Traveling with Craft Knives and Blades — A Complete Safety & Compliance Guide

If you’re an artist, hobbyist, or maker who's planning to travel with your tools—such as craft knives, utility blades, or model-making knives, it’s essential to know the rules and best practices before heading to the airport. This guide will help you understand what’s allowed, how to pack knives responsibly, and how to stay within legal boundaries for domestic and international flights.

We’ll cover the rules from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), international regulations (especially Europe), and practical tips for traveling with knives from reputable brands such as Excel Blades — plus how to pack them safely and avoid confiscation, fines, or lost tools.

TSA Knife Rules (U.S. Domestic Flights)

If you’re traveling within the United States—or from the U.S. on an international flight—the TSA rules are a must-know. According to TSA:

• Knives (including craft knives, utility knives, blades) are prohibited in carry-on bags. 
• Knives are permitted in checked bags, provided they are sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors. 
• This includes utility knives, box cutters, pocket knives, craft knives, and blades — basically any sharp object not explicitly banned.

This applies to all flights departing from or within the U.S. If a knife is found in your carry-on during screening, it will almost certainly be confiscated or you may face penalties.

How to Pack Knives for TSA Compliance

To comply with TSA regulations when placing knives in checked baggage:

• Use a sturdy sheath or blade guard for fixed or folding knives.
• Wrap each knife securely in cloth or bubble wrap to avoid exposure.
• Place knives deep inside your luggage, preferably among soft items (clothes, towels) to cushion the blades.
• Consider a small knife roll or protective case, especially for expensive craft knives (e.g., Excel Blades hobby set in wooden box).

Failing to wrap knives properly may result in confiscation or injury warnings to baggage handlers.

Can You Bring a Knife in a Checked Bag Internationally?

Yes — in most cases, knives (including craft knives, utility blades, and pocket knives) may be transported in checked baggage rather than carry-on luggage. For travelers flying internationally, this often means placing the knives in your luggage hold instead of your carry-on.

The TSA explicitly states that knives are not allowed in carry-on bags but are allowed in checked baggage, as long as they are sheathed or securely wrapped. 

That said, “allowed” doesn’t always mean “safe.” International flights often involve multiple security screenings, border crossings, or layovers — each with different local regulations. It is crucial to ensure the knives are properly packed, declared if necessary, and comply with destination laws.

Bottom line: For international travel, pack craft knives in checked luggage, wrap them securely, and verify local rules at your destination.

Traveling With Knives: Europe & International Flights

When flying to or within Europe (or many other regions globally), knife regulations vary greatly from country to country. However, some general guidelines apply for air travel:

• Sharp objects (knives, razors, scissors) are not allowed in cabin baggage.
• For checked baggage, knives and sharp tools may be allowed — but you must verify the destination country’s knife laws.
• Some countries restrict certain blade types (locking knives, folding knives, fixed blades), or require a valid reason for carrying them (work, art, profession). 

Countries with Strict Knife Laws

• Japan: Carrying any knife that can be concealed is illegal, and a blade length restriction applies to even the most common folding knives. The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel advisory for Japan warning that citizens have been arrested for carrying legal pocketknives.
• United Kingdom: Strict laws prohibit carrying most knives in public without a good reason. A 2005 court ruling stated that even a butter knife could be considered an offensive weapon if carried in public.
• China: Knives are subject to strict regulations and are considered weapons in public places. Carrying a knife in a public place is prohibited, and certain types, such as those with blades over 15 cm, are illegal.
• Norway: There is a complete ban on carrying knives in cities, and they must be kept out of reach.
• Italy: It is illegal to carry any knife without a valid reason such as camping or fishing.
• France: It is illegal to carry a knife on your person without legitimate grounds.
• Spain: Carrying a knife in public without a legitimate reason is illegal.
• Germany: Carrying a one-hand-opening or locking knife is illegal. 

Tips for Europe or International Travel with Knives

• Always check the country’s knife laws before departure (some countries treat knives as weapons).
• Pack knives in your checked bag - sheathed, wrapped, and cushioned.
• Consider carrying a copy of law or regulation documentation especially if you’re carrying professional tools for a job or craft.
• Factor in customs inspections. Security personnel may open luggage for inspection.
• Avoid carrying knives in public. Do not carry any knives in public unless you have a legitimate reason for doing so.
• Keep knives out of sight. Keep knives out of sight in your hotel room or other private accommodations. 

Do You Have to Declare Knives in Checked Luggage?

In the U.S., you do not have to declare personal or craft knives when checking baggage. According to Transportation Security Administration, you do not require a declaration for knives placed in checked luggage — as long as they are properly packed and meet standard regulations.

However, if you are flying internationally, you should check both your airline’s policy and the knife laws of the destination country. Some airlines or countries may require you to declare sharp objects or tools upon arrival, or restrict certain blade types regardless of packing method.

Best practice: Keep your blades safely sheathed, and check local laws if traveling abroad to avoid surprises at customs or border control.

Can You Bring a Pocket Knife (or Craft Knife) on a Plane in Checked Baggage?

Yes — the TSA explicitly allows pocket knives, craft knives, and utility knives in checked baggage. Here are some important notes to consider:

• Not permitted in carry-on luggage.
• Must be sheathed or wrapped; blades should be covered securely.
• It’s up to the TSA officer’s discretion if there’s any doubt about the knife’s legality or condition.

For craft knife users, this means your exacto-style knives, hobby blades, and utility knives (like those from Excel Blades) are safe to transport on a check-in luggage — provided they’re packed appropriately.

Why Excel Blades Tools Are a Great Choice for Travelers & Makers

If you travel often with craft knives, hobby blades, or utility tools, Excel Blades offers distinct advantages that make them ideal for travel and professional use:

• Durable, USA-made blades — less likely to dull or break during transport.
• High-quality handles and secure blade retention, minimizing blade exposure and risk during packing.
• Wide selection of niche blades — from hobby knives to heavy-duty utility blades.
• Compatibility with sheathes and protective cases, making secure wrapping easier before travel.

Looking for travel-safe options? Just opt for retractable knives or locking folding utility knives by Excel Blades. They are ideal to pack in checked luggage due to secure locking systems, shatter-proof safety caps, and retractable design. With proper packing, you can travel confidently — whether you’re heading to a craft convention, workshop, or international project.

Practical Packing Tips for Craft Knives & Blades

1. Use a padded knife roll or small toolbox. This helps keep blades organized and prevents shifting in luggage.
2. Wrap each knife individually. Use cloth, bubble wrap, or old towels to cushion blades.
3. Place knives in the center of checked luggage. Surrounded by soft items for added protection.
4. Use blade guards or secure sheaths. Fixed blades especially should be covered to avoid blade exposure. Excel Blades hobby knives come with shatter-resistant safety caps. 
5. Label your luggage as “Tools – Handle with Care”. Optional, but helpful for baggage handlers.
6. Verify airline and destination requirements. Some airlines or countries may have extra restrictions.

When Traveling by Ground or Train — Extra Care Needed

If your trip involves more than flights — e.g., trains, buses, or car rentals — note that many rail companies or bus providers may have stricter rules than airlines. Some bans include all knives, even in checked luggage. For example, certain rail networks in the U.S. prohibit knives entirely per the American Knife and Tool Institute.

If in doubt, pack knives in luggage locked separately from personal carry-on, or ship them ahead to avoid compliance issues.

FAQs: Traveling with Craft Knives & Blades

Q: Can I bring craft knives in my carry-on?
A: No. TSA prohibits all knives (including craft knives and pocket knives) in carry-on luggage. Use checked baggage instead. 

Q: Do I need to declare knives in checked luggage?
A: In the U.S., no. TSA does not require declaration — just proper packaging. Internationally, check your airline and destination’s regulations.

Q: Are folding knives or pocket knives allowed in checked baggage?
A: Yes, as long as they are sheathed or securely wrapped. Folding knives are permitted in checked baggage under TSA rules.

Q: What about international flights to Europe?
A: Knives are not allowed in carry-on. They may be allowed in checked baggage — but many European countries have strict knife laws. Research local regulations before packing.

Q: How do I pack knives safely for travel?
A: Use sheaths or blade guards, wrap knives in cloth or bubble wrap, place them in the center of your luggage among soft items, and consider a padded knife roll or toolbox.

Final Thoughts: Traveling Smart with Your Craft Blades

Traveling with craft knives and hobby blades doesn’t have to be stressful — but it requires careful preparation and compliance with regulations. By following TSA rules (or your destination’s laws), wrapping and packing blades properly, and using quality tools like those from Excel Blades, you can safely transport your craft knives for projects, conventions, or creative work overseas.

Whether you’re a hobbyist traveling for a model-making meetup, a tattoo stencil artist flying for a convention, or a DIYer bringing your tools on a trip, a little planning goes a long way in protecting your gear — and avoiding hassles at security checkpoints.

Happy travels — and happy crafting!