Whether you like to sprinkle it on top of your favorite chocolate dessert or prefer to eat it as a snack on the go, dried fruits pack a lot of nutrients and they’re tasty too!
If you like dried fruits as much as I do, you might be wondering whether it’s okay to bring them on a plane. Well according to the TSA, it’s perfectly fine to bring dried fruit on your flight in both your carry-on and checked bags.
Although the TSA doesn’t prohibit carrying dried fruits, it’s quick to note that the final decision is determined by the officer you’ll find. So if they deem it unfit to bring to the plane, they have the freedom to confiscate your dried food.
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Can You Carry Processed Fruit in a Plane?
Oftentimes, processed fruit is packaged in a can. And as such, it’s assessed as any other canned food you’d bring on a flight.
The good news is that the TSA allows you to bring canned food. However, ensure you comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
It states that any liquids brought through a checkpoint should be stored in a 3.4-ounce jar. The jar or container should then be packed in a one-quart size plastic bag. And, every passenger can only bring one of these.
Can You Bring Fresh Fruit on a Plane?
If the TSA allows passengers to carry dried fruits, it follows that fresh fruits are permitted too, right? Well, not quite.
A distinct characteristic of dried fruit is that it has most of its moisture removed, allowing it to last longer. This then makes it easier to carry for air travel, which is why it’s allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage.
So even though the TSA allows passengers to bring fresh fruit on a plane, this freedom isn’t accorded to everyone. Specifically, those flying from the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Hawaii are prohibited from taking fresh fruit to the U.S. mainland. According to TSA’s website:
Passengers flying from Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands to the U.S. mainland cannot take most fresh fruits and vegetables due to the risk of spreading invasive plant pests.”
How Do You Pack Dried Fruits for Air Travel?
Dried fruits are a tricky bunch when it comes to storage and packaging. Since they’re already dried, it’s best to keep them that way until you’re ready to consume them.
So how can you ensure that they don’t come into contact with moisture? The easiest way is to store them in airtight containers or bags. For easy monitoring and screening at the airport, consider using ones that are clear. Examples include canning jars, freezer bags or vacuum seal bags.
But before you pack them in these storage units, slice them into bite-sized pieces. Chances are, you won’t be allowed to bring your handy kitchen knife in your carry-on. So chop them into smaller sizes in advance so they’re easy to eat on the go.
If carrying big-size fruits like peaches, apples or pears, reduce them into ¼- or ½-inch slices. But for small fruits like blueberries or strawberries, you can pack them whole.
Also crucial to note is that the dried fruit should be kept inside the carry-on until you’re ready to eat. Exposure to excessive light can cause them to discolor. This is why they’re safer in a cool and dark location like your carry-on.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been wondering whether you can bring dried fruit on a plane, the answer is a resounding yes.
The TSA allows passengers to carry dried fruit either in their carry-on or checked bag. Just ensure that you pack them in clear, airtight bags and in a cool and dark spot. This helps to avoid moisture, which can cause them to perish and excessive light that can cause discoloration.
