How to Pack Lobster for Travel

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There are few things better than a forkful of delicious, buttery lobster. But what if you want to travel with some tasty crustaceans to share with the family back home? Traveling with live lobster can seem like a daunting task, but the process is actually fairly simple.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Packaging the Lobster

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  1. This will help keep the lobster fresh. If you do not have gel packs, a Ziploc baggie filled with ice will suffice. [1]
  2. If you don't have seaweed, wet newspapers will work as a substitute. Be sure to use a few layers to protect the gel packs from the lobster. [2]
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  3. Be sure the lobsters' claws are secured, either with rubber bands or zip ties. Give the lobsters enough room so they will not be crushed by the lid. [3]
  4. Tuck the seaweed into the sides of the box to secure your lobster and pack the lid on tight. [4]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Flying with Lobster

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  1. TSA regulations allow live lobsters to be checked in and will visually inspect your lobster. To make the process go more smoothly, make sure the container is spill-proof. [5]
  2. Not all airlines allow seafood to be brought in as a carry-on, so it helps to check in with them before getting to the airport and see what policies they have in place.
    • Some airlines require your package to be wrapped in plastic and protected by styrofoam inserts. [6]
    • Also, check that your package fits the required dimensions specific to your airline. [7]
  3. Expect to have your lobster inspected. Again, contact your airline to determine the proper procedure for carrying on lobster.
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      Tips

      • Select hard-shelled lobsters for longer flights to help ensure they survive the journey. Soft-shelled lobsters are quicker to die out of the water and can only last 3-10 hours. Hard-shelled lobsters can survive up to 24 hours in transit. [8]
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      • Rather than boil your lobster, steam them instead for a sweet, juicy flavor. [9]
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      Warnings

      • If your lobster has died after transit, it may still be safe to eat. If the lobster smells of ammonia, it is not safe for consumption and may cause severe foodborne illness if ingested. [10]
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      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about packing food, check out our in-depth interview with Julien Miller .

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/live-lobster
      2. ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/live-lobster
      3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02RVi3cx7ug
      4. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02RVi3cx7ug
      5. ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/live-lobster
      6. ↑ https://www.southwest.com/html/customer-service/baggage/index.html?clk=GFOOTER-CUSTOMER-BAGS
      7. ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/live-lobster
      8. ↑ https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2012/09/12/160944468/have-lobster-will-travel-and-race-the-clock
      9. ↑ http://www.foodrepublic.com/2012/06/15/8-tips-for-buying-lobster-and-what-to-do-once-youve-bought-it/
      1. ↑ https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2012/09/12/160944468/have-lobster-will-travel-and-race-the-clock

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