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Watercolor paints in tubes in carry-on bags

I am interested in hearing from folks who have carried watercolor paints in tubes in their carry-on bags. Since the tubes that I have are only 15 ml each, several could fit in my 3-1-1 bag, along with the usual liquids and gels. Has the TSA or European security staff questioned you about the watercolors as you passed through? Were you asked to provide a Safety Data Sheet from the manufacturer of the watercolor, addressing flammability? On the TSA website the only mention of any kind of paint that I can find is “Spray Paint,” along with a catchall category: “Flammable Paints.”

Thanks, Steve

Posted by
103 posts

I’ve only taken watercolor pan sets so can’t answer your question. But if you’re worried about the liquid paint, why not just take a pan? Travel sets are compact and you won’t have any problems with that in a carry on.

Posted by
734 posts

When i was an art student 20 years ago we were told to make sure watercolor tubes were used/ sqeezed as brand new in their box they looked like boxes of bullets in the x-ray machine! !!
Other note, last autumn London to Prague, butter was classified as a liquid, so think there is a high chance paint would be too. Why not take one off the water colour books instead? Smaller and lighter:-)

Posted by
7010 posts

My daughter brought paint tubes home from Europe to US - didn't need any kind of safety sheet, but they did need to be in the 3-1-1 bag. They are considered like toothpaste or makeup (anything you can squeeze from a tube). You have 3 options: 1. bring only the tubes that fit in your 3-1-1 bag; 2. bring solid dry block watercolors; 3. buy paints when you reach your destination.

Posted by
44 posts

Thank you for your responses.

Pam, I may decide to take a pan set, but I would prefer to use the tubed colors I already have.

Caro, you suggest that I consider taking a “water colour book” instead. I don’t think I know what that might be. Would you please explain.

Nancy, thank you for the information regarding your daughter bringing watercolors in tubes in her 3-1-1 bag on a flight from Europe to the US. That is good to know.

Steve

Posted by
103 posts

Hi Steve, I understand perfectly. I like tubes better myself, but I try to pack light so I go with a travel pan set. Good luck. I think your tubes will go through fine.