Bow and Arrow
Bows and arrows are not allowed in carry-on and must be packed in checked baggage.
Carry-on
Not allowed
Checked
Allowed
Carry-on details
Not allowed. Bows and arrows, including archery and hunting equipment, are prohibited in carry-on baggage entirely.
Checked-bag details
Allowed, with proper packing. Arrow broadheads must be in a protective container that fully covers the blades. A hard-sided, airline-grade case is strongly recommended for the bow itself.
Special instructions
Use TSA-approved locks on your bow case — non-approved locks may be cut off for inspection. Other non-sharp archery accessories (gloves, releases, sights, stabilizers, arm guards) are allowed in carry-on.
Related rules
FAQ
- Can I bring my bow to the gate and check it at the counter instead of carry-on?
- No — bows and arrows are prohibited in carry-on entirely, so they must be checked at the regular baggage counter, not brought to the gate.
- Can archery accessories like a release or sight go in carry-on?
- Yes — non-sharp accessories like gloves, releases, sights, stabilizers, and arm guards are allowed in carry-on. Only the bow and arrows themselves must be checked.
Related items
Source: TSA — What Can I Bring? · Last verified: 2026-08-02
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.