Traveling with Wine

So you successfully planned a trip to that place where you’ve always wanted to go for which you had saved money, took off from work and booked some great sightseeing tours (including some wineries). You were so enamored with some of the wines that you decide you MUST have a bottle (or two). But should you? What are the rules on airlines? Taking wine across state borders? If you would rather not bother with rules, most states allow you to ship your wine back home to you (via the winery you bought it at). You can check if your state allows shipping here. But if you are flying – note that ANY liquid over 3oz is forbidden (sample liquor technically can be carried on, as long as it is in your zip lock baggie). If you decide you can bear to check your luggage (maybe you were going to check it anyway, or your frequent flyer points allowed 1 free checked bag) you are allowed to carry as many bottles of wine as  you’d like (you can read the official TSA rule here). Unless you are a super packer, or would like to chance TSA not checking your bag, simply pad your wine with your dirty socks and such. However, for added security, consider putting your wine in a Wine Skin – it is clear so TSA can see what is in it, and it is padded with layers of bubble wrap as well as a means to seal your wine in the bag so if the unfortunate was to happen, the broken bits and wine stays completely contained in the Wine Skin or the Wine Mummy. As far as driving across state lines – most states allow individual transportation of wine as long as the seal is not broken and the wine is not in the driver’s reach. The penalties can be hefty if that seal is broken (you can view the official Texas law about transportation here) so be mindful of where you pack your wine on the trip home. If all else fails, you can always plan a return visit – or plan a special night on your vacation to enjoy a bottle of local wine under the stars and in complete legal bliss. However you decide to proceed, always double check your state laws and drink responsibly.

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