Sewing needles might seem like a small item, but when traveling it can be a life saver for quick fixes, but can you bring sewing needles on a plane?
Here is the short answer.
According to TSA guidelines, you can bring sewing needles on a plane in both your carry-on and checked baggage, However, it is advisable to pack them in a protective case to avoid any accidents or injuries during the screening process
This post covers everything you need to know about taking all types of needles in both carry-on and checked luggage.
Let’s dive right in.
TL;DR
TL;DR
- Sewing needles are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
- TSA does not consider sewing or knitting needles dangerous.
- Crochet hooks are also permitted in both types of luggage.
- It’s safer to pack needles in checked baggage to avoid inspection delays.
- Always store needles in a case or container to protect inspectors and handlers.
- Some international airlines (like Lufthansa and Brussels Airlines) allow needles only in checked baggage.
Can You Bring Sewing Needles On a Plane?
Knitting and sewing needles are also allowed at the TSA security checkpoint, -as the screenshot shows- and in both carry-on and checked baggage without any restrictions.
I went further and searched similar sharp items for sewing and knitting needles and found that crochet hooks are also allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage, but with the same caution that they must be packed properly and secured carefully.
Can You Take Needles In Your Checked Baggage?
There are no limits to the number of needles you can bring in your carry-on and checked baggage.
But it is still a good idea to transport needles or any sharp items in checked baggage (except for medical use), because traveling with large amounts may cause the TSA officer to inspect your luggage.
That means more delays for you and probably some inconvenience.
If not, make sure to pack your needles in your carry-on bag in their original needle case, or inside a solid small container.
Can You Bring Knitting Needles On a Plane? TSA Regulations
TSA allows all kinds of needles, including knitting needles, at the security checkpoint. You can carry them in either your carry-on or checked baggage.
But as the TSA stated, the final decision is up to the TSA officer as to whether an item is allowed or not.
Other sharp objects, like cutters with sharp edges, are permitted only in checked baggage and must be securely wrapped and protected to prevent possible injury to baggage handlers and security inspectors.
How To Pack Needles In Checked Luggage?
You can pack needles in checked luggage without restriction. However, you will need to pack them properly.
As long as they are protected and packed correctly, they won’t hurt or harm luggage inspectors or handlers.
Most airlines and airport security do not prefer sharp objects that might be used as weapons in the airplane cabin.
These could be everyday objects such as corkscrews, knives, and scissors of a certain size, which are advised to be packed in your hold luggage.
Here is how to pack your needles and sharp objects in general inside your bag.
Most needles have solid containers, which is a good way to transport them.
When traveling with a few items, you can place the box inside your shoes or a separate compartment.
That way, you can reduce the chance of any incidents.
Take Needles on International flights
@Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines allow Needles in both carry on and checked baggage.
@British Airways
According to British Airways needles are allowed in both carry on and checked baggage
@Lufthansa knitting needles
According to Lufthansa Knitting Needles or any kind of needles are not allowed in carry-on baggage, Needles must be placed inside your checked baggage.
@Brussels Airlines
Just like Lufthansa Brussels Airlines do not allow needles in hand luggage, All kinds of needles must be transported in your checked baggage.
@Qatar Airways
According to Qatar Airways sewing and embroidery needles are not allowed in carry-on, they need to be packed in checked baggage
Final Thoughts: Can You Bring Sewing Needles On A Plane?
Although needles have sharp points, the TSA does not consider them dangerous items because they are small objects.
That means you can bring needles and sewing kits (such as for embroidery) on a plane in either a carry-on or a checked bag without any restrictions.
Remember that some international airlines may allow sewing needles only in checked baggage, but generally, you can bring them with you.
If you are planning to take other types of needles, check this post about traveling with syringes.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
Can you bring a sewing machine on a plane?
Yes, you can bring a sewing machine on a plane. Small sewing machines are good to go in both carry-on and checked bags, just make sure it is well protected and within your airline size and weight limits.
Can you take other sewing tools on a plane?
Yes, small sewing tools are allowed. Items like needles, small scissors (under 4 inches), knitting needles, and crochet hooks are good to go in both carry-on and checked bags.
Can I bring a needle case on a plane?
All types of needle cases are allowed, and keeping needles in a case will help prevent injuries during security checks and protect luggage handlers. You can pack it in either your carry-on or checked bag.
Can I bring a needle threader on a plane?
Yes, needle threaders are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked bags as they are small and not considered dangerous items.
Are sewing machine needles allowed on a plane?
Yes, sewing machine needles are allowed in carry-on and checked bags. It is better if you bring them in their original packaging.
Can you take circular thread cutters or rotary cutters on a plane?
No, these items usually have sharp blades and will not be permitted in carry-on bags or on board the airplane. You need to place them in your checked bag.
Are small sewing scissors allowed in carry-on luggage?
Yes, scissors with blades under 4 inches are generally permitted in carry-on bags. Larger scissors should be packed in checked bags.
Can you take knitting through TSA checkpoints?
Yes, knitting needles are allowed through the security checkpoints. However, TSA officers have the final say, so pack them securely.
Does TSA allow knitting needles in hand luggage?
The TSA allows knitting needles in carry-on luggage, but they must be packed carefully to avoid injury or accidents.
Can you take a travel sewing kit on a plane?
Yes, small travel sewing kits are permitted in carry-on and checked bags. Make sure all needles and sharp items are protected.
Are embroidery kits allowed in carry-on luggage?
Yes, embroidery kits with needles, thread, and small tools are good to go in carry-on luggage as long as sharp objects are secured.
Can you pack sharp sewing tools in checked bags?
Yes, sharp tools like large scissors, rotary cutters, or heavy-duty needles should be packed in checked baggage for safety and to comply with TSA rules.
Can you bring a thimble or other small sewing accessories on a plane?
Small accessories like thimbles, buttons, or pins are permitted in hand and checked baggage without any issues.
