TSA allows scissors in a carry-on if they’re less than 4 inches from the pivot point. Longer scissors go in a checked bag.
By its everyday name, such as scissors or knitting needles.
TSA’s answer
Type an item, or pick one: scissors, knitting needles, nail clippers, multi-tools.
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How to measure
Measure from the pivot point, the screw or rivet where the blades cross, to the tip of the blades. Less than 4 inches (about 10 cm) can go in your carry-on. Check yours before you pack.
Scissors and other sharp things on TSA’s list
| Item | Carry-on | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Scissors | Yes, with conditions | Yes |
| Multi-tools | Yes, with conditions | Yes |
| Multi-tools with no blades | Yes | Yes |
| Knitting needles | Yes | Yes |
| Crochet hooks | Yes | Yes |
| Sewing needles | Yes | Yes |
| Nail clippers | Yes | Yes |
| Metal nail files | Yes | Yes |
| Tweezers | Yes | Yes |
| Safety pins | Yes | Yes |
| Box cutters | No | Yes |
| Razor blades not in a cartridge | No | Yes |
Multi-tools with scissors
A multi-tool with scissors under 4 inches may go in a carry-on. One with a knife blade of any length goes in a checked bag.
Sewing and knitting
Knitting needles, crochet hooks and sewing needles can go in either bag. TSA puts circular thread cutters, and any needlework tool with a blade, in checked bags.
Packing scissors in a checked bag
Sheathe or wrap the blades, so they can’t hurt the baggage handlers and inspectors who may open your bag.
Flying from the UK
The UK measures the blade instead (gov.uk, October 2026): scissors with blades no longer than 6 cm, and round-ended scissors, are allowed in hand luggage. Longer ones go in the hold, if your airline allows them.