Peter Greenberg: Oil Paints on Planes

By: Peter Greenberg | Source: AARP.org | 2008-08-20

Q: I am an oil painter planning a trip to Pennsylvania in September. What artist's materials are allowed on planes?
–Jen, Clearwater, Fla.

A: The big issue is going to be paint. You definitely can't take spray paint or any kind of flammable paint with you (oil paint is usually flammable), either in checked or in carry-on luggage. You are allowed to take any kind of nonflammable paint with you in your carry-on as long as the container is smaller than 3 ounces. You can check as much nonflammable paint as you can manage to cram into your suitcase. Also, any tools more than seven inches in length (and airport security staff may choose to liberally interpret the word "tool") must be placed into your checked baggage. The best option might be to ship your materials to your hotel ahead of time. Companies from UPS to FedEx to DHL should be able to help with this. That way, you can avoid TSA altogether.