Traveling with fresh flowers is a tricky endeavor because of the many rules and regulations governing what can safely be brought aboard an airplane. The water and chemical preservatives normally used to keep flowers fresh and nice looking will not successfully pass through security checkpoints because bringing large quantities of liquid aboard airplanes is prohibited. But it is possible to safely take flowers on airplanes for domestic flights and get through security checkpoints with minimal hassles by observing a few basic tips.

Step 1.

Prepare the flowers for transport several hours before arriving at the airport. Remove the leaves from along the lower half of each cut flower stem. Trim off the bottom inch from each stem. Make the cut slightly angled. Use clean pruning shears or sharp scissors to remove the leaves and trim the stems.

Step 2.

Heat water in a microwave or on the stovetop until it reaches 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a candy thermometer to measure the temperature. Pour the water into a large vase. Dissolve cut flower preservative in the water. Follow the label instructions to determine the correct usage and amount of preservative.

Step 3.

Soak the cut flower stems in the warm water and preservative solution for two to three hours before taking them to the airport. Keep the flowers in a cool spot out of direct sunlight so they will not experience stress, which will keep them from absorbing the preservative solution.

Step 4.

Stack four sheets of paper towel on a flat surface. Line up the edges. Dip the paper towels into the water and preservative solution until they are saturated. Wring out the excess liquid.

Step 5.

Lay the stems of the cut flowers on the moistened paper towels. Fold the paper towels around the base and sides of the stems. Cover the moistened paper towel with a double layer of plastic wrap. Secure the plastic wrap around the stems using a piece of masking tape.

Step 6.

Place the flowers into one of the plastic tubs provided at the security checkpoint. Allow them to be run through the security scanner. Gather them after they have passed inspection and proceed to your gate.

Step 7.

Keep the flowers at your seat during the flight, or ask a flight attendant to keep them in the galley to prevent them from being jostled or damaged. Ask if the flight attendant can place the flowers in water, if desired.

Things You Will Need

  • Pruning shears

  • Water

  • Candy thermometer

  • Vase

  • Cut flower preservative

  • Paper towel

  • Plastic wrap

  • Masking tape