Transportation Security Agency (TSA) Bans Snow Globes
The Snow Globe Dilemma
The snow globe filled with liquid and white flakes that rain down on a Christmas scene may not be a welcome airline passenger. The Transportation Security Administration advised that snow globes are not permitted to be carried through security checkpoints,
Trying to get a snow globe past airport security checkpoints, will likely be a losing battle. More likely, the item will be confiscated and thrown into thrown in the trash.
The reasoning to prohibit items filled with liquid in carry-on bags is that snow globes contain liquids. TSA rules say only liquids, gels or aerosols in containers of 3 ounces of less are allowed through security in carry-on bags. Since it would be hard to determine just how many ounces of liquid is in a snow globe, it would be considered as liquid, and required to be left behind.
Additionally, liquid-filled containers must fit in a quart-sized, zip-top plastic bag, with one bag per passenger. This requirement is to limit the total volume of liquid and lessen threats of that someone might use the contents as explosives.
So, just what does TSA consider liquid? Basically, if you can pour, pump, squeeze, spread, smear, spray or spill it, it is considered a liquid or gel.
But, there are two alternatives to the snow globe restriction:
You can, however, purchase a snow globe, of any size, in an airport shop after you've gone through a security checkpoint, and take them on board with you.
Pack the snow globe in checked luggage, and take the chance that it will not get broken.
Before you pack a snow globe gift to take to grandma's house, check with the airline to learn what types of items are allowed in carry-on bags. Don't take the chance of having to turn over to security checkpoint authorities a special Christmas gift or family heirloom. The snow globe would be forfeited and not returned into your possession.