Can You Bring Dry Ice on a Plane?

Direct Answer (2026 Official Rules)

Cabin: ⚠ LIMITED Hold: ⚠ LIMITED

Yes, with limits — you can bring dry ice in carry-on bags provided you follow security limits. ≤ 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) per person.

Verified against published 2026 TSA (United States) & CATSA (Canada) security screening databases.

On this page · 10 sections

⚖️ Why This Rule Exists: Cabin Security, Blade Restrictions & Sterile Area Integrity

Non-bladed tools under 7 inches (18 cm), blunt items, and general travel gear that do not pose a cutting, impact, or hazardous materials risk are permitted in carry-on luggage.

Decision Threshold: Permitted in carry-on if non-sharp or under legal length thresholds.

Rules by security authority

United States — TSA

Cabin:

LIMITED

Sometimes — up to 5.5 lb of dry ice, in a vented package, and only with airline approval. Arrange it with your carrier first.

Hold:

LIMITED

Sometimes — the same 5.5 lb vented-package rule with airline approval applies to checked bags; the package must be marked appropriately.

Rule conditions: ≤ 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) per personPackage must be vented — never airtightCarrier approval required — arrange before you flyChecked packages: marked “DRY ICE” / “Carbon Dioxide Solid” with net weight

Flying internationally? Security follows the country you depart from — the authority above applies at your departure airport. Customs at arrival is separate.

🔍 Security Checkpoint & X-Ray Screening Advice

Place large metal tools in the screening bin alongside electronics if requested by screening staff.

Learn more about scanner differences and traveler rights in our Airport Security Screening Guide →

⚠️ Common Traveler Mistake to Avoid

The Mistake: Assuming scissors or tools of any size are allowed without checking blade length from the pivot point.

How to Avoid It: Measure blade length: must be under 4 inches (10 cm in the US) or under 6 cm from pivot (in Canada).

✈️ Airline-Specific Rules & Baggage Limits

Airline approval is mandatory — call ahead. Carriers apply their own procedures within the 5.5 lb / 2.5 kg cap, and some routes decline dry ice entirely.

Delta Air Lines United Airlines American Airlines Southwest Airlines JetBlue Airways All 17 airlines →

How to Pack Dry Ice for a Flight

Dry ice is how frozen seafood and game make it home intact: keep the cooler slightly open (vented, never sealed), stay under 5.5 lb, and get the airline to note the approval on your booking before airport day.

Dry Ice on a plane — FAQs

Can you bring Dry Ice in a carry-on?

Sometimes — up to 5.5 lb of dry ice, in a vented package, and only with airline approval. Arrange it with your carrier first.

Can you pack Dry Ice in checked luggage?

Sometimes — the same 5.5 lb vented-package rule with airline approval applies to checked bags; the package must be marked appropriately.

Why are there rules for dry ice on a plane?

Non-bladed tools under 7 inches (18 cm), blunt items, and general travel gear that do not pose a cutting, impact, or hazardous materials risk are permitted in carry-on luggage.

Do airlines have their own rules for dry ice?