Can You Bring Scissors On a Plane? TSA Rules Explained

Scissors will help you tackle a variety of tasks, but can you bring scissors on a plane?

According to the TSA Scissors are permitted on planes carry-on but it must be less than 4 inches from the pivot point / 10.16 centimeters, Scissors over 4 inches must be packed in a checked bag.

In this post I will answer all your questions about traveling with scissors in both carry-on and checked baggage, in addition to some savvy ways to pack your scissors for your next trip.

Let’s dive right in

Can I Bring Small Scissors In My Hand Luggage?

When traveling within the U.S the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) have a clear answer:

Scissors are permitted through the security checkpoint if the blades are less than 4 inches / 10.16 cm in length from the center point to tip.

Here is a screen grab from the TSA official website.

If you need to bring larger scissors with large blades and you still want to take them on board most of the time the security officer won’t let you do that they will ask you to transfer it in your checked bag.

If you don’t have a checked bag you will be required to either surrender your large scissors at the security checkpoint, give it to your partner if he or she has a checked bag or mail it home.

@Beebes asked the TSA if she can take her kitchen scissors in carry-on baggage which is 4 inches from the pivot point.

They confirmed to her that these kitchen scissors are good to go in carry-on baggage.

Can Scissors Go In Carry-on Luggage?

When traveling with small scissors, like beauty scissors or kids scissors there is no worries about the TSA or any other airport security to stop you, small scissors are not considered dangerous or sharp objects.

If you are traveling with large scissors most airport security will not allow them on board the airplane.

You may wonder why there are such restrictions about a simple item that people use everyday, but here is why.

Not just scissors but rather all sharp items that have long blades like knives that can be used as a weapon, either for self defense or just to harm other people, so the TSA do not allow them to avoid any chance for those bad guys to use them on planes. 

Can You Carry Scissors In Checked Baggage?

Yes you can carry scissors in checked baggage, there are no restrictions on most airlines, just make sure that you cover and protect your scissors neatly and perfectly to avoid any possible injury to luggage inspectors and luggage handlers.

This passenger wanted to know if he could bring scissors and shipping tape dispensers inside his checked bag.

The TSA customer service replied that scissors are good to go in checked baggage without any issues.

Can I Bring Hair Cutting Or Cuticle Scissors on plane?

Hair cutting scissors, cuticle and nail-trimming scissors are all accepted in both carry on and checked baggage; (with the same above rules) if the blade’s length exceeds 4 inches or 10 cm (from the pivot point to the head ) you can take them only in checked baggage.

This rule applies for pretty much every kind of scissors, so just measure your scissors before you head to the airport.

How do I pack scissors safely?

It is important to make sure that your scissors are packed efficiently when transporting them in either carry-on or checked baggage.

You can use scissors sheaths or you can use a holder. 

This is especially important when traveling with multiple scissors and other accessories.

I like to have a holder just like the make up bag. I simply place all the accessories inside it and put it inside the suitcase. The holder will carry all the tools; in addition the luggage handlers or TSA officer won’t get injured or harmed during the inspection.

If you don’t want to take regular scissors, portable electric scissors are also a perfect option, they have small blades and they are easy to carry inside your carry on bag.

Final Thoughts

Now as you know that all kinds of scissors are good to go in both carry-on and checked baggage if blades are less than 4 inches 10 cm go ahead and get ready for your trip.

If you are planning to place your scissors inside your checked bag make sure to cover them carefully inside a holder or just with a piece of cloth, to prevent any possible injury for the TSA officers or baggage handlers.

Happy travels

We hope this helps

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Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.