Quick Answer
❌ No. TSA prohibits all pocket knives in carry-on luggage, no matter how small.
✅ Pocket knives are only allowed in checked bags.
⚠️ Even blades under 2 inches are not permitted in carry-on.
Details
- Carry-on:
- All types of pocket knives, Swiss Army knives, and folding knives are banned.
- TSA made a proposal in 2013 to allow very small blades, but it was never implemented.
- Only plastic cutlery and round-bladed butter knives are permitted.
- Checked luggage:
- Pocket knives are permitted in any size.
- Must be securely wrapped or sheathed to avoid injuries during baggage handling.
- Multitools:
- Multitools with knife blades are banned in carry-on.
- Multitools without blades (pliers, screwdrivers) are allowed.
TSA Pocket Knife Rules Summary
| Pocket Knife Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Standard pocket knife | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Swiss Army knife | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Folding knife | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Multitool with blade | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Multitool without blade | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Even tiny blades banned: TSA confiscates pocket knives of any size.
- ✈️ Collectors beware: Rare or valuable knives must go in checked — risk of confiscation if in carry-on.
- ✈️ International flights: Same rule worldwide — knives not allowed in cabins.
- ✈️ Multitools check: If your multitool has scissors only (≤4 inches), it’s fine. If it has a knife blade, it must be checked.