Traveling with Art Supplies: A Guide

When travelling across the world seeing magnificent sights, you’ll most likely get inspired to pull out your art pad and replicate the beauty around. If you’re travelling with art supplies, here are some things to keep in mind.

1. Start With A Checklist

First things first, make a checklist. With tons of art supplies scattered around in your studio, you might face the urge to pack it all up. This is why making a checklist of only the necessary items will ensure you don’t go overboard with packing. Keep in mind that you’ll have to carry your clothes, shoes and other essentials within a limited weight allowance.

2. Print Out A MSDS

A Material Security Data Sheet will keep you away from any troubles at the checking counter. This is a detailed document regarding the art supplies that you carry. Avoid using the word “paint” and replace it with “Artist Colors” instead. Make sure to state that you’re not taking any solvent or hazardous materials.

If you have oil paints, tell the security guards that artist oil paints are made from vegetable oil, which is allowed on the plane. Art supplies are most likely to be thoroughly inspected, which is why this MSDS comes in handy.

3. Sort Out The Liquids

All liquids should be kept in a transparent sealable bag 20cm by 20 cm in size. If you don’t have this at home, you’ll probably find them at the airport as well. Remember that each liquid cannot be over 100ml, and the total combined liquid allowed is 1 liter. This is why it’s best to put all your liquid-based items in your baggage so that your toiletries can come under the 1-litre hand-carry limit.

Before putting anything in your luggage, do thorough research to double-check whether that item is safe for travel, or else you’ll have to open your suitcases at the airport!

4. Check Your Carry On Luggage

The one thing you want to stir away from is a knife issue in your carry-on luggage. All sharp tools like pallet knives should be packed in your checked-in bag. It’s also smart to put these items in a clear transparent bag with a label on top stating the contents. So, if they do ask you to open up your luggage, you won’t have to mess up your packing, searching for each piece individually. Simply show them the bag, and they’ll read the label on top.

All your paints should be in their original containers with their correct labels. If you transfer paint into a clear plastic bottle, be prepared for it to be confiscated.

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Visit their online store today.