Can I bring ammunition in my carry-on bag?

No. Ammunition is never allowed in carry-on bags or on your person; it must go in checked baggage only.

Does ammunition need to be in its original box?

It needs to be in the original manufacturer's packaging or a container built specifically for ammunition, such as a fitted ammo case. Loose rounds or ordinary bags don't meet the requirement.

Is there a weight limit on ammunition?

TSA doesn't set one federal number, but most US airlines limit passengers to around 11 lb (5 kg) of ammunition per trip. Check your airline's specific policy before packing.

Ammunition

Ammunition is not allowed in carry-on bags, but it can go in checked baggage if it's securely packaged in its original box or a container built for ammunition.

Carry-on

Not allowed

Checked

Allowed with conditions

Carry-on details

Not allowed. Ammunition of any kind cannot go in carry-on bags or on your person through the checkpoint.

Checked-bag details

Allowed with conditions. Small arms ammunition (up to .75 caliber, plus shotgun shells of any gauge) may go in checked baggage if it's securely packed in the original manufacturer's box, or in a fiber, wood, plastic, or metal case designed specifically to hold ammunition. Loose rounds, or rounds in a plastic bag or unfitted container, are not allowed. Ammunition can be packed in the same hard-sided, locked case as an unloaded firearm, as long as it's still boxed or fitted, not loose.

Special instructions

TSA does not set a fixed federal weight limit, but you must declare your ammunition at the airline check-in counter, and most US airlines cap it around 11 lb (5 kg) per passenger — confirm the exact limit and any extra fees with your airline before you fly. Firearms themselves must be unloaded, declared to the airline, and packed in a locked, hard-sided case in checked baggage only; see your airline's firearms policy for details.

FAQ

Can I bring ammunition in my carry-on bag?: No. Ammunition is never allowed in carry-on bags or on your person; it must go in checked baggage only.
Does ammunition need to be in its original box?: It needs to be in the original manufacturer's packaging or a container built specifically for ammunition, such as a fitted ammo case. Loose rounds or ordinary bags don't meet the requirement.
Is there a weight limit on ammunition?: TSA doesn't set one federal number, but most US airlines limit passengers to around 11 lb (5 kg) of ammunition per trip. Check your airline's specific policy before packing.

Related items

Source: TSA — What Can I Bring? · Last verified: 2026-07-31

Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.