Taking your fursuit across borders adds complexity to convention travel. From navigating TSA to explaining your costume to foreign customs agents, preparation is key. This guide covers everything you need to know for stress-free international suit travel.
Before You Go
Documentation
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months past your travel dates.
Visa: Check requirements for your destination (use iVisa or your government's travel site).
Convention Confirmation: Print your registration as proof of purpose.
Suit Photos: Carry photos of you wearing the suit. This proves it's personal clothing, not merchandise.
Insurance
Travel Insurance: Covers trip cancellation, delays, and medical emergencies. Highly recommended.
Baggage Insurance: Standard travel insurance usually covers lost luggage, but check the limits.
Fursuit-Specific Coverage: Some home/renter's insurance policies cover high-value items abroad. Call your provider.
Airport Security (TSA / Equivalent)
What to Expect
X-Ray Screening: Your suit will go through the X-ray machine. Foam heads may look unusual on the screen.
Manual Inspection: TSA agents may want to open your case and inspect the suit. This is normal.
Questions: Be prepared to explain what it is. "It's a costume I wear at conventions" is sufficient.
Tips for Smooth Screening
Pack Smart: Put the suit in an easily openable case. Avoid zipping it inside multiple bags.
Remove Electronics: Fans, LED controllers, and battery packs should be visible or in a separate pouch.
Arrive Early: Allow extra time (at least 30-45 minutes beyond normal).
Stay Calm: TSA agents are just doing their job. Be polite and cooperative.
Lithium Battery Rules
Carry-On Only: Lithium batteries (for fans, LEDs) must be in carry-on luggage, NOT checked bags.
Watt-Hour Limits: Most personal electronics are fine. Large battery packs (over 100Wh) may need airline approval.
Customs Declarations
Arriving in a Foreign Country
When asked about your luggage:
Declare it as: "Personal clothing/costume for a hobby convention."
Value: Give the realistic used value, not what you paid. A 5-year-old suit is not worth $3,000 anymore.
Show Photos: If questioned, photos of you wearing it prove personal use.
Common Country Notes
USA: Returning US citizens can bring $800 worth of goods duty-free.
EU: Personal effects are generally not taxed. Commercial goods are.
Japan: Very smooth customs. Rarely questioned about costumes.
Canada: Similar to the US. Declare if asked, but personal items are usually fine.
Airline Baggage
Checked vs. Carry-On
Checked (Hard Case)
Pros: More protection, no overhead hassle
Cons: Risk of loss, temperature extremes
Carry-On
Pros: Always with you, climate-controlled
Cons: Size limits, TSA inspection more likely
Size Limits (Typical)
Carry-On: 22" x 14" x 9" (fits most partials, not full suits)
Checked Standard: 62" linear (L+W+H), 50 lbs
Oversized: 63"+ or 51+ lbs = extra fees ($100-200+)