Are Knitting Needles Allowed on Planes? TSA, UK & Airline Rules
Yes, TSA allows knitting needles in carry-on bags. See the rules for scissors and thread cutters, the UK and Europe, and the safest needles to fly with.
This guide has Amazon links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.
On this page
Yes – in the United States you can take knitting needles on a plane. The TSA says knitting needles and needlepoint tools may go in carry-on or checked bags. Scissors with blades shorter than 4 inches are also allowed in your carry-on, but circular thread cutters or any cutter with a blade must go in checked baggage. The final decision always rests with the officer at the checkpoint.
Quick rules by item (TSA, USA)
| Item | Carry-on | Checked bag |
|---|---|---|
| Knitting needles (any material) | Yes | Yes |
| Crochet hooks | Yes | Yes |
| Sewing needles | Yes | Yes |
| Scissors, blades under 4 in | Yes | Yes |
| Scissors, blades over 4 in | No | Yes |
| Circular thread cutter / bladed cutters | No | Yes |
UK and European flights
UK and EU airport security generally allows knitting needles in hand luggage, but rules are set airport by airport and airline by airline, and some airlines have their own policy. Before you fly with Jet2, Ryanair, easyJet or any other carrier, check the “restricted items” page for your airline and departure airport. If the officer refuses your needles, you will usually be asked to bin them, so bring a pair you don’t mind losing.
Other countries
Rules change more often outside the US and UK. A few countries have banned needles in cabins at times. Check the official airport security page for every airport on your route, including connections – the strictest airport on the trip decides what you can carry.
Best needles to fly with
- Circular needles – the cable keeps stitches safe if you drop a needle, and short tips look less like a “spike” on the X-ray.
- Bamboo or wooden needles – lighter and less alarming than long metal needles.
- Short needle lengths – 16–24 in circulars or short double-pointed needles for socks.
- A spare lifeline – thread a lifeline through your work so you can slip the stitches off if needles are taken.
- 12-Needle sizes (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 10.5, 11, 13, 15) 5-cord sizes...
- Customized case for easy selection and storage, needles and cords. 12 tip sizes - No...
- Perfectly shaped tapered tip and silky finish of the needle surface
- Precision finish of the joint connection between needle and cord, smooth slide for every...
- Made in Japan
- Interchangeable circular knitting needles set, 12 sizes, 4 Length-6inch(40cm...
- Knitting needles are made of natural bamboo, lightweight and non-slip. They are polished...
- Corcular needles are neatly stored in the bag, preventing loss and convenient to carry.
- Each knitting needle is engraved with its size, clear and distinct
- The circular knitting needles can be used as gifts for various occasions and holidays such...
- Circular Knitting Needles Set made from Bamboo Wood are light weight for comfort...
- Full Size & Happy Weave: This set of knitting needles come in pairs and come with...
- Great Tools for DIY Lovers: This knitting needles set is suitable for any weave DIY lover...
- Easier to Use than plastic or metal circular knitting needles with less frustration over...
- What You Get: 18 pairs bamboo circular knitting needles, 1 Scissor, 1 Measuring Tape...
- INTERCHANGEABLE NEEDLES: The ultimate in knitting versatility, this Knit Picks...
- INCLUDED: Set includes 9 pairs of 4.75" long interchangeable wood needle tips in US sizes...
- CONVENIENT CARRYING CASE: A flexible 9" x 5.5" vinyl case with a snap shut closure neatly...
- BEAUTIFUL COLORWAYS: Knit Picks Sunstruck needles feature smooth layers of laminated birch...
- EASY TO USE: Flexible memory-free cables move with stitches and connect easily to tips for...
How to cut yarn without scissors
If you’d rather not risk your scissors, use a yarn cutter pendant with the blade enclosed only on checked bags, or simply use dental floss cutters or nail clippers (clippers are allowed in carry-on in the US). A small pair of blunt-tipped kids’ scissors under 4 inches is also allowed by the TSA.
Travel knitting checklist
- Pick a small project: socks, a hat or a shawl on circulars.
- Pack yarn in a zip bag so it doesn’t roll down the aisle.
- Carry a printed copy of the TSA page or your airline rule.
- Bring a stitch holder or spare cable so you can save your work.
- Keep blades and cutters in your checked bag.
Frequently asked questions
Can you take knitting needles in hand luggage?
In the US, yes – TSA allows knitting needles in carry-on and checked bags. In the UK and Europe they are usually allowed, but check your airport and airline.
Are circular thread cutters allowed on planes?
No, not in carry-on. TSA says circular thread cutters and other bladed needlework cutters must go in checked baggage.
Can I take scissors for knitting on a plane?
TSA allows scissors with blades shorter than 4 inches in carry-on bags.
Are bamboo knitting needles allowed on European planes?
Usually yes, but the decision is made by each airport and airline, so check before you fly.
