Unopened cans are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage

TSA does not allow unopened cans of any kind through security checkpoints, whether you pack them in your carry-on or checked bag. This applies to canned food, beverages, soup, paint, compressed air, or any other pressurized or sealed container. The rule exists because TSA cannot visually inspect the contents of a sealed can, and the pressure inside creates a safety concern in the aircraft cabin.

If you want to bring canned goods on a flight, you have two options: open the can before you reach security and transfer the contents to a TSA-compliant container, or purchase the item after you pass through the checkpoint at an airport shop or restaurant.

Key Takeaways

  • Unopened cans are banned in carry-on and checked baggage because TSA cannot see inside them and cannot verify they are safe.
  • Opening a can before security and transferring the contents to a clear container allows you to bring it through the checkpoint.
  • Liquid and gel rules still explore to canned contents—most liquids are limited to 3.4 ounces in carry-on bags.
  • You can purchase unopened cans after you pass through security at airport vendors, restaurants, and shops.
  • Checked baggage has the same restrictions as carry-on for unopened cans, so opening and transferring is your only option if you want to pack them.

Why TSA prohibits unopened cans

TSA's prohibition on unopened cans comes down to two things: visibility and pressure. When a can is sealed, TSA officers cannot see what is inside it, even with X-ray machines. This means they cannot verify that the contents are actually what the label says, or that nothing dangerous has been added to the can.

Pressurized containers also pose a cabin safety risk. Changes in air pressure during flight can cause sealed cans to leak, burst, or explode. This is especially true for carbonated beverages, aerosol products, and other pressurized items. An opened can or a can transferred to a clear container eliminates both problems—TSA can see the contents, and there is no sealed pressure to worry about.

How to bring canned food or beverages through security

If you want to bring a canned item with you on the plane, open it before you reach the security checkpoint. Pour or transfer the contents into a clear, resealable container that meets TSA liquid rules. This works for soups, sauces, canned fruits, canned vegetables, and other wet or semi-solid foods.

For canned beverages like soda or juice, remember that liquids in carry-on bags are limited to 3.4 ounces per container and 1 quart total per person. If you open a full-size can of soda (12 ounces), you will exceed the carry-on limit and must pack it in checked baggage instead. Checked baggage has no liquid restrictions, so you can bring opened cans there without worry.

Make sure your container is clearly labeled so TSA officers know what you are carrying. A piece of tape with the original product name works fine. Bring a small funnel or spoon to help with the transfer, and do this at home before you leave for the airport—you do not want to be opening cans in the security line.

What you can do at the airport instead

The easiest option is to wait and buy canned goods after you pass through security. Most airports have restaurants, cafes, and convenience shops in the terminal where you can purchase unopened cans of soda, juice, soup, or other items. Prices are usually higher than at a regular store, but you avoid the hassle of opening and transferring at home.

If you are flying with checked baggage only and no carry-on, you can pack unopened cans in your checked bag at home, but only if you are willing to open them before you reach the checkpoint. Since checked baggage is screened separately and out of your sight, TSA will confiscate any unopened cans they find during screening.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not assume that a can is safe just because it is a common food item. TSA treats all unopened cans the same way, whether it is soup, beans, soda, or anything else. The rule is about the sealed container, not the contents.

Do not try to pack an unopened can in your checked bag and hope it will get through. TSA screens checked baggage and will remove any unopened cans. You will not know this happened until you arrive at your destination and open your bag.

Do not open a can at the security checkpoint itself. This creates a mess, holds up the line, and may still result in confiscation if the contents exceed liquid limits. Open cans at home, transfer to a clear container, and pack them in your bag before you leave.

Pressurized cans and aerosol products

Aerosol cans—including deodorant, hairspray, sunscreen, and bug spray—are also prohibited in carry-on baggage. Some aerosol products may be allowed in checked baggage under specific conditions, but unopened aerosol cans are not permitted in either bag. Check the TSA website or call ahead if you need to travel with a specific aerosol product.

Paint cans, propane cans, and other industrial pressurized containers are completely prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. Do not attempt to bring these on a flight under any circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring an unopened can of soda in my checked bag?

No. TSA screens checked baggage and will confiscate unopened cans. If you want to bring canned soda, open it before security and transfer it to a clear container, keeping in mind the 3.4-ounce carry-on limit. For checked baggage, you can pack opened cans without restriction.

What if I open a can but do not finish it before my flight?

An opened can with remaining liquid counts as a liquid and must follow the 3.4-ounce carry-on limit. If you have more than 3.4 ounces, pack it in checked baggage instead. Make sure the container is sealed so it does not leak during transport.

Can I bring a can of baby food or formula through security?

Unopened cans of baby food or formula are prohibited in carry-on baggage. However, you can open the can before security and transfer the contents to a clear container. Baby food and formula are exempt from the 3.4-ounce liquid limit in carry-on bags if you are traveling with an infant or young child.

What about canned pet food?

Unopened cans of pet food are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. If you need to bring pet food on a flight, open it at home and transfer it to a clear, sealed container, or purchase it after you pass through security.

Will TSA let me open a can at the checkpoint if I ask?

TSA officers will not open cans for you at the checkpoint. You must open any cans before you arrive at security. If you forget and show up with an unopened can, you will have to throw it away or leave the security line to open it elsewhere, which may cause you to miss your flight.