Quick Answer
⚠️ Jam and jelly are considered liquids/gels by TSA.
✅ In carry-on, containers must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller, inside your quart-sized liquids bag.
✅ Larger jars are only allowed in checked luggage.
✈️ Jam/jelly inside a sandwich is fine with no size limits.
Details
- Carry-on:
- TSA classifies jam, jelly, preserves, and marmalade as liquids/gels.
- Containers must be ≤ 3.4 oz (100 ml) to go in your quart bag.
- Larger jars are not allowed through security, even if partly empty.
- Checked luggage:
- Any size jars are permitted.
- Wrap glass jars carefully to avoid breakage and leaks.
- Jam/jelly in food:
- Allowed if it’s inside a sandwich or baked good.
TSA Jam & Jelly Rules Summary
| Item | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Jam/jelly ≤ 3.4 oz | ✅ Allowed (quart bag) | ✅ Allowed |
| Jam/jelly > 3.4 oz | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Jam/jelly sandwich/pastry | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Half-empty jars don’t count: TSA looks at container size, not contents.
- ✈️ Glass jars risk breaking: Always pack wrapped in clothing or bubble wrap in checked.
- ✈️ Sandwich exception: PB&J sandwiches are fine, even though separate jars aren’t.
- ✈️ International customs: Some countries restrict fruit products when crossing borders.