Yes, you can generally take a cardboard or "carton" box on a flight, but it must adhere to the same weight and size restrictions as standard suitcases. Most airlines allow boxes to be checked as luggage as long as they are sturdy, well-sealed with heavy-duty packing tape, and do not exceed the standard limit of 62 linear inches (length + width + height). However, there are some specific "box embargos" to be aware of; for example, some airlines (like American Airlines) occasionally restrict the check-in of boxes on flights to certain international destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean, or South America during peak travel seasons because boxes can be difficult to stack and may take up excess space in the cargo hold. If you are checking a box, it is highly recommended to wrap it in plastic "shrink wrap" at the airport for added durability and to prevent the cardboard from softening if it encounters rain on the tarmac. You should also clearly label the box with your contact information directly on the cardboard in case the luggage tag gets ripped off. Always check your specific airline’s "Special Items" or "Baggage Allowance" page, as some carriers may charge an extra handling fee for non-standard containers.