Quick Answer
⚠️ TSA treats realistic toy guns and replicas the same as firearms:
❌ Not allowed in carry-on.
✅ Permitted in checked luggage if packed securely.
✅ Obvious toy guns (foam blasters, Nerf, squirt guns) are allowed in carry-on, but may be inspected.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Toy guns that closely resemble real firearms are banned.
- Brightly colored toys like Nerf blasters, squirt guns, or cap guns may be allowed, but can be flagged for inspection.
- Checked luggage:
- All toy guns are permitted.
- Pack them to prevent confusion during screening.
- Replica / prop guns:
- Airsoft and BB guns always must go in checked luggage, never carry-on.
- International flights:
- Customs may restrict toy guns that resemble real weapons.
TSA Toy Gun Rules Summary
| Toy Gun Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Realistic toy gun / replica | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Nerf / foam blaster | ✅ Allowed (agent discretion) | ✅ Allowed |
| Squirt gun / water pistol | ✅ Allowed (empty) | ✅ Allowed |
| Cap guns | ✅ Allowed (may be inspected) | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Appearance matters: TSA bans anything that looks like a real gun, even if it’s non-functional.
- ✈️ Water pistols: Must be completely empty before screening.
- ✈️ Agent discretion: Even Nerf blasters can cause delays if mistaken for real firearms.
- ✈️ Customs: Some countries prohibit realistic toy guns and may confiscate them.