When Aidan and I are packing for a trip we are often puzzled when trying to work out what items we can bring on board. One such item is nail clippers. While they seem like an everyday thing to have, the rules about flying with personal grooming tools aren’t always clear. In this guide, we’ll unpack the regulations about taking nail clippers on a plane, covering everything from the policies for carry-on and hold luggage, to international flight regulations, and even tips on how to pack them.
I don’t know why but going through customs always makes me nervous. I like to have nail clippers handy in case I snag a nail so I tend to pack them in my hand luggage. However, the last thing I want is to have my carry on bags emptied onto the conveyor belt because my nail clippers have been flagged. To make things easier, I put my nail clippers in a small pocket at the top of my backpack so I can get them out easily if needed.
The TSA’s Stance on Nail Clippers
- The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the authority responsible for security at US airports, has explicit guidelines about what can and cannot be taken onto an aircraft.
- According to the TSA, nail clippers are permitted in both your checked luggage and your carry-on bag.
- However, it’s worth noting that the final decision always rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.
International Air Travel Rules
If you’re planning an international trip and wondering about the rules for packing nail clippers, here is what you need to know.
- Internationally, most countries’ air travel security authorities mirror the TSA’s regulations. Nail clippers are generally allowed in both checked and carry-on baggage.
- That being said, rules can vary from country to country, and it is always best to check specific regulations based on your destination and any countries where you might have a layover.
In general, you can rest easy knowing that most nail clippers are permissible on international flights. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the regulations to avoid any potential issues.
Can you bring nail clippers on a plane in the USA?
You are allowed to pack your nail clippers in both your carry-on and checked bags but the TSA asks for them to be “securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspector”.
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/nail-clippers
Can you bring nail clippers on a plane in Canada?
The CBSA permit you to have nail clippers in all your bags.
https://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/en/what-can-bring/sharp-objects
Can you take nail clippers on a plane in Europe?
The EU doesn’t gice any guidelines specifically about nail clippers. However, personal grooming items are allowed as long as any sharp blades are less than 6cm. The blades on nail clippers are usually only a couple of centimeters long so there should be no problem.
https://transport.ec.europa.eu/transport-modes/air/aviation-security/information-air-travellers_en
Can you take nail clippers on a plane in the UK?
You can have your nail clippers in both your hand luggage and hold luggage when traveling by plane in the UK.
https://www.gov.uk/hand-luggage-restrictions/personal-items
Can you take nail clippers in hand luggage on flights in Australia?
Similar to the EU, the ABF do not include nail clippers on their list of allowed and prohibited items. They do have guidelines that blades over 6cm are not allowed in carry on bags but this would not apply to nail clippers as they are much smaller.
https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/travelsecure-subsite/Pages/Items-you-cannot-take-on-plane.aspx
Can you take nail clippers in hand luggage on flights in New Zealand?
You are allowed “Items with a sharp edge or point with a blade less than 6cm long” in your hand luggage in New Zealand. However, some airlines have been known to ban nail clippers from carry-on bags so it would be best to double-check with the company you are flying with.
https://www.aviation.govt.nz/passenger-information/what-can-i-bring/show/toiletries-and-cosmetics
https://www.airnewzealand.co.uk/restricted-items
Can you take nail clippers on a plane in Asia?
Asia also doesn’t give specific guidelines about where to pack your nail clippers so it would be sensible to check with your airline if you need to have your nail clippers in your hand luggage.
https://www.singaporeair.com/en_UK/us/travel-info/baggage/baggage-restrictions/
Size and Type of Nail Clippers
- While nail clippers are generally allowed, it’s important to consider their size and type. Most airlines and security authorities will allow basic, small nail clippers in your carry-on.
- Large clippers or those with additional attachments, like a small blade or file, may be considered differently. To avoid any potential issues, stick with simple, small clippers for your carry-on luggage.
- If you have a multi-purpose grooming tool with larger blades or attachments, it’s probably best to pack this in your checked luggage.
- If you’re unsure about the permissibility of a particular item, it is always safer to place it in your checked luggage.
Tips for Traveling with Nail Clippers
There’s always a chance the officer on duty the day you travel is very strict and decides that your nail clippers are a danger. They are within their rights to do so and there is no point arguing. To be on the safe side, the nail clippers I put in my cabin bag are a cheap pair. Aidan has a some very good nail clippers. They are extremely sharp and they weren’t cheap. We always pack Aidan’s nail clippers in his wash bag which goes in his suitcase. If we are only taking cabin luggage then Aidan’s fancy nail clippers stay at home.
- Keep your nail clippers in an easily accessible place in your bag. If security needs to check your bag, this will make the process smoother.
- If your nail clippers include a file or other attachments, make sure these are folded into the device, not protruding in a way that could potentially be seen as a threat.
- Always check the latest regulations before you travel. Rules can change, and what is allowed now may not be in the future.
- When in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure if your nail clippers will be allowed, consider packing them in your checked baggage.
How to Pack Nail Clippers in Your Luggage
When traveling, you need to be careful about how you pack certain items. Nail clippers, like hair dryers, curling irons, umbrellas, aerosol cans and candles, while generally allowed, still need to be packed properly to ensure a smooth journey. Here’s a guide on how to pack nail clippers in your luggage.
Packing Nail Clippers in Checked Luggage
When packing nail clippers in your checked luggage, you can follow these steps:
- Wrap Them Up: For the safety of other items in your luggage, it’s advisable to wrap your nail clippers in a small cloth or towel before packing them. This ensures any sharp edges are covered. This also protects the customs officers if they search your bag.
- Securely Store: Ideally, place your wrapped clippers in a washbag before adding them to your luggage. This provides an additional layer of protection. Aidan’s washbag has a loop designed to hold his nail clippers that is very handy.
Packing Nail Clippers in Carry-On Luggage
For carry-on luggage, a slightly different approach should be taken:
- Size Matters: Stick to basic, small nail clippers. Anything larger or with added features might raise concerns at the security check.
- Make Them Accessible: Pack your nail clippers in a spot where you can easily take them out if necessary during security checks. Keeping them in a clear plastic bag can expedite the process.
- Fold Away Any Attachments: If your nail clippers include additional features, ensure these are folded within the device. This way, they’re less likely to be seen as a potential threat.
General Tips for Packing Nail Clippers
- Check Regulations: Before traveling, always check the latest regulations of the airport and airlines you’re using. These can change, so staying updated is important.
- Err on the Side of Caution: If you’re unsure whether your nail clippers will be permitted, it’s best to pack them in your checked luggage.
- Take Care of Other Items: Ensure the clippers are packed in a way that they won’t damage any of your other items, especially if they’re in your carry-on bag.
Properly packing nail clippers in your luggage, whether checked or carry-on, can help ensure a hassle-free journey. It’s all about being mindful of the size and features of the clippers, making them easily accessible if needed, and always staying updated with the latest regulations.
Which Toiletry Items Are Considered Sharp and Which Not
Understanding what constitutes a ‘sharp’ object in terms of airline travel can be somewhat confusing. Here, we’ll look into which toiletry items are considered sharp and which are not by most security authorities such as the TSA.
Sharp Toiletry Items
Sharp toiletry items typically have a blade, point, or edge capable of cutting or piercing. These include:
- Razors: Both safety razors and disposable razors are classified as sharp items. However, disposable razors are generally permitted in your carry-on bag, while safety razors need to be packed in your checked luggage.
- Nail Files and Metal Nail Clippers: These can be seen as sharp items due to their pointed ends or cutting edges. Small nail files and clippers are usually allowed in your carry-on, but larger ones should be packed in checked luggage.
- Tweezers: With pointed or sharp ends, tweezers can be classified as sharp. However, most airlines permit tweezers in both carry-on and checked luggage.
- Scissors: Scissors, especially those with blades longer than 4 inches, are considered sharp items and should be placed in checked luggage. Smaller scissors, typically less than 4 inches from the pivot point, may be allowed in your carry-on bag.
Other items like hiking poles can be considered as sharp or a weapon, so you should pack these in your hold luggage to ensure they are not confiscated by airport security.
Non-Sharp Toiletry Items
Non-sharp toiletry items generally lack a sharp edge or point that could be used as a weapon. These include:
- Toothbrushes: Regular or electric toothbrushes are not considered sharp items.
- Combs: Combs, even those with pointed handles, are not usually categorized as sharp items.
- Shampoo, Conditioner, and Other Liquids: While not sharp, it’s important to remember that these items need to be in 3.4 oz containers or smaller to go in your carry-on bag due to the liquid restrictions.
- Deodorant: Both stick and spray deodorants are not classified as sharp items.
- Makeup Items: Most makeup items, such as mascara, eyeliner, lipsticks, and blushes, are not considered sharp. However, certain items like metal eyelash curlers may need to be checked depending on their design.
Tips for Traveling with Toiletry Items
- Always check the most recent guidelines from the airline and airport security to ensure smooth travel.
- Pack sharp items in your checked luggage whenever possible to avoid potential issues.
- Remember the liquid restrictions for carry-on bags: 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller per container, all fitting within a single quart-sized bag.
- Keep potentially problematic items easily accessible in case they need to be inspected by security.
Knowing the distinction between what toiletry items are considered sharp and which are not can help streamline your airport security experience, ensuring a smoother start to your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are the mist commonly asked questions about taking nail clippers on a plane:
Can I bring nail clippers in my carry-on bag?
Yes, you can bring small, basic nail clippers in your carry-on bag.
Are there restrictions on the size or type of nail clippers I can carry on a plane?
Yes, smaller, basic nail clippers are typically permitted in carry-on luggage. Larger nail clippers or those with additional attachments may be better suited for checked baggage.
Can I bring nail clippers on an international flight?
Yes, most international air travel security authorities allow nail clippers in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, rules can vary, so it’s best to check the specific regulations of your destination country and any layover countries.
Should I declare my nail clippers at the airport security checkpoint?
It’s not necessary to declare your nail clippers at security. However, you should pack them in an easily accessible place in case they need to be inspected.
Can I use my nail clippers during the flight?
While there’s no rule against using nail clippers during a flight, your fellow passengers are unlikely to be happy if you start using them. If you snag a nail it would be fine to discreetly trim it but anything more would not be acceptable.
Can I pack nail clippers in my checked luggage?
Yes, you can pack any size and type of nail clippers in your checked luggage without any issues.
How should I pack my nail clippers?
For safety, wrap your nail clippers in a small cloth before packing them. If in carry-on luggage, keep them in an easily accessible spot.
What if my nail clippers have a nail file or other attachments?
Small nail clippers with a nail file or other attachments are typically allowed in carry-on luggage. For larger tools with more substantial attachments, it’s best to place them in your checked luggage.
Can the TSA confiscate my nail clippers?
While it’s rare, the TSA can confiscate your nail clippers if they believe they could be used dangerous. To avoid this, stick to basic, small nail clippers in your carry-on luggage.
Do these rules apply to both domestic and international flights?
The rules for nail clippers generally apply to both domestic and international flights. However, some international authorities might have slight variations in their rules, so it’s always a good idea to check specific regulations based on your destination and any layovers.
Packing Up – Flying With Nail Clippers
Aidan and I have never had any problems taking our nail clippers on a plane. I usually have a pair in my hand luggage and they have never been flagged or caused any problems. Taking nail clippers on a plane is generally allowed by most airlines and countries, but it’s important to be aware of the specific rules based on the type of luggage. For carry-on luggage, it’s recommended to pack basic, small nail clippers. Larger clippers or those with additional attachments may raise concerns at the security checkpoint.
For hold luggage or checked baggage, there are fewer restrictions and larger or multi-purpose grooming tools can be included without worry. However, all items, irrespective of their size and type, should be packed securely to prevent damage to other items in your luggage.
Finally, the exact regulations can vary between countries and airlines, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific rules before you travel. Understanding these guidelines and packing your nail clippers accordingly will make your airport experience smoother and more hassle-free.
