Can You Bring a Nerf Gun on a Plane? (TSA & Airline Rules — 2025)

Quick Answer
✅ Yes. TSA allows Nerf guns and other foam blasters in both carry-on and checked bags.
⚠️ However, if the toy looks realistic, it may be flagged and confiscated.
✅ Nerf darts and foam ammo are also permitted.


Details

  • Carry-on:
  • Nerf blasters and similar toy foam guns are allowed.
  • TSA may inspect them if they resemble real firearms.
  • Foam darts, balls, and other toy ammo are permitted with no quantity limits.
  • Checked luggage:
  • All Nerf toys are permitted.
  • Pack securely to prevent damage.
  • Replica concerns:
  • If a Nerf or toy blaster looks too realistic (black paint jobs, mods), TSA may confiscate it.
  • International flights:
  • Customs rules vary. Some countries ban toy guns that resemble real firearms, even if they shoot foam darts.

TSA Nerf Gun Rules Summary

Item TypeCarry-OnChecked
Nerf blaster (bright toy)✅ Allowed✅ Allowed
Nerf blaster (realistic look)⚠️ May be confiscated✅ Allowed
Foam darts / ammo✅ Allowed✅ Allowed

Gotchas / Common Issues

  • ✈️ Appearance matters: Bright-colored Nerf toys are fine, but realistic mods may be seized.
  • ✈️ Security delays: TSA may inspect toy guns during screening.
  • ✈️ International travel: Some countries classify toy guns as restricted imports.
  • ✈️ Best practice: Keep Nerf toys in their original bright colors to avoid issues.

Sources