Traveling With Your Concealed Carry Firearms within the U.S.
Posted by Jessica Koenes on Mar 18th 2022
Most of us enjoy the freedom to travel with our firearms, but there are some restrictions depending on where you're going. Knowing which states grant this privilege and what their guidelines require can make for an easier trip!
The rules of gun ownership in America are often complex and misunderstood. Before you go on your next trip with a firearm, be sure to do some research about what is legal where along the route as well as how those laws vary from state to state!
Chances are you have traveled from your home state at some point in your life. There may come a day when you will want to bring your firearm along with you while you travel. Whether you choose to fly, drive, or boat, there are a couple things you will need to be aware of before traveling with a firearm.
Can I travel with my gun to other states within the U.S. by Car?
U.S map , by Kjrstie licensed under Pixabay
Traveling with a Firearm within the U.S. in a Vehicle
Traveling within the U.S. with a firearm is much simpler than international travel. There are a few acceptions, but most U.S. states allow for transportation of unloaded, locked, firearms. Most likely, you will not encounter any issues with transporting a firearm with interstate driving, however, keep in mind that you need to comply with regulations, whether you plan on encountering law enforcement or not. Consider the possibility of getting pulled over, having a car accident, or a travel injury. You will need to ensure you are following specific state regulations. It is important to remember that your firearm needs to be in a location that is considered to be inaccessible for use with bullets that are not in a chamber.
In the event that you are pulled over, remember that several states have a law that requires you to declare when you are carrying a firearm. It is a good safety consideration to let an officer know if you have a weapon in your car, even if you are in a state that does not have the “duty to declare” in effect. This is especially important to communicate if you store your firearm near a glove box or near your registration. Unfortunately, there is not a uniform state transportation procedure for firearms when traveling between states in the United States by car. The following list ensures you are transporting your gun legally.
travel gun , by gmsjs90 licensed under Pixabay
- Best Procedures for Transporting Firearms in Car
- Make sure your gun is registered and all paperwork is in order.
- Unload your firearm and make sure there is no ammunition in the gun.
- Put your gun inside a lockable case. Our Pick and Pluck case is an excellent option.
- Store the unloaded gun in a locked case in an inaccessible area in your car such as a truck or unattached box.
- Store any ammunition in a separate locked container.
Research any Changes in Regulation
Be aware that Federal and state firearms laws may change over time. It is encouraged to look into specific state restrictions and jurisdictions close to the date you travel. It could also be beneficial to consult a local attorney with any questions you may have about specific questions or complications. There are some locations within the United States where firearms will not be tolerated. Military bases, federal buildings, and national parks typically do not allow weapons on the premises.
Can I travel with my gun to other states within the U.S. by Airplane
Traveling with a Firearm within the U.S. in a Plane
If you decide to travel far within the U.S, there is a change you may choose to fly rather than drive. Flying within the United States with a firearm has similar regulations to driving, but there are TSA travel restrictions to consider as well.
You can go to the TSA website to access updated information about travel regulations by flight with a firearm. It is also recommended to print off a copy of the TSA regulations and keep it with your firearm in the locked box. If you purchase supplemental insurance for your firearm package, also print that off and keep a copy on your person and a copy in your firearm locked case.
- Best Procedures for Transporting Firearms by Airplane
- Make sure your gun is registered and all paperwork is in order.
- Unload your firearm and make sure there is no ammunition in the gun.
- Put your gun inside a lockable case with a steel locking (key or combo) box with restraining cable. Our cases are TSA certified.
- Place a red/orange firearm declaration card issued by the ticket agent on the outside of the firearm case.
- Give yourself plenty of time to check in at the gate and delacre your stored firearm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, travel should be fun and enjoyable. To help ensure you can travel with ease with your firearm, do a little research. If you are traveling by car, look ahead at specific state regulations. If you decide to travel by flight, check ahead with TSA regulations. At the end of the day, traveling with a firearm does not need to be complicated, just stay informed and comply with regulations.
References:
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/transporting-firearms-and-ammunition
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20150101/guide-to-the-interstate-transportation
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20150101/guide-to-the-interstate-transportation
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/transporting-firearms-and-ammunition