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A post on X (formerly Twitter) has left plant lovers curious about whether they can carry plants, particularly tulsi, while travelling by air. The user wrote, “My mom packed a special Tulsi plant for me from her garden. I thought airport security would stop me, but turns out they were more spiritual than my mom. Tulsi got VIP treatment with separate security screening protocols. Now she’s happily planted on my balcony, reminding me of home.” My mom packed a very special tulsi plant for me from her garden. I thought airport security would stop me, but turns out they were more spiritual than my mom. Tulsi got VIP treatment with separate security screening protocols. Now she’s happily planted on my balcony,… pic.twitter.com/UM09e0w4to — Ritu Joon (@ritujoon2j) November 8, 2025 The post sparked curiosity about whether plants can be taken on a plane. What Do Airlines And Airport Rules Say About Carrying Plants? Air travel with plants is possible, but restrictions apply. Passengers must be aware of the rules set by airport security authorities and individual airlines. While regulations allow passengers to bring plants on domestic flights, each airline may have its own rules; some may accept plants as carry-on items, while others may require them to be checked in. Passengers are advised to check with their airline before flying to ensure compliance with its policies. Plants Allowed: Conditions You Must Follow — When travelling with plants, secure packing is essential. — Choose small, lightweight plants that are easier to transport. — Wrap the pot in plastic to prevent soil spillage. — Water the plant before the flight. — Place the plant and pot inside a clear plastic bag for added protection. — These steps help prevent mess and make inspection easier during security screening. Plants Not Allowed: International Travel Restrictions For international flights, the rules become stricter. Many countries have regulations to prevent pests and plant-borne diseases. Travellers may need permits or certificates before carrying plants across borders. The report notes that it is crucial to research the destination country’s rules before flying. Does Tulsi Get Special Treatment? The X post suggests the tulsi plant received unusual attention at airport security, with the user describing “VIP treatment with separate security screening protocols.” While official guidelines do not specifically list tulsi as exempt from rules, the plant sometimes receives considerate handling, possibly due to its cultural or religious significance for many Indian travellers. Alternatives If You Cannot Carry A Plant — For those unable to carry plants because of airline or destination restrictions, the options are: — Shipping the plant separately through a courier service. — Gifting or donating the plant before travelling. — Buying new plants at the destination. Travelling with plants is possible, but rules vary. Check airline policies, pack carefully and ensure you meet domestic or international regulations to avoid disappointment at the airport.
