Can You Take a Corkscrew On a Plane? TSA Rules

You might think that corkscrews are harmless tools that can help you open a bottle of wine or champagne on your flight. But what if they have a blade or a foil cutter? Can you bring corkscrew on a plane and risk getting them confiscated by the security?

Don’t worry, I’ve done some research and found out the answer for you. Plus, I’ll give you some tips on how to pack your corkscrew for your next trip. 

Let’s dive right in.

What is the TSA point of view on corkscrews?

The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) are the guys that manage airport security for flights within and from the United States.

They are in charge of screening passengers, travelers and their items for any prohibited items that could pose a threat to the security of the passers and at the aircraft.

As stated by to the TSA website, corkscrews with blades or with foil cutters are not permitted in carry-on bags, but they are ok to bring in checked bags. However, corkscrews without blades are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.

A corkscrew with a blade is like a pocket knife that can be used to injure someone, or even hijack an aircraft.

Sounds a bit over the top, right?

But, yes the security authorities want to eliminate any chances for that to happen. 

So no matter what type of corkscrew you have (foldable or unfolded), make sure it doesn’t have a blade or a foil cutter. Otherwise, you might have to transfer it in your checked bag or leave it home.

Here is an answer from the @AskTSA team on X (formerly Twitter) replying to Eleanor (@eelleanorr) that  “Corkscrews without a blade or foil cutter are allowed in carry-on bags”.

Even electric corkscrews are allowed on planes carry-on, but if you take a foil cutter or a blade with them they will need to be separated in checked baggage.

If you have other items or accessories that we don’t mention, you can also do the same as Karla did by asking the TSA on X or Facebook Messenger.

Tag the @AskTSA team followed with your question and they will reply as soon as they can.

Read also: Can You Take a Can Opener On a Plane?

Can you pack a corkscrew in checked baggage?

If you have a checked bag, it is probably the best way to transport any type of corkscrew (with or without blade),  this way you don’t need to worry about the TSA annoying questions or any other airport security side-eyes.

Make sure that your corkscrew is well protected and sheathed to avoid any harm for luggage handlers and inspectors.

Here are some tips on how to pack your corkscrew for a flight:

Use bubble wrap, foam peanuts or a piece of cloth and place the corkscrew in the middle of the suitcase.

If possible keep the corkscrew in its original packaging or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap.

Keep in mind that checked baggage are not always a safe place to transport expensive objects, like gifts and vintage items.

Sometimes things can go missing stolen .

Traveling with corkscrews Internationally

However, most airports and countries are serious about taking sharp objets and blades on board the airplanes, you may encounter different rules in some countries.

So to avoid any confusion, it is better to check the rules for the country of your residence or destination.

For example in Canada a corkscrew with a blade 6 cm or less is permitted when flying within Canada or to an international (non-U.S.) destination, but knives of any type or length are not permitted in carry-on on flights to the U.S.

Diving into Various Styles of Corkscrews

• Waiter’s Corkscrew: A waiter’s corkscrew, also called a wine key, is a small tool used by restaurant workers and wine experts.
  It has a twisty part to pull out corks, a hinge for strength, and a little handle that can also cut the foil on a wine bottle. Some have a little saw-like blade for cutting the foil.

• Wing Corkscrew: A wing corkscrew is a popular tool for homes. It has two wings that go up as you turn the corkscrew, helping to pull out the cork.
  It’s easy to use and might have a bottle opener, but it usually doesn’t have a foil cutter.

• Lever or Rabbit Corkscrew: The lever corkscrew, or rabbit corkscrew, is great for easy cork removal.
  It uses a lever that pushes the corkscrew in and pulls out the cork. It often comes with a foil cutter and doesn’t have a separate blade.

• Twist or Screw Pull Corkscrew: The twist corkscrew, or screw pull, is simple to use. It has a long screw that you twist into the cork and then pull to remove it.
  Some may have a foil cutter, but not all.

• Ah-So Corkscrew: The Ah-So corkscrew, or two-pronged, is special. Instead of a twisty part, it has two flat prongs that slide down the sides of the cork.
  It’s good for older bottles with delicate corks. The Ah-So corkscrew usually doesn’t have a blade for cutting foil.

Final thoughts

In the end, the key takeaway is clear, you can bring any device for pulling corks from bottles on board, just make sure it doesn’t have any little blades or foil cutters. Otherwise, check it in,  ship it or leave it behind.

And if you don’t want to bring a corkscrew to your destination, don’t worry. There are plenty of alternatives that can help you enjoy some wine during your flight or to open your bottle at your destination.

I hope this helps 

Happy travels

Related Posts:

• Can You Bring Metal On a Plane?
• Can You Bring Utensils And Cutlery On A Plane?
• Can You Take Nail Clippers On A Plane ?

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.