Can I Bring Nail Clippers On Plane? 2025 TSA rules

So, can you bring nail clippers on a plane?

Here’s a short answer:

Small nail clippers and cuticle clippers are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage without any issues, but nail scissors with blades longer than 4 inches from the pivot point are not permitted in carry-on baggage. You should pack them in your checked luggage.

Let’s find out more about taking nail clippers on planes, what passengers think about this rule and what other airlines say about traveling with nail clippers, nail scissors, and large toenail clippers.

Can Nail Clippers Go in Carry-On Luggage?

Prior to 9/11, you didn’t have to worry about taking nail clippers when flying on a plane.

In modern times, since the TSA takes every item seriously, you can’t just toss any tool into your bag and head to the airport.

Fortunately, when it comes to nail clippers, the rules are pretty simple.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirms on its website that nail clippers are allowed through the security checkpoint without any restrictions.

Here is a Screenshot from the official TSA website showing nail clipper rules.

I also checked the TSA social media for more details.

This passenger asked if she could bring her grooming tools (two nail clippers and a nail file) on board the airplane.

The AskTSA team on X confirmed that nail clippers and nail files are permitted in both carry-on and checked bags.

You can also bring automatic electric nail clippers and files without any restrictions.

In spite of that the TSA didn’t really mention anything about additional screening in the X screenshot, TSA agents may perform additional inspections for any type of nail clippers you have.

Are Nail Scissors And Nail Clippers Allowed In Carry-on?

You can bring small nail scissors in your toiletry bag and in carry-on when flying, but only if the blades are 4 inches or less (measured from where they pivot).

If your nail scissors are small (like the one in the image), you can just toss it inside your personal item or toiletry bag and Voila.

Keep in mind that sharp objects are among the most confiscated items by the TSA.

If you own large nail scissors, it’s always better to play it safe and follow the TSA rules.

You don’t want to end up having your nail scissors or cuticle clippers confiscated.

So, it’s best to pack them in your checked baggage.

Ann asked TSA customer service on X (formerly Twitter) if she could bring her nail clippers and scissors in carry-on.

The answer is pretty straightforward: nail clippers and scissors with blades shorter than 4 inches are allowed in carry-on baggage.

Are Nail Clippers Allowed On Checked luggage?

If you want to bring your nail clippers in checked luggage, that’s perfectly fine.

For peace of mind, sometimes the best way to travel with such items is inside your checked suitcase.

This passenger asked the TSA if a tweezer and a small fingernail clipper are okay to bring in checked luggage.

The TSA customer service gave her the green light to pack both items in checked baggage.

Nail clippers are generally safer compared to other sharp tools.

When placing your nail clippers or scissors in checked baggage, ensure that they are properly protected and sheathed to avoid any injuries or harm to luggage inspectors and handlers.

Airlines Rules

If you’re flying within or from the United States, TSA rules always apply.

So, whether you’re flying with United Airlines, American Airlines, JetBlue, or Delta, the TSA rules still apply.

When traveling internationally, the rules mostly depend on your airline, but as a general rule, sharp objects with long blades will not be accepted in the cabin.

What About Other Nail Care Tools?

Final Thoughts on Bringing Nail Clippers on a Plane.

Small nail clippers are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage.

But, whether you can bring other types of nail scissors and sharp tools on a plane depends on the length and size of the blade.

Nail scissors are not completely banned from planes; the TSA and most airlines allow these tools in the cabin if their blades are less than 4 inches.

For peace of mind, we recommend taking only what you need and leaving unnecessary tools at home.

These rules are in place to protect both you and your fellow passengers, helping you avoid any inconvenience at the airport.

If you are a licensed nail technician and need to bring your clipper kit, it’s better to pack it in your checked bag.

If you still have questions about taking such items in your carry-on or checked baggage, you can search on the TSA website or read more on “What You Can and Can’t Bring” section.

I hope this helps

Happy travels.

You may also like:

• Can You Take Needles On A Plane?
• Can You Bring A Pocket Knife On A Plane?
• Can You Bring Tweezers On a Plane?
• Can you Bring an Electric Razor on a plane?
• Can You Bring Lighters On a Plane ?
• Can You Take Hair Extensions In Hand Luggage?

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.