Can I Travel with Live Lobsters? Your Savvy Guide to Lobster Air Travel
Greetings, fellow travel enthusiasts and seafood aficionados! Today, we’re diving into a must-know topic for anyone planning to bring a taste of Maine’s famous lobsters home after their visit.. Yes, we’re talking about traveling with live lobsters! Whether you’re looking to surprise a loved one with a gourmet gift or just want to enjoy a taste of the ocean at your destination, here’s your Savvy Traveler guide to flying with these clawed delicacies.
Flying with Lobsters: What You Need to Know
1. TSA Guidelines: Live lobsters are allowed on airplanes, but there are specific guidelines you must follow. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), you can bring live lobsters both in your checked baggage and as a carry-on. However, if you’re carrying them onboard, they need to be in a clear, plastic, spill-proof container. This is important because it allows TSA officers to inspect the lobster without handling it directly, ensuring a smooth check-in process at security.
2. Airline Policies: While TSA provides general guidelines, airline policies on live lobsters can vary. For example, American Airlines won’t allow you to use dry ice in your container, and it’s always wise to check with your specific airline for any additional requirements or restrictions they might have. Always call ahead or check the airline’s website to avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport.
3. Packing Your Lobsters: If you’re purchasing live lobsters to take on a flight, especially from places like the Midcoast or Downeast regions of Maine, where lobsters are aplenty, fish markets are well-versed in packing them for travel. For about $60, you can get a package that includes several lobsters snugly packed in a cardboard box. Inside, they’ll be nestled in a Styrofoam container, cushioned with a thick layer of seaweed to provide moisture and comfort, and accompanied by a frozen gel pack wrapped in wet newspaper. This setup is designed to keep them alive for up to eight hours between their ocean home and your cooking pot.
4. Preparing for the Journey: The clock is ticking when traveling with live lobsters, as they need to be cooked soon after arrival. Make sure your travel time, including transit to and from the airport, aligns with this window to ensure your lobsters remain fresh and safe to eat. It’s also a good idea to have your cooking arrangements ready at your destination to minimize time between travel and dinner.
5. Local Regulations and Customs: Be aware of any local regulations regarding seafood transportation at your destination, especially if you are traveling internationally. Some regions might have restrictions on bringing live animals or specific types of seafood across borders.
So, whether you’re planning a seafood feast on a distant shore or bringing a taste of Maine to your relatives, traveling with live lobsters is not as daunting as it might sound. With the right preparation and a little savvy know-how, you can ensure these gourmet critters make it from the ocean to your dinner plate, no matter where you are.