Tips for Traveling with Cheese

TRAVELING WITH CHEESE

Imagine you’re on vacation in Door County and decide to indulge in the delicious offerings at Renard’s Artisan Cheese. You discover so many amazing flavors that you can't wait to bring some home to share with friends and family—and keep a little for yourself! However, you realize you need to figure out how to transport all that glorious cheese without it spoiling. Don’t worry; we’re here to help! Most cheese is pretty low-maintenance, and we’ll guide you through your options for getting it home safely.

FLYING WITH CHEESE

Just because you’re flying doesn’t mean you can’t take a lot of cheese home, but it helps to be prepared. Several of our customers (you know who you are!) bring a suitcase each summer to stock up on their favorite cheeses. Here’s what you need to know according to the TSA:

- Blocks of cheese, shredded cheese, and cheese curds are referred to by the TSA as “solid cheeses.” They can go in your carry-on luggage or checked baggage—whichever works best for you. The good news is that you can bring as much cheese as you’d like! Trust us when we tell you that the TSA agents at the Green Bay airport won’t be surprised, no matter how much you pack. Be aware that cheese tends to flag TSA screenings because its density can resemble that of certain explosives or other prohibited materials on X-ray scans. This similarity might cause TSA agents to inspect the cheese to ensure it's safe, but it’s usually a relatively quick process.

 - Spreads and dips, or "creamy cheeses," as the TSA refers to them, can ONLY be placed in checked luggage. To avoid disappointment, plan accordingly. There’s no quantity limit, but it's recommended to pack them with ice packs to keep them cool. For your convenience, Renard’s Artisan Cheese sells reasonably priced ice packs that are already frozen.

- Be aware that TSA agents may need to inspect your cheeses at their discretion. Ultimately, the TSA has the authority to refuse or confiscate items, and this blog does not guarantee that your items will be allowed on the plane since circumstances may vary.

- If you are traveling internationally, check the rules for your destination country, as some places do not allow dairy products to be brought in.

CAR TRAVEL WITH CHEESE

To keep your cheese cool while traveling by car, store it in a cooler or a refrigerator at your hotel or rental before leaving. Keeping spreads and shredded cheeses cool is especially important, as they spoil faster than firmer varieties.

If you're short on space in your cooler, we offer small and large pre-chilled hot/cold bags and ice gel packs that are already frozen. We also sell 7-pound bags of ice cubes, so you can top off your cooler if needed. You can even bring your own hot/cold bag from home, making it useful throughout your vacation!

Driving for only a few hours? Block cheeses sealed in their original packaging will be fine at room temperature during your trip. During warmer months, keep them in the central part of the vehicle, where the air conditioning is running, rather than in the trunk.

 BONUS: CHEESE CURD TIP

If you plan to eat your cheese curds within 24 hours of purchase, do NOT refrigerate them. Cold curds don’t squeak; they will be fine at room temperature because they are so fresh (we make them daily!). However, they should be refrigerated if older than 24 hours, though they taste best if brought to room temperature or slightly warmed before consumption.

GENERAL TRAVEL TIPS FOR CHEESE

- Pack your cheese curds in a Ziploc or tied shopping bag to avoid leaks, as whey can seep from the original packaging and create a mess.

- Instead of buying larger blocks of cheese, consider purchasing multiple ½-pound blocks. This way, you'll only open the cheese you’ll use soon, keeping the remainder sealed and fresh for longer.

- If you have any questions, our knowledgeable store associates are happy to assist you.

Still couldn’t get all the cheese you wanted? You can order online 24/7 through our website! We ship year-round to anywhere in the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. This includes a variety of cheeses, wines, sweets, and other local goodies, allowing you to enjoy the taste of Door County at any time.

Stop by Renard’s Artisan Cheese on your next trip to Door County and stock up. Your friends and family will thank you!