The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows knitting needles and needlepoint tools to be placed in carry-on or checked baggage. However, circular thread cutters or other cutter or needlepoint tools with blades must be placed in checked bags.
Sewing needles are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage, as per TSA guidelines. However, they must be packed securely to prevent accidental pricks. Scissors must have blades shorter than 4 inches to comply with TSA guidelines. Needles, pins, and other sharp items may face scrutiny.
Both hand-sewing and machine needles are generally permitted in carry-on baggage, falling under the “tools” category and considered safe for air travel. However, it is important to pack them securely to prevent accidental pricks.
Tsa.gov states that sewing needles can be brought in the cabin with you, including scissors under 4 inches long. Cross stitch needles can also be taken on a flight, but they should be enclosed in a hard shell when not in use.
The TSA advises all needles to be enclosed in a hard shell when not in use. Sewing needles are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked bags, but they are not allowed on airplanes.
Knitting and emroidery needles will be confiscated, so it is essential to find a way to do glue-gun projects on board. Travelers with knitting needles often travel with them and have contacted customer service at several airports to confirm that their needles would not be confiscated.
📹 Can you bring sewing needles on a plane?
Sewing Needles on a Plane: What You Need to Know • Sewing Needles on a Plane • Discover the rules and regulations …
Can I take a needle and thread on a plane in the UK?
Artistic activities on board require the use of scissors with rounded edges or blades under 6 cm, as any other type of scissors will not be permitted. Additionally, other commonplace items such as umbrellas, canes, and knitting needles are permitted.
Is it allowed to wear knitting needles on a plane?
It is generally permissible to bring wooden or plastic needles on board an aircraft, but it is advisable to avoid bringing metal needles, as they may be perceived as a potential hazard by security personnel. Crochet hooks are permitted on aircraft for knitting purposes, and tapestry and sewing needles are typically allowed on board, although their inclusion may be subject to debate. It is advisable to leave the needles in the checked-in luggage and to leave the hide ends process for off-plan.
Can I bring a crochet needle in my carry-on?
Crochet hooks and knitting needles are allowed on airplanes, but sharp objects in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors. Carry them in a roll-up case or bundle the pointed ends with fabric and an elastic. Scissors can be packed in checked baggage, but they must be checked in your bag and smaller than four inches from the pivot point.
Remove scissors from your carry-on bag and place them in the TSA bin as you pass through to avoid rummaging through your bag. Sewing needles can be brought through in your carry-on bag, but rotary cutters and tools with blades must be packed in your checked luggage.
Are crochet needles allowed in hand luggage?
Crochet hooks and knitting needles are allowed on airplanes, but sharp objects in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors. Carry them in a roll-up case or bundle the pointed ends with fabric and an elastic. Scissors can be packed in checked baggage, but they must be checked in your bag and smaller than four inches from the pivot point.
Remove scissors from your carry-on bag and place them in the TSA bin as you pass through to avoid rummaging through your bag. Sewing needles can be brought through in your carry-on bag, but rotary cutters and tools with blades must be packed in your checked luggage.
Can I take small scissors on a plane?
It is imperative that carry-on items be positioned at a distance of less than 4 inches from the pivot point. Furthermore, any sharp objects that are to be transported in checked bags must be securely wrapped or sheathed in order to prevent injury. For a comprehensive list of prohibited items, please refer to the “What Can I Bring?” page. Official websites utilize the domain name “gov,” which is associated with an official government organization in the United States. It is recommended that sensitive information be shared only on secure websites.
Can I carry knitting needles in my hand luggage?
It is a common practice among airlines and security agencies to permit the carriage of knitting needles on flights. However, there are several considerations to take into account when implementing this general guideline and ensuring the safe transportation of such items during ground security checks.
What is not allowed in carry-on luggage?
The TSA prohibits certain items, including firearms, ammunition, fireworks, knives, safety razors, straight razors, and replacement blades for straight razors. These items cannot be packed in carry-on luggage due to potential harm. Foods, including meats, vegetables, and plants, are also prohibited for international travel or from Hawaii to the US mainland. While food can be eaten during the journey, it can be confiscated at the destination and may result in fines or legal repercussions. For a comprehensive list of allowed and unallowed items, visit the TSA website. If you’re looking for a new carry-on luggage, check out our test of carry-on luggage.
Can I take a seam ripper on a plane?
Thank you for contacting us with your query. Seam rippers are a convenient item to include in carry-on luggage.
Can you travel with needles in carry-on?
Traveling with needles and syringes requires an explanation from a healthcare provider or a medical certificate. In some countries, travelers found with needles and syringes without proper documentation could face serious trouble. They are usually permitted in carry-on luggage if needed for medical reasons. Before traveling, check airline regulations and the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority website for proper documentation. Before ostomy and pre-boarding screening, inform the screening officer about your ostomy and present a doctor’s note.
If additional screening is required, a private search room is available. Ostomy supplies, such as pouches and flanges, can be packed in carry-on bags and screened at the screening checkpoint. Preparing flanges in advance is recommended for on-board flights. Paste tubes are exempt from liquid restrictions but must be presented separately from carry-on baggage.
Can I bring a sewing needle on an airplane?
In accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), passengers are permitted to bring sewing needles on an aircraft. Such needles may be transported in both carry-on and checked baggage and may be used in conjunction with knitting needles and crochet hooks. The TSA guarantees a comprehensive security screening process prior to boarding an aircraft.
Can you take embroidery needles in hand luggage?
Embroidery is a portable pastime that can be undertaken on flights, regardless of whether the destination is the UK, the US, or Europe. It is of the utmost importance to ensure the safety and security of your project by utilizing scissors with blades under 6 cm that can be easily accommodated in your hand luggage. Such an implement will permit the user to transport their embroidery or cross-stitch project with them wherever they may go.
📹 Can you bring knitting needles on a plane? – Sharing my first-hand experiences!
There are few things more arduous than an international flight. So, wouldn’t it be great if you could while away time on a lovely …
Hi Norman, I’m just some guy from Delaware USA. I Love your website. I’m new to knitting and your website has helped me a great deal. I have to take my wife to dialysis 3 times a week and I would be bored to tears, for the 4 hours I have to wait for her, if it weren’t for knitting. You are a great teacher… thank you for making these articles
I wanted to add that I knitted socks on an ultra long haul flight (UK to AUS) on chiaogoo circulars and ended up splitting the tip of my right pointer finger badly enough to need to treat it for a few days. The dryness in the air meant that the tip of the needle broke my skin when it wouldn’t normally. For the flight home I watched my technique and moisturised my hands more often 👍
Until recently I only crocheted on flights because I figured a hook looked less dangerous than knitting needles. On my last trip I brought my knitting, a simple stockinette stitch beanie on 16″ circular bamboo needles.. No problems encountered. I never travel with anything that would be devastating to lose, so my scissors and interchangeable needles stayed home. Nail clippers snip yarn quite nicely and they are less likely to make TSA folks uneasy.
I have actually travelled with bambu knitting needles with no problem, and have also travelled with metallic circular needles. To the metallic ones I removed the tips and put them in my eye glasses metal case, while keeping my project safe in my handbag too. After going through all security controls, I just put on the tips to the needles and knitted at the gate and in the plane.
Of my own fault, I had never experienced needle confiscation until I naïvely pulled out my knitting just past the security station at Charles de Gaulle, waiting for my friend who was still going through. I’ve always gotten through with my knitting needles (circular and straight) I think because they are bamboo and not metal. As I sat and knit, the security manager walked over and informed me of my mistake and requested my straight (working) needles. He was kind enough to at least let me finish my row! 🙂 Luckily, I pulled the needles out gingerly enough to get my work back on my circulars when I got onto the plane. Thank you for another great article!
Hilarious encounter several years ago, when TSA was still new: I was prohibited from bringing my straight needles (steel or aluminum. But, my circulars were just fine. 🥺 To me, this was funny because circulars are pointy and have a built-in garrote! 😱 Since then, around 2015, I’ve carried small scissors, knitting needles and crochet hooks (very small lace sizes) with no problem. It still seems odd.
I am so glad I found you!!! I am flying back to America for a visit and want to bring my small knitting projects with me. I have decided to teach myself continental knitting with your article so I don’t bug the person next to me with my American “release the needle and whip your whole hand around the other needle” evasive style! lol. Great tips that put my mind at ease with bringing my needles on a plane!!! You are an awesome instructor!!!
I flew to and from Hawaii with Delta, American, and Hawaiian Airlines – never a problem. Wooden circular needles, a manageably sized project, and one of those yarn cutters that has an edge inside a decorative circular sleeve worked out fine. I never even missed a scissor. And it does help pass the time on a long flight.
I flew with my knitting for the first time last fall. I took a Southwest Airlines flight from New England to Arizona (and back again) with a cotton-based baby blanket for my niece. I kept my project and plastic interchangeable circular needles in a mini reusable shopping bag that Walmart was giving away to those who picked up groceries during lockdown. Southwest allows everyone to have one carry-on and one personal item (such as a purse or laptop bag). I stuffed by purse in my carry-on and used the mini bag as my personal item. It was very convenient.
It has changed so much: I used to work for the Lufthansa booking service from 2004 to 2006 and back then needles were not allowed ! Back then post 9-11 regulations were still in place, and it was a big no no, particularly international flights to the USA. That’s what we were told to tell customers when they asked, and we had a lot of queries in that regard ..
Hi Norman! Fairbanks, Alaska here. By all means knit on a cruise or flight up here, Princess and Alaska Air are very knit friendly. Besides, the locals will love to check-out your projects. There are lots of small yarn shops to cover anything you didn’t have room to pack. But best of all, and I do mean best, come get some Qiviut yarn from our local Musk Oxen. It’s pillow soft, very light-weight and magically warm. Come visit.
Some years back (pre-pandemic), I had my stainless steel circular needles taken from me by customs in Ireland, when I was returning to the U.S.. Very frustrating, as I had travelled to/from Ireland before that, with stainless steel needles, without incident. So, along with actual rules, it also depends on the particular customs/security officer. Ireland was also where security took me aside because of the extra set of guitar strings in my guitar case-they made me take out the guitar & demonstrate that I could play it. I guess the coiled up steel strings looked too much like I was carrying 6 spare garrotes in my instrument case…
As a United flight attendant, I love seeing passengers knitting! I always try to engage in conversation, even if just a few moments, because we knitters are a kindred bunch. That being said, this past January I was flying from TLL to FRA (Tallinn to Frankfurt) and my metal tipped circular needles were confiscated by Estonian security prior to entering the airport. I had done plenty of research prior to my trip but alas, they still didn’t like my knitting needles. They missed the pair that my project was on, whether by chance or on purpose, but I lost three circular needles and a crochet hook that day. Since then, I have transitioned to wooden/bamboo circular and straight needles for work/travel purposes.
I’ve flown for many years, but was not a serious knitter until the pandemic. This past week, I returned from a trip to Italy and knit on the flights to and from (United). In fact, the flight attendants took an interest in my projects. I took 3 projects: socks on wooden DPNs, small cowl on wooden interchangeable and a longer but lightweight cowl on Karbonz interchangeable. I deliberately did not bring anything with large needles. I also flew an Italian domestic flight on Alitalia and went through security without a problem. I didn’t knit on that flight because it was very short. I had folding scissors for the first flight (US to Italy), but put them in my checked luggage for the others.
Earlier this month I flew from Luxembourg to Frankfurt (LuxAir) and Frankfurt to Chicago (United Airlines, back with Lufthansa) with my wooden circulars without any issues. I knitted the hours away while perusal some articles from the inflight entertainment (best one was Slumdog Millionaire 🙂 A cute dress for my baby nice got nearly finished on these flights.
Shortly after 9/11 I flew from Seattle to Rhode Island for a funeral. I just was learning to knit. I brought a small simple project to keep my 12 hour journey busy. Of course, everyone was on high alert. I had metal strait needles. And a couple supplies I needed. TSA took my needles, darning needle( also metal) and a nail file I didn’t realize I had in my purse. At that time we were still able to bring liquids and keep our shoes on. Thankfully, everything they took were cheap. A year later had to fly to Florida for another funeral. I had wood circular needle. Plastic darning needle and cat nail clipper instead of scissors. I called the airline to see if those things were fine. Didn’t use personal computers much at that time. So, had to talk to a person.
In March 2022 I flew from London Heathrow to Minneapolis St Paul. I am new to knitting but decided to take a chance. I did a little bit of research and decided that a small project; socks, on wooden DPNs would be my best bet. One piece of advice I had was to take a project that had already been started to that there is actually knitting on your needles. Of the eight hours I knitted for maybe two and thoroughly enjoyed it. The flight attendant had a chat with my about my project and was very complimentary. I told her I had recently taken up the hobby and she asked if I had taken classes. I, of course, referred her to this website. Thank you for another great article Norman
I just flew with Air Canada last week and had no problems with using my wood knitting needles on board. I did get stopped for an extra security check of my carry on bags, but that was just a minor delay. Next time I think I’ll put my project in a clear plastic bag when I put it through security. Knitting on the plane was a little tricky because I didn’t have a lot of space in economy so I’m glad I took a simple project.
Recently I’ve flown on Ethiopia Airlines to Ethiopia with a small project. 13 hours flight! As you said, I didn’t knit that much but had no trouble boarding with wooden needles in my cabin luggage. I would not carry them with me in hand bag but sometimes it’s not a problem! I put my metal needles in check in luggage.
I just flew back from Los Angeles where I purchased a steel Chiaogoo full set… and on the way to the airport it suddenly hit me I couldn’t risk bringing my project in my carry on bag in case they were confiscated. I quickly switched out to my older bamboo needles and put the Chiaogoos in my checked bag. Boarded no problem with the 4″ circulars. This was on Air Canada. Great article with lots of good info for my upcoming trip to Europe!
Hi Norman! You look so cute in your travel gear! Thanks so much for taking the time to educate us on thinking about HOW we can set ourselves to travel safely with our beloved fiber arts tools. Also the tips on NOT being TOO optimistic on how much knitting we THINK that we will actually get too! lol. 😅 Great points! Great tips!!! thanks for everything Mr. Nimble Needles!
I always knit on the plane, I only take wood circular needles in my hand luggage and mini foldable scissors, leaving from the UK Birmingham, to Istanbul Turkish airlines and Cyprus, I fly with Turkish airlines and have knitted and crocheted with no problems at all, I do keep my mini foldable scissors in the bag until I need them, Istanbul security are very fussy about metal needles, so I never keep them in my hand luggage.
I have carried knitting needles in my hand luggage from the uk to Italy, Portugal and US without incident. Always make sure they are not my best or favourite pair, as I know there is always a random security guard. I have to admit the looks I get in the departure lounge and on flight are amusing. Always take nail clippers.
Hi Norman! I have always knitted when flying. I’m not a ‘good’ flyer so it’s essential for me to have a distraction. I always use wooden circular needles (my brand of choice is KnitPro Symfonie) which have never presented a problem. I use a thread cutter, the sort that look like a cookie with a bite taken out which is where the blade is, on a lanyard. I find they’re fine for anything up to worsted weight. I choose a small, stand-alone project just in case it is confiscated rather than a larger project I am in the middle of. I also laminate the pattern so it doesn’t get crumpled and have a bag that I can tuck down my side. Personally, I find the BIGGEST danger when knitting on a plane is being engaged in conversation by people fascinated by someone knitting. One doesn’t want to be rude but they can absolutely monopolise your time and reduced good knitting time!!
Thanks a lot Norman for your great articles, I enjoy them a lot and also learned quite a bit. I‘m a reasonably experienced knitter and have knitted on flight quite a lot. For me sock knitting works well with magic loop and wooden needles. They don’t seem to be too threatening. Metal needles on the other hand seem to be frowned upon, especially by Eurowings, whereas Iceland air, Lufthansa or Emirates have not complained. Flying to Iceland even resulted in some interesting conversations with flight attendants or other knitters on the plane 🙂
I went to Scotland for a month in 2018. We flew from Chicago to Edinburgh and I knit about half the time on the plane. When I would get tired, I would visit the toilet. I checked the time when food or water was going to be offered. I planned a nap before and put the knitting away until after I ate or drank. It worked well for me as. I knit a pair of socks that I didn’t have to pack. I did the same on the return with yarn I purchased at a wool festival in Perth Scotland. On a side note, I purchased so much wool yarn I had to purchase an extra bag to check!
I was on a Turkish Airlines flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia a month ago. I had gone on a yarn buying spree while in Istanbul and was happily carrying my new project with me on the plane. As I went through security, they found my size 3mm aluminum crochet hook. The security guard stated regulations are no crochet needles period. She did feel bad for me because I could tell, she was a crocheter as she was looking at my work. She went through all the higher-ups to get me permission but sadly in the end, my hook was confiscated. I told her to keep it. It was my gift to her. My husband spent the entire trip going to shops looking for a yarn shop that would replace my hook..yes while we were on a tour after flying on the hot air balloon. It became a group task with others trying to look for shops that had crochet hooks. Very funny memory for me. Btw, I live in Thailand and I always carry work in my suitcase to do when I go somewhere. Crochet hooks and knitting needles not allowed to be used at all on their flights. you can bring them on your carry on, but do not take them out. USA regulations are quite relaxed. United Airways allows me to bring metal knitting needles on board, knit with no restrictions at all. Thankyou for all your very informative articles. Your level of the art of knitting is stellar. I could only wish I could knit like you. Keep those amazing articles coming. I love your practical ideas and very good common sense about knitting.
Hi Norman! I’ve flown many many times internationally and domestically from Sydney and I’ve never ever had a problem with my needles. I’ve flown on Qatar, emirates, singapore, qantas, Lufthansa, Jetstar, virgin, American and British to name a few and have never been stopped. My main tip is to make sure that you have a project already started, so that when they do the X-ray and check they can see its actually knitting and not a weapon. I usually always bring my karbonz or wooden circular needles on flights as they’re versatile for both magic loop and straight knitting. And definitely bring small projects – i love sock knitting on flights and i usually print my patterns out so that i have a paper copy in my project bag. Knitting on flights make the long haul (especially from sydney where flights to places like Bali and japan are a minimum 8-9 hours…and lets not talk about Europe!) go a lot quicker…as well as a good conversation starter 🙂
I have knit on airplanes many times without any problems. I usually fly on Delta. The last time was January 2021, I took my whole set of ChiaoGoo red lace needles. I was going for a month to care for my parents, and wanted my projects with me. I knitted a lot on that trip! I made a heavy wool blanket for my Dad, as he was often feeling cold. I also took my knitting to South Korea two different times, but found I did not knit at all while I was there because I was too busy sightseeing. I did knit on the 18+ hour flight, though! I make sure to bring very small scissors ✂️ 😊
Hi Norman. The silly thing about these restrictions is that almost anything can qualify as a potential weapon. My gentle, aged father taught soldiers in WWII how to kill using only their hands. So a person with evil intentions could cause mayhem with no tools at all. I would love to know how many knitters have maimed or killed with their needles….
I’ve never had any problems taking knitting or crochet projects on board, but i always use wood or bamboo when travelling, just in case. I’d also like to suggest that you don’t take lots of yarn with you because if you’re like me, you’ll probably look for a local yarn store and will buy souvenir yarn to remember the trip.
Started knitting during the pandemic so have yet to take a project on a plane. Traveled lots in past so kept my in air entertainment to a book. Wouldn’t worry too much about a book. I’d be really upset if I lost or damaged a project on a plane. Road trips in Canada are a different story … easy to have a 3 hour drive so it is perfect for knitting socks or working on crocheted dishclothes.
I always take a sock project with me on a plane. I use wooden DPN,which probably doesn’t show up on the X-ray, and its never been a problem.. However I am careful to bring round nose scissors because I have had sharp pointed scissors taken away from me. One quick tip. If you take interchangeable needles on the plane. Disconnect them from the knitting piece and include the needles separately. For some reason, that doesn’t cause TSA much concern.
Hi Norman. Great article. The thought of my needles being taken from me would be so upsetting. The idea of bringing an envelope is a great one. I will be flying within the month but will probably bring a crochet project. Or maybe I’ll buy an inexpensive circular needle for a knit project that I will start after landing because we will be driving back and I like to have options, lol. Thanks for sharing all of your great tips! Some of the planes you’ve been on look pretty cool! Now I’m going to rewatch your article on dpns. I have a milestone birthday coming up in July and I’m going to treat myself to a couple of sets! Have a great week and thanks again!🤗😀
Im more of a crocheter, but i do knit squares and rectangles lol. If someone tried to hijack a plane with me on it it wouldn’t matter if i was using bamboo or wood knitting needles i would use them 😆 bamboo knitting needles are superior to the metal ones especially after you have used them for awhile. The yarn doesnt slip off as easily but still glides over easy enough for faster knitting. 😊
Hi, Thanks a lot for all this wonderful informations. Today I tried to fly with Easyjet from Milan to Lisboa with my knitting tool. It worked! I had the opportunity to knit on plane. I have terror to fly and knitting helped me a lot. I brought with me: Knit-Pro round needle green, size 3.00, 5 wooden needles and the set to finish my works like needles and scissors (on Swiss mini knife tool Victorinox). Wonder-Norman! You ar really special. 🌹
Hi Norman, you have turned teaching knitting into a fine art and a math project. I am so grateful because I am a right brainer. i have been knitting socks for 5 years and no 2 seems to come out the same LOL! Best I can do is similar. It is because I may be morphing several patterns and taking notes, or modifying as I go along thinking I will remember what I did. By the next day even, I can’t decipher my notes and I am into the right brain hmmmmm. Basically I “wing-it” a lot and I so envy your meticulous style and predictable results. I watched this entire article spellbound and I don’t know if I can do it because of having such a maverick style, but I will really try even though I get anxious with all the measurements and decisions. Often get a pleat at the arch and dunno if I have made it for too high or too low of an arch. I so want a rounded toe but even after following round toe patterns mine may have “ears” or look too wedgy. I get toe increases more wonky on one side so I will try your method instead of Turkish and M1. I thank you so much for your dedication. Right now living on SS checks prohibits me from Patreon, have you ever considered a Senior discount fee option? You could require some proof of age so you don’t get bargainers but with this group I would doubt that. With the rise of living costs in US, I just have to be really mindful of spending. Just a thought, not a biggie.
Hi Norman, I just made a couple of trips in the US once on Delta and the other on Southwest Airlines and have brought my knitting and a pair of scissors with no issues. However, I was on a trip a few years ago and pulled out my knitting and the lady sitting next to me made a nasty comment saying “I can’t believe they let you bring those things on the plane”, well I looked over at her and she was using a pencil doing a word puzzle, so I replied back to her “I can’t believe they allowed you to bring a pencil” she huffed at me and I said what’s the difference my needles are less dangerous than your pointed lead pencil. She quit talking at that point. I usually only knit on a pair of socks while I’m flying because they are small and I don’t need to have a pattern out. Thanks for your very informative article.
I flew on 26 April 2022 from Japan to the USA on ANA and Delta and knitted all the way on the flight when I was awake. I flew back on 29/30 April on Delta, then ANA. The flights were Osaka – Tokyo – Atlanta – NYC (JFK). I brought my knitting on circular bamboo needles to be extra sure (they tend to be more lax with wood/bamboo vs. steel). I totally agree with Norman on sharp, steel needles. Not a good idea. I tend to carry simple shawls on circular needles or just start a new shawl when I travel to ensure that my project is small. Instead of a project bag, I will bring the yarn and circular needles in a 1L zip lock bag. I will poke a hole through the bag with a pencil about 5cm from the zipper and cut from the hole to the top of the bag on one side so that I can knit while the yarn is in the zip lock bag. The hole and cut enable me to pull yarn from my bag. By making sure I have a new project on my needles, I remove the need for scissors or a tapestry needle. I have a friend who swears she can carry her tapestry needle and scissors anywhere provided she keeps them in her coin purse, but I have never done that myself.
Yesterday after years of travel with small round collapsible scissors, mine were taken away while leaving the Philippines. No issues with my wooden interchangeable needles (bamboo etc), but the scissors were physically torn apart. They did not find the round Clover yarn cutter (in my bag with pens and pencils for work.). Always keep a backup in your carry on, just in case.
Flew Turkish Air from Dallas to Istanbul (and several internal flights) in April 2022 with a circular wooden interchangeable needle. Left the scissors in my checked luggage and stashed one of those Japanese locket-shaped thread cutters in my project back. No issues whatsoever with security– I doubt they even noticed them.
I travel loads with my knitting and only had problems twice. Security at Istanbul would not let me through with knitting needles on the way back from a trip despite not having problems on the way out. I let them keep the needles and picked up the stitches when I got home. And Ethiopian Airlines told me to stop knitting in a return flight. Totally agree with circular needles on board as I flew to US yesterday and was using straight (bamboo) needles in economy class. Not a great idea.
I only lost my best fabric scissors to the security at the airport. They said scissors weren’t allowed. I don’t know if that was true, I did not check before my trip … I never took knitting projects with me on a plane. I only took my drawing and watercolour painting stuff with me (and used it quite a bit, even on board the plane).
Back in 2010 we went to Vegas for my son’s wedding. We were in first class back when it was affordable, didn’t have to pay for luggage, etc. Anyway, we were in the front most seats, I pulled out my knitting and accidently dropped my ball of yarn. We were climbing and…you guessed it, my yarn rolled backwards under the seats all the way to the back! 😄😄 The only way to get it back was to pull it so that’s pretty much what I did. It really was hilarious and most of the passengers never even noticed!
A couple of year ago I flew home from Ireland to The Netherlands. At customs control they took my knitting from my bag and told me that the manager had to look at it. After a couple of mins they returned and told me: “Manager said that your knitting is even more beautiful than that of his Granny!” Such a nice experience.
I travel a lot and absolutely knit on the airplane. I change my stainless steel needles to bamboo ones. Pack the metal ones in my checked suitcase and the bamboo pair in use in my carryon. I change them to metal again wherever I arrive. Bamboo needles Are invisible at the check points. No my favorite ones to everyday use but better than nothing at the airplane. Crochet needles usually are not a problem because the hook is not sharp. I use olfa folding scissors which are TSA allowed. Never had a problem.
Thankfully I’ve not had any knitting needles confiscated or commented on. I’ve used aluminum straight needles a few times, thankfully without issue. Mostly I use Chiagoo interchangeable needles without trouble. I’ve only taken my projects on domestic flights in the USA but I have been through 15-20 different airports with them.
I recently did knitting on virgin airline between Manchester and New York. I too precautions with bamboo needles and a rubber stopper. They were a pain to knit with and my project was really big and complicated but I managed ok but balling it up on my lap. I had no issues with officials and security the whole trip 👍🏻👍🏻
My experiences are limited in the past 15 years or so, and only between USA and Japan. I mostly knit the socks with 4 needles. Only time they stopped me to ask for showing the contents of my project bag at the security check was at a Japanese airport, and after that they let me go with them. I have never been asked to stop on the plane – maybe my knitting things are small and unthreatening, though they are pointy all around…
I’ll be flying to London in a couple months and was wondering about my ability to bring my project with me to knit while flying. I only have metal needles though so I am now going to invest in some bamboo for my specific project. I know this vacation will offer plenty of time to knit and sitting with nothing to do is torture. Thanks for all the information and tips.
I have heard on a crochet website that even crochet metal hooks have been banned and nail scissors taken away. I can believe it, because when my hand luggage went through a security check for connecting airline – I cannot remember if it was in Thailand or Malaysia (I’ve been through both so many times) my folding can opener with a blade on less than 1 cm got confiscated. It was left in my fligh toiletries bag from a previous trip and I didn’t even know it was there. Moreover, it had gone through all the security checks to my destination (including the same airport) and at the starting destination on the way back without any problem. The security was inclined to let me through but her superior insisted it to be confiscated. So, I would definitely take something to hold all the loops securely from your cheap plastic or wooden needles (but a large safety pin might not be the best bet). Just in case.
Well, you published this a day late for me. 😂 flew for the first time in 4 years yesterday, and I decided to keep my knitting in my checked bags to avoid any possible issues. One time in Madrid I was pulled aside to a scary secret room where they argued whether or not I could have my DPNs with half a sleeve attached.
Hi Norman, thank you for your informative article. I usually travel in Europe and knit in the plane, hovewer try to use wooden needles to be on a safe side. Unfortunately our last holiday had happened to be in Turkey and at the beginning of round 5 of Sock Madnes. This year round 5 pattern included stack stitches and wooden needles …well, would not do the job. I needed to knit during the flight to qualify to semi-finals. I had only the leg in stack stitches in second sock to do. Five repeats od 8 rounds pattern, a lot od stack stitches… I took a risk and brought my interchangeable sharp Chiaogoo 5″ needles size 2.25 mm. But I disconnected needles before entering the airport and put them in my pencil case. Successfully had gone through all security checks, my sock were in my cabin luggage waiting to go on plane. Immediately here I connected needles and was knitting for the whole 5 hours of flight. Coming back from Turkey we flown from Alanya airport and had gone through a lot of security checks, but needles in my pencil case were safe there, nobody noticed anything. Another knitting time on the way back correcting the toes in socks I had made on the way to Turkey to match my daughter feet (Sock madness requires to knit certain number of stitches and rounds to be able to qualify to next round, so they were a bit too long for her). Remember- pencil case with tips of interchangeable needles works a miracle. Happy knitting
Hello ! For what it’s worth, I’ve flown internationnal within EU with bamboo cable needles put in a pocket with pencils and my knit apart in the bag and nobody said anything to me. A lady onboard was so jealous haha and I think I got her to buy some bamboo needles just for flying ! Honestly I don’t understand why pencils or lighters or shoe laces are allowed and not knitting needles…
G’day Norman. I’ve had knitting needles, small scissors, crotchet hooks, nail clippers and even nail files all confiscated while travelling within Australia. There used to be glass cabinets dotted around both the domestic and international terminals here in Brisbane, showing items you couldn’t take, including all of these things. I’ve also been handed these items by family and friends when they were about to have them confiscated by security. I have not flown anywhere since our borders opened. So, maybe it’s become sensible. I hope so. I’m hoping to fly to the Netherlands. Thank you as always for your articles.
Good morning from breezy&overcast southcentral Kentucky. Excellent article! Thank you. I had heard that the Clover thread cutter (that looks like the pendant of a necklace) is not allowed. Not sure about that though. About 10 years ago, I flew from Nashville to San Diego to visit my son who just returned from deployment to Iraq. I think I had intended to crochet while on board, but got caught up in talking with my airplane seat neighbors going west, and going east, trying to keep myself emotionally under control while looking out the window. My biggest problem was making room in my luggage for the 4-6 balls of Aunt Lydia’s #10 thread I bought at the Michael’s in Temecula. (Couldn’t help it – “Warm Brown” had just been released)
In the case of knitting needle tips, size does matter. I had my circular needles with 5″ metal tips taken away from me in Bari, Italy about 4 years ago. They had a 10 cm (4″) ruler taped to the side of the security station and wouldn’t budge on their ruling. (I could say they wouldn’t give an inch. 🤣). I probably would have been fine with shorter tips, and wood needles might have helped. It was especially annoying because we had a 6hr layover in Rome plus ~9hr flight back home, with no access to my checked luggage where I did have spare needles. I should note that when I flew from Rome to Bari the week before I didn’t have any problems.
Thanks I was just thinking about this as I’m flying from the southeast USA to Las Vegas next month! I’ve been crocheting a while and never had issues with crochet hooks and yarn snipper scissors, especially as I will declare it as they scan it and explain the what and why. In the USA it would be best to be upfront as they’re scanning your bags, because if they have to question you it’s going to be more complicated, usually.
I like to crochet on flights. One time a pair of cheap scissors got confiscated. Since then I´ve only ever brought a thread cutter that can be worn as a pendant necklace. They never even notice it. Bringing a crochet hook on board has never been a problem either. On my last flight an old lady of 80+ was in the seat next to me. She looked at my crochet project, then at me. I smiled and thought she might start a conversation about handicrafts. But she didn´t smile back. Instead she pulled out her brand new ipad and stared at that for the rest of the flight! 🙂 About knitting on planes – a friend of mine tried to bring her very complicated knitting project on board. The guy at security just grabbed it and pulled out the needles! Not only got the needles confiscated, she was unable to pick the stitches back up afterwards. So when in doubt, secure the stitches on a piece of thread instead of leaving the project on the needles. If they don´t let you have your needles on the plane, at least you will be able to continue your work after the flight.
I just flew from the USA to Auckland, New Zealand for a cruise and returned from Sydney, Australia. Flights were on United and New Zealand Air going and only United returning. I took my knitting (socks) in my carry on. I had circular needles and a small scissor. The scissor was approximately 2″ from the pivot point and I had a rubber tip on the point. I checked the TSA regulations before hand and it was all okay. Flying over I was on United & New Zealand Air & had no problems. However, returning from Sydney to San Francisco on a United flight, they confiscated my scissors at the Sydney airport. They said even small scissors are not allowed in carryon. So it’s not the airline…it’s the country regulations and TSA doesn’t apply in Australia.
The TSA website says knitting needles are allowed on board, but that it’s up to individual TSA agent discretion. Given the power trip that some agents appear to be on, I’m not willing to risk it losing my interchangeable needles. The stamped envelope is a good idea… if there’s a mailbox available in the terminal, and you have time to leave the checkpoint, drop the envelope in the mailbox, and go back through TSA again. I just put my knitting in my checked bag and read a book during the flight.
I have not yet dared to take my knitting needles in my cabin baggage. All the information I can find for flights from Amsterdam Schiphol suggests you’re not allowed to have knitting needles on board. So last week I asked the security man at the scanner at Schiphol Airport. He said it might depend on what your needles were made of and how pointy they were. But he also said one employee might then let you take them on board, while another might confiscate them. So he ended by saying he thought it was better not to take them in your hand luggage. So I think I won’t risk it… Unless someone else has repeated good experiences of flying with knitting needles from Amsterdam!
Thank you, Norman! To be honest, I never thought about it until my brother was sitting with me in a airport when I pulled out my stainless steel ChiaoGoo needles on a cable. He was stunned that I could bring my “weapons” on board. I’ve never had a problem, except in India where upon arrival, my antique necklace scissors (+/-2.5″) were confiscated. I always knit on airplanes -can’t I afine a better way to pass the time
i accidentally forgot to pack my crochet hook and knitting project in my check-in luggage, but the staff of dubai airport and emirates airline seem to not really care about it. however, i’m the one who prefer to sleep during the flight, so even if i have my knitting project in my carry-on bag, i wouldn’t really bother knitting during the flight
I regularly knit when flying and up to this year I have never had an issue However a month ago flying from Puerto Vallarta, Mexican security would not allow me to take my needles ( circular nickel Addi rockets. ) through security. Because I had just a couple of inches done, I just broke the yarn and handed them the lot. This is the only place I have ever had difficulty so I guess it was just my turn…
Perfect timing, Norman! I will be flying from Germany to USA soon and was wondering if I could dare to bring my knitting project in my hand luggage. 😁 After perusal your article: I think I will change to wooden needles (my usual favourites are the ChiaGoo metal interchangeable circular needles) and try my luck! 😊
I have often taken my knitting with me to doctors appointments as even with an appointment, the waiting time can be long. One woman kept staring at me and finally I asked her if she was a knitter. She replied “Yes but you are doing it all wrong!” So I asked her what her knitting style was. She didn’t know that there were knitting styles. So I demonstrated English, English Flicking, Cottage knitting, Continental and Continental Combine as well as Portuguese. I put the yarn around my neck. She said I had not demonstrated her knitting style. Then asked me if I was a knitting teacher. I have taught some people how to knit, but have never been paid to do it. It was out of friendship. Once we were in a restaurant and had ordered food and were waiting in the booth to be served and I brought my knitting with as I wanted to be sure to finish with my Christmas knitting and so knit everywhere I could. The waiter came and took my knitting away without saying a word, I got up and followed him into the kitchen and took it back. We complained about this. I was in no way causing any offense to anyone. Most of the time when I knit in public, I’ve had nice comments, people just want to know what sort of project I am working on. Many do not know that knitting is not crochet. I did take my knitting along for the wait at jury duty. But took bamboo needles. The security said it was fine and the needles were rather blunt. But I don’t travel much by plane.
Took my knitting on a long plane flight, flew from LAX to Istanbul and then on to Tel Aviv not one problem with knitting needles and small scissors. Return flight from Tel Aviv to Istanbul still no issues. When we’re getting on the plane to return to LAX, United States the baggage check person ribbed my knitting off the needles and threw them and my scissors immediately into the trash. I was crushed, it was a baby sweater for a gift. So mean, I could have removed the needles gently but he ripped them.
I didn’t learn anything new, but I enjoyed listening to your talk. I do travel with small projects – usually hats. But I put my knitting in a clear plastic rectangular zippered bag. The bag is a bit larger than a pencil case. That way, I can stuff my knitting into my backpack. Your knitting bag looked way too large. You can only carry two items on the plane. Anyways, I enjoyed your talk.
Hi! First off, I tried to thank you for your helpful tip I asked about regarding the P3TOG decrease the other day but my reply could not go through, so thank you! I am about to fly and was just today researching about knitting needles and flying, so this was unbelievably relevant and helpful. super thank you!!! Also, I wanted to offer a suggestion to maybe insert a lifeline into your project just in case the needles it is on is confiscated. You would be able to save your work despite the needles being taken.
Most knitters have favourite needles and expensive needles plus less favourite and cheaper needles. I would keep my good needles in my luggage and bring my cheaper needles as my carry on. That way if they get confiscated (or lost) it isn’t a huge deal. Bring some cheap bamboo/wood needles to use on flight. I doubt they will confiscate wood or bamboo.
I read about the regulations flying from Uk airports which said you could carry knitting needles, BUT it was always up to individual security personnel in the airport. I have seen someone knitting in Copenhagen airport waiting for the gate to open so I assume the Danish security staff do allow the needles.
Forget trying to get anything sharp on a plane in Australia. They will reject nail clippers (you know, the kind that are not like scissors). I’d go with wood or plastic in this country. I think the biggest question about knitting on planes is about etiquette. I’d say that if you are travelling in the livestock part of the plane you shouldn’t even consider it. I once had someone knitting next to me and the constant movement of the hands and needles was constantly catching my eye and driving me insane. While noise cancelling headphones can block out the click, click of the needles the only option I had visually was to close my eyes. Fortunately it was just a short flight of a few hours.
Thank you Norman, the article came just in time for summer/vacation time 👍 My experiences so far: no trouble with circular bamboo needles in handluggage at SAS (Scandinavian) and LOT (Poland) on European flights. I am gonna try wooden DPNs at ITA this summer. What do you think of a crowd sourced overview (based on comments) on your website?
This is not a needle issue, but this is something that goes through my mind when I am on a plane and knitting along with a hand wound Ball of yarn. I now keep the ball in a plastic bag and have the yarn come through an almost zipped shut portion of the zip. Why? because I picture the ball landing on the floor when I do. not notice and rolling to the seat behind and someone not seeing it and mixing it up with their shoes and then perhaps it goes further unnoticed, OR what if I drop it in the aisle just as everyone is getting up to leave and reaching for baggage, etc. and I picture the mess that would ensue. I have NEVER heard of any of this happening, but as I said, it goes through my Big Imagination.
I flew into Spain with 4inch chi goo needles as I was knitting socks on board the flight. When I was returning back to th UK the ladies at checking baggage station took the knitting out of the bag and with great difficulty chopped the cable in half and binned the needles. I was gob smacked.They pulled the sock off the cable and put it back in the bag. I told the lady they were expensive and I would have collected them next time I came back to Spain. They just dismissed me.
I had no trouble in the USA, Canada, nor Istanbul, BUT my circular needles were confiscated in Mexico City going to Acapulco by the screening agent. I wish I had seen this 1st. I had a set of medal circular needles (the only circular size I had for the baby bonnet I was knitting) and a set of bamboo circular. Both had rubber stoppers on them. I had to forfeit BOTH because of the “sharp tip”. Sigh, I can’t help but wonder if both had been bamboo, I would have been able to finish my little project. Sigh.
No, you can’t bring them on the flights from Albania. How do I know? Coz I lost a few sets of nice bamboo double pointed needles that were not sharp at all. I guess people don’t know what knitting is in Albania. I was so upset and will never fly there again. Greece is apparently the same. I took my knitting in hand luggage from london to Luxembourg and back and it was ok.
Coming back to the US from Italy my circular needles did not make it. TSA in Italy took my needles. I had to cut off the needles and give them up. I was so sad because they were less dangerous than a business person with a metal pen. I have traveled many places domestic and international and this was the 1st issue. I’m going to get some plastic and wooden circulars.
I have flown in the US and through several European countries this year with my crochet supplies. Every country was fine with me bringing small scissors. The only place I was flagged was the UK. They looked through my bag to find both pairs. When I asked if I should pull them out next time he said no. Soooo why did he want to see them? He didn’t say. 🤣 Fwiw, this is an FAQ on the UK gov site. I love that their knitting community asks so often that they had to answer it explicitly. ♥️
Heads up: the security at Brussels International Airport just requisitioned my metal interchangeable needles. I didn’t even bring needle-stoppers because I had travelled with the exact same needles on the same route in October and November 😭 Apparently they have just been briefed to block anything pointy longer than 6cm. It may have to do with the international situation but BOY am I p🤬d… Four days without knitting??? Worst Christmas ever 💔
I will never have this problem Norman as I’m afraid of flying but I did enjoy your article as always it was so interesting and informative and I’m sure for those knitters who do fly this article was indispensable, looks like you have been on some amazing planes, thank you for sharing this Norman always great to see and listen to you 😊amanda xx💕✈️🧶
Traveling USA or Europe is quite safe for needles but going to South America, the Caribbean or Africa specially little airports checking points is a lottery. They took my tiny embroidery needles but pay no attention to my big bamboo kitting needles. And also confiscated my eyebrow tweezers!!! at Dominican Republic
From the perspective of a brown person, I would just say experiences may differ so just be extra cautious. My dad got stopped by security for walking around the airport with a rolled up poster when he was travelling for a conference. I myself have been stopped several times for “random” security checks. I feel safe bringing larger circumstances, wooden circular knitting needles with knitting already started and yarn hanging off so it’s clear what they are. I would only use a nail clipper for cutting instead of scissors. Just something to bear in mind for people with different characteristics. That being said, I’ve only experienced these kinds of incidents in US airports so may be different elsewhere.
I have a story about going through security at the airport. I had a sock that I had started on dpns. The woman working the X-ray machine didn’t know about knitting. She pulled the my needles out of the work, I was so frustrated trying to pick up the stitches that I ended up ripping it all out and starting over.
I once had my thread crochet hooks questioned, but they “passed.” I also once got moved to an exit row and they didn’t allow me to work on my project during takeoff (I suppose because the yarn could get in the way during an emergency?) But it was only a few minutes, so not a big deal. I just found it interesting.
I once had a trip from Holland to the UK with EasyJet and had crochet hooks, even tho there is nothing about crochet hooks anywhere in the rules there was a huge fuss over them, they’re blunt at both ends and were in a case, I didn’t understand the problem, unlike knitting needles which can be hell sharp, okay some airlines have an issue but a crochet hook?! Lucky they weren’t confiscated but I wasn’t allowed to use them and had a cabin crew member eyeing me the whole time, guess they have no idea what a crochet hook is or what it’s for……
I’ve never tried knitting on a plane because I’m too afraid they would try to take away my needles. I’ve only packed my bamboo interchangeables in my checked bags. However, I’ve been a bus knitter in the past when I had a one hour bus commute to work. On a different note, I love your articles Norman. I know you did a article on interchangeable sets fairly recently, but I’d like to ask if you get the chance to review the Knitters Pride mindful needle set. I’m debating buying a set of metal interchangeables now and am curious how these would compare to Chiaogoo and others at a similar price.
Thanks for the article! An issue you may run into with TSA in the USA is that there is a * (fine print) on the TSA website that states that it is ultimately up to the agent to make the decision. From what I hear (my 8.5 hours flight out of the US is not for another week–so I have been asking!), it has not been a common issue. I cannot chime in on particular airlines within the US as this is my first flight since 2020. I am bringing needles that I am “willing” to give up if needed, and brought a backup activity. I’m also hoping my diabetes supplies are a distractor anyway (ha)! Don’t the authorities know that it is more dangerous to disallow a knitter their tools? (wink).