With Thanksgiving right around the corner, people all over the country are packing up and heading home for the holidays. Of course, since most will only be gone for Thanksgiving weekend, the trend is to just take a carry-on bag. While this may be more convenient, it also causes many people to forget the rules of travel.
Most people are familiar with the TSA and their rules against carrying liquids, gels, and sharp objects in their carry-on. Unfortunately, a majority of people are unaware of the TSA's rules against food and beverages. So, if you're thinking of taking some food leftovers from the Thanksgiving table back with you, you may want to check this list out. You wouldn't want your doggy bag to be taken away by airport security, now would you?
The following is the list of holiday items that TSA recommends you either check-in, ship ahead, or, as stated by Seat Guru, just plain leave behind if it's over 3.4 oz.
1. Sauce/Gravy
Unfortunately, you're going to have to find something else to dress up your leftover turkey because TSA stands very firmly on their "no sauces" rule, especially if it's over the recommended limit for liquids/gels.
2. Creamy Dips, Salsas, and Spreads
Your grandma's Spinach dip recipe is going to have to remain a secret, especially since you probably won't be able to take it back home with you if you're taking a plane. Other items covered by this category include cheese spreads, peanut butter, mousses, and hummus.
3. Jelly and Jam
Regardless of whether you're going to be bringing these as gifts or taking them home for personal consumption, jam and jelly is strictly prohibited from carry-on baggage. If you absolutely have to take it with you, keep in mind that planes are pressurized. You wouldn't want that dark-colored gloop all over your stuff, would you?
4. Soup
Packing soup is already impossible to do well, how much more when you're going to have it sloshing around in your luggage? According to Travel and Leisure, the best advice for your Thanksgiving travel with soup is to just avoid it all together. Save yourself from the nightmare.
5. Alcohol
While this should be a no-brainer, a lot of people still mistakenly pack bottles and cans of alcohol. If you're taking it with you in your carry-on, best believe that it'll be confiscated at the drop of a hat. Either keep the liquor in your check-in luggage or just hold out and buy it after you arrive at your destination.
Keep these tips in mind and pack intelligently. We hope you have the best Thanksgiving vacation ever!
