3 Types of TSA-Approved Urns You Can Buy

Cremation of Southern Maine • August 22, 2022

Because of TSA inspection, traveling by air with cremation urns can be tricky and stressful. Here are three approved urns you can buy to guarantee a smooth trip.

cremation service in Biddeford ME

If you’re looking for a way to ease the anxiety of traveling with remains collected after cremation service in Biddeford, ME, TSA has approved several options that may be right for you. 


There are five different TSA-approved urns available with varying features and storage capacities. To help you determine which one is right for you, we’ll look at each type in-depth. 


Biodegradable Urn 


This type is made from biodegradable materials and is therefore allowed to pass through TSA. It could be wood, paper, or bamboo. These materials are TSA-approved because their x-ray can see a clear image of their content. 


Biodegradable urns come in various sizes and colors and can be placed in a suitcase or carry-on bag. This type of urn is ideal for those who want to keep their loved one close and don’t want to worry about their ashes falling into the wrong hands. 


Plastic Urn 


Plastic is another material that doesn’t conceal its content from an x-ray. What’s more, you can get a transparent plastic container. TSA actually recommends this since its content will be visible to the x-ray and human eyes. 


A plastic urn is also a useful option if you are unsure your preferred urn will pass TSA screening. It will save you stress, and you can transfer the ashes to the main urn when you arrive at your destination. 


Wrap Urns 


The rise of cremation has given rise to a new travel-compatible urn: wrap urns. They are a type of urn consisting of embroidered fabric that wraps over an interior container. 


You can buy them solely to travel, but they are perfectly suitable as a permanent urn. You can purchase wrap urns from any reputable seller online. It could be Amazon or Memorials.com. 


When buying, look specifically for wrap urns with positive reviews. It will save you the stress and embarrassment from wrong advertisements by the manufacturer. 


General Advice 


Any of these urns will do. If you can afford it and don’t mind waiting, you can turn the ashes into jewelry like a memorial diamond. That way, you can travel with your loved one’s remains safely on you during your trip. 


Furthermore, whatever type of urn you get, it is advisable to get one that fits in your carry-on bag. There’s always the possibility that the urn could get damaged during the trip. 


Also, not every airline allows you to keep cremains in checked luggage. That’s why it is essential to confirm the airline’s policies regarding cremated remains before buying your urn. 


Whatever container you get, the most important thing is the x-ray machine should be able to see the content via the material. This will prevent the TSA from having to search the urn or stop you from taking it on the plane. 


Lastly, talk to a licensed funeral director. They have the experience to know which urn is suitable for air travel and how to pack the ashes without spillage. 


You can reach out to our director by giving us a call. Also, contact us for your additional cremation service needs in Biddeford, ME, like direct cremation and memorial service planning. We are here to serve you.


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