Can You Bring a Sewing Machine On a Plane ? 2025

It is important to know if you can pack a sewing machine in carry-on luggage or do they need to be packed in checked luggage, as airline rules may differ and to understand what to expect at the airport security checkpoint with TSA clerks.

Generally, you can bring a sewing machine on a plane in both carry-on and checked baggage, but ensure that your machine is within your airline luggage size limits for carry-on or checked baggage, and that you remove any sharp tools like needles before packing your machine as carry-on.

To help make your flight smoother, I have compiled this detailed post on the regulations for traveling with sewing machines. Afterwards, we will give you some of the best tips on how to pack your sewing machines for your next flight.

Let’s dig right in.

Can You Take a Sewing Machine On a Plane ?

Can You Take Sewing Machine Through TSA Security Checkpoint?

According to TSA, sewing machines are allowed through the security checkpoint without any restrictions.

The TSA stated on its website that before you head to the airport with your sewing machine, you will need to make sure that your item is compliant with the airline luggage regulations.

Here is a screenshot from the TSA website.

Please note that TSA staff have the final say on whether an item will be allowed on board the airplane or not.

I also searched TSA social media to find more answers.

Laura asked the TSA team on X if her sewing machine is allowed on the airplane. However, she didn’t specify if she wanted to take it on board or in checked baggage, the size, or if the machine had sharp objects.

The TSA confirmed to her that sewing machines are allowed without restrictions at the security checkpoint, meaning in carry-on or checked baggage.

But, she will need to follow the size and weight limits of her airline.

Can You Take a Sewing Machine in Carry-On Baggage?

You can bring your sewing machine on most airlines if it is within the airline carry-on size and weight limits.

It is also important to remove the needle and any other sharp tools if you’re going to bring it as carry-on luggage.

You can either send them in your checked bag, if you have one, or you can just pack them separately and label them to avoid any delays at the security checkpoint.

Remember that some types of sewing machines may be large and may not fit as carry-on baggage on some airlines.

Don’t check in your sewing machine if it is small and fits as carry-on.

TIP

As usual, I want to know what answers passengers get from TSA or airlines about traveling with sewing machines.

Phoebe wanted to bring her lovely sewing machine on board the airplane, and the TSA confirmed that machines are good to go in carry-on baggage.

Here is an example:

American Airlines carry-on size is 22 Height x 14 Length x 9 Width (56 x 36 x 23 centimeters).

If your sewing machine has the same size or is under the mentioned size, you are good to go. Otherwise, if your sewing machine case exceeds the size, you will be required to check in your machine.

If you are traveling with the sewing machine in the image above (Brother CS7000X), it has this size: 16.26 x 6.65 x 12.21 inches. You are just fine because the machine is small and under the AA carry-on dimensions.

Can You Take a Sewing Machine in Checked Baggage?

In the last few years, when security measures weren’t as strict as they are now, you could take your items in carry-on baggage even if they were slightly over the measurement.

But nowadays, most passengers traveling with large sewing machines prefer transporting them in checked baggage to avoid any inconvenience and airline regulations.

However, it doesn’t matter to the airline if you are checking your sewing machine, as long as it is inside your bag.

But if your sewing machine is large and exceeds the airline checked baggage size and weight, the airline may apply oversize or overweight luggage fees.

How Do You Pack a Sewing Machine for a Flight?

Before traveling with your sewing machine, it is critical to prepare it for your flight.

Packing your items properly will make your flight easier and more comfortable.

Here are some tips on how to pack a sewing machine for a flight:

• If you have many machines, it is preferable to take the lightest one: a portable machine which is lightweight, user-friendly, and with its accessories is great when traveling.
• If you still own your machine’s original box, that will be more secure. If not, you can use a box that will fit your machine.
• If you are planning to take your machine in the cabin, you may be required to take out your machine at the security checkpoint, so make it easy to access.
• Surround your machine presser foot with a small box, or wrap it in soft fabric.
• Finding a good hard case will protect your sewing machine. In addition, you won’t need to place your sewing accessories in different places.

What Is Some Best Portable Sewing Machine for Travel?

Portable sewing machines are a smart choice when traveling.

A small and lightweight machine will slide into your backpack or carry bag easily, and it is ready to use anywhere. It can be powered with a battery or a power cord.

I looked for some of the best portable sewing machines on the market and found that Brother machines are at the top of users’ preferences.

Many users recommend the Brother CS5055 because of its small size and lower price. It is best described as perfect, strong, and basic.

There is nothing wrong with the machine, but I prefer the Brother CS7000X because it is much bigger, robust, easy to use, and can be transported in almost all airlines’ cabin baggage as many buyers described. It is a game changer.

Another good choice for sewing on the go is the Janome 001BUBBLE Sewing Machine. It is less expensive than the Brother CS7000X and is just perfect with a total weight of 7 pounds.

This machine can be placed in your carry-on bag without even noticing the weight.

The only thing the machine doesn’t have is fancy features; it is limited when it comes to options.

Final Thoughts: Can You Bring a Sewing Machine on a Plane?

You can bring your sewing machine on most airlines in both carry-on and checked baggage as long as it is within the airline size and weight limits.

I don’t see any reason to ban sewing machines on planes. However, to avoid any inconvenience at the airport, make sure to place any sharp items you take along with your machine in your checked bag.

I hope this helps.

Happy travels.

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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.