My husband carries a small handy multi-tool in his pocket all the time. Years ago, it wasn’t a problem, but today, we need to make sure it follows TSA carry-on rules. And that was no easy task to make sure he did not lose it going through the security checkpoint.
With my knowledge of TSA regulations, I reviewed which multi-tools are commonly allowed at security checkpoints and which are typically placed in checked bags. Before we jump in, it’s important to note that many multi-tools are typically packed in checked luggage, as carry-on acceptance can vary by tool design and TSA screening.
In this article, I will share the TSA guidelines, tips to look for in a travel-friendly multi tool, and a review of seven multi tools to fly with. I will also help determine where these seven tools will need to be packed.
Together, let’s navigate the world of multi tool information so we can all take it with us when we fly.
Flying With a Multi Tool Or Not?
The answer is yes, a multi tool can be allowed on a plane. But the real question is, do you need to pack it in your carry on bag or your checked baggage? TSA says no sharp blades or scissors greater than 4 inches can be in a carry on bag. However, blades and larger scissors can travel in checked bags.
Best Multi Tool for Travel Quick Overview
I will list which multi tools are sometimes allowed in carry-on bags, depending on TSA screening. But ultimately the decision is up to the security personnel checking the bags.
Review Of Each Multi Tool
Let’s get rolling with our deeper dive into each multi tool. Please note that some products are marketed as travel-friendly, though many are still better packed in a checked bag.
Bracelet-style design
Leatherman Tread Bracelet
LeathermanTread Bracelet
The tread bracelet is durable stainless steel with an adjustable bracelet. It has 22 in 1 functions designed for men.
It sports many types of socket wrenches, hexagonal screwdrivers, wrenches, flat-blade and Phillips screwdrivers, a wrench to open an oxygen cylinder and many more functional devices.
At the security checkpoint, you may need to put this multi tool in a bin to go through the X-ray machine.
Pros
Only weights 9.6 ounces
Stainless steel
29 functions
Pro
–
Cons
Must take it off to go through the security checkpoint
The band is tricky to adjust
Con
–
–
Card design
Lever Gear Toolcard Pro
Lever Gear Toolcard Pro
This card multi tool fits right in your wallet, making it suitable for travel. It does not have jagged edges or a sharp blade and will not cut a wallet when inserted.
It has sleek laser-etched graphics and 40 functions, including 24 wrenches, a bottle opener, a box cutter, a can opener, and more.
Pros
Weight 0.96 ounces
40 functions
Lifetime guarantee to replace
Pro
–
Cons
It may need to be taken out of the wallet to pass through security
Will need to take it out of personal pocket through security
Con
–
–
Standard multi tool
Victorinox Rambler Red
Victorinox Rambler Red
Although this incredible little multi tool is not stated as travel-friendly, it is the one my husband carries in his pocket everywhere he goes. When we fly, he has packed it in our carry-on, and it hasn’t been confiscated, though results can vary.
Its ten functions will do almost anything one could need, including scissors, a can opener, and even a toothpick, among many more.
Pros
Lifetime guarantee on parts
Only weighs 1.06 ounces
2.28 inches long
Pro
–
Cons
Only has 10 functions
Some say it is too small but it has served us well for many years
Con
–
–
Large multi tool
Victorinox Swiss Army
Victorinox Swiss Army
This knife has the same compact design and reputable name as the one above, but it has 15 functions, including wire strippers, 2 blades, screwdrivers, a key ring, and much more, all in a lightweight functional multi-tool.
It does have more than one sharp blade, so it is not a multi tool for carry on.
Pros
Only weighs 3.5 ounces
Lifetime guarantee on parts
29 functions
Pro
–
Cons
Not suitable for carry-on; typically packed in checked luggage.
A few say it is too small
Con
–
–
Scissor design
Leatherman Style P
Leatherman Style PS
Leatherman is a well-known name in multi tools with a lifetime warranty to back them up. This 8-in-1 multi tool is compact, boasting a bottle opener, spring-action pliers, a mini-screwdriver, a file, scissors, a pocket clip, and tweezers.
This tool is marketed as travel-friendly and is often carried without issue, though acceptance depends on TSA screening.
Pros
2.9 inches size
Weight 1.58 oz
25-year limited warranty
Pro
–
Cons
Only 8 functions
Wire cutter will only cut soft wire
Con
–
–
Best in checked bag
Leatherman Wave Plus
Leatherman Wave Plus
The Wave Plus is a full-size multitool with 17 tools, including a replaceable wire cutter, pliers, regular bit drivers, openers, spring-action scissors, and so much more. It is made of stainless steel and has a lifetime warranty.
This beauty is fully functional with a sharp edge blade and will need to go in a checked bag. It is not a multi tool for carry on. If placed in a carry-on bag, it is likely to be stopped at the security checkpoint.
Pros
When closed, it is 2 in square
Weight – 8.5 oz
25-year limited warranty
Pro
–
Cons
May require 2 hands to open instead of one
Con
–
–
Scissor design
Gerber Dime
Gerber Dime
The Gerber Dime multi tool is made of durable stainless steel with a convenient butterfly opening. Some of the 12 tools include pliers, wire cutters, a bottle opener, tweezers, a screwdriver, and more.
Some have taken this through TSA checkpoint in their carry on and made it fine. It does have a sharp edge blade. I recommend putting it in a checked bag.
Pros
4.25 inches x 2.75 inches
Weighs 2.2 ounces.
Lifetime warranty
Pro
–
Cons
It does have a sharp edge blade
Some say it is stiff to work with
Con
–
–
Disclaimer: Product info, titles, and images may vary from descriptions due to updates. Information is for reference; check the live listing for accuracy.
What Does TSA Say About Multi-Tools?
TSA, or the Transportation Security Administration, has very explicit rules concerning what travelers can carry on planes. When it comes to a travel multi tool, here are the regulations.
Here Is What TSA Says:
Here is what TSA says about packing the multi tool in your carry on luggage.
“Generally, you are prohibited from traveling with sharp objects in your carry-on bags. Multi-tools (multipurpose tools) with knives of any length are prohibited. Please pack these items in your checked bags. Multi-tools (multipurpose tools) with scissors less than 4 inches may be placed in carry-on bags.”
The TSA generally allows multi tools in checked bags, but for carry-on luggage, the rules are more strict. Any tool with a blade is typically not suitable for a carry on bag.
If your tool has these features, it might not be allowed in your carry-on luggage:
- Blades of any size
- Tools longer than seven inches.
- Any item that could be used as a potential weapon, such as sharp edges.
Even if you’re confident you have the best Multitool, it’s always wise to double-check. Rules can change, and the TSA maintains an updated list of what’s acceptable on its website.
Please keep in mind that the final decision rests with the TSA officer.
Common Terms Used for Travel-Friendly Multi Tools
In the realm of TSA friendly tools, you’ll often see marketing terms that suggest a tool is travel-friendly, but carry-on acceptance still depends on TSA screening. It’s essential to understand the difference between these terms when selecting your multi tool for travel.
Approved vs. Compliant Comparison
- The term ‘TSA approved’ is often used informally to describe tools without blades, though TSA does not officially approve consumer products. They do not contain features typically restricted in carry-on bags, though acceptance still depends on TSA screening.
- The term ‘TSA compliant’ is also used informally, but multi-tools with blades are generally packed in checked luggage rather than carry-on.
You may come across different terms for TSA Compliant. To alleviate any confusion, here are other names that mean the same as TSA Compliant multitool:
TSA safe multi tool, TSA friendly multi tool, travel friendly multi tool, airline safe multi tool, flight safe multi tool, TSA safe multitool, plane safe multitool, and airplane safe multi tool.
FAQs In General For The Best Multi Tools
Here are some FAQs about the best TSA multi tool.
Can you bring a travel safe multi-tool through TSA?
Yes, multi-tools are allowed. But, there are regulations that govern where you pack your tool. If your multi tool has a blade or scissors greater than 4 inches, it must be packed in your checked luggage bag. According to TSA, a blade is a sharp object and can be used as a weapon.
What bladeless multi tools are suitable?
If you are looking for a bladeless multitool, we found three that will meet your needs. The Leatherman Tread Bracelet, the Lever Gear Toolcard Pro, and the Leatherman Style PS are all bladeless multitools. According to the TSA guidelines, they are considered suitable.
Which Leatherman is Appropriate?
The Leatherman Style PS is a travel friendly multi tool. It has no blade, so it may be suitable for carry-on travel, depending on screening.
How do I pack a multi tool in my checked luggage?
TSA guidance suggests you put your multi tool in a sheath or wrap it in a protective wrap when you pack it in your checked luggage. Things such as clothing, towels, or bubble wrap to protect airport security personnel if they need to inspect your luggage.
Can I take a credit card multi tool on plane
A credit card multi tool is allowed on planes as long as it meets TSA guidelines. Most do not have sharp edges, which may make them suitable for carry-on travel depending on screening.
Additional Resources
If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs, and troubleshooting on TSA, here are some additional posts about TSA:
Conclusion
We reviewed the best travel-friendly multi tools, actually 7 of them. Some are TSA compliant (checked bags), and some are suitable for a carry on bag.
There are 2 important key points:
- TSA generally prohibits knives and other sharp blades in carry-on bags because they can potentially become a weapon.
- The final decision of whether you can take your multi tool as a carry on is always up to the TSA personnel at the checkpoint.
Having a multi tool to travel with is like having a personal tool kit on the go. We would love to pick the best travel multitool out of those we reviewed, but each one is an excellent choice. It all depends on where you plan to pack your handy tool.
Happy travels, my friends.