Airport security regulations are meant to keep all travelers safe. When it comes to firearms, the TSA has very specific rules to follow. To help you understand what is going on and what we expect to happen in the future, our highly-experienced Kiplinger Letter team will keep you abreast of the latest developments and forecasts (Get a free issue of The Kiplinger Letter or subscribe). You'll get all the latest news first by subscribing, but we will publish many (but not all) of the forecasts a few days afterward online. Here’s the latest...
A record number of travelers will try to board planes with loaded firearms if the number of incidents continues at the same pace as in the first half of the year, when the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) intercepted 3,251 firearms (92% of which were loaded) at security checkpoints, versus 3,053 in the first half of 2022.
The current all-time high — 6,542 annual firearms interceptions — was set last year. Some pointers for passengers who wish to travel with their guns: Ensure they’re properly packed in checked baggage, as well as declared at the airline ticket counter. Some airlines may impose additional requirements.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
"You may transport unloaded firearms in a locked hard-sided container, as checked baggage only," according to the TSA website. Additionally, ammunition is only allowed in checked baggage, and it is prohibited from being transferred in carry-on luggage. If you're traveling internationally, consult the U.S. Customs and Border Protection firearm regulations.
Keep your ammunition out of your weapon — and in your checked bag.
Folks caught with an undeclared firearm could face steep penalties of up to $14,950, travel restrictions and even arrest, depending on local law.
This forecast first appeared in The Kiplinger Letter, which has been running since 1923 and is a collection of concise weekly forecasts on business and economic trends, as well as what to expect from Washington, to help you understand what’s coming up to make the most of your investments and your money. Subscribe to The Kiplinger Letter.
Related Content
-
Fired Up By the Masters and RBC Heritage? See These Homes for Sale By Golf CoursesFive homes for sale near golf courses, for people who can't get enough of the tour.
-
The Economic Impact of the US-China Trade WarThe Letter The US-China trade war will impact US consumers and business. The decoupling process could be messy.
-
What To Know if You’re in the Market for a New Car This YearThe Kiplinger Letter Buying a new car will get a little easier, but don’t expect many deals.
-
Universal Savings Accounts Are Like Roth IRAs, But With a TwistThe Tax Letter Republican lawmakers and conservative think tanks are proposing a new type of tax-advantaged savings account. Think Roth IRAs, but not just for retirement.
-
Will Lower Mortgage Rates Bring Relief to the Housing Market?The Kiplinger Letter As mortgage rates slowly come down here's what to expect in the housing market over the next year or so.
-
Car Prices Are Finally Coming DownThe Kiplinger Letter For the first time in years, it may be possible to snag a good deal on a new car.
-
New Graduates Navigate a Challenging Labor MarketThe Kiplinger Letter Things are getting tough for new graduates. Job offers are drying up and the jobless rate is increasing. Are internships the answer?
-
QCDs Are a Tax-Smart Way for Retirees To Donate to CharityThe Tax Letter With QCDs, retirees can save on taxes by making donations from their IRAs directly to charity. Here's what you need to know about qualified charitable distributions.
-
How to Beat Soaring Home and Auto Insurance PremiumsThe Kiplinger Letter What’s behind the insurance price hikes, and what to do about them?
-
How to Navigate an Extra-Busy Summer Travel SeasonThe Kiplinger Letter Tips for beating the exceptional crowds expected this year and keeping your vacation budget manageable.
