Quick Answer
✅ Yes. TSA allows cheese in both carry-on and checked bags.
✈️ Hard cheeses (cheddar, parmesan, gouda, etc.) are unrestricted.
⚠️ Soft/creamy cheeses (brie, cream cheese, spreads) count as liquids in carry-on → must be ≤ 3.4 oz (100 ml).
⚠️ International flights: Customs often bans dairy products when entering another country.
Details
- Hard cheese (solid):
- Allowed in both carry-on and checked without limits.
- No need to follow liquids rule.
- Soft/creamy cheese:
- Includes brie, camembert, cream cheese, cheese spreads, and dips.
- In carry-on, must be ≤ 3.4 oz and fit in quart-sized liquids bag.
- Larger amounts only allowed in checked luggage.
- Checked luggage:
- Any type and size of cheese permitted.
- Wrap securely to avoid strong odors or leaks.
- International flights:
- Many countries prohibit bringing fresh dairy across borders.
- Shelf-stable, commercially packaged cheese may be allowed if declared.
TSA Cheese Rules Summary
| Cheese Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Hard cheese (cheddar, parmesan, etc.) | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Soft/creamy cheese ≤ 3.4 oz | ✅ Allowed (quart bag) | ✅ Allowed |
| Soft/creamy cheese > 3.4 oz | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Packaged cheese snacks | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Liquids rule for spreads: TSA will treat cream cheese like peanut butter — > 3.4 oz not allowed in carry-on.
- ✈️ Odors in checked bags: Cheese can smell strong → double-bag or seal tightly.
- ✈️ Customs fines: Bringing undeclared dairy abroad may result in confiscation or penalties.
- ✈️ Best practice: Eat soft cheeses before security or pack only hard cheese for international trips.