Can You Bring Markers on a Plane? What You Need to Know

Wherever people travel, they're likely to pack pens for their journey because you never know when these small portable writing instruments will come in handy. Generally, regular pens are allowed in airplanes, but what about markers? Can you bring markers on a plane?

The Transport Security Administration (TSA) has advised air travelers to review the administration's lists of allowed and prohibited items in checked and carry-on luggage, as it will help smoothen the screening process.

However, the TSA also wants travelers to note that even if an item is generally allowed, it may still be subject to further inspection if TSA officers determine it may have been tampered with or if it is a security risk.

This advice extends to carrying pens, but if you're traveling by plane and you're unsure whether markers are allowed, read on for some precautions that might apply to you.

Felt tip markers | Source: Shutterstock

Can You Bring Markers on a Plane?

TSA Rules on Pens in General

According to the TSA website, you can pack ordinary pens in your checked and carry-on baggage. Markers and even highlighters also enjoy the same non-restriction as regular pens.

You can also carry tactical pens; however, the TSA prohibits travelers from packing them in carry-on bags. Tactical pens will only be allowed in checked luggage.

An illustration of different types of pens | Source: Shutterstock

Alcohol-Based Markers

It's worth noting that when it comes to markers or marker pens, the rules for boarding with them on a plane may vary from airline to airline. Typically, with alcohol-based markers, you should be able to pack them in your checked luggage.

Bringing alcohol-based markers in a carry-on bag, however, might not be such a good idea. Because alcohol is flammable, some airlines (not all) may feel your markers will pose a security risk to your fellow passengers and throw them away.

So, your best bet if you want to bring alcohol-based markers on a plane is to avoid packing them in your carry-on bag. Additionally, you could contact the airline you'll be boarding with to be extra sure about their policies on alcohol-based markers.

As for packing them safely in your checked bag, use leak-proof containers and cushion them with bubble wrap or other soft materials to protect them from any potentially damaging impact while traveling.

Alcohol-based copic style markers | Source: Getty Images

Refillable Markers

As the term suggests, refillable markers are not single-use like ordinary markers. Some can be recharged in a stationary inkwell, while others come with refill bottles, which are then used once the marker runs out of ink.

Additionally, if you're carrying more than one refill bottle, they all need to fit in one quart-size, clear, plastic, resealable bag.

Hopefully, the breakdown above has given you a clearer picture of what to expect when packing markers for air travel. If you want more travel tips, learn whether you can bring Play-Doh on a plane.