Yes, with limits. One book or packet of safety matches is allowed in your carry-on or pocket. Strike-anywhere matches are banned completely, and TSA prohibits all matches in checked bags.
You may carry one book or packet of safety (or waterproof) matches in a carry-on or on your person. Strike-anywhere matches are not allowed. Remove matches from a carry-on that gets gate-checked and keep them with you.
TSA lists safety matches as not allowed in checked bags, and strike-anywhere matches are forbidden in checked baggage under FAA rules.
Checked against official TSA, FAA and government pages on . These are US rules unless we say otherwise; the TSA officer at the checkpoint makes the final call.
The rules in numbers
- Safety or waterproof matches: 1 book or packet per passenger, carry-on or on your person only
- Strike-anywhere matches: banned in carry-on and checked bags
- Checked bags: no matches of any kind
Packing tips
- Strike-anywhere matches are the kind that light on any rough surface; if the box doesn't have a dedicated striker strip, assume they're banned.
- Camping? Pack one book of safety matches in your carry-on and buy fire-starters at your destination.
- You can carry one book of matches and one lighter; the FAA limits are separate.
Outside the US
- UKSafety matches are allowed in hand luggage but not in the hold; non-safety matches are banned from both. Source
Flying somewhere else? See the rules for the UK, EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Japan.
Questions people ask
Can you bring matches on a plane?
Yes, one book or packet of safety matches in your carry-on or pocket. Strike-anywhere matches are not allowed.
Can I pack matches in checked luggage?
No. TSA prohibits all matches in checked bags.