shorter).

https://www.aviation.govt.nz/passenger-information/what-can-i-bring/

https://www.airnewzealand.co.uk/restricted-items

Can you take candles on a plane in Asia?

Any flammable household item is not allowed or any flammable solids that are easily ignited are not permitted. Logic would suggest that candles would fall under this categorization. The only way to be sure is to ask the airline you are flying with.

https://www.singaporeair.com/en_UK/us/travel-info/baggage/baggage-restrictions/

Gel and Liquid Candles

It’s important to note that gel, liquid, or jelly candles fall under the liquid rule. This rule states that any gels, liquids, aerosols, creams, or pastes in carry-on bags must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller and fit in a single, clear,  zip-top bag.

Scented Candles

Scented candles are treated like any other solid candles by the TSA and airlines. They are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. But remember, the strong aroma might bother other passengers, so it’s considerate to keep them sealed while onboard.

Candle Accessories

If you’re bringing along candles, you might also want to carry some candle accessories. Here are some guidelines:

• Candle Snuffers: These are typically allowed in both checked and carry-on baggage, but like with all potentially sharp items, it’s safer to pack them in your checked baggage.
• Lighters and Matches: According to TSA guidelines, one book of safety (non-strike anywhere) matches are allowed as carry-on items, but are not permitted in checked bags. Common lighters are allowed as carry-on items but not in checked bags. Torch and micro torch lighters are prohibited in both.

Traveling with Homemade Candles

If you’re a candle-making enthusiast planning to bring your homemade candles on the plane, you can typically do so without much concern. They’re treated the same as commercially manufactured candles by both the TSA and most airlines.

• Packing Homemade Candles: Like any other candle, they should be well-secured and protected to avoid any damage during travel.
• Declare Your Homemade Candles: If you’re traveling internationally, declare your homemade candles at customs and check any specific country regulations regarding the import of such items.

Specialty Candles

Some candles fall into a specialty category and may have different rules:

• Candles with Embedded Items: Some candles have items embedded within them, like jewelry or trinkets. While the TSA doesn’t have specific guidelines for these candles, they do recommend that passengers pack items that could be seen as unusual or suspicious in checked luggage.
• Religious or Ritual Candles: Religious or ritual candles are usually allowed on planes. However, if they’re unusually large or have unique characteristics, it may be best to consult with the airline and TSA ahead of time.
• Battery-Operated Candles: These candles are generally safe to bring in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, if they contain lithium batteries, you must follow the guidelines for traveling with batteries.

Candle Holders

Candle holders, like candles themselves, are usually permissible in both carry-on and checked luggage:

• Metal or Wood Holders: These are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. As always, pack them well to avoid damage.
• Glass or Ceramic Holders: While they are allowed, they can be fragile, so take extra care when packing these in your luggage.

How to Pack Candles in Your Luggage: A Step-By-Step Guide

Packing candles in your luggage for travel can be a bit tricky due to their delicate nature and potential to melt. However, with careful preparation and packing, you can ensure your candles arrive intact at your destination. This guide provides tips on packing candles in both your carry-on and hold luggage.

Packing Candles in Carry-On Luggage

If you’re traveling with candles in your carry-on bag, there are a few things you should know. Personally I will never again travel with a candle in my hand luggage. Don’t take a candle in your carry-on that you are not OK with losing.

1. Check Official Guidelines

• Before packing, verify that your candles meet the guidelines. Solid candles are typically allowed, but gel or jelly candles must be under 100 ml or 3.4 oz.

2. Protect the Candles

• Wrap each candle individually in bubble wrap or soft clothing to protect them from bumps and drops during transit. Don’t gift wrap them though, as security officers may want to check them.

3. Prevent Melting

• If you’re traveling to or through a hot location, consider packing your candles in a thermal bag or with a small ice pack to prevent melting. Remember to place the ice pack in a sealed bag to avoid any condensation damaging your belongings.

4. Keep Fragrances Sealed

• If you’re packing scented candles, ensure they’re sealed in an airtight bag or container to prevent the scent from permeating the rest of your luggage and possibly causing discomfort to fellow passengers.

Packing Candles in Hold Luggage

Packing candles in your checked luggage gives you more freedom in terms of size and quantity. I love candles and I usually end up buying some every trip. Some are for personal use and others are gifts. I always put my candles in a sealed bag and I wrap something soft around them. Even if they are in their original packaging, candle wax can rub off on clothes and cause stains and smells. Here are some tips for traveling with candles in your checked suitcase:

1. Confirm with Airline

• Although the TSA allows candles in checked luggage, always verify with your specific airline. Some might have unique restrictions or requirements.

2. Secure Packaging

• Securely package your candles to avoid damage. You can use bubble wrap, packing paper, or soft items like clothes for protection. Place each wrapped candle in a plastic bag to avoid potential candle wax leakages from damaging other items.

3. Consider the Climate

• If your destination is hot, it might be best to pack candles in a cooler or insulated bag to avoid melting.

4. Scented Candles

• For scented candles, similar to carry-ons, ensure they are sealed in an airtight container or bag to prevent the fragrance from spreading to your other belongings.

5. Candle Holders

• If you’re traveling with candle holders, pack them separately and ensure they’re wrapped in sufficient protective materials to prevent breakage.

General Tips for Traveling with Candles

Regardless of whether you’re packing candles in your carry-on or checked luggage, these general tips may prove helpful:

• Candle Size: Smaller candles are generally easier to travel with. They’re less likely to break, and it’s easier to protect them from melting.
• Protective Cases: Consider investing in a hard-shell protective case specifically designed for candles. These cases provide superior protection against both physical damage and melting.
• Carry-On Priority: If possible, bring your most valuable or sentimental candles in your carry-on. This reduces the risk of damage or loss.
• Check Local Restrictions: If you’re traveling internationally, always check the local restrictions and duties on candles in your destination country.

Flammables on a Plane: What’s Allowed and What’s Not

Air travel requires stringent security measures, and restrictions on flammable items are some of the most important to ensure safety onboard. Here’s a comprehensive look at which flammable items you can bring on a plane and which you cannot.

Flammable Items Allowed on a Plane

1. Alcoholic Beverages

• Alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content less than 24% (48 proof) have no restrictions.
• Beverages with an alcohol content between 24% and 70% (140 proof) are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage, but with volume limitations. In carry-on bags, they must adhere to the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

2. Lighters

• One lighter is allowed per person in carry-on bags, but they are not allowed in checked baggage.
• Torch lighters, lighter fluid, and strike-anywhere matches are not allowed on planes in either checked or carry-on baggage.

3. Safety Matches

• One book of safety (non-strike anywhere) matches are allowed as carry-on items, but they are not permitted in checked bags.

4. Heat Producing Items

• Certain items that generate heat, such as battery-operated devices like portable heaters or hand warmers, are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. Batteries must be properly installed.

5. E-Cigarettes and Vaping Devices

• These devices are permitted in carry-on bags but are prohibited in checked baggage due to fire risks.

Flammable Items Not Allowed on a Plane

1. Fireworks

• Fireworks of any kind, including sparklers and firecrackers, are not allowed on planes, either as carry-on items or in checked baggage.

2. Flammable Paints

• Flammable paints are prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage.

3. Gasoline

• Gasoline and other fuels are not permitted in carry-on or checked bags.

4. Aerosols

• Certain aerosol products are considered hazardous and are not allowed on planes. These include spray paint and some types of cleaning sprays. Personal care aerosols, like hairspray or deodorant, are allowed but must adhere to the 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-on baggage.

5. Strike-Anywhere Matches

• These are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage due to their flammable nature.

6. Torch Lighters

• These are not permitted on planes in either carry-on or checked baggage due to their high flame intensity.

Always remember that regulations may vary between airlines and countries, very much like taking trekking poles in carry-on, and the final decision rests with the TSA agent on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint. Always check the TSA and your airline’s specific policies before packing flammable items.

FAQ’s for Taking Candles on a Plane

Travelers often have questions about taking candles on a plane. These are the most frequently asked questions:

Q: Can I bring a candle in my carry-on luggage?

A: Yes, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows solid candles in carry-on luggage, like blow dryers and curling irons, nail clippers, aerosol cans and tweezers.

Q: Are gel or jelly candles allowed in my carry-on?

A: No, gel or jelly candles are not permitted in carry-on bags. They must be packed in your checked luggage.

Q: Can I bring a lighter or matches to light my candle on the plane?

A: The TSA allows one book of safety (non-strike anywhere) matches as a carry-on item, but not in checked bags. Most lighters are allowed as carry-on items but not in checked bags. However, lighting candles during the flight is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

Q: Are there size restrictions for candles?

A: The TSA does not impose size restrictions for solid candles. However, gel or jelly candles in checked luggage must comply with the airline’s guidelines for liquids.

Q: How should I pack candles to prevent them from breaking or melting?

A: Wrap candles in bubble wrap or soft clothing and place them in a secure part of your luggage. If traveling to or through a hot location, consider using a thermal bag or cooler to prevent melting.

Q: Are scented candles allowed on a plane?

A: Yes, scented candles are treated like any other solid candles and are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, they should be sealed to prevent the scent from affecting other passengers.

Q: What are the guidelines for packing candle accessories like snuffers or lighters?

A: Candle snuffers can typically be packed in either checked or carry-on baggage. Lighters can be carried on, but not packed in checked bags.

Q: Can I pack a candle holder in my luggage?

A: Yes, candle holders are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, ensure they are packed securely to prevent breakage.

Q: Are there any additional considerations for international travel with candles?

A: Yes, international travelers should consider their destination country’s customs regulations, which may include restrictions on candle types and potential duty fees.

Q: Are homemade candles allowed on a plane?

A: Yes, homemade candles are treated the same as commercially made candles and can be included in either carry-on or checked luggage, provided they adhere to the same rules.

Packing Up – Flying With Candles

In conclusion, taking candles on a plane is a bit of a minefield.  Solid candles are permissible in carry-ons, but gel or jelly candles are subject to the 3-1-1 liquids rule. However, in my experience if you have candles in you hand luggage your bags are most likely going to be flagged and inspected. If they choose, security officials can refuse to allow your candles on the plane.

On the other hand, when it comes to hold or checked luggage, candles, including gel or jelly types, can be packed in larger quantities and sizes. But again, the same precautions about packing should apply, with additional attention given to preventing potential wax leakages. But remember, regulations can vary between airlines and countries, so it’s always a good idea to check with the airline and local customs if in doubt.