The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with Flowers: Expert Tips from Florists

Can You Bring Flowers on a Plane? Here’s What You Need to Know

Last week, while boarding a flight, I noticed a woman carrying a bouquet onto the plane. This raised my curiosity—what exactly are the rules for traveling with flowers? While it’s clearly possible, are there restrictions travelers should be aware of? Even if airlines allow flowers on board, will customs regulations permit you to bring them into another country?

Bringing flowers home from a trip is a wonderful way to preserve memories, whether it’s a wedding bouquet, a birthday surprise, or a special floral arrangement from a vacation. But before you pack flowers in your carry-on or checked luggage, it’s important to understand airline policies, customs regulations, and how to keep your flowers fresh during the journey.

This guide covers everything you need to know about traveling with flowers, featuring practical advice and insights from professional florists.

Can You Bring Fresh Flowers on a Plane?

In general, airlines permit passengers to bring fresh flowers on board, although policies may differ depending on the airline and destination. Here’s what to consider:

Carry-on luggage: Most airlines allow small flower bouquets in hand luggage if they comply with carry-on size restrictions.
Checked luggage: Flowers are typically permitted in checked bags, but usually without water, due to liquid restrictions.
Water tubes and floral foam: Security checkpoints may reject water-filled tubes, so wrapping flower stems in damp tissue is a safer choice.

Before traveling, it’s always advisable to check the airline’s official policies about transporting fresh flowers.

Will Customs Allow Flowers Into Another Country?

While airlines usually permit flowers on board, customs rules can be significantly more restrictive. Countries enforce strict agricultural controls to prevent pests or plant diseases from entering their borders.

Countries with Strict Flower Regulations:

Australia and New Zealand: Extremely strict biosecurity laws; fresh flowers are usually prohibited.
United States and Canada: Some flowers are allowed, but must be declared upon arrival.
European Union: Generally allows flowers within the EU, but restricts imports from non-EU countries.

Checking Customs Rules in Advance:

Visit the customs or agricultural authority website of your destination country.
Always declare flowers at customs to prevent fines or confiscation.
If unsure, opt for dried or preserved flowers as these usually pose fewer restrictions.

Declaring your flowers at customs is the safest way to avoid unexpected fines or confiscation.

Expert Florist Tips: How to Keep Flowers Fresh While Traveling

Flying can expose flowers to temperature changes, dry cabin air, and rough handling. Here are practical recommendations from professional florists to keep your blooms fresh:

1. Properly Wrap the Stems
Hydration is key. Wrap flower stems in damp paper towels and seal them in a plastic bag to maintain moisture during travel.

2. Select Resilient Flowers
Choose sturdy flowers for traveling. Roses, orchids, and lilies are ideal, while delicate blooms like hydrangeas may wilt quickly.

3. Protect Petals During Transit
Pack flowers loosely wrapped in paper or in breathable flower boxes to protect them from crushing or bruising.

4. Avoid Exposure to Heat and Direct Sunlight
Keep flowers cool and shaded while waiting at the airport to prevent wilting.

5. Store Flowers Upright in the Overhead Bin
Place bouquets upright in the overhead bin to prevent damage during your flight.

Florist Insight:
“Many of our customers fly home with flowers. The most effective way to ensure freshness is to wrap stems in lightly damp paper towels and seal them in a plastic bag to maintain moisture throughout the journey.” – UrbanFlowers

Alternative Ways to Bring Flowers Home

When traveling to countries with strict customs laws, consider these creative ways to preserve your floral memories:

Dried flowers: Preserved and easy to transport.
Pressed flowers: Create unique keepsakes from special bouquets.
Silica gel drying: Quickly dry flowers before travel.
Photographs and resin art: Capture your flowers in a photograph or transform them into resin jewelry or decorations if fresh flowers aren’t permitted.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with flowers requires preparation, but with careful planning, you can successfully bring home a meaningful floral keepsake. Checking airline policies, customs regulations, and packing your flowers properly ensures a smooth journey.

Special thanks to the florists at UrbanFlowers for contributing expert insights.