TSA item rule · verified 2026-09-05
Can you bring pocket knives on a plane?
TSA's official answer, checked against tsa.gov on 2026-09-05.
Carry-on bag no
No. A pocket knife is a sharp object, and TSA prohibits sharp objects in carry-on baggage — it has to go in your checked bag. The only blades TSA lets past the checkpoint are rounded, blunt, unserrated ones such as butter knives, plus plastic cutlery.
Checked bag yes
Allowed in checked bags. Sheathe or securely wrap the blade so it can't injure baggage handlers and inspectors.
Blade length is not a loophole — TSA's multi-tools page prohibits multi-tools with knives of any length, while a multi-tool whose scissors are less than 4 inches may go in carry-on.
Liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule. The final decision always rests with the TSA officer at the checkpoint.
Source: TSA — What Can I Bring? · checked 2026-09-05
Related: scissors · razors · nail clippers
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Common questions
Can you bring pocket knives in a carry-on?
No. A pocket knife is a sharp object, and TSA prohibits sharp objects in carry-on baggage — it has to go in your checked bag. The only blades TSA lets past the checkpoint are rounded, blunt, unserrated ones such as butter knives, plus plastic cutlery.
Can you bring pocket knives in checked baggage?
Allowed in checked bags. Sheathe or securely wrap the blade so it can't injure baggage handlers and inspectors.