Can You Bring Tweezers on a Plane? (2024)

When Aidan and I are preparing for a trip, we often struggle to figure out which items are allowed in our carry-on bags and what is allowed in our hold suitcases. Tweezers are one of those things it’s difficult to be sure about. On a normal holiday, it’s not too big an issue as I can’t think of any reason I would need tweezers in my hand luggage during a flight. My tweezers are usually packed in a wash bag in my suitcase. However, if we are going on a short trip, we often just take hand luggage, and that’s when I need to know if they are allowed in the cabin.

This article summarizes what I found out when I did some research.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Regulations

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of air travel within the United States. They have rules and regulations regarding what items can be carried on board an airplane.

Sharp Objects

Tweezers fall under the category of sharp objects. According to the TSA, sharp objects are not allowed in carry-on baggage except under certain circumstances. It’s important to note that the final decision rests with the TSA officer at the security checkpoint, and they can confiscate your tweezers if they choose. The size and design of your tweezers will influence their decision.

• Length: Tweezers should be shorter than 7 inches in length to comply with TSA regulations.
• Pointed Tips: While pointed tips are generally permitted, very sharp or needle-like tweezers might be a problem.

Types of Tweezers

Here are the types of tweezers the TSA usually allows to be carried on a plane:

• Standard Tweezers: Basic tweezers with pointed tips are generally allowed in carry-on baggage. I mainly use this type of tweezers to remove splinters.
• Slanted Tweezers: Tweezers with slanted tips are also usually fine. I have always called these eyebrow tweezers as I mainly use them for eyebrow shaping and plucking unwanted hairs.
• Rounded Tip Tweezers: Tweezers with rounded tips should be no problem as they don’t have sharp ends.

Additional Precautions

You want to get through the security screening process as quickly as possible. Here are some suggestions to help avoid any unnecessary delays or confiscation:

• Pack tweezers in your checked bags: If at all possible, keep tweezers in your suitcase rather than in your carry-on bag.
• Place them in a clear, resealable bag: If your tweezers are in your cabin bag, put them in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag along with other small personal items when going through security.

https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/tweezers

Flying With Tweezers Internationally

As with most other items, each country has its own laws about taking tweezers on board an aircraft. As a general rule, we have found that most countries have very similar regulations to the TSA, but not always.

Research Country-Specific Regulations

Before packing your tweezers, it helps to research the country-specific regulations of your destination. Here’s how you do that:

• Check the country’s aviation authority website: Most countries have an official website of the aviation authority or relevant government agency. You will need to look for any specific restrictions related to carrying sharp objects and see if they have any particular advice about tweezers.
• Ask your airline: The company you are flying with should have guidelines on a webpage, or you could try to email or tweet them. The airline may have its own rules, but it will definitely know the requirements of whatever country you are flying into or out of.
• Speak to the airport: The security officials at the airport are the ones who will decide if your tweezers are allowed in your hand luggage. Therefore, the airport should be able to tell you what guidelines they follow.
• Contact the embassy or consulate: If you cannot find detailed information online, you could try talking to the embassy or consulate of the country you’re visiting. They can provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding their regulations on carrying tweezers.

Below is the information I found when researching countries’ policies on bringing tweezers on a plane.

Can you bring tweezers on a plane in Canada?

I found this one of the more straightforward answers to find. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has an easy-to-use website with a detailed list of items. Included as personal items that are sharp objects but are permitted to be in hand luggage are tweezers.

https://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/en/what-can-bring/sharp-objects

Can you take tweezers on a plane in Europe?

I struggled to find any clear information about tweezers in the EU’s guidelines. They won’t allow ‘objects with a sharp point or sharp edge capable of being used to cause serious injury’ in carry-on bags. Although they list knives, razor blades, and scissors in this category, if the item is less than six centimeters, it’s OK to be in your cabin luggage. However, all my tweezers are longer than six centimeters. I think it is unlikely that a security officer would have a problem with tweezers, but they could decide to take them off you.

https://transport.ec.europa.eu/transport-modes/air/aviation-security/information-air-travellers_en

Can you take tweezers on a plane in the UK?

The UK government website has a handy list of personal items with clear guidance on whether they are allowed in hand luggage, hold luggage, or both. Tweezers are permitted in both.

https://www.gov.uk/hand-luggage-restrictions/personal-items

Can you take tweezers in hand luggage on flights in Australia?

I didn’t find the Australian Border Force (ABF) website easy to use. There was no mention of tweezers, but similar to the EU, knives, and scissors could only be in your cabin bag if the blades were less than six centimeters. But then I spotted a link to a ‘Dangerous Goods’ website. When I put tweezers in the search box, I found that ‘Pointed metal nail files and tweezers’ are not allowed in carry-on bags but are permitted in checked luggage.

https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/travelsecure-subsite/Pages/Items-you-cannot-take-on-plane.aspx

https://dangerousgoodsapp.casa.gov.au/

Can you take tweezers in hand luggage on flights in New Zealand?

It took me a while to navigate the website of the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA) to find out what their rules for tweezers were. At first it seemed they would be part of the ‘Personal security, grooming, toiletries, aerosols’ category. Anything with a ‘sharp edge or point, except blunt-end scissors with a blade less than 6cm long’ couldn’t go in hand luggage. However, I kept looking, and further down the page, I found a ‘Tools and Sharp Objects’ category. The list of items allowed in the cabin includes ‘Tweezers, knitting needles, crochet hooks’ with no limit on size.

https://www.airnewzealand.co.uk/restricted-items

Can you take tweezers on a plane in Asia?

I didn’t find it easy to find information about restrictions on bringing tweezers on a plane in Asia. Most official websites direct you to the airline you are flying on. As a general rule, Asian airlines seemed stricter about sharp, pointed objects, and they were not allowed in the cabin. Some airlines permit them if they are under six centimeters, so a typical pair of tweezers would be too long.

https://www.singaporeair.com/en_UK/us/travel-info/baggage/baggage-restrictions/

How to Pack Tweezers in Your Luggage

When it comes to packing your tweezers for travel, it’s important to take precautions to ensure they are protected and comply with airport regulations. Proper packing can prevent damage to your tweezers and ensure there is no risk of them harming you or anyone else. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to pack tweezers in your luggage for a hassle-free travel experience.

Step 1: Protect the Tips

The tips of your tweezers are the sharpest bit. The TSA asks that anything sharp in your suitcase be covered so that officials won’t get injured if they have to search it. You also don’t want the tips of your tweezers to get damaged or to cause any harm to other items in your luggage.

• Keep the Original Packaging: I actually remembered to do this! I kept the little plastic pouch the tweezers came in. Not only is it handy for packing, but it also makes my tweezers easier to find.
• Plastic Cap and Ring: Many tweezers come with a plastic cap to cover the tips. They may also have a ring that slides onto the arms and keeps the tips together.
• Rubber Band: Alternatively, you can use a rubber band to keep the tips closed. Wrap a tissue or some cloth around the tips and secure it with the rubber band.

Step 2: Place in a Protective Case

Putting your tweezers in a protective case will provide an extra layer of protection. This will prevent them from getting bent or damaged during travel. Here are some options for protective cases:

• Eyeglass Case: I have packed my tweezers in my glasses case a few times. They are thin enough to fit in alongside my glasses. I always wrap something around the pointy end, though, just to make sure there’s no chance of my lenses getting scratched.
• Travel Wash Bag: I used to put my toiletries in plastic bags, but recently, I treated myself to a wash bag. It has lots of useful pockets, and that’s where I pack my tweezers. Aidan has a roll-up wash bag that he has had for years, and it has loops that tweezers fit in.
• Pouch or Ziplock Bag: If you don’t have a wash bag, you can use a small plastic or a ziplock bag to store your tweezers. I used freezer bags for years before I got my wash bag. Wrap something around the sharp end before dropping your tweezers in. I found out the hard way that tweezers can poke holes in your bag, and then your shampoo or sun cream can leak all over your clothes.

Step 3: Pack in a Safe Location

When placing your packed tweezers in your luggage, consider the following tips:

• Choose a Sturdy Section: Select a location in your luggage that is less likely to be subject to crushing or excessive pressure. If your suitcase has two separate compartments, put them in one away from anything that could be damaged.
• Use Padding: If you have any soft or padded items in your luggage, such as towels, you can use them to create a cushion around your tweezers. Shoes can also be an excellent place to pack tweezers, with a sock stuffed in to keep them in place. Don’t forget to take them out before you put your shoes on!

Step 4: Carry On or Checked Baggage?

Deciding whether to pack your tweezers in your carry-on or checked baggage depends on your preferences and the regulations of the airline or country you are traveling to. Here are some considerations:

• Carry-on: If you prefer to have your tweezers easily accessible during your journey, just like your blow dryer, umbrella, candles, aerosol, and curling iron, pack them in your carry-on. However, consider if you really need them in your hand luggage. If a security officer decides they are a hazard, they can choose to confiscate them.
• Checked Baggage: If you are unsure about the regulations or prefer to avoid any potential issues during security screening, as you may have with taking trekking poles in carry-on luggage, it’s generally recommended to pack your tweezers in your checked baggage. This way, they are still safely packed but won’t be subject to the stricter guidelines of carry-on items.

Which Toiletry Items Are Considered Sharp and Which Are Not

When packing your toiletry items for travel, it helps to understand which ones are considered sharp and may be subject to specific regulations or restrictions. Here is a list of toiletry items that are commonly classed as sharp and those that are not.

Toiletry Items Considered Sharp

Certain toiletry items are classified as sharp objects due to their potential to cause injury or harm. Here are some examples of toiletry items that are typically considered sharp:

• Razors: Both disposable and safety razors with removable blades are considered sharp objects. Ensure that razor blades are correctly covered or secured to prevent accidental injury.
• Scissors: Scissors with pointed tips, such as nail scissors or small sewing scissors, fall under the category of sharp objects. Pack them safely and securely to avoid damage or injury.
• Nail Clippers: While nail clippers are not inherently sharp, some models may have a nail file or a built-in nail cleaner with pointed ends. Be mindful of these attachments when packing.
• Tweezers: Tweezers with pointed or sharp tips, commonly used for grooming or hair removal, are typically considered sharp objects. Follow the guidelines for packing tweezers discussed in a separate article to ensure compliance.

Toiletry Items Not Considered Sharp

Not all toiletry items are considered sharp objects. Here are some examples of toiletry items that are generally not categorized as sharp:

• Toothbrush: A standard toothbrush with soft bristles is not considered a sharp object. Pack it in a hygienic case or cover to keep it clean.
• Toothpaste: Toothpaste tubes or containers are not sharp objects and can be packed in your toiletry bag without any restrictions.
• Shampoo and Conditioner: Bottles or tubes of shampoo and conditioner are not sharp items. Make sure they are tightly sealed to prevent any leakage during travel.
• Lotion and Moisturizer: Most lotion and moisturizer bottles or jars do not fall under the sharp category. Ensure they are properly sealed to prevent spills.
• Sunscreen: Sunscreen bottles or tubes are typically not considered sharp objects. Check that they are securely closed to avoid leaks.

Checking Specific Regulations

While the items mentioned above are generally categorized as sharp or not sharp, it’s important to remember that regulations may vary between airports and countries. Even items classed as sharp, such as scissors and tweezers, are sometimes allowed if they are less than six centimeters long.

Packing Up – Traveling With Tweezers

The regulations and guidelines specific to taking tweezers in hand luggage (carry-on) and hold luggage (checked baggage) can vary from country to country. As you can see from my research, it can be challenging to find a definite answer as to if tweezers are allowed on a plane. Here’s a summary of the usual rules:

Hand Luggage:

• Tweezers are generally permitted in hand luggage.
• Types of tweezers allowed include standard tweezers, slanted tweezers, and rounded-tip tweezers.
• The tweezers may need to be under a certain length, e.g., six centimeters or seven inches.
• Avoid excessively sharp or needle-like tweezers, which might raise concerns during security screening.

Hold Luggage:

• Tweezers can be safely packed in hold luggage.
• Place tweezers in a protective case or pouch to prevent damage.
• Consider protecting the tips with a plastic cap or a rubber band.
• Choose a sturdy section of your luggage and use padding, such as clothing or towels, to create a cushion around the tweezers.

It’s important to note that whatever regulations may say, the security officer makes the final decision, and they can confiscate your tweezers if they think they are a potential danger. The simplest thing to do is to pack them in your checked bags. If your tweezers are valuable or have sentimental meaning, then it is not worth the risk of losing them. If you are only traveling with hand luggage, then you might choose to leave your tweezers at home and buy a pair if you need them while you are away. I have often done this and only needed to buy a new pair of tweezers once. It’s pretty handy as now I have a spare pair that I am happy to pack in my carry-on bag, as even if I do have them taken off me at security, I still have a pair at home.