Can You Bring an Umbrella on a Plane? Essential Travel Tips

Carrying an umbrella on a plane is subjective because some airlines won't allow umbrellas in the cabin, but can be carried in checked luggage. You can easily carry some of them, but there may be some restrictions.In this article, you will learn everything about carrying the Umbrella, including the TSA and CAA rules, restrictions, and some tips to keep in mind as a traveler. 

Can You Bring Umbrella On a Plane?

You may be wondering whether your Umbrella is allowed on the plane or not; the good news is that, as per the TSA guidelines, any traveler is allowed to carry an umbrella in a carry-on bag or checked baggage. So how can you carry them on the plane? In most of the plane, when you board, you are allowed to keep a carry-on bag, a personal item, or a trolly. Umbrellas are not counted in them but as special baggage that you carry alongside your luggage.

TSA Rules for Carry Umbrellas

Understanding the TSA guidelines for carrying umbrellas can save you from any surprises at the security checkpoint. According to the TSA, travelers are generally allowed to carry umbrellas in their carry-on or checked baggage, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

Umbrella Size restrictions

You have seen that umbrellas can be found in different sizes and designs. Some umbrellas are short and a little bigger than your plan, and on the other hand, some umbrellas are large, like a golf stick. If you want to carry an umbrella, it should not exceed the baggage size limit when fully extended; otherwise, you must check it.

The regular thumb rule that airlines prefer is that your Umbrella must not be longer than 22-24 inches. The length can vary for some airlines; hence, it is important to go through your airline's rules and policies regarding carriage if you don't want to leave your Umbrella behind. 

Umbrella Tip

The tip of your Umbrella may be responsible for not allowing their carriage on the plane or as checked luggage, so it becomes important to be aware that it should not be sharp and thick. At the time of security check, the TSA executives have full rights to seize your brolly if they find a sharp and pointy tip for normal safety reasons. In case, if you are carrying any such umbrella, then you should make sure that tips are properly covered.

Permitted and Prohibited Umbrellas on a Plane

Only Umbrellas that don't have pointed tips, have short handles, and are plain in design are more likely to be permitted on the plane. Many people love to carry designer umbrellas, but they may face issues at the airport because some airports may not allow umbrellas with odd looks and designs or painted handles. Pointed tips and sharp metal two are the most common reasons behind the restrictions, and the simple solution is to check them in if they are within the size limit with your checked luggage. Any Umbrella that is longer than 32 inches then you have to leave it behind because it is not permitted. 

Security screening

When you go for the security screening, things in your carry-on luggage, such as umbrellas are subject to be kept in separate bins for X-ray screening or physical inspection so that the security staff can get a clear view of it. The process includes practices like visual inspection, extending or compressing it. Furthermore, you should avoid opening and using the Umbrella at the airport for the sake of other travelers. 

Let's Look At Some Specific Airlines Policies on Umbrellas

As of now, you have understood that the guidelines or policies regarding the carriage of the Umbrella may vary; thus, below are some specific airlines as examples. 

• British Airways: Small foldable umbrellas are permitted. 
• Alaska Airlines: Small umbrellas that fit into the overhead bin are allowed. Not counted as a carry-on limit. 
• Delta Airlines: No need to pay extra charges for carrying the Umbrella to a carry-on bag.
• Frontier Airlines: No official information has been mentioned, so you ask at the airport or contact customer service. Remember, it should not exceed the baggage limit. 
• Southwest Airlines: Strict to TSA size limit. Must cover the sharp or pointed tips. 
• JetBlue Airlines: Will be counted as a special item along with a carry-on. 
• United Airlines: Carriage of Umbrella is free in carry-on or as a personal item. 

Tips For Travelling With Umbrellas

When it comes to packing your Umbrella, if it is not done properly then it might damage your baggage from internally or may sheared the clothes. Here are some tips that you must keep in mind when you are carrying your Umbrella with you on a plane. 

Packing strategy for carry-on and checked luggage

• Pack your Umbrella in such a way that it is easily accessible, and you don't have to shift your things, which usually disorganizes your clothes.
• Use travel backpacks with extra compartments or pockets dedicated to umbrellas. 
• If your backpack has webbing-like pockets for the water bottle, you can use that space for your small foldable Umbrella. 

How to choose the right umbrellas for a Plane

To choose the right Umbrella for yourself, in case you are planning to travel, there are two criteria to consider:

• First, it should be compact and lightweight.
• Second, it should be durable and windproof. You can look for compact umbrellas, foldable umbrellas, and automatic open-and-close umbrellas.
• If you want to carry a beach umbrella, then it would be considered a special case; however,  you will required to operate it into two or more parts and put the clothes into your carry-on luggage, and the pole must be checked.
• Some umbrellas are a two-in-one weapon, and if your Umbrella looks similar, then you must think about buying a new one and then carrying it so that you don't get bothered at the airport.