It was barely sunrise at the Vancouver International Airport when Maya realized she’d forgotten to pack her razor. No big deal, she tossed a new one into her carry-on on the way to the airport.
But as she inched closer to the screening line, she started second-guessing everything: Can I bring this? Will they take it? Am I about to hold up the line?
If you’ve ever had that moment, you’re in good company. Razors, nail tools, pocketknives are all small but they each have clear rules about where they belong when you fly.
The good news? Once you know the rules, travelling with sharp items is straightforward.
Why travellers often want to know the rules about sharp items
Sharp items stand out because they have specific rules, and it’s easy to forget what goes where when you’re busy getting ready to travel. With everything happening on a busy travel day – boarding passes, kids, carry‑ons – it’s natural to double‑check what belongs in your bag.
How CATSA helps you understand the rules
When Maya approaches the checkpoint, she wants to follow the rules for sharp items, and that’s exactly why CATSA provides clear guidance. We strive to help travellers know what belongs in thier carry‑on and what needs to be checked long before they reach the screening line.
Let’s break down the essentials so you know what goes where.
What sharp objects can you bring in your carry-on
Good news: not every sharp item is off limits. A bunch of everyday tools and personal items can fly with you in your carry-on. Here’s what you can keep in your bag from start to finish:
- Razors
- Disposable razors (blade encased)
- Cartridge razors
- Electric razors
- Personal tools
- Nail clippers
- Tweezers
- Small scissors with blades 6 cm or less
- Craft and cooking items
- Knitting needles
- Crochet hooks
-
Small kitchen appliances with blades 6 cm or less
Rules for small knives (with restrictions)
Knives are where things get a little tricky. But don’t fret, these rules depend on where you’re flying to, and these rules are quite simple.
Knives 6 cm or less are allowed in your carry-on only on flights within Canada or international flights. No knives of any size are permitted in your carry-on when flying to the United States.
What sharp objects are allowed only in checked baggage
Some items are too sharp or exposed for your carry-on - but they’re perfectly fine in your checked luggage. Think of these as the “see you at baggage claim” items:
- Razors
- Straight razors
- Loose or open razor blades
- Larger cutting tools
- Knives with blades over 6 cm (excluding United States flights)
- Chef, hunting, utility knives
- Multitools with blades
- Specialty tools
- Box cutters
- Saws
- Metal tools with sharp edges
If it’s sharp, exposed, or could reasonably be used as a tool, it belongs in checked baggage. It’ll be waiting for you safely when you land.
What sharp objects aren’t allowed
Some items are considered too dangerous to travel with in any baggage, carry-on or checked. These fall under prohibited weapons and can’t be brought to the airport at all.
Prohibited knives
Knives that open automatically by gravity, centrifugal force, button, spring, or another device attached to the handle are strictly prohibited. Concealed knives are also illegal. Check Transport Canada’s TP 14628 E - Prohibited Items List for more details. If you own any of these items, make sure you leave them at home. Bringing them to the checkpoint can lead to police involvement, so it’s best to not take the risk.
Packing tips for sharp objects
When preparing for your next flight, keep these tips in mind.
- You must measure your blade, from its point to where it meets the handle. Remember though: at the end of the day, your screening officer has the final say on whether the item is allowed through the checkpoint.
- Use blade guards or cases, this protects screening officers and prevents any accidental cuts during inspection.
- We recommend keeping everything together and using our What Can I Bring Tool to confirm if your item is allowed before heading to the airport. Planning ahead and knowing the rules helps you feel confident about what’s in your bag so you can breeze through security and get on with your trip.
And plus, it can all be done in the comfort of your own home!
Ready to travel sharper and smarter?
Now that you know where your razors, scissors and other sharp items belong, you’re already one step ahead. A little preparation goes a long way - and our tools are here to make it even easier.