Can You Bring Scissors on a Plane? What TSA and Customs Say

can you bring scissors on a plane

Have you ever found yourself standing in line at airport security, nervously asking yourself “can you bring scissors on a plane?” and wondering why you even packed them? You’re not alone.

If you’re traveling in the US, TSA makes the rules. But what if you’re taking an international flight? Now you have to worry about customs agents.

We’ll help you get clear on all of it. And when you’re done learning about scissors, be sure to read our comprehensive guide to air travel with grooming tools to learn about air travel with electric razors and toothbrushes, hair dryer and more.

In the meantime, whether you’re traveling abroad or domestically with scissors in your bag, knowing the rules is key. Let’s get into it.

1. TSA Rules for Carry-On Luggage

1.1 What Size of Scissors Are Allowed?

The TSA scissors rules are strict when it comes to carry-on bags.

Scissors are allowed, but the blades must be shorter than 4 inches from the hinge or pivot point. Scissors with longer blades are considered a potential weapon and will be confiscated at security checkpoints.

What exactly does TSA mean by the “pivot point”? The pivot point is where the screw is, where the two blades are joined. So, the actual blade length – pivot point to the end of the blade – must be less than 4 inches.

scissors with 4 inch blades

Another TSA rule is that the scissors must be sheathed in plastic or a pouch to protect agents who may have to inspect the contents of your carry-on.

1.2 What Types of Scissors Are Allowed?


Not all scissors are created equal when it comes to TSA scissor guidelines. Some scissors, like blunt-tipped ones or safety scissors designed for children, are less likely to cause concern. However, scissors with sharp points or serrated edges, even if they meet the size (blade length) restrictions, might still be flagged by TSA officers if they are deemed dangerous.

For example, sewing scissors are allowed in carry-ons if the blades are short enough. Nail scissors are also commonly allowed, but again, measure the blades!

On the other hand, gardening scissors or heavy-duty shears are typically prohibited in carry-on luggage due to their size and sharpness.

1.3 How TSA Measures Scissors During Security Checks


When you go through airport security, TSA officers don’t just eyeball your scissors. They may actually pull out a ruler or measurement device to check if the blades comply with the posted guidelines.

KEEN TIP: Pack foldable travel scissors or small, blunt-tip scissors to avoid any issues. These are designed for air travel and meet TSA’s requirements.

If your scissors are too long, they’ll either be confiscated, or you’ll be given the option to place them in checked luggage if time allows. If your luggage was already checked prior to your arrival at security you’re out of luck.

2. TSA Guidelines for Scissors in Checked Baggage

2.1 What Types of Scissors are Allowed?

There are no size restrictions for scissors in checked luggage, making it a convenient option for travelers who need to carry larger scissors, such as kitchen shears, hair-cutting scissors, or craft scissors.

scissors in suitcase

That said, there are still precautions you should take when packing sharp objects in checked baggage. TSA recommends that all sharp items be securely wrapped in thick cloth such as a washcloth or bubble wrap to prevent injury to baggage handlers or damage to your suitcase.

If you’re a frequent traveler, I recommend you invest in a travel case for sharp objects. These cases are specially designed to hold scissors, knives, and other sharp tools safely during transit.

3. Scissors Safety: TSA-Approved Travel Alternatives

3.1 Travel-Friendly Scissors: What to Look For

When it comes to traveling with scissors, the easiest solution is to look for TSA-approved scissors designed specifically for air travel. These scissors are typically smaller in size, with blade lengths well within the allowed 4 inches. Some are foldable, which makes them even safer and easier to pack.

You can easily find foldable travel scissors or blunt-tip scissors online or at craft stores. These scissors are perfect for cutting paper, fabric, or threads during your travels, and they comply with guidelines. Just don’t expect to do professional job trimming your hair with them!

3.2 Alternatives to Scissors for Air Travel

If you’re concerned about bringing scissors through security, consider other TSA-approved cutting tools.

For example, nail clippers are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage, and some travelers find them useful for small cutting tasks like snipping threads or opening packages.

Another great alternative is a travel-sized multi-tool with a scissor with a small blade (less than 4 inches) and other useful features like tweezers or a file.

KEEN TIP: I personally carry a small, travel-friendly nail clipper multi-tool whenever I fly. It’s compact, lightweight, and has come in handy more times than I can count, from opening snack packages to trimming loose threads on clothing.

4. What Happens If You Bring Unapproved Scissors?

4.1 Consequences at Security Checkpoints

If you attempt to bring unapproved scissors through security, expect a few things to happen. First, your scissors on a plane will be flagged by TSA officers, who will ask you to remove them from your bag for inspection.

Once TSA determines that your scissors don’t meet the regulations, they’ll either confiscate them or give you the option to place them in your checked luggage.

confiscated

4.2 What to Do If TSA Takes Away Your Scissors?

There are a few options to potentially get them back, but it depends on the airport and the time you have. Here’s what you can do:

  1. Mail Them Back: If you have time. Some larger airports have postal services or kiosks where you can mail confiscated items back to yourself. This is a useful option if the scissors are expensive or have sentimental value.
  2. Lost and Found: Check back when you return. Some confiscated items may be held at the airport’s lost-and-found for a short period of time.

Both these options are worth a shot. Your best bet is to not bring anything you don’t want permanently confiscated and disposed of by TSA.

5. International Scissors Regulations – Carry-On and Checked

5.1 Differences in Scissors Policies by Country

While the TSA guidelines are pretty straightforward, international regulations are country-dependent.  Check the official customs website of the country you are traveling to for a list of restricted or prohibited items.

5.2 General Rules for Traveling with Scissors Through Customs

Local Laws and Regulations: Some countries may allow small scissors, others may have stricter rules regarding the types of sharp objects permitted. Don’t assume anything; instead do a google search with the name of the country + customs and “prohibited items”.

Banned: Each country has a list of prohibited items that cannot be brought in or may be subject to additional screening. For example, scissors with long blades might fall into this list–even if they are packed in your checked bag.

banned scissors

KEEN TIP: Since large, serrated edged, spring-loaded and heavy-duty shears are likely to be banned overseas no matter where they are packed, don’t bring them to begin with. Blunt-tipped or small folding scissors, on the other hand, are usually acceptable.

Customs Declarations: If you are carrying valuable or large scissors for specific purposes (e.g., crafting, medical use, or professional hairdressing, you should declare them upon entering the country and fill out a declaration form explaining their purpose.

Confiscation at the Border: If customs officers deem your scissors as not complying with the rules, they may confiscate them. Unlike TSA, where you might have the option to mail your items back home, once an item is confiscated by Customs and Border Protection agents, they’re gone.

KEEN TIP: ack scissors in your checked baggage for international flights–never in your carry-on no matter what the size. While it’s not a guarantee, it reduces the risk of them being confiscated at security.

6. Key Differences Between TSA and Customs Rules

  • TSA is primarily focused on airport security and preventing dangerous items from being brought onboard an aircraft, whereas customs agents are concerned with items that could violate the importing country’s laws, tariffs, or safety standards.
  • Customs inspections often occur after your flight, when you’re entering a new country, so even if your scissors pass TSA screening, they could still be flagged by customs.
  • Customs officers may also be concerned with undeclared commercial goods or items that could be considered for resale, so if you’re bringing multiple pairs of scissors or specialized tools for work purposes, they might ask for documentation or clarification.

KEEN TIP: Knowing the local laws ahead of time can save you from fines, delays, or confiscation of your belongings.

7. Scissors for Special Purposes: Medical, Crafting, and More

7.1 Traveling with Medical Scissors

If you need to travel with medical scissors (for bandages, medical care, etc.), it’s important to choose scissors that comply with TSA rules. In most cases, smaller, blunt-tip medical scissors are allowed in carry-ons as long as they meet the 4-inch blade limit.

If you’re unsure about whether your medical scissors will be allowed, consider asking your doctor for a note explaining why you need them for medical purposes. TSA agents are typically understanding in such cases, but it’s always better to have documentation in case they question your items.

6.2 Flying with Crafting or Sewing Scissors

For those who are passionate about crafting, sewing, or knitting, it’s not uncommon to want to bring craft scissors or sewing scissors on a flight. Just make sure the blades are less than 4 inches long.

crafting scissors

For knitting or embroidery enthusiasts, it might be worth investing in foldable travel scissors, which are compact and designed for air travel. Alternatively, some travelers opt for nail clippers to snip threads or yarn, or blunt childrens’ scissors, which are universally allowed in carry-on bags.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

7.1 Can I bring scissors with metal handles on a plane?


Yes, the handles of your scissors don’t matter. The key issue is the blade length. As long as the blade is less than 4 inches from the pivot point, you can bring scissors on board, regardless of whether they have plastic or metal handles.

7.2 Are there restrictions on bringing kids’ safety scissors?


Children’s safety scissors with blunt tips are allowed in carry-on luggage. They pose no significant security risk and are typically cleared by TSA without any issues. If blades are under 4″ from pivot point you can place in a carry on as well.

7.3 Can I bring manicure scissors on a plane?


Yes, manicure scissors are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage, as long as the blade is shorter than 4 inches. Most true manicure scissors are 2 inches or less.

7.4 What should I do if I need to travel with large scissors for work?


If you need large scissors for work, such as in hairdressing or serrated for fabrics, pack them in your checked luggage if traveling domestically. If you are flying overseas, you risk that they will be confiscated by customs agents in some countries. Have them bubble wrapped along with documentation that explains their purpose.

7.5 What happens to confiscated scissors at TSA checkpoints?


Confiscated scissors are typically discarded or held in the airport’s lost-and-found. My good friend lives near the LAX outpost for confiscated items and is able to snag some amazing bargains. In some cases, if an item is confiscated, you can mail it back to yourself from the airport if the service is available and you have time before takeoff, so it pays to ask.

7.6 Can I bring scissors on international flights?

International rules vary, but in general, if scissors comply with the TSA size limit, as a general rule they will be allowed on international flights. However, some countries have stricter standards, so do some research beforehand.

8. Wrap Up

Bringing scissors on a plane, and holding onto them, just means following a few rules.

Remember, every time you travel, rules can vary slightly, especially when flying internationally. So, it pays to do a little homework ahead of time and double-check the regulations for both your departure and destination countries. Preparation can make all the difference between a stress-free experience and watching your belongings disappear into a bin.

At the end of the day, your comfort and convenience are key, but so is security. Pack smart and if in doubt, put it in your checked bag or leave it at home.

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