What To Know Before Packing Coffee On Your Next Flight

For many people, it’s hard to compromise on that crucial morning cup of coffee. There’s nothing like the strong, chocolaty aroma and flavorsome kick to help you feel refreshed and focused. But when you’re traveling, finding the perfect cup of coffee can be quite difficult. The simple solution is to pack your own coffee beans to take with you.

According to TSA regulations, you can take ground coffee and coffee beans with you in your carry-on and checked luggage. Be sure to seal the packet carefully, as any spills can create quite a mess. If you bring a grinder, know that TSA has no specific rules about this but you may want to check it. 

There’s no need to miss out on your favorite coffee while traveling. Let’s look at the guidelines provided by TSA and what steps you should take while packing coffee to ensure it doesn’t end up scattered all over your clothes.

Can You Bring Coffee on a Plane?

Black packaging

Although you’re allowed to bring coffee beans on your next domestic US flight in your carry-on or checked baggage, there’re a few conditions to keep in mind. The final decision regarding any special items rests with the TSA agent checking your bags, so there’s a chance that your coffee beans may not accompany you on your next flight.  

The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) recommends clearly labeling all bags containing food items and keeping them in a place where they’re easy to pull out. You might be asked to take out your coffee beans to make it easier for the agent to check the rest of your baggage.

According to regulations, you should keep all liquids in quart-sized bags in hand carry, and each person is allowed one such bag only. Also, the liquid in these bags shouldn’t go over 3.4 ounces. So if you want to take freshly brewed coffee in your carry-on, make sure it’s in a container that’s not more than 3.4 ounces. 

However, it’s more convenient to buy a cup of coffee from one of the coffee shops inside the terminal instead of going through the hassle of packing such a small quantity of liquid coffee in your hand-carry! 

On the other hand, there’s no restriction on the amount of liquid coffee that you can carry in your checked baggage. Just make sure that the cold coffee concentrate is sealed off properly and doesn’t require refrigeration.

Can Coffee Travel With You in Your Carry-On?

Yes, you can take ground coffee in your carry-on luggage. The TSA website clearly states that coffee beans and ground coffee are cleared through security without any hassle.

However, if you’re traveling with more than 340 gm or 12 oz of ground coffee, it’ll be X-ray screened. 

What About Checked Bags?

Most airlines prefer their passengers to place powders exceeding 340 gm or 12 oz inside their checked luggage. This will save them from any inconvenience at the security checkpoint. 

It’s best to pack your expensive items in hand-carry instead of checked luggage, particularly on some international flights. On some routes, there’s a chance that your expensive items may get lost or even stolen. 

So — if you’re traveling with an expensive brand of coffee, be sure to keep it in your hand luggage.    

Can You Travel With Coffee Internationally?

Traveling with coffee internationally depends on your country of destination and their customs regulations. Even if you’re allowed to bring coffee into the country, the final decision will be with the customs officer.

If you’re bringing a reasonable amount of coffee into the country and there’s nothing wrong with it, chances are that you won’t face any problems.  For instance, if you’re taking ground coffee to the US, you probably won’t face any issues.

However, it’s best to declare any such product at entry. Passengers traveling from the US to Canada are allowed to take two bags of 20 kg for personal use. 

Another thing to keep in mind when traveling internationally is that different countries have different rules regarding bringing in plants or food items. 

These rules are implemented to protect the livestock, native plants, and agriculture of the country. Bringing in meat, soil, or seeds from another country can introduce new pests, which could be quite damaging. 

Make sure that you have complete knowledge about the specific requirements of the country you’re entering. Check out the official government website or ask a customs agent to get a clear picture. 

How Much Coffee Can You Take on a Plane?

The good news for coffee lovers is that there’s no limitation on the amount of coffee you can take on a plane.

According to the TSA customer service, passengers are allowed to take ground or brewed coffee in checked bags without any packing requirements or quantity limitations. So, you can enjoy your favorite brew wherever you are!

What About K-Cups and Coffee Pods? 

There is no weight limit or special packaging required for K-Cups or Coffee Pods. According to TSA, you can take as many single-serve Coffee Pods or K-Cups as you want in your hand-carry bag.

However, make sure that you don’t exceed the allowed weight limit to avoid paying any extra charges. 

How to Pack Coffee for a Flight 

Packaging for coffee

It’s easy to carry small ground coffee bags in your luggage when you go on vacation. But if you have a large coffee bag of your favorite coffee at home and want to take that blend with you, the best option is to use resealable bags (on Amazon).

These bags are convenient as they allow you to carry just the amount that you’ll need for your journey.

However, you’ll have to be extra careful if you want to take the original coffee bag with you. Whether you’re putting it in your hand-carry or checked luggage, it’s essential to pack it properly, as any spills will mess up your clothes and other items. 

Following are some tips that’ll ensure that your coffee is properly packed and ready for your next flight:

  • Use coffee bags that are sealed and secured properly.
  • Whether you put the coffee bags in your carry-on or checked luggage, make sure that you don’t put them close to any liquids, especially colognes or perfumes.
  • Keep the coffee bags handy and within easy reach so that you can remove them easily when needed. You might feel like having a cup of instant coffee while waiting for your next flight, or the customs official may ask you to remove it from your bag.

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