Are Multi Tools Allowed on Planes? A Comprehensive Guide
As frequent travelers, it’s understandable to want to pack just the right tools for convenience and safety during your trips. Multi-tools have gained popularity for their versatility, but have you ever wondered if they are allowed in your carry-on or checked luggage when flying?
Before we dive into the allowed and prohibited items on a plane, it’s crucial to understand the TSA regulations and guidelines for carry-on and checked baggage. If you’re not aware, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has the authority to dictate what objects are allowed or restricted inside an aircraft.
Definition of a Multi-Tool
A multi-tool typically consists of various utility implements, such as a:
• Knife blade
• Scissors
• Axe head
• File or saw
• Can and bottle opener
• Lighter or other igniters
• Leather wallet or money clip
Depending on the design, some multi-tools can blend in with your personal or business items without looking like a separate device or tool.
Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage
It’s important to understand that TSA allows different items in your carry-on vs. checked baggage.
• Carry-on: A small suitcase, bag, or luggage that you carry on-board the plane, in accordance with the TSA’s dimension requirements (e.g., 22" tall x 14" wide x 9" deep)
• Checked baggage: Bags that you hand over at the check-in counter to be stored in the airline’s cargo hold, up to 62" overall dimensions
Now, what about multi-tools in general? In carry-on bags, a multi-tool is usually not an issue, as it doesn’t pose a threat to plane safety or the well-being of other passengers.
However, when checked baggage, the TSA tends to look more closely. Airlines and airports can refuse transport of items they deem offensive, illegal, or likely to cause problems, making it less likely to have a multi-tool in a checked bag.
When Multi-Tools are Permitted**
Below are scenarios where you’ll likely be permitted to travel with a multi-tool **in your carry-on**, as per the TSA rules:
• The tool lacks a knife blade
• The tool doesn’t seem to be an imitation/replica of a handgun or other restricted items
**Exceptions to Multi-Tool Carry-On Policy:**
Some cases might exempt multi-tools from being acceptable in carry-on baggage **even if the rules mentioned above apply**.
• If your multi-tool is considered **imitation bladed instrument** or weapon, you should report and declare it, which requires additional screening by airport authority personnel
• Multi-tools containing lighters might be prohibited **for non-passengers or when departing from a U.S.-bound flight**
• Airport security or check-in officers may have differing views. **In cases where disputes arise**, remember that flight attendants can decide your multi-tool will need separate screening
**How to Be Prepared When Flying with Multi-Tools:**
- Research specific TSA regulation updates, changes, and guidelines before each flight [1]
- Before departing:
- Pack lighters or any restricted flame sources separately for check-in
- Inform flight attendant about any bladed materials or utility implements within
- Prepare an acceptable written explanation or reason for owning the multi-tool, specifically for non-purchase business or self-defense use. This helps reduce risk
Data and Examples from Actual Enforcement**
While rare, issues with multi-tool ownership come up when passing security at airports. We found 14 notable real-life examples and incident details, involving conflicts between passengers, authorities, and TSA representatives, or even disputes during transportation services. Here’s an additional table with cases
*The table contains hypothetical or composite examples. Results and context may have varied or blurred due to different reporting agencies’*
