Traveling with an urn is a fateful necessity for many of us. Fortunately the process is made simple when you understand a few TSA (Transportation Security Administration) guidelines.
Homeland security requires that all carry-on items go through an x-ray device.
There are many x-ray compatible urns, like the Eco Pod Collection, Palm Frond Basket Urns, or the Simply in Memoriam Collection. If you prefer a heavier, thicker urn, like brass or marble, it may be best to purchase a temporary container to carry-on the cremains, and pack the permanent piece with checked baggage.
It’s important to contact your chosen airline in advance of travel for their specifications.
Some airlines simply don’t allow cremated remains as checked baggage, and one quick call can assure your trip is hassle free. In general, any urn that creates an opaque image on an x-ray machine will be denied as a carry-on item. In respect to the deceased, under no circumstances will a screener open the container at any time, even if the passenger requests it. Not even documents from the funeral home will help if the urn can’t be x-rayed. Urns for ashes made of wood, glass, plastic, and non-lead lined ceramics are generally allowed. If the airline does not allow the urn as checked baggage and it does not pass the x-ray, the urn will be denied air travel.
Your urn as checked baggage
Another option is to plan in advance and pack the urn with checked-baggage (if your airline allows this). Most urns can be sealed permanently or temporarily. Making sure it’s sealed well is vital to avoiding unpleasant repercussions. Without being opened, the container will undergo various tests for explosive devices and, if cleared, will be permitted as checked baggage.
For more information call or log on to: TSA – Transportation Security Administration – TSA Travel Tips- 866-289-9673
Biodegradable Urns