Traveling With An Urn

How to Travel with Cremated Remains

There are different requirements for flying with cremated remains. For domestic travel, the TSA allows you to bring cremated remains onto the plane either in your carry-on or in your checked luggage; however, their website specifically recommends putting them in your carry-on. (https://www.tsa.gov/blog/2018/07/10/ways-travel-cremated-remains) There are no additional forms to fill out.

We suggest you carry a copy of the Burial Transit Permit (obtained from the funeral home), the cremation certificate that accompanies the cremated remains when you receive them, and perhaps also a certified copy of the death certificate just as an extra precaution.

The urn should be made of a material that they can see through in an X-ray; acceptable materials are wood, composites, biodegradable paper, or plastic. While some metal urns may be permitted, it's crucial to check with the TSA and airline beforehand. Certain metals could trigger alarms during security screening, leading to additional inspection and potential delays.

If you are planning to travel on an international flight, you must first verify with the destination country what the requirements are for bringing in cremated remains. Different countries have different requirements; you must contact the Consulate before you travel. Some countries require special documents with the Apostille from the Secretary of State. You may also need a notarized letter from the Funeral Director, a cremation certificate, and sometimes you may need to have documents translated. The costs for these additional requirements vary.