Weighted Vests, Blankets, etc. on a Plane

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Hi guys. I have a question for you. Do any of you have experience bringing weighted objects like vests, lap pads, stuffed animals, etc. on airplanes via carry-on with you? I ask because I'm flying overseas to see my extended family come Christmas, and it's a long flight, so I was thinking that having my weighted bear to sit on my lap with me would help alleviate some of the stress of the close quarters and potentially loud/disruptive other passengers, like small children. My problem is, I'm very worried about the TSA guys seeing her beanbags full of polyfil pellets in the x-ray machines when we go through security, and thinking I'm trying to smuggle drugs or something through. What do you think?

Hi, Startrekker! I don't think you need to be too worried about your weighted bear. I've sent several stuffed animals thru security checkpoints without a problem. One of my oldest stuffed animals, Dory the dolphin, has even been sewn on several times (which I've heard can be interpreted as a red flag for smuggling at some security checkpoints), but that's never been any problem. I think if they just run everything on the conveyor belts thru the x-ray machine, they just call it good. They might ask to unzip and look through your luggage, but that tends to be no big deal. I think you and your bear should be just fine!

For grins and giggles,

I would call a your carrier or find call TSA and actually ASK. A ratty stuff toy is one thing, something that looks like it has buck shot is a whole different deal. (ammo)

I would have a letter typed out on your doctor's/therapist letter head and and actual prescription written out for your weighted item.

Why?

God knows which TA drone you will get on that day. If they take it away/you have to leave it or you meltdown (security called), there goes your trip.

I'm sure you are not the first ASD person with this issue, but you maybe the first your TSA agent has dealt with a weighted item.

Leave nothing to chance.

Have fun!

Thanks for the replies guys I emailed the airport via their disability accommodations email, but have yet to hear back from them. I might just have to bite the bullet and call them, despite my hatred of phones!