Can I bring matcha on a plane?
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Matcha keeps you focused, relaxed, but most of all energized. Naturally, you’ll want to take matcha with you when you’re travelling and go to put your favorite flavor in your carry-on bag. Wait, should matcha go in your carry-on bag? Here is our list of tips for travelling with matcha.
Carry-on luggage
Bags of matcha up to 12oz are fine in your carry-on bag. Just like baby formula or any other powder, containers with more than 12oz need to be removed from your bag and screened separately. Store your matcha in a clear resealable bag so it can be taken out quickly when going through airport security.
Save the packaging
Whenever possible, it’s best to keep matcha in its original packaging. Avoid giving TSA any reason to hassle you by keeping your potentially questionable green powders in respectable and clearly labeled containers.
Double bag your matcha (or at least tape it shut)
The bag handlers at the airport can be somewhat rough with passengers’ luggage. If your bag happens to be the one at the bottom of the pile, a closed matcha bag could inadvertently pop open, bathing your bag’s contents in what is basically an ultra-fine green glitter. And like glitter, it’s hard to completely wash away matcha. It’s best to play it safe and put any open matcha bags in a resealable bag.
Making matcha at the airport
While not as common as cold-water drinking fountains, some major airports are installing free hot water fountains. If you have your travel mug on hand and are lucky enough to spot one of these stations, you can enjoy a relaxing matcha while waiting at your gate. Add a small amount of matcha to your mug and add a small amount of hot water. Close the lid and shake vigorously to break up any clumps. Slowly open the lid (being careful of the hot stream and pressure built in the container) and add the rest of the hot water.
Sadly, hot water stations aren’t available in many airports. If you are truly determined, you can buy hot water for tea at a cafe. It’s also just as easy to buy milk, fruit smoothie or a pack of yogurt from a store and add a scoop of your matcha to that.
Traveling should be fun but sometimes it isn’t. At those times, being able to enjoy your favorite matcha can feel like a small luxury. Taking matcha with you on the go is a great and healthy way to recharge your energy and lower your stress levels. Don’t forget your favorite flavor when you go on your next vacation!