Traveling with an urn, the ashes of a loved one, is a deeply emotional experience.
Whether you're fulfilling a final wish or returning someone to their homeland, it's important to ensure that your urn meets airline and airport security requirements.
Choosing the right urn and preparing properly can help make the journey smoother and more respectful.
What You Need to Know About Traveling with an Urn and what are the X-ray requirements
When traveling with an urn, it's essential to select a container that can pass through airport security without issues. Although no official certification exists for urns in the UK, the term “airport-compliant” typically refers to urns made from materials that can be clearly scanned by airport security.
To pass through screening smoothly, the urn must be X-ray-friendly, allowing security staff to verify its contents without opening it.Therefore, choosing the right materials and dimensions is critical.
Cremation urns must meet size and material guidelines, typically not exceeding 18.8 x 14 x 24.1 cm to qualify as carry-on luggage. This ensures they fit safely in overhead bins or under the seat.
Recommended Urn Materials for Air Travel
An urn must be made of materials that can be easily scanned by X-ray machines. This allows control agents to verify the contents without opening the urn, which they are not permitted to do. Suitable materials include wood, plastic or biodegradable materials, ceramic, glass, and certain resin composites.
These options are typically transparent enough on an X-ray to meet screening requirements. In contrast, urns made of metal, such as brass, aluminum, or steel, as well as those crafted from thick stone or marble, often block or distort the X-ray image. As a result, they are not approved and may be denied clearance at airport security checkpoints.
How to Travel Safely and Respectfully with an Urn
First, make sure you have a secure carry-on bag. Always transport the urn in your carry-on, since checked baggage is more prone to loss or damage.
Choose the right urn by ensuring it is X-ray-friendly, following the guidelines we provided earlier. Many companies now offer urns labeled as “airport-safe.”
Notify security discreetly. Inform agents that you are carrying human remains so they can handle the item with sensitivity.
For more detailed information on traveling with an urn, we recommend reading our previous article Guidelines on How to Take Ashes Abroad.
Where to Buy Travel-Friendly Urns
When you are traveling with an urn, it can be difficult to know where to start. We recommend beginning your search at local funeral homes. If they don’t have what you need, you can explore online memorial stores or trusted retailers like Amazon and Etsy.
Another thing to keep in mind when shopping for the perfect urn for your loved one, is to look for product descriptions that include terms like "airline-safe urn," "travel-friendly urn," or "X-ray compliant" to ensure suitability for air travel.
Also, consider purchasing a temporary travel urn, which can be transferred to a more decorative or permanent urn after your journey.
Can I use a metal urn if I pack it in checked luggage?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Checked luggage carries a higher risk of damage or loss.
Flying with a loved one’s ashes is a deeply personal responsibility. By choosing the right materials, preparing the necessary documents, and following the right airline guidelines, you can focus on honoring your loved one’s final wishes—without unexpected complications.
If you're unsure about which urns are safe to travel with, consult your funeral provider or a trusted memorial retailer.