Traveling is a great way to learn, but it’s also important to know the rules and regulations, especially when flying. If you enjoy carrying useful items with you every day or believe in the importance of being able to protect yourself, you might often have a small knife in your pocket. This item can be more confusing than a regular bottle of water, and even experienced travelers may have trouble understanding it. The question “Can you bring a knife through TSA?” doesn’t have a straightforward answer. It depends on certain factors.
To make sure there is no confusion or mistakes with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), we want to clarify the rules for traveling with EDC pocket knives. In this guide, we will discuss the differences between carry-on baggage and checked luggage, which types of blades are allowed, the maximum length of blades, and other packing guidelines to make your trip easier. In addition, we will clarify how knife laws differ depending on where you are going, and provide guidance on how to handle those laws so that you can carry your knife comfortably and within the legal limits.
Can You Carry a Pocket Knife on a Plane?
Beginning in 2023, it is not allowed to bring a pocket knife or any other sharp object in your carry-on luggage. The TSA has made this decision as part of their ongoing efforts to keep everyone safe, including passengers, flight crew, and airport employees. It is part of a set of safety regulations and restrictions that are constantly being updated.
This applies to all types of blades, including but not limited to:
- Pocket knives
- Swiss army knives
- EDC/folding blades
- Multi-tools
- Swords
- Switchblades
- Utility knives/box cutters
- Razor blades
- Tactical pens
Read Also: Can We Bring Lithium Batteries on Planes?
TSA Policies to Bring Knife & Weapons
After the events of 2001, the TSA made fast changes to prioritize the security of individuals and the nation. The laws for domestic air travel in the US have changed a lot over time. Currently, all types of knives, blades, and other sharp objects are not allowed to be brought into the cabin.
The policy was last changed in June 2013. The TSA had initially allowed small blades in carry-on luggage in March 2013, but they reversed that decision. The policy, which was in place for less than 3 months, did not allow knives with blades that cannot be folded or moved, such as razor blades and box cutters.
The TSA does not allow travelers, both domestic and international, to bring any sharp objects in their carry-on or hand baggage. To avoid harming baggage handlers and inspectors, it is important to cover or wrap any knives or sharp objects and keep them in your checked luggage. Plastic or round-bladed butter knives are allowed in your carry-on bag.
TSA Policies to Bring Knife & Weapons ( International )
The TSA has rules for flying within the US, but different countries have different rules for international travel. If you are traveling from the United States to another country, you need to follow TSA restrictions.
However, if you are traveling to another country and both the place you are leaving from and the place you are going to are outside of the United States, there are different rules that you need to follow. Different countries have their own rules about which knives are allowed on flights.
For example, in the UK, it is not allowed to carry any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. There are also strict rules about carrying sharp objects in public, even if they are part of your everyday carry gear. The European Union (EU) and several Asian countries have policies that are similar to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Carry Knife As Carry-On Baggage
You cannot bring any knives or sharp objects in your carry-on bag. This rule also includes your personal belongings like backpacks, purses, and your own pockets in your pants or jacket. If you want to bring any type of blade while traveling, you need to pack it in your checked baggage. It will be inspected more thoroughly there.
Carry Knife As Checked Baggage
Passengers are allowed to bring pocket knives in their checked baggage according to the TSA, but there are specific rules that need to be followed. You can pack a knife without any limitations on the length of the blade or the type of locking mechanism it has. However, it needs to be covered with a sheath or protective casing. If the knife is not allowed, the TSA might open your checked luggage and take it away.
If you are carrying a very big knife or one that seems like it was hidden, the TSA might check your bag to take a closer look at the knife. Actually, they have the legal right to break a luggage lock if they think there might be something unsafe inside that needs to be confiscated. You don’t have to tell anyone about your knife before you travel, but it might be a good idea to do so. This can help avoid any problems at the airport, especially if you’ve had trouble with that knife in the past while traveling.
Which Types of Knives You Bring on a Plane?
You cannot bring knives that are TSA-friendly, but that should not prevent you from traveling with your everyday carry (EDC) knives. There are some rules you need to follow because you can’t bring certain items with you in your pocket or carry-on bag. In the end, the knife you choose to bring will depend on what you need it for.
If you’re going on a hunting, fishing, or camping trip, it’s a good idea to bring a pocket knife or multi-tool. Choose one that is small and easy to carry, and can be used for different tasks. If you like having a knife with you for everyday tasks like opening packages or doing basic first-aid, you might want to think about getting a small folding knife.
When it comes to air travel, knives and guns are the most restricted everyday carry items. However, if you make sure to inspect these items in your baggage, you will have the freedom to travel without any issues. But remember, you need to inform the authorities about your gun at least 72 hours before your flight and make sure you follow the gun laws of the place you’re visiting when you arrive.
Usually, the only other items that are not allowed are tactical pens, common multi-tools and self-defense tools, and lighters. But you can still bring other everyday carry items such as flashlights, multi-tools with scissors that are shorter than 4 inches, watches, and wallets.
Read Also: Are Selfie Sticks and Tripods Allowed on Planes?
Tips for Traveling with a Knife
Traveling with a knife is actually quite straightforward, despite its complexities. Simply use this packing checklist:
- Keep your pocket knife safe by putting it in a protective sheath or case.
- Put it in the middle of your luggage, surrounded by clothes or soft items for protection.
- Please make sure to put a label on the case and declare the knife if it is necessary according to the regulations.
- Make sure to keep any items that are not allowed or seem suspicious away from your knife in the bag.
- Make sure your luggage follows the weight and size restrictions set by the airline.
What Are the Recovery Methods if a Knife is Confiscated?
If the TSA takes your pocket knife at the security checkpoint or during baggage screening, it is unlikely that they will give it back to you. If you lose or find something at the airport and report it to TSA, they will try to return it to you. However, the rules are not very clear about what happens if you lose or find knives, guns, weapons, or other prohibited items.
If there is any doubt about the knife, they might give it to the local authorities or get rid of it right away. It is possible that the item could be given to state agencies or kept by the TSA. They might sell it, destroy it, or donate it to charity. The money from selling it will go to the US Department of the Treasury. They will use it to pay off the US national debt.
You can try reaching out to the airline or TSA directly to arrange for the return of your knife. However, based on our experience, there is no guarantee that you will be able to retrieve it. Therefore, it is recommended to securely place it in your bag or keep it at home.
Read Also: Can You Bring Shampoo on a Plane?
