01The rules in detail
TSA allows snow globes that appear to contain less than 3.4 oz — roughly tennis-ball size — inside the quart bag. Anything bigger is confiscated at security. The same logic applies to lava lamps, liquid keyrings and sealed jars of local delicacies (olives in brine, chilli oil, maple syrup): over 100 ml, they go in checked luggage. Duty-free liquids bought airside are the exception if kept in the sealed bag.
02Tips
- Buy liquid souvenirs after security or ship them.
- Wrap glass in clothes in the middle of a checked bag.
03Frequently asked
Can I bring a snow globe in my carry-on?
Yes, with limits. Snow globes count as liquids: only tennis-ball size or smaller (about 100 ml of liquid) in the carry-on liquids bag. Larger ones must be checked, well padded.
Can I pack a snow globe in checked luggage?
Yes. Snow globes count as liquids: only tennis-ball size or smaller (about 100 ml of liquid) in the carry-on liquids bag. Larger ones must be checked, well padded.
Are the rules the same outside the US?
Mostly similar for liquids and batteries, which follow international standards, but sharp objects, tools, lighters and self-defense items vary widely by country. Check the departure airport's rules and the destination's laws.
TSA and other agencies allow officers to refuse any item they judge unsafe, and rules change. This page summarises published guidance as of the verified date; confirm on tsa.gov or your airport's site before packing anything unusual.