Some people like to be prepared no matter where they’re going, and that includes carrying a pair of scissors. You never know when you’ll need to cut a loose thread or open a package. You can bring scissors on a plane, but there are restrictions depending on how you plan to carry them. Here’s all you need to know about traveling with scissors as you fly the friendly skies.
Key Takeaways
- Small scissors are allowed in a carry-on bag, but they must be less than 4 inches from the pivot point.
- Scissors of any size can be packed in a checked bag without any restrictions.
- To prevent accidental injuries, it’s important to secure the scissors by using a sheathe, wrapping them closed, or using a locking mechanism.
- If airport security deems your scissors a threat, they may be confiscated, so it’s best to only carry them if necessary.
- If your scissors are confiscated, you may be able to purchase a new pair at the airport or borrow from your hotel.
Scissors In A Carry-on Bag
Scissors are allowed in a carry-on bag; however, there are restrictions. Your scissors must be less than 4 inches from the pivot point, which is the little screw that holds the pieces together and allows them to open and close.
If the scissors exceed that amount, they will be confiscated as they could be construed as a weapon. Additionally, you need to take extra precautions to secure your scissors while in transit. This could include:
- Placing the scissors in a sheathe or other protective cases to prevent them from accidentally cutting anything while in your bag.
- Securely wrapping them closed to prevent them from opening during your travels.
- Using a locking mechanism that keeps your scissors closed until you’re ready to use them.
While you are not required to remove them from your bag, it may be a best practice to prevent your bag from being flagged by airport security. Ultimately, while small scissors are allowed in carry-on bags, it is up to the discretion of the airport security officer. If they deem them a potential threat, they could confiscate them and discard them.
Scissors In A Checked Bag
Scissors are not subject to the same scrutiny when they are in a checked bag. They can be any size you need to help you get the job done. While it is a good practice to place them in some protective covering the prevent accidents, you are not required to do so.
If you need a specific type or pair of scissors for any reason, it’s best to pack them in your checked bag to prevent any issues. Your bag may be flagged for inspection, but there is no reason that your scissors should be confiscated under current travel security guidelines.
What Happens If My Scissors Are Confiscated?
Unless you have a medical reason why you need your pair of scissors, it’s unlikely that you can do anything to get them back once the airport security confiscates them. You may be able to purchase a new pair at the airport or when you get to your final destination.
Additionally, you may be able to borrow a pair of scissors from your hotel. You have options if you need a pair of scissors for any reason while traveling, so unless they are a requirement for your job or your medicine, you can skip the scissors and leave them at home.
So, Can I Bring Scissors On A Plane?
Yes, you can bring scissors on a plane, but if you plan on carrying them on, it’s time to bust out the ruler. They cannot exceed 4 inches from the pivot point. Any larger and the scissors will be violated by airport security for being a security hazard. There are no similar restrictions in place if you check your bag with your scissors in them.
If for any reason, the airport security deems your scissors a threat, they can remove them, so it’s best to only carry them if necessary. Otherwise, you may find yourself in search of the perfect pair after your trip. They could be potentially classified as a prohibited item and treated as such, even if you plan on just using them to fix up a dress before it hits the runway.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I bring scissors in my carry-on bag?
Yes, small scissors are allowed in a carry-on bag as long as they are less than 4 inches from the pivot point.
-
What should I do to secure my scissors while in transit?
You should place the scissors in a sheathe or another protective case, wrap them closed, or use a locking mechanism to keep them closed until you’re ready to use them.
-
Can I pack any size of scissors in my checked bag?
Yes, you can pack scissors of any size in your checked bag without any restrictions.
-
What happens if my scissors are confiscated by airport security?
Unless you have a medical reason for needing them, it’s unlikely that you can get them back. You may be able to purchase a new pair at the airport or borrow one from your hotel.
-
Can I remove my scissors from my carry-on bag during the security screening?
You’re not required to remove them, but it may be a good practice to prevent your bag from being flagged by airport security.
-
Are there any other restrictions on carrying scissors on a plane?
Scissors that are too large or sharp may be confiscated, as they could be construed as a weapon. Ultimately, it is up to the discretion of the airport security officer.
