There’s something truly enchanting about exchanging vows beneath the Tuscan sun, on a beach in the Seychelles, or surrounded by snow-capped mountains in Switzerland. A wedding abroad isn’t just a ceremony—it’s an experience. But while the idea may seem like a dream, the logistics often bring you back to reality.
If you're in the midst of planning your destination wedding, chances are you’ve already tackled the big tasks—passports, guest travel, local legal requirements, accommodation, transport, and more. But there's one seemingly small detail that tends to catch couples off guard: confetti—and, more specifically, confetti cannons.
🎊 The Confetti Conundrum
Confetti has long been a symbol of celebration. That moment when a colourful cloud fills the air as you walk back up the aisle? Pure magic. But if you're planning to bring your own confetti cannons abroad, you might want to pause.
Why? Because while they may look harmless, most confetti cannons are not travel-friendly. They’re pressurised devices and fall under aviation and customs restrictions.
🚫 The Trouble with Travelling with Confetti Cannons
Confetti cannons often use compressed gas cartridges (like CO₂) to create the explosive pop that sends the confetti flying. This makes them classified as hazardous goods by airlines and airport security. In most cases:
You can’t pack them in hand luggage or checked bags.
They’re likely to be confiscated at airport security.
Some countries have import restrictions on pressurised devices.
In short, popping one into your suitcase is a recipe for disappointment (or worse, a delay at customs).
✅ What Are the Alternatives?
Fear not—there are plenty of ways to get that confetti moment without risking your wedding supplies being binned at the airport.
1. Buy Confetti Cannons at the Destination
Ask your wedding planner or venue if they can source confetti cannons locally. Many popular wedding destinations have suppliers who can provide them—legally and safely.
2. Bring Loose Biodegradable Confetti
Eco-friendly and usually safe to travel with, biodegradable confetti is a great option. You can bring it in sealed bags in your checked luggage, but always check the rules for your airline and destination country.
3. Hire Local Suppliers
Rather than transporting gear yourself, hire local professionals. Many wedding vendors offer confetti drops, petal throwers, and even sustainable cannon alternatives.
4. Use Creative Substitutes
Think outside the box: flower petals, bubbles, ribbon wands, rice, or even LED lights can all make a memorable exit moment—often without the environmental impact.
🧳 Packing Tips for Confetti Lovers
Never attempt to fly with pressurised confetti cannons.
Use resealable bags for loose confetti to avoid spills.
Print out the product description or material details to show airport or customs officials, if needed.
Check local regulations and venue rules—some places (especially historic or natural sites) ban confetti altogether.
📸 Photo Opportunity? Absolutely.
If you’ve always dreamed of that slow-motion, confetti-filled kiss shot, plan it in advance with your photographer. Whether it’s real or added digitally in post-editing, you can still capture that iconic moment.
Final Thoughts
It’s easy to get caught up in the big picture when planning a wedding abroad—but often, it’s the little things that matter most. Confetti might seem small, but it makes a big visual impact—and a little planning goes a long way.
With a bit of foresight, a splash of creativity, and a nod to eco-consciousness, you can enjoy every joyful, colourful moment of your wedding—no matter where in the world you’re celebrating.