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The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Carrying a Pocket Knife

Travel is an adventure, and in the spirit of the great travelers of old, a trusty pocket knife has always been a part of the essential kit . But in today’s world, where airport security is tight and the term “everyday carry” is peppered with terms like “TSA compliant,” the matter of pocket knives — especially when traveling can be a contentious one.

Is it still relevant to carry a knife on your trips? How do you ensure you’re within legal boundaries? What are the obvious and not-so-obvious uses of a pocket knife while traveling?

This article serves as a practical guide for the savvy traveler on carrying a pocket knife.

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TSA and international air travel

Regional laws and customs, uses of a pocket knife in traveling, blade type and size, handle material and durability, additional tools, tips for bringing a pocket knife on trips, conclusions, know the laws.

Before traveling with a pocket knife, it’s crucial to do research on the laws and regulations regarding knife carry in your destination. Laws can vary significantly between countries, states, and even cities. What may be legal to carry in one place could be illegal in another.

Specifically, you should look up specific restrictions on blade length, locking mechanisms, and concealed carry.

For U.S. travelers, the TSA rules are clear — pocket knives must be checked in your luggage, not carried onto the plane. However, international regulations vary greatly, and it’s not safe to assume that what’s allowed in one country will be permissible in another.

A good rule of thumb is that blades should never be more than 2.5 inches in public and preferably not spring-loaded or automized. Be vigilant and adaptable when it comes to transportation security.

Checking the local regulations upon arrival is a smart move. Some regions may prove more pragmatic than others, where a casual “Sorry, I forgot it was in there” might be met with a roll of the eyes, rather than a day spent explaining the incident in a foreign language to local enforcement. In some countries like Hong Kong, carrying a pocket knife is met with a “lock it up” policy.

A pocket knife is a multipurpose tool that can come in handy in numerous situations.

Here are several reasons to have a pocket knife on hand during your travels:

Food preparation : When enjoying a picnic or preparing a meal while camping, a pocket knife can be used to slice fruits and vegetables, cheese, or bread. It’s especially handy when you don’t have access to kitchen utensils.
Outdoor activities : If you’re hiking, camping, or engaging in other outdoor adventures, a pocket knife can assist in cutting rope, trimming branches, and even preparing kindling for a fire.
Emergencies : A pocket knife is useful in unforeseen situations, from fixing a malfunctioning zipper to opening containers, cutting tangled ropes, and cutting seatbelts when you experience a car breakdown.
Compact companion : The pocket knife serves as a knife, screwdriver, bottle opener, and more, in a single pocketable form. When you’re short on space in your suitcase, having a tool that compresses a whole toolkit into the dimensions of your palm is invaluable.

The multi-faceted nature of this tool makes it highly versatile, and as such, it should be weighed in the balance of any traveler’s “to pack or not to pack” debate.

Choosing the Right Pocket Knife for Traveling

Not all pocket knives are created equal, and the perfect travel companion must be chosen carefully. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right blade for your escapades.

Opt for a simple, non-threatening blade that is easy to both store and use. A non-serrated, drop or clip point blade is versatile and suitable for most tasks. The ideal size should be middle-of-the-road — anything too long and you’ll have unnecessary trouble, anything too short might not be practical for all your needs.

The handle should be comfortable and durable, as it might be in your hand for longer than just the occasional cut. Lightweight, water-resistant materials like aluminum or G-10 are sturdy without being cumbersome.

Additional tools, while potentially useful, also add weight and complexity. Multi-tools can be great if you anticipate needing the extra features, but for most casual travelers, a good steel blade on its own should be sufficient.

Know the local laws . Before packing your pocket knife, do a little research about the local laws of your destination to avoid trouble. It’s way better to be in the know than in the no-go.
Fly friendly . Remember to stow your blade in your checked luggage unless you want to donate it to airport security.
Stay sharp . Like any good traveler knows, keeping your gear in top condition is key to a smooth trip. Make sure your knife is sharp enough to handle tasks but not so sharp that you risk cutting yourself while slicing that impromptu picnic apple. A well-maintained knife is a traveler’s best friend.
Use discretion . Be mindful of where and when you use your pocket knife, especially in public spaces or crowded areas. If traveling with companions, make sure they are aware that you have a pocket knife and educate them on its safe handling and use.
Consider buying on the spot . If you do not want the cost of checking in a bag, consider buying a pocket knife where you’re going and giving it away before you leave. There are plenty of good pocket knives costing $20 or less.

Does the average backpacker or jetsetter really need a pocket knife in modern times? The answer is a resounding “maybe.” For some travelers, having a pocket knife is essential in doing various tasks and also represents preparedness and self-sufficiency. A pocket knife definitely still has a place among explorers — the kind who loves cooking with a campfire or slicing an apple atop a windy cliff.

In the end, the decision to carry a pocket knife is a personal one, subject to legality and one’s comfort level.

This article is contributed by an expert guest author.

The Best Pocket Knives and Travel Tools – EPIC Guide For 2024

It’s only a matter of time until a good pocket knife comes in handy. Whether you’re setting up camp or tearing it down, pocket knives will be right by your side every step of the process. Before you know it, your knife will be an everyday carry, and you’ll lose track of the benefits.

A pocket knife opens your campsite for renovations, whittles the branches for marshmallows, and preps the charcuterie board. Just don’t forget to clean your blade before the meal; rubbing it on my dirty shirt cleans it enough, right?

On some camping trips, my pocket knife helps me enjoy dinner on the beach, and on other trips, it does nothing more than open up a few beers. Whether you think you need it or not, adventurers would argue that heading into the woods without a quality pocket knife is asking for trouble.

It may be tempting to do without. I’m always looking for places to shed weight and deciding which one of my toys I’ll have to leave at home, but pocket knives accompany every trip. They weigh less than most single-use quick oats packets, so there is no reason to leave one off your packing list.

Unfortunately, It’s not easy to create a knife versatile enough for the trail that is also small enough to bring to the mountain top. Many lesser knife options have fit the bill only to snap under pressure.

Don’t trust dinner on shoddy craftsmanship. To make sure your knife is ready when it counts, you need to invest in the best. In this post, we’ll weed out the phonies and take a closer look at top pocket knives and other pocket tools that travellers will love.

Quick Answers

#1 – best overall pocket knife – benchmade bugout, #2 – best ultralight pocket knife – benchmade 533.

#3 – Best Multi Tool – Leatherman Free P4
#4 – Best Bargain Pocket Knife – Opinel Number 8
#5 – Best Multi Purpose Knife – Swiss Army Camper Knife

#6 – Best Small Knife – Gerber Swagger Drop Point Knife

#7 – Best Multi Blade Knife – Leatherman Bond Multi-Tool
#8 – Best Knife With Scissors – Swiss Army Huntsman Knife
#9 – Best Cheap Pocket Knife – Petzl Sparta

Benchmade Bugout

> Fits into even the most lightweight situations
> Comes with easy waist attachment

Benchmade 533

> Smallest knife out there that can still get the job done
> Stainless steel blade

Leatherman Free P4

> 21 toolset
> Totally customizable

Opinel Number 8

> Hand Carved and affordable
> Simple and effective locking mechanism

Swiss Army Camper Knife

> 12 piece kit
> The original camping tool

Gerber Swagger

> Fastest draw in the west
> Quality safety lock

Leatherman Bond Multi-Tool

> 12 tools can all be accessed with one hand
> Stainless steel used throughout

Swiss Army Huntsman Knife

> Packs 8 tools into a classic knife handle
> Quality blade and quality multitools

Petzl Spatha

> Easily hooks onto a carabiner
> Same steel used in ice skate blades

About Knives and Other Tools

how to find a good pocket knife, what are the best pocket knives and travel tools, final thoughts on the best pocket knives.

Most pocket knives and multi-tools are considered weapons and are heavily regulated. Don’t try to take them as a carry-on. Any knife will cause questions at most police interactions and all border crossings, so make sure you understand the local national or even state knife laws before you head to the airport with a knife in your pocket.

A good knife should be more than suitable for everyday carry, but that doesn’t mean you have to bring it everywhere. Any stadium or venue with a metal detector may not allow you to bring your knife inside. You could either miss the show or lose your tool.

Most knife laws prevent concealed carry, and if you catch a cop on a bad day, that could mean your pocket. Most of the knives on our list won’t get you into too much trouble. Just use common sense, and don’t try to hide your knife if questioned.

A knife fits perfectly into every palm in America, but it won’t be the same knife in most hands. Knives and multi-tools are just that – multifunctional. There are loads of different values in a good knife, but there is not much space to play with if you want it to fit in your pocket. You’ll find many good pocket knives for accomplishing many different tasks, but you won’t find one knife that can do it all. A knife that makes great camping gear , may not be suitable for carrying in the streets of London for various reasons of legality!

Designers have given shoppers a world of options, all with the classic quality and stainless steel that makes up a good blade. You can find knives with all sorts of handles, blade shapes, extra features, and construction quirks that make them stand out.

Here are a few factors that go into a good pocket knife. Decide where you fit into these categories to find the knife that best fits your hand.

When it comes to knives and tools, cheap usually means crap. Budget products from the legendary Swiss Army and Opinel are the closest things to exceptions to this rule (both of these make great gifts for backpackers ). These options provide tremendous value for their price and are the real deal, but neither one can cut through thick objects.

Crap is OK, if you don’t need a knife to do more than cut some cheese, but crap can get costly when you don’t have all day to saw through a coiled rope. Expect to pay anywhere from 20-140 dollars for your pocket knife and get what you pay for.

Every knife on our list can be comfortably carried in your pocket. Some of these knives are so small you might forget they’re in there until you hear them bouncing through the washing machine, and others might feel bulky in tight jeans.

Be wary of incredibly small multi-tools. There is such a thing as too much of a good time when it comes to pocket knives. Fitting 30+ separate tools into your pocket is impressive until it’s time to actually use them, and all the tools are too small to function.

That goes double for the blade. Trying to cut and cook dinner with a Swiss Army knife alone can be mildly infuriating, at the least. We all want to keep things as small as possible for a better fit, but don’t fall for knives that take it too far.

Opening Style

Is it a flick? A fold? What you need it for will largely influence what style you need.

Folding knives bring with them a carefully crafted locking mechanism that holds the blade in place and must be manually unfastened. Flick knives rely on gravity to open up with one hand once a safety switch is off. This style will deploy faster but can buckle under high pressure, as the blade has no backbone.

If you expect to push your knife to its strength limits, folding knives that use a pin or other lock to hold the blade will be stronger. Flick knives are best for those who want a more convenient opening and closing style.

How It Feels

Your opening style and your blade’s weight will have a significant impact on how each blade feels in the palms of your hand. Check to make sure the contours of the handle fit with your hand to provide optimal grip. Remember, these are pocket knives, designed to be miniature. Small knives won’t feel the same as a kitchen cleaver.

Don’t expect your knife to cut through fruits and vegetables the same as your tools at home, but don’t lower your expectations too low. You don’t want your knife to feel like it’s going to break if you meet a hard force.

If it’s too small for you to hold correctly, you may struggle to cut through tough meats or rough edges. Any knife good enough for everyday carry will have to tackle rope, wood, cords, boxes, and foods. If your blade fits into the most petite pocket but struggles to get through a tomato, it’s worthless.

The most dangerous knife is a dull one. Putting heaps of pressure on a lousy blade to get through tough objects is how accidents happen, so find a knife that feels effortless when cutting.

Versatility

Are you after a knife or a multi-tool?

If versatility is your primary consideration, multi-tool is the only natural choice, but it’s not an easy decision. There is no multi-tool with a blade as good as a knife.

A good rule of thumb is that the more a multi-tool can do, the less effective the knife blade is. Multi-tools are trying to do a lot more with the same space as a pocket knife. To fit everything in there, the edges are usually weaker, shorter, and blunter than the blade of a single knife.

Don’t expect your multi-tool’s blade to be as good as a folding knife, which means there is no point buying a multi-tool just for the sake of it. I have a Swiss Army knife and only ever use the blade and bottle opener! A good pocket knife can be much more versatile than you think.

The best pocket knives and tools come in all shapes and sizes, from classic designs that haven’t changed in centuries, to the latest multi-tool technology. We’ve got great blades on display that each perform a different task better than the competition. The only thing these knives all have in common is their effectiveness.

Any good pocket knife will last for decades, so choose wisely. Check out the best-in-class across several categories to find your perfect partner.

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Our top pick for best overall pocket knife is Benchmade Bugout

Material: Polymer + Steel
Folded Size (In): 4.2
Weight: 1.85 oz

Slip this sleek, fine-edge knife into your pocket alongside your phone, wallet, and keys, and then forget about it until it comes in handy. Our favourite overall pocket knife doesn’t waste an ounce, providing a powerful and versatile single blade while weighing less than a pack of gum.

The knife is manually activated in seconds and is large enough to chow down on a block of cheese, small enough to finely skin veggies, and durable enough to get you through a few years on the road.

This lightweight performance combines with a powerfully rigid blade that can handle most jobs with ease. Its all-around performance has earned the Bugout notoriety among the most passionate collectors and makes the blade frequently recommended for first-time pocket knife owners.

Equipped with an Axis lock, you won’t waste time fidgeting with this blade to get it deployed and start slicing.

Fits into even the most lightweight situations
Comes with easy waist attachment
Lifetime warranty
No focus on looks, only practicality
The blade is slightly smaller than average

Benchmade 533 is our top pick for best ultralight pocket knife

Material: CF-Elite and Steel
Folded Size (In): 4
Weight: 1.5

Benchmade has set a high benchmark for travel tools. The company has offered up not one but two strong contenders for the best pocket knives of all kinds. If you felt like the Bugout was slightly too much knife for you, this miniature model is as lightweight as it gets. The pocketknife shaves off .3 ounces from the larger Bugout while condensing the blade down by an inch.

It may seem like a slight difference, but ultralight hikers know every single decimal point counts when keeping track of weight over long treks. This ultralight option keeps weight down without sacrificing value, and that’s the tricky part!

There are plenty of mini blades out there that feel useless beyond spreading butter. The Bugout was already a small knife, so it’s easy to worry about the shortcomings of an even smaller shell.

You can put those fears to rest with this little folding knife. Deploy your blade with the flick of a thumb and cut through twigs, sausages, or whatever else you feel like fiddling with at the campsite.

Smallest knife out there that can still get the job done
Stainless steel blade
There are not many situations where you need a knife this small
Blade can struggle through thicker root vegetables

#3 – Best Multi-Tool – Leatherman Free P4

For best multi-tool, checkout Leatherman Free P4

Material: Stainless Steel
Folded Size (In): 4.25
Weight: 8.6

Advertising yourself as the most advanced multi-purpose tool ever made is an incredibly bold statement, but in this case, it just might be true. A multi tool is great for long term backpacking and also makes for essential roadtrip gear in our view.

I immediately noticed that every one of the tools included in this tiny multi-tool can be activated with one hand, from the bottle opener to the wire cutter. Keeping openings organized and easy is the most challenging part of making a good multi-tool. The P4 got creative to get it done.

Free P4 got a few upgrades from earlier models to establish itself as the best knife of the multiverse by adding a saw and another serrated knife. The new blade didn’t get rid of anything that made the line an industry leader either. These multi-tools are handmade and designed in the United States and are fully protected for 25 years.

It’s as close as you can get to having a toolbox with you at all times. Two types of pliers, two knives, four screwdrivers, and all the usual suspects add up to 21 tools. The set makes a great gift, and you can personalize your multi-tool with design engravings or custom lettering.

Design and made in the USA
Totally customizable
Expensive for a multitool
Several tools have sacrificed performance to stay so lightweight

#4 – Best Bargain Pocket Knife – Opinel Number 8

Opinel Number 8 is one of the best bargain pocket knife

Material: Wood + Carbone
Folded Size (In): 4 3/8
Weight: 1.6 oz

No one’s going to believe your knife cost you less than 20 bucks if you show up on a camping trip with the Opinel Number 8 in your pocket. The tool is incredibly cheap, and I can’t find any corners Opinel cut in production to offer such an affordable price.

Each blade handle is handmade from sturdy French Beechwood. The hardy wood is featured on the grips of all sorts of French culinary tools, but none is more iconic than the beechwood grip of the Opinel. The blade has been slicing through Brie cheeses since 1890, and what you see today is the exact same design as the original.

The blade’s beauty is its simplicity. No. 8 is one of the largest options in the series but still, only 5 components complete the ensemble; hand-carved grip, X90 Steel, a pin, a collar, and a locking ring.

You won’t find a more classic all-rounder, albeit with one glaring flaw. The knife’s lack of stainless steel means the blade isn’t up to the most demanding tasks, but most adventurers will find plenty of use at an incredibly low price.

Hand Carved and affordable
Big blade has loads of versatility
Simple and effective locking mechanism
Takes two hands to open
Not stainless steel

#5 – Best Multi-Purpose Knife – Swiss Army Camper Knife

Meet the best multi-purpose knife: Swiss Army Camper Knife

Material: Stainless steel
Folded Size (In): 3.5
Weight: 3.2 oz

In case you forgot about one of the most famous knife makers on the planet, let me remind you: Swiss Army knives have been synonymous with boy scouts and camping trips since the days when there was no such thing as an un-broke backpacker.

Why mess around with something as practical as a multi-tool? For a reasonable price, you can go with the most universally used knife on the planet. Their Camper Knife is the brand’s bread and butter. Beneath the classic Red Swiss exterior holds essential camping tools that can do everything from whittling down a walking stick to opening up a bottle of wine.

An easy keychain attachment lets you clip on this lightweight attachment directly to your keys, so your pocket toolkit will never be too far away. Between the multiple knives and the sawblade and tweezers, you’ll quickly become basecamps designated problem solvers.

This multitool has proven itself to last for decades
12 piece kit
The original camping tool
No scissors
Difficult to clean

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Gerber Outrigger is our top pick for best small knife

Price: 36.95
Folded Size (In): 4.3
Weight: 4.4 Ounches

Once the Gerber babies grow up, this company still has their back with a tactically assisted opening knife. This legendary knife manufacturer has been churning out useful miniature knives since before World War Two. This modern-day iteration has kept Gerber in the game for almost 100 years.

The Swagger is a folding knife with a spring-loaded activation button that opens up boxes in a hurry. It may come from an older company, but this ain’t your grandpa’s mini knife. Gerber field-tested the brand new opening system in their quest to create the best mechanism for rapid knife deployment, and it’s hard to argue with the end results.

Without a complete knife, that fast opening would be nothing more than a gimmick, but the Swagger delivers in every category. Your stainless steel blade will be out in a hurry, and the plastic coating grip feels good in your hands.

One of the smallest folding knives on the market
Fastest draw in the west
Quality safety lock
Very small blade
Two-handed opening

#7 – Best Multi-Blade Knife – Leatherman Bond Multi-Tool

Our top pick for best multi-blade knife is Leatherman Bond Multi-Tool

Price: 59.95
Folded Size (In): 3.6
Weight: 4 oz

For adventurers who want the iconic Leatherman craftsmanship without the 21 toolsets of the bigger Multi-Tools, the company’s lighter Leatherman Bond Multi-Tool still brings plenty of value, especially considering it’s almost one hundred dollars cheaper than its high-class brother.

This knife is slightly more white-collar, providing only 14 tools in one. Most trips shouldn’t require more than 14 tools anyways, and there is plenty to love about what the T4 has under its stainless steel.

All of this is encased in packaging similar in size to a swiss army knife, with arguably more value, thanks to the additional scissors. Innovators and early adopters will be swearing by this blade’s fancy release system, which one day will look like a no-brainer.

14 tools can all be accessed easily
Stainless steel used throughout
Folds down pretty compact
Not the best looking

#8 – Best Knife With Scissors – Swiss Army Huntsman Knife

For best knife with scissors, checkout Swiss Army Huntsman Knife

Folded Size (In): 4.5
Weight: 5.5 oz

Out of a multi-tool, I really only use my scissors, knife, and bottle opener. This single blade knife checks off all three boxes while ensuring the blade stays big enough to be useful in many different situations. You’ll find 9 different hidden tools and one serrated blade that stretches out over 3 inches. Its the closest thing in the knife industry to the best of both worlds.

All the separate tools included in this knife deploy from the sturdy body of the knife where you can get a good firm grip. There are loads of multi-tools much larger than this one that still don’t come with scissors or this level of quality. If you are looking for one knife to solve all your problems, this baby is like counselling.

Packs 9 tools into a classic knife handle
The included Stainless steel is tough and can be sharpened
Quality blade and quality multitools
Heavy for a typical blade

#9 – Best Cheap Pocket Knife – Petzl Spatha

Petzl Spatha is one of the best cheap pocket knife

Material: 12C27 Steel
Weight: 1.5 oz

Knives don’t have to come with bells and whistles. You won’t find an included toothpick or a sprawling collection of knickknacks inside this knife, just one blade and a plastic handle perfect for ropes and riggings. Petzl builds its products for climbers, but this particular item works across the spectrum of outdoor activities.

Petzl had to pay attention to every ounce to make a knife for climbers – a blade that wouldn’t let down anyone hanging on the edge of a cliff. That shows itself in the spec sheet, as the entire knife weighs less than 2 ounces but packs a blade that extends up to almost 3 inches.

That combination of lightweight and efficiency are all some knife-owners need. If you don’t want a blade to do anything more than cut, you won’t find a lighter knife with this kind of performance. A nice sized hole at the front will allow you to easily fit the Spatha into a carabiner and keep it close until it’s time to cut rope, webbing, fishing line, or sailing equipment.

Built for use in high-stakes situations
Easily hooks onto a carabiner
Same steel used in ice skate blades
Least versatile knife on our list
Difficult to open with one hand

Now, you could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card! REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

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These street legal pocket knives all pull well above their incredibly light weight. There is no adventure a pocket knife can’t help out with, so use this guide to find the blade of your dreams and start your budding woodworking career.

A good pocket knife is a survival tool to toss in your survival bag , and the best pocket knives will help you survive and thrive in life outside. Modern technology has sharpened the stakes and allowed pocket knives to do more with less than ever before. With all the different blade shapes and steel types out there, it can be hard to narrow down the field but stick to the basics and trust in the knives on this list to get the job done.

Fit one of these knives in your pocket, and start exploring. Let us know about a time your knife saved the day in the comments below.

Other useful camping items? Check out our rundown of the best campfire starters to go alongside your knife.

Aiden Freeborn

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Flying with a knife SUCKS. Please add a section about how to mitigate the suckage.

Declare, pack in check in luggage or leave it at home, travelling with baby safe scissors, will do the trick for most people! I know people that have posted home knives and “sharp objects” rather than loose them to airport security!

Avoiding Confusion: Can You Bring a Knife in a Checked Bag Internationally?

Carrying a knife while traveling can be a tricky business, especially when you’re traveling internationally . Different countries have different laws and regulations regarding knives in checked bags, and even within the United States, the TSA has its own set of guidelines . In this blog post, we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about bringing a knife in a checked bag internationally, including TSA regulations, international regulations, tips for packing your knife, and alternatives to packing a knife in a checked bag. By the end of this post, you’ll be well-informed and prepared for your next international trip with a knife.

TSA regulations for carrying knives in checked bags

First, let’s talk about what the TSA considers to be a “knife.” According to the TSA website, a knife is defined as “an instrument with a sharp edge or sharp point that is capable of cutting or puncturing.” This includes a wide range of knives, from pocket knives to kitchen knives, and even some multi-tools. However, not all knives are created equal when it comes to TSA regulations.

The TSA does allow certain types of knives in checked bags, including:

Plastic or round-bladed butter knives
Knives with blades that are less than 4 inches long
Scissors with blades that are less than 4 inches long
Disposable razors
Safety razor blades

It is worth noting that while some knives are allowed in checked bags, they may not be allowed in carry-on bags. For example, while a pocket knife with a blade less than 4 inches long may be permitted in a checked bag, it would not be allowed in a carry-on bag.

The TSA also has guidelines for properly packing knives in checked bags. They should be placed in a sheath or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers. If you’re unsure about whether a knife is allowed in your checked bag, it’s always best to contact the TSA directly or check their website for the most up-to-date information.

Violating TSA regulations regarding knives in checked bags can result in fines and even criminal charges. It’s important to be aware of these regulations and to follow them to avoid any issues while traveling.

International regulations for carrying knives in checked bags

When traveling internationally, it’s important to be aware that different countries have their own laws and regulations regarding knives in checked bags. These regulations can vary widely between countries, and it’s important to research the specific regulations for your destination before you travel.

For example, in Canada, knives are generally allowed in checked bags as long as they are properly packaged and labeled. However, in the UK, knives are prohibited in checked bags and can only be transported in carry-on bags with strict regulations. In Japan, knives are allowed in checked bags as long as they are less than 6 centimeters in length, while in Australia, knives are prohibited in checked bags altogether.

It’s important to research the specific regulations for your destination before you travel. Failure to comply with international regulations can result in fines, imprisonment, or even deportation.

How to pack a knife in a checked bag for international travel

When it comes to packing a knife in a checked bag for international travel, it’s important to properly package and label the knife to ensure that it doesn’t accidentally cause injury to baggage handlers or get confiscated by airport security.

First, make sure that the knife is properly secured in a sheath or wrapped securely in a protective material like bubble wrap or foam. This will not only protect the knife, but it will also ensure that it doesn’t accidentally puncture or cut through the bag it’s in.

Next, it’s a good idea to label the knife clearly and prominently. This can be done by attaching a label to the outside of the bag or by writing “Knife” or “Sharp object” on a piece of tape and attaching it to the bag. This will help airport security and baggage handlers easily identify the knife and handle it appropriately.

When transporting a knife in a checked bag, it’s also important to be aware of the specific regulations for your destination country and the airline you’re traveling with. Some airlines may have stricter regulations than others, so it’s important to check with your airline before you travel.

Additionally, if you’re traveling with a knife that is considered a weapon in your destination country, it’s a good idea to carry documentation that proves it’s for legitimate use, such as a hunting or fishing trip.

Alternatives to packing a knife in a checked bag

If you’re traveling internationally and are concerned about the regulations for carrying knives in checked bags, there are a few alternatives to consider. One option is to rent or purchase a knife at your destination. Many outdoor and camping stores offer knife rentals, and if you’re going to be spending a significant amount of time in a particular place, it may be worth it to purchase a knife that you can leave behind when you leave.

Another alternative is to consider using alternative tools for outdoor activities. For example, instead of carrying a knife, you might choose to bring a pair of pruning shears or a hatchet. This can be a good option if you’re planning to do a lot of camping or hiking and need a tool for cutting wood.

It’s also worth considering other options such as a multi-tool, which often includes a knife blade and other tools that may be useful for outdoor activities.

In conclusion, it’s important to be aware of the regulations regarding carrying knives in checked bags when traveling internationally. By researching the regulations for your destination and properly packaging and labeling your knife, you can ensure a smooth and trouble-free trip. And if you’re still unsure or concerned, consider alternative options such as renting or purchasing a knife at your destination or using alternative tools for outdoor activities.

How to properly care for your knife before traveling

Before traveling with a knife, it’s important to properly care for it to ensure that it is in good condition and ready for use. This includes cleaning and sharpening the knife, checking for any damage or defects, and storing it in a secure and appropriate location.

Cleaning a knife is important to ensure that it is free from dirt, grime, or rust. This can be done by using a mild detergent and warm water or a specialized knife-cleaning solution. Once cleaned, it is important to dry the knife thoroughly to prevent rust or other damage.

Sharpening a knife is also important for its performance and safety. A sharp knife is less likely to slip or cause injury and is more efficient for cutting tasks. You can sharpen your knife by using a sharpening stone or a specialized electric sharpening tool.

It’s also important to check the knife for any damage or defects before traveling. Look for any cracks, chips, or bends in the blade, as well as any issues with the handle or locking mechanism. If you notice any problems, it’s best to either repair or replace the knife before your trip.

Finally, it’s important to store the knife in a secure and appropriate location. This could be a locked safe or cabinet, or in a sheath or protective case. This will help to prevent any accidents or unauthorized use while the knife is not in use.

How to transport a knife in a carry-on bag

While it may be more convenient to transport a knife in a carry-on bag, it is important to be aware of the regulations set by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) for carrying knives in carry-on bags. According to the TSA, knives with a blade longer than 2.36 inches are not allowed in carry-on bags. However, certain types of knives such as plastic or round-bladed butter knives, and safety razors (including disposable razors) are allowed.

If you plan to pack a knife in a carry-on bag, it’s important to properly package and label it to ensure that it doesn’t accidentally cause injury to TSA agents or get confiscated. Make sure that the knife is securely wrapped in a protective material and clearly labeled as a knife.

When it comes to packing a knife in a carry-on bag, it’s also important to be aware of the specific regulations for your destination country and the airline you’re traveling with. Some airlines may have stricter regulations than others, so it’s important to check with your airline before you travel.

If you’re still unsure about carrying a knife in a carry-on bag, there are alternatives to consider. One option is to mail the knife to your destination or leave it in a checked bag. Another alternative is to consider using alternative tools for outdoor activities, such as a multi-tool or a pair of pruning shears.

In conclusion, it’s important to be aware of the regulations for carrying knives in carry-on bags when traveling internationally. By researching the regulations, properly packaging and labeling your knife, and considering alternative options, you can ensure a smooth and trouble-free trip.

The difference between a pocket knife and a folding knife

A pocket knife and a folding knife are both types of knives, but they differ in their design and function. A pocket knife typically has a small blade that can be folded into the handle, while a folding knife has a larger blade that can be folded into the handle.

When it comes to packing and transporting a pocket knife, it’s important to follow the same guidelines as for a knife in general. Make sure that the knife is securely wrapped in a protective material and labeled as a knife. Follow the TSA regulations for carrying knives in carry-on bags and be aware of the specific regulations for your destination country and the airline you’re traveling with.

A folding knife, on the other hand, should be packed and transported in a checked bag, as the larger blade may not be allowed in a carry-on bag. Make sure to properly package and label the knife, following the same guidelines as for a knife in general. Be aware of the specific regulations for your destination country and the airline you’re traveling with.

How to pack and transport a knife for a hunting or fishing trip

If you’re planning a hunting or fishing trip and need to pack and transport a knife, it’s important to be aware of the specific regulations for your destination country and the airline you’re traveling with. Many countries have specific regulations for transporting hunting or fishing knives, so it’s important to research these regulations before you travel.

It’s also important to have proper documentation to prove that the knife is being used for a legitimate hunting or fishing trip. This could include a hunting or fishing license or a letter from a hunting or fishing outfitter. This documentation can help to clear up any confusion or misunderstanding at airport security or customs.

When it comes to packing and transporting a hunting or fishing knife, it’s important to follow the same guidelines as for a knife in general. Make sure that the knife is securely wrapped in a protective material and labeled as a hunting or fishing knife. It’s also a good idea to store the knife in a sheath or protective case to prevent any accidental injuries or damage.

As for the regulations, it is important to note that most countries are strict about carrying knives for hunting and fishing, so it is important to check the regulations for the specific country you are traveling to. Some countries may require a specific type of permit or license, while others may have restrictions on the size or type of knife that can be brought into the country.

When traveling with a hunting or fishing knife, it is a good idea to pack it in a checked bag, as it may not be allowed in a carry-on bag. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of any specific regulations regarding hunting and fishing knives on the airline you’re traveling with.

In summary, when packing and transporting a knife for a hunting or fishing trip, it is important to research the regulations for your destination country and the airline you’re traveling with, have proper documentation, and properly package and label the knife for safe transport.

In conclusion, it’s important to be aware of the regulations for carrying knives in checked bags when traveling internationally. Every country and airline has its own set of rules and regulations, so it’s important to research them before you travel. Proper packaging and labeling of the knife, as well as proper documentation, can help to ensure a smooth and trouble-free trip. Remember to consider alternative options, such as mailing the knife to your destination or using alternative tools, if you’re unsure about carrying a knife in a checked bag.

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Tips for Traveling with Knives in Europe

“Can I Bring My Knife to Europe?”

Since I write about travel, and about knives, I receive many emails from readers asking this question. I understand. You always have a knife handy. It’s your basic tool. How do you open packages, or cut anything? How can you get through your day without a knife? What if you need your knife to punch out the window of an overturned bus, or escape from a burning building?

What about that picnic next to the Canal du Midi, or on the train? You don’t want to be reduced to ripping and tearing at salami, cheese and baguettes with teeth and nails. You need your knife. But you don’t know laws and regulations in Europe and you’re a law-abiding person. So can you take your knife with you?

Yes, you can. But there are some things you need to know. In the United States, laws and regulations concerning knives are a confusing patchwork that varies from state to state, town to town, and which sometimes make no sense whatsoever. It is not possible to travel from California to New York with any kind of knife without violating a law or regulation in some place along the way.

Few of those laws and regulations are actually enforced. Enforcement is up to decisions made by an individual police officer. Those decisions will vary from officer to officer, and most importantly, according to his perception of you and the situation.

European Knife Regulations: A Primer

It is similar in Europe. The European Union is made up of almost 30 countries, each with its own laws, customs and regulations, which like in the United States, can seem confusing and senseless. As in the Unites States, enforcement of those laws and regulations is dependent upon the decisions of the individual police officer or security person.

I’ve worked and traveled in Europe for decades, and lived there for the past 10 years. I’ve written for BLADE Magazine and for the KNIVES annual book for almost 20 years, and have written two books on knives: The Tactical Knife and Survival Knives . As a result, I’ve met many folks in the European knife community—knifemakers, bushcraft enthusiasts, and so on.

I know many people who work in the security services and police departments in many European countries, and have talked with them about travelers carrying knives . What follows are my personal experiences and opinions based on traveling and living in almost every country in the European Union, and some that are not members of the Union. I am not a lawyer. I offer no legal advice.

German Knife Laws

Some examples of regulations concerning knives in Europe: In Germany a person may not carry on his person any folding knife with a locking blade. He can, however, carry a fixed blade up to 3½ inches long.

French Knife Laws

In France a person may not carry on his person any object that can be, or is, used as a weapon. That includes France’s famous Opinel or Laguiole knives, which are national icons and are in the pockets of every third Frenchman.

Spanish Knife Laws

Spain has considerable history as a knife culture and has knives of all kinds available for purchase pretty much everywhere – including village bars, and a confusing morass of regulations that my friends, who are Spanish police officers, cannot understand or explain.

UK Knife Laws

What knives are legal to carry in the UK?

In the United Kingdom, there was a recent attempt to prohibit chef’s knives from having a point. That regulation did not pass.

My understanding of the current UK laws is that you must have a reason to have a knife, such as being a carpenter. Locking folders are not allowed. Bushcrafters carrying fixed blades while on the way to do some bushcraft seem to get a pass.

Danish Knife Laws

In Denmark a person may not have any folding knife with a blade lock, or that opens with one hand. Wait! That regulation was just changed. Locking folders are OK now, for today.

European Knife Laws by Region

Attitudes about knives also vary by region. Eastern Europe, the Balkans and Turkey are much more liberal about knives than in Western Europe. I’ll delve more into that later.

European Knife Law Tips

What’s a European traveler to do? How could anyone know or conform to all of the different laws and regulations while traveling through four or five countries? You cannot. So, you have two choices:

Choose not to carry a knife.
Use some common sense.

You can stop reading now if you select choice number one.

ML (my wife and companion of many adventures) and I always travel in Europe (and every place else) with knives, carrying at least two each, and often more. We frequently rent holiday apartments and live for a month or so in various places where we shop, cook and settle in to experience local life. The kitchens in those apartments never have usable knives.

Common Sense and European Knife Laws

We also teach survival and bushcraft classes during which we make shelters, primitive tools and so on. During the past year I’ve been attacked twice by feral dog packs in the Balkans. On one occasion I had no stick and my knife was my only defense. Often I’m toting a half-dozen or so knives that I’m reviewing for various publications. We need our knives.

Many Americans we meet traveling in Europe also need their knives, the ones who have knives. In addition to the practical everyday uses of a knife and its indispensable use in disasters, a blade can provide steely comfort in a dark and lonely place, and not only from dog packs.

A young American woman, a solo world traveler I wrote about in my recent book, Essential Survival Gear , used her J.A. Henckels paring knife for daily camp chores while hiking in coastal mountains in Turkey, and was glad to have her little blade one night when a crowd of drunken men made her very uncomfortable.

A retired American who I met in Romania used his Benchmade 710 to cut the fuel line on his BMW motorcycle while doing some repairs, and for frequent picnics, and one dark night to confront two muggers, who then decided to find easier prey. Potentially violent incidents like this are rare. Europe in general is safe for travelers, arguably more so than in the United States. But hey, you never know.

So how do I and other folks travel in and through European countries with knives and not run afoul of the law? We do so by using common sense and being sensible in our selection of knives, and by not doing stupid things such as going to a sketchy bar, getting drunk, hitting on a local girl, and when her boyfriend, also drunk, forcefully objects, waving a knife around and threatening him.

In Spain I saw three guys passing a bottle of wine and a folding knife around, cutting bread and cheese while picnicking at the beach. It was all good, except they were talking loudly, arguing with each other and annoying the folks around them. When one fellow politely objected to their behavior, one of the idiots grabbed the knife, shook it at the follow and yelled, “Allahu Akbar!” Then he collapsed laughing, as did his friends.

This incident didn’t end well. Personal demeanor, behavior and appearance affect how a person is perceived and treated by security people, and everyone else.

Choosing Knives to Bring to Western Europe

As to knife selection, attitudes in Western Europe regarding knives and security have changed considerably in recent years due to many terrorist attacks, some of which have been carried out with knives. As a consequence, although not yet common, there are security checks in some Western European train and bus stations, and of course in all airports.

We’ve never encountered a security check at an Eastern European train or bus station. If you encounter one of these security checks and have a black, 10-inch blade with “Zombie Killer” etched in steel and stuffed into your waistband, it will not endear you to the security people.

When ML and I travel, in Western Europe or elsewhere, we each always have a tiny folder with a locking blade of about 2 inches on our persons and a small fixed blade in our bags. These knives look inoffensive and have caused no alarms with security people, or anyone else. Probably folders with blades a bit larger, single blade or multi-bladed, such as small Swiss Army Knives, would also be seen as inoffensive.

Most regulations address carrying a knife on the person, with knives in bags being considered differently. Security people also seem to see a difference between carrying on your person and in a bag. Maybe not in all instances, but this has been our experience. I’ve never seen a knife in a day bag with bread and cheese and other picnic things, whether my knife or someone else’s, cause scrutiny.

Our tiny folders are for everyday tasks, sometimes including food preparation when we don’t care to get out our fixed blades. ML can girdle a baguette and reduce it to slices in less than a minute with her Spyderco Cricket . My Spyderco Dragonfly will slice salami, cheese, tomatoes and so on about as well as my fixed blade. They will also serve in an emergency, if you know what you’re doing.

These little folders and others in the same size range or a bit larger are convenient everyday carry knives. We use the fixed blades in our kitchens, for field work and in emergency situations. I also carry a small red-handle Swiss Army Knife (SAK) with a locking main blade and the all-important corkscrew. We add to this selection if needed, say, a machete in the tropics.

Our day bags are also our ready bags, or bug-out bags, and are always with us. Our fixed blades have much daily utility and will serve in an emergency, such as having to cut through a locked steel fire door to escape a high-rise fire, serve as a climbing aid to escape freezing water, or fend off a pack of feral dogs.

I’ve done all of these things and know that, if needed, our fixed blades will provide us with a measure of protection.

Western European Security Checks, Police Searches and Knives

We’ve only ever been questioned about our knives during a few security checks. Before boarding a high-speed train in Barcelona, we put our bags through the X-ray machine and walked through the metal detector. One of the security officers asked if I had a knife. I said I did. He asked to see it. I first took out my Spyderco Dragonfly, intending to next get my Fallkniven F1 out of my bag. The security guy looked at the little Dragonfly, smiled, and said, “Oh never mind. It’s so little. Just put it back in your pocket.” He waved us through and said nothing about my F1, or ML’s Sypderco Cricket and Fred Perrin Street Beat.

Clearly, he made his evaluation based on our appearance and behavior, as well as our choice of knives. On another occasion, while disembarking from a bus in Lyon, France, we encountered an intensive security check due to an alert that a terrorist suspect might be on our bus. Results were the same as in Barcelona, as they have been on other occasions. European police, like American police, evaluate the person and the situation when making a decision. We do not appear to be a threat, nor do our knives. When asked, we give a straightforward explanation of why we have knives, and have had no problems.

Carrying Knives in Eastern Europe, the Balkans and Turkey

In Eastern Europe, the Balkans and Turkey, attitudes concerning knives are very different. Full-size tactical folders are popular for everyday carry, and no one seems alarmed by them. Fixed blades that are 6 to 10 inches long are preferred for field activities, hunting, backpacking and so on, and for use in villages to do everyday village things, such as killing pigs and goats.

I asked a friend, who is a Bulgarian undercover cop, what the laws were governing carrying knives in Bulgaria, and what the police attitude was. I also explained the regulations in Western Europe. He said, “We don’t concern ourselves with such silly things as that. We don’t care what kind of knife you have. But, if someone attacks and harms another person with a knife, or any weapon, then we do care.”

A former Czech special forces officer now in a civilian security service said much the same thing.

We’ve only been questioned about knives in the East once, at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul. Going through first layer security at the entrance to the airport, I tossed a bag on the counter containing a kindjal, a yatagan, a 10-inch bowie , and a half-dozen or so tactical folders and fixed-blade survival knives, all for field work and photography for articles and books.

The security guy said, “You have quite a few knives in your bag.”

“Yes,” I replied, “I do.”

“You’re going to check them, not carry them on, right?”

“Of course.”

“Have a nice day.”

Obviously we check all knives before boarding a commercial aircraft.

Trust Your Internal Compass

If you like to drink and hang out in sketchy bars and clubs, leave your knife in your room. Don’t try to use your knife as a weapon, except in extreme circumstances when your own life is actually at stake. Doing so is considered lethal force everywhere, and you will have to defend your actions. Again, use common sense. You have an internal compass that points in the right direction. Pay attention to it. This approach has worked for us. Your results may vary. No guarantee is offered or implied.

Get the Most Out of Your European Trip

Before your trip, use the Internet to locate knife shows. There are many all over Europe. Attend one.

Perhaps visit one of the famous knife-producing towns: Thiers, France; Solingen, Germany; and Maniago, Italy. You’ll meet friendly people with a common interest. Do go. You’ll have a great time. Bon voyage.

Keep Learning About Knife Laws — in the United States

NEXT STEP: Download Your Free KNIFE GUIDE Issue of BLADE Magazine

Copied on the police’s website and Google translated a bit about what applies in Sweden. “It is forbidden to have knives, stabbing weapons, cutting weapons and other dangerous objects in a public place, within school grounds or in a vehicle in a public place unless the possession is justified. The prohibition applies to objects that are intended to be used as weapons in crimes against life or health. ”

“Examples of exceptions to the ban: (when can possession be considered justified)

Military carrying knife for uniform Craftsman using knife at work Mushroom pickers who carry a suitable knife during hiking”

If you are traveling in Europe, take the opportunity to visit one of the knife events. On the European Blades website there is a list of some ( http://www.europeanblades.com ). As I work with Knife Expo 2024, Vadstena, Sweden, I know how much fun it is with long-distance guests. Therefore, I welcome everyone both to us and to all other events.

I wish that had been my experience flying in Turkey! I bought a beautiful Turkish dagger with a Damascus steel blade and a carved wooden horse head as the hilt at the Grand Bazaar, and an airport security officer confiscated it for being “too sharp” — even though of course I was checking it, not attempting to carry it on. He really just stole it but I had no recourse to get it back.

You are completely wrong for Germany. For normal daily carry :- Fixed blade knives up to 12cm are allowed except daggers and karambits (knives specifically classed as weapons by law or by the federal police BKA). Locking (and of course non-locking) folding knives have no restriction on size at all as long as they do not have any kind of one hand opening aid. Other knives not allowed as daily carry are allowed with good reasons such as the massive daggers used by hunters which otherwise fall in the weapons category.

Heathrow City Transfer is your ideal solution if you’re concerned about traveling from the airport to your final destination during your visit to London. They are a professional company specializing in airport transfers and port transfers for cruises.

The short summary of German laws near the beginning are false.

GERMAN KNIFE LAWS: LEGAL CARRY

Knives that can be legally possessed and carried:

Fixed blades with blade length under 12 cm (4.72 in.) can be carried visible or concealed. The measurement is taken from the tip to the most forward parts of the scales, the length of the sharp edge is not important. Folding knives that can be opened with one hand and do not lock the blade. Folding knives that ca be opened with two hands only and lock the blade.

I will be in Switzerland this summer and want to buy some knives while there. Will they cause a problem in my carry on or should I have them shipped?

To leave certainly no problem, the knives offered in stores are legal to buy and carry in Switzerland. Exceptions are automatic knives, butterflys, fixed daggers, but these are not offered. Klotzli in Bern is a good adress.

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Can’t bear the thought of leaving your Leatherman at home while traveling internationally? Check out these helpful hints for taking your favorite tool abroad.

Even if it’s a multi-tool that’s on the travel friendly list , international airports and airlines follow their own security rules and guidelines.

And factor in the fact that you might not speak the local language to explain what exactly it is that you’re carrying, and you could be in for a disaster.

There is one Leatherman multi-tool however, that might be yhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoTrouLPYTkfour safest bet when traveling abroad, and that’s the wearable Tread . As the world’s first wearable multi-tool, the Tread was designed with travelers—and security checkpoints—in mind. While this might be the safest multi-tool to travel with, what about your other multi-tools? Like your new Wave+ , or your trusty Signal ? Just because you’re traveling, and heading through security checkpoints, doesn’t necessarily mean that you must leave your favorite travel accessories at home—just keep these tips in mind.

Stay on the Safe Side and Put Your Leatherman in Your Checked Bag from the Start

International airlines often have stricter carry-on baggage weight and size restrictions anyways, so planning to go the checked bag versus the carry-on only route from the beginning is never a bad idea. That doesn’t give you a license to pack the biggest suitcase you can find—that simply means just pack accordingly. Put absolute essentials—like daily contacts and medications—in the personal bag that you’re not checking, just in case your checked luggage goes on an adventure of its own.

Checking your bag from the beginning means you won’t be stopped and questioned as you make your way through security (for carrying a multi-tool, at least) and could save you time and hassle in the long run. And those are both things that I know we’d all rather do without when traveling.

Pro tip: To save a few dollars (and to spare yourself from the shock of what some airlines charge you to check a bag—purchase your checked bag when you book your ticket if you’re traveling on an airline that charges for that sort of thing.

When You Have an International Layover, Don’t Forget You’ll Have to go Through Security in That Country Too

Say you’re flying to Thailand from the United States and you have a layover in Hong Kong. Well, before you can board your flight to Thailand in Hong Kong, you’ll have to go through yet another security checkpoint. And each time you go through a security checkpoint, you risk being questioned about your multi-tool. Now, we both know what your Juice CS3 multi-tool is and exactly what it does, and that it’s safe to carry onto flights in the US, but chances are that this foreign security agent doesn’t know any of those things. Especially when they figure out that this small, handy multi-tool has a corkscrew.

So, unless you feel confident speaking the local language, and you’re ok with knowing that you risk being pulled off to the side to explain your tool—and potentially risk losing it—again, put even the smallest of your multi-tools in your checked luggage from the beginning. Traveling is already stressful enough, especially if you have an extremely short international layover, and it just might not be worth the stress to carry it with you onto your flights.

You’ve made it abroad! Now, what about trains, sporting events and concerts in other countries—where can you (and where can’t you) take your Leatherman?

In my extensive travel experience, I’ve never been searched or had to walk through a metal detector of any sort when taking the trains throughout Europe and Asia. But, that isn’t to say that it won’t happen. With recent scares in public places, and the political nature of where you’re traveling, assume that you could be searched anywhere, at any time. Especially if you wear your Leatherman in a visible place, like on your belt, or attached to your backpack.

When it comes to sporting events and concerts, assume that you will be searched and that you will have to go through a metal detector. A few good rules of thumb in these situations are: (1) is the multi-tool you’re carrying on you on the travel-friendly list ? And (2) will someone who isn’t familiar with your multi-tool find it threatening?

When it comes to security, these officials don’t mess around. If they find your tool at all threatening (which is a risk that always happens when you carry anything with a blade, scissors—no matter how small—or a corkscrew), then they’ll make you ditch it, and tell you that you can’t enter until you do. At this point, you must decide what’s best for you, and the public around you. And whatever you do, don’t make a scene—it’s never worth it.

Keeping Track of Your Leatherman Abroad

Another important thing to talk about is—how to best keep track of your Leatherman when you travel.

You know how much you love and how handy your Leatherman is, and that’s exactly what might draw attention from locals. This is not to say that every local, everywhere around the world is going to want to steal your Leatherman—heck, this is probably even more likely to happen in your own hometown—but, it is to say that when you pull out a cool, very handy tool like this, you could draw some unwanted attention. If you’re going somewhere where you know the community could really benefit from tools like this, take an extra one that you could spare and gift it to someone when you travel—that goes a long way in this world.

To keep your Leatherman as your Leatherman, always make sure you put your Leatherman back in its sheath when you’re done using it and keep the sheath somewhere close to you—like on your belt loop. If you’re going to hook your Leatherman somewhere, make sure you put it somewhere that would be hard for someone to unhook without you noticing. Hook it to the front of your jeans instead of on the outside of your backpack, for example.

If you’re wearing a Tread bracelet, always be sure to put it back on after you’ve used it.

And of course, Leatherman multi-tools are sold around the world, so, if you do find that yours has gone missing, you can always find another one on the road .

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The Most Versatile Pocket Knives and Multitools for Air Travel

You probably already have a favorite everyday carry (EDC) multitool or pocket knife, but odds are it’s not TSA-approved. While everyone’s favorite government agency allows plenty of surprising things in carry-on baggage — including corkscrews, antlers, and matches — blades of any type are still a big no-no. If you can’t bear to be without your trusty multitool, these are the most versatile EDC pocket tools that pass TSA scrutiny.

Gerber Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless

Swiss+tech polished ss 19-in-1 micro pocket multitool, lever gear toolcard pro, sog macv tool, leatherman style ps multi-tool.

Gerber is among our favorite go-to brands for versatile, field-tested outdoor gear. Its MP600 series remains one of the company’s best lines of multitools. As the name implies, the Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless is purpose-built for air travelers who need to pack a full-featured multitool in their carry-on luggage. Among its arsenal of 14 tools are scissors, bottle and can openers, screwdrivers, pliers, a file, and even a replaceable RemGrit saw. The entire design features one-handed opening capability and a black-oxide coating to last a lifetime

Swiss+Tech’s Polished SS 19-in-1 Micro Pocket Multitool doesn’t boast the same brand-name cache as Gerber. It does, however, offer a few more tools, including hex wrenches and a hand drill, all of which make it a well-rounded tool for just about any job in the back- or front-country. The polished stainless steel finish is handsome and built to last. With a retail price less than $20, it’s also a steal.

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For the ultimate in portability, EDC tool cards offer most of the utility of traditional multitools in an ultra-compact, wallet-friendly form factor. Lever Gear’s Toolcard Pro packs 40 useful tools into a slim device that weighs just one ounce and isn’t much thicker than a credit card. All the most essential tools — bottle and can openers, several screwdrivers, rulers, and wrenches — are integrated into the design. It’s available in two finishes, both with an optional money clip for those looking to replace their wallet entirely.

For travelers who appreciate badass aesthetics as much as utility, the SOG MacV Tool offers both. The in-your-face black skull design is a nod to the original skull used to symbolize the MACV-SOG group, after which the company is named. While not as full-featured as the other multitools on this list, the keychain-friendly tool boasts the essentials. The 12 tools include a pry bar, bottle opener , two flathead drivers, a blade sharpener, and several wrenches, all of which should be adequate for tackling most everyday jobs.

Like Gerber’s MP600 Bladeless, the Leatherman Style PS promises all the most useful features of a traditional pocketknife without the TSA-unfriendly blade. The full-sized tool is more ergonomic than, say, a credit card EDC tool. With dual screwdrivers, tweezers, and a bottle opener, plus spring-action pliers, wire cutters, and scissors, it offers all the essentials. The three-inch design weighs just 1.58 ounces and features a built-in carabiner, so it’s easy to clip to a backpack and forget about it until it’s needed.

If money and TSA approval are no object, check out the five best multitools for any situation .

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Photo by Abhinaba Basu, licensed under Creative Commons, and made available by Wikimedia Wikimedia

In the Pacific Northwest, the Oregon coast is the king. While it tends to be cool and damp, the landscape more than makes up for the need for boots and an umbrella. Cannon Beach is one of the most charming towns in the region and while it's unlikely to make any world's best beaches lists, the artsy and intimate town has so many attractions you'll want to turn your stopover into a lengthy vacation.

Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa

As a devoted golfer, you want to play as much as possible. You spend weekends hitting the links and refining your swing while elevating your game and enjoying your passion. But that isn’t always possible. When seasons change or rain arrives, you’re stuck on the couch watching the PGA Tour. Also, to play the world’s best courses, you’ll need to hop on a plane and go exploring.

It’s your first time visiting Italy’s Amalfi Coast. After enjoying Pizza Napoletana as the sun sets over the Mediterranean, you go over the check. Fine foods bring a commensurate price, especially in a cultural epicenter like Italy. So the cost isn’t an issue. But how much should you tip?

Tipping culture varies across the globe and for good reason. In some countries, there’s an expectation of 15% or more. But in others, things get a little murky. Not only that, but should tipping exist at all?

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Tested: The Best TSA-Approved Multi-Tools for Hassle-Free Travel

By: Tim Huber Published: Mar 12, 2024

While we can appreciate that the TSA is in place to ensure everyone can travel in safety and security, they can also be the bane of our existence — from an everyday carry perspective, that is. The reasoning for this is pretty straightforward: the TSA has a list of travel-banned gear that typically encompasses that which an EDC enthusiast might normally carry. And while the greater reason for this is respectable and desirable, it means bringing things like knives or your typical multi-tool is out of the question when flying.

Fortunately, there are quite a few eminent EDC brands and craftsmen who are keen to build pocket gear that meets the TSA’s fairly rigorous standards. And that’s excellent news for the rest of us, as it means there are airplane-ready options for most of the things we need — even tools used for cutting (not knives, per se, but things that have an edge sharp enough to cut through twine or tape). After extensively scouring this closely-regulated space, we’ve gotten out hands on the latest and greatest the segment has to offer for this hands-on review and tested guide to the best TSA-approved multi-tools for worry-free travel and globetrotting.

Best TSA-Approved Multi-Tools

Best Budget Pick

Victorinox Jetsetter

Best Overall Pick

Toor Knives Keychain Multi-Tool

Best Minimalist Pick

The James Brand Halifax

Most Utilitarian Pick

Gerber Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless

Best Modular Pick

Windeler Extra Stak

Best Bit Driver

Big Idea Design Bit Bar II

Article Overview

Selection & Testing

Tsa regulations on multi-tools, tsa-approved multi-tools comparison chart, what to consider when shopping, honorable mentions, the best multi-tools for everyday carry.

In order to uncover the very best TSA-approved multi-tools on the market, we kicked off our search by first generating a shortlist of possible candidates, largely on the strength of each multi-tool’s design, material selection , price and value, and number of integrated tools and functions. On top of limiting our picks to models that meet the TSA’s stringent standards for carry-ons, we also opted to restrict our selections to multi-tools that lend themselves to travel, and are fairly compact and pocketable. Once we’d generated this shortlist, we proceeded to get hands-on with each model that we suspected may stand as one of the best TSA-friendly multi-tools on the market.

Once we had each multi-tool in hand, we established a series of standardized tests that would reveal the actual real-world performance capabilities of each pick. This was achieved by testing each multi-tools suite of functions by performing tests such as hammering nails into a piece of wood and then using each multi-tool’s pry bar (when applicable) to remove said nail, and over tightening several flathead and Phillips screws, allowing us to use each multi-tool’s bit driver to remove them. Additionally, we also tried out the bottle opener on each multi-tool, and used their package openers whenever possible. Individual tests were also devised in order to test out multi-tools that had unique features or functions not found on the other models we tested.

Additionally, our hands-on testing would also help reveal other vital information on areas that can only be gleaned using these products firsthand, such as each model’s overall ergonomics and grip , and every multi-tool’s overall craftsmanship and fit and finish. Once armed with the information from our hands-on review process, we were then able to narrow our initial shortlist down to a final selection of what we found to be the very best TSA-approved multi-tools that money can buy.

When it comes to airline travel, the TSA has strict prohibitions on knives of any size, so you won’t be able to bring any multi-tools with blades in your carry-on or pockets. As for scissors, they are allowed but must be less than 4″ in length. As a rule of thumb, sharp-edged objects are what the TSA is looking out for, which is why the following options won’t have many of them.

*TSA rules are constantly changing, and ultimately it’s up to the judgement of the TSA agents during your travel

Crams 7 functions into tiny package
TSA-friendly version of legendary Classic SD SAK
Made in Switzerland
Offers fantastic value
Could benefit from LED light & pen instead of toothpick & tweezers
Doesn’t lend itself to hard use

Best Budget Pick: Since the very first model appeared in 1897, Swiss Army Knives have become legendary pieces of kit, lauded and carried by everyone from outdoorsman to EDC enthusiasts to soldiers. And, with the addition of the blade-free Victorinox Jetsetter, you can now add travelers and globetrotters to that list as well. The Jetsetter is a keychain-sized multi-tool that comes loaded with over half-a-dozen tools and functions such as a bottle opener, bit driver, key ring, toothpick, scissors, tweezers, and a wire stripper — all of which come sandwiched between Victorinox’s iconic red Cellidor scales.

Measuring 2.3” in length, the Victorinox Jetsetter is essentially a modified version of the Swiss brand’s iconic Classic SD model . While it shares the Classic SD’s material selection, dimensions, seven total functions, and even exact price, the TSA-friendly model sees the Classic SD’s main blade and nail file items jettisoned in favor of a bottle-opener and 2.5mm Phillips head driver combo that also sports a cleverly-integrated wire stripper. Just like with other Swiss Army Knives, the fold-out functions found on the Jetsetter sport a heavily-polished finish that gives the item a more elegant air compared to most pieces of EDC gear. And, though undeniably minimalistic, the Jetsetter’s functions really do come in handy, whether at home or abroad.

Having previously carried a Swiss Army Knife as part of my everyday carry loadout for several years, I had a good idea of what to expect before I started testing the Jetsetter, though I still found quite a few aspects and elements that I was pleasantly surprised by. For example, on the regular Classic SD model, the blade and nail file both fold out from the same side of the SAK’s handle, meaning both tools have to be thin enough to fit. With the Jetsetter, this pair of functions has been replaced by a single combo item, making its nail nick opening much easier to use — even if you have really short finger nails. At less than $25, I also really appreciate the fact that you don’t really have to worry about ever losing this TSA-friendly multi-tool during your travels, as its $24 MSRP doesn’t really require a major financial investment — something that can’t be said for some of the more expensive TSA-approved multi-tools I tested like Big Idea Design’s Bit Bar II. Another minor highlight is that the Jetsetter can be personalized on the Victorinox site with a slew of scale color options and available custom lettering. And, while subjective, I really like how the Jetsetter maintains the classic appearance of a keychain SAK. The fit and finish on the thing is also pretty fantastic, especially considering its sub-$25 MSRP — though this is typical of Victorinox.

As much as it has going for it, there were a few minor gripes I had when testing the Victorinox Jetsetter. Though there’s no denying that the inclusion of a toothpick and tweezers bring some functionality to the table, I nonetheless wish the Swiss brand had opted to replace these items with the LED light and ballpoint pen found in the similarly-sized Victorinox Signature Swiss Lite, as these just seem more useful for travel applications — and are functions that we know Victorinox has no problem integrating into a Swiss Army Knife . What’s more, at less than 2.0” in length, the Jetsetter is perfectly sized to be carried on a keychain — though very seldom do I find myself carrying my full keyring and keys with me at all times when traveling, which definitely takes away from this area to some extent. The tiny size of the Jetsetter’s scissors also limit their real-world use, though they can be used as a tiny blade in a pinch.

Verdict: A modified version of the iconic Classic SD Swiss Army Knife, the Victorinox Jetsetter is a super compact and highly-pocketable multi-tool developed specifically for globetrotters and frequent flyers. For those that want a quality Swiss-made multi-tool that’s TSA-compliant, this seven-function SAK is just the ticket.

Material(s): ABS, Cellidor, & Steel Functions: 7 Length: 2.30” Weight: 0.8oz

Made in America
Machined from solid block of 1075 steel
Perfect for both travel & EDC
Affords grip & ample leverage for its size
Offers stellar value
Doesn’t feature Toor’s usual tolerances & build quality
Is prone to rusting

Best Overall Pick: Made in America in small batches, the Toor Knives Keychain Multi-Tool is a compact yet thoroughly utilitarian item that offers ample utility in a decidedly compact package. Spanning 4.10” length, Toor’s Keychain Multi-Tool starts out as a block of steel billet that’s precision-machined into a mono-construction body with an integrated pry bar feature, bottle opener, and four wrench fitting sizes. A set of mini heavy-duty bands also accommodate a removable 4mm Phillips head bit towards the top of the tool while a lanyard or keychain hole has been drilled into its bottom end. Rather than opting for a cheaper stainless steel construction, Toor instead chose to go with more premium 1075 carbon steel — a material often used to craft survival knives , axes, machetes, and other outdoor tools due to its extreme toughness. Tipping the scales at just 1.5oz, this keychain multi-tool has been finished with a black oxide coating.

The best way I can describe Toor’s Keychain Multi-Tool is simple yet effective — at least on the surface. Instead of trying to cram an enormous number of functions into a small package, the San Diego brand went with a more spartan design that only integrates a handful of tools, though each one is genuinely useful, easy to access, and easy to use. On top of the premium construction, this multi-tool is also designed and manufactured entirely by Toor, entirely in-house. While you can see this item’s obvious utility just from looking at it, it isn’t until extensively using the thing that it becomes abundantly clear just how calculated of a design this thing really is. For starters, I really appreciate how well the front of the pry tool is able to double as a flat head driver. What’s more, I also found the shape of the pry tool to serve as an effective package-opening tool. Placing the bit opening at the very end of the tool also allows the user to maximize leverage when loosening or tightening hardware or screws — a stellar design decision as it allows the tool to offer an astonishing amount of leverage despite its roughly 4-inch size. Likewise, the same goes for the placement of the pry tool, at the end end of the multi-tool.

I was also pleasantly surprised by how the upper rubber band that holds the Phillips head bit in place can be left in place on the rear-face of the tool, keeping said bit firmly locked in. This allows you to hold it at any angle without the bit falling out, plus applies pressure from behind the bit so it doesn’t just fall through the bit holder. Despite its roughly 4-inch length, the Toor Knives Keychain Multi-Tool actually fits really well in the hand, allowing it to lend itself to actual hard-use — unlike most keychain-style multi-tools. I also love that Toor opted for a Swiss-made Phillips head bit from PB Tools. Though subtle, I also really appreciate the tiny Toor Knives skull logo that’s been machined into body — a detail from the boutique brand’s handmade knives that’s been carried over to this multi-tool. When I first got my hands on this multi-tool, I was worried that it may be super easy to lose the item’s included rubber bands, though its design actually allows you to slide them up in order to access the Phillips head bit, without ever removing them from the multi-tool. Additionally, I was also initially concerned with how the rubber bands could snap, though after extensive use, it’s become increasingly clear just how robust these little items are. And, even after following extensive testing, they didn’t show any signs of weakening or loosing elasticity. Considering its materials and the fact it was made in America, this multi-tool also affords pretty stellar value, as well.

As impressive as it is as a whole, I did come across a few issues with the Toor Keychain Multi-Tool during my testing. This includes the way the Phillips head is oriented, which required my hand to be extremely close to whatever hardware the tool is tightening — something that’s fine the vast majority of the time though becomes problematic when dealing with tighter, more awkward spaces. The opening for the Phillips head seems a bit larger than necessary. While this makes it super easy to slide the bit into place, it also results in a little bit of wobble/play when using the thing. I wouldn’t normally complain about this, though Toor is synonymous with ridiculously meticulous craftsmanship and manufacturing, so I was a little surprised to see them produce an element with not-so-tight tolerances — granted not one of much importance, plus at just $35, it’s tough to complain here. I was also a little surprised to see some rust starting to form on the multi-tool’s construction. While I actually think the mild pitting gives the tool a unique, patinated appearance, I still understand how some might not appreciate this. Another minor downside to Toor’s multi-tool is the fact that you can lose its Phillips head bit. With that said, the multi-tool uses a standard-sized bit, so even if you do misplace it, you can easily replace it with a cheap and widely-available 4mm Phillips bit. What’s more, if you happen to regularly use a less common type of bit — such as a Torx bit for adjusting pocket knives — Toor’s multi-tool affords the option of swapping out its included Phillips head bit for any other 4mm bit.

Verdict: The Toor Knives Keychain Multi-Tool is an American-made, five-function item that makes a terrific addition to any EDC loadout — whether used at home or abroad. With its suite of functions, ample grip, and rugged 1075 construction , this beautifully-machined multi-tool offers an ideal balance of utility and value.

Material(s): 1075 Steel Functions: 5 Length: 4.10” Weight: 1.5oz

Crams several tools into tiny package
Can easily be carried on a keychain
Features the most commonly-used EDC functions
Crafted from grade 5 titanium
Tiny size hugely limits grip

Best Minimalist Pick: The James Brand Halifax is a tiny TSA-approved keychain multi-tool with a simple yet clever design. Spanning less than 3.0” and weighing less than half-an-ounce, the Halifax consists of a 0.125-inch-thick slab of billet that’s machined into shape before being fitted with a bottle opener insert. Not unlike a great many of TJB’s knives, the Halifax’s fashion-forward design has been brought to life using a decidedly premium material selection, with the main body precision-milled from grade 5 titanium while its bottle opener is crafted from 416 stainless steel — both of which are constructions often used to make the cases of high-end watches . This hardwearing and high-end construction has been fortified using a black Cerakote finish as well.

Equipped with a drilled out loop section that bolsters grip while also serving as an attachment point for a lanyard or keychain, the Halifax culminates in a four-sided tip that allows it to act as a pry tool and bit driver — on top of also being a bottle opener. Not only did my testing reveal this trio of tools to actually be useful and effective, but the tip of the tool also had no problem doubling as a package opening, plus was also perfect for opening cans of paint. At less than 3.0” in length, the tiny size of the Halifax does limit grip and ergonomics to some extent, though this was very seldom an issue when I tested the thing — save for attempting hard-use tasks, which clearly isn’t what the Halifax was designed for.

Just like with any product from the house of James, the Halifax was penned to seamlessly blend form and function, putting a fashion-forward spin on traditional bottle opener designs. And, rather than merely being a design exercise, the Halifax is able to punch well above its weight, arming its carrier with a suite of functions in a super compact — and super sleek — package. I was also really impressed by how well the keychain multi-tool’s Cerakote finish protected its underlying grade 5 titanium construction, as even after extensive use as a bit driver, pry tool, and scraper, the finish showed literally zero signs of wear and never exposed the material underneath. I also applaud TJB for the use of the harder steel for the bottle opener insert, rather than seeing a titanium piece slowly get mangled over time. The grooved depressions in the tool’s main body also do a pretty terrific job of bolstering grip, despite being a very minor detail. While somewhat insignificant, this element no doubt speaks volumes about just how much thought went into the Halifax’s design.

Some of the Halifax’s biggest selling points are unquestionably its tiny size and incredible simplicity. With that said, these areas can also be a bit of a double-edged sword, as they also limit the tool’s utility. In short, it just doesn’t offer as much functionality as practically every other multi-tool on this list — with even Victorinox’s slightly smaller Jetsetter Swiss Army Knife affording several more functions than the TJB item. It’s also worth noting that while the fit and finish of this item is admittedly pretty great, this item is made in China — and while you’d never know it from the overall craftsmanship and build quality the Halifax displays, its manufacturing origin does become a sticking point in my eyes when you consider its roughly $50 MSRP. At the end of the day, I had a hard time finding any major gripes or complaints with The James Brand’s Halifax, as its only real shortcomings are a result of it being super small, minimalistic, and pocketable — save for the Chinese manufacturing and semi-steep price.

Verdict: Punching well above its weight, The James Brand Halifax is an insanely pocketable keychain tool that boasts a grade 5 titanium body with a trio of integrated functions. Anyone looking for a super compact multi-tool that still offers basic functionality for day-to-day use, should definitely consider TJB’s Halifax multi-tool.

Material(s): Titanium Functions: 3 Length: 2.875” Weight: 0.38oz

Gerber Multi Plier 600 Bladeless F 3 24 1

Blade-free version of best-selling multi-tool platform used by U.S. military
Is full-sized, full-featured multi-tool that’s still TSA-approved
Made in America & backed by lifetime warranty
Features unique opening system
All tools are locking & can be opened/closed w/ one hand
Build quality is a bit lacking

Most Utilitarian Pick: The Gerber Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless — or “MP600 Bladeless” — is a unique TSA-approved blade-free version of the best-selling multi-tool platform used by the U.S. military . Weighing in at 9oz, this full-size, full-function multi-tool is made in America and has been engineered from the ground up to be as utilitarian as possible, while still adhering to the “no knife policy” often employed by schools, hospitals, and of course, airlines. Sporting a length of only 5.10” (when closed), the Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless features a suite of over a dozen tools and functions including multiple flathead and Phillips driver sizes, bottle and can openers, a file, wire cutter and stripper, scissors, a ruler, and needle nose pliers — all of which are fully locking and can be opened or close with just one hand (save for the pliers).

Gerber Multi Plier 600 Bladeless F 3 24 2

Though it looks like a traditional Leatherman-style butterfly-opening multi-tool, Gerber’s MP600 Bladeless employs a idiosyncratic opening setup where a pair of buttons on either side of the tool can be pushed in, allowing its needle nose pliers to slide up and lock into position. This setup also keeps the entire thing locked, preventing the two halves from opening up until the pliers are fully slid up. Rather than equipping this version of the MP600 with a regular or serrated blade, Gerber has opted to bestow this Bladeless-spec variant with a removable and replaceable carbide-grit jigsaw blade. Idiosyncratic opening setup aside. This full-size multi-tool feels great in the hand, and is large enough to afford the grip needed for even hard-use tasks. This TSA-approved multi-tool also ships with an included nylon carrying case with a belt-loop attachment.

Gerber Multi Plier 600 Bladeless F 3 24 3

As far as outright utility goes, the MP600 Bladeless is pretty unbeatable, as it really does cram an entire toolboxes worth of functions into a pocketable — and more importantly for the sake of this list; TSA-approved — package. On top of its impressive levels of functionality, I also hugely appreciate the fact that its scissors can double as a small blade — plus are still TSA-friendly at less than 4.0”. I do wish Gerber had chosen to swap out the carbide-grit jigsaw blade for something a little more useful or practical in day-to-day life. Having said that, I do like that said item is removable, and can theoretically be replaced with an actual blade thanks to its standard sizing. Speaking of which, removable the blade is incredibly easy to do, and I was able to figure out how the release mechanism worked after only a few seconds. Typically, purchasing a TSA-approved multi-tool means making some pretty major concessions or compromises, though Gerber’s MP600 Bladeless is a different story, as the only real difference between it and any other full-size multi-tool is its blade being of the carbide-grit jigsaw variety.

All in all, the Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless feels rugged and robust, with its USA-made stainless steel construction. With that said, the two plastic sliders used to unlock the thing’s suite of tools feels decidedly less durable. And while I didn’t see any signs of damage during or after testing it, I could see these plastic elements possibly breaking if exposed to enough abuse. Between the MP600 Bladeless’ being made in the U.S.A. and boasting a more-than-$100 price tag, I was expecting it to have a more premium fit and finish than it did in reality. The handles exhibit a bit of play, and the fold-out tools are far less stiff than the items on other butterfly-opening multi-tools that I’ve tested and/or owned. This small amount of wobble and rattle admittedly doesn’t impact its performance, though I still think it’s important to note — especially because I imagine this issue may be exacerbated over time with regular use. Fortunately, should it ever fail you, the Gerber brand stands behind this American-made multi-tool with a generous lifetime warranty — literally guaranteeing a full lifetime of use.

Verdict: Allowing its user to carry an entire toolbox’s worth of functionality in their pocket or on their hip. The Gerber Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless is a full-sized multi-tool that achieves full TSA compliance without making a single concession or sacrifice — save for not having a regular blade. If raw utility is at the top of your list of priorities when shopping for a TSA-friendly multi-tool, Gerber’s MP600 Bladeless is unquestionably the one you want.

Material(s): Stainless Steel Functions: 14 Length: 5.10” (Closed) Weight: 9oz

Windeler Extra Stak Magnetic Multi Tool F 3 24 1

Insanely modular & easy to customize
Super unique & novel take on modern multi-tool
Excellent materials & craftsmanship
Can be optioned w/ other magnetic “Staks”
Tools often need to be removed from Stak to be used to full potential
Expensive price

Best Modular Pick: From the mind of British designer and engineer Douglas Windeler, the Windeler Stak Multi-Tool was initially launched through a Kickstarter campaign over the summer of 2020, with its ultra-modular, magnetic-coupling design garnering the attention and backers needed to exceed the project’s targeted funding goal several times over. Crafted from top-shelf grade 5 titanium, this unique system employs a clever design that allows a host of different tools to be magnetically-stacked however the user sees fit. Not only is there a wide range of available “Staks,” but these items can all easily be swapped, removed, or interchanged on the fly. The boutique brand’s Windeler Extra Stak represents its flagship offering, and consists of a Phillips head Stak, a 4mm flathead driver Stak, and a third combo Stak that features a package opener, a bottle opener , a pry bar, and four different wrench fitting sizes. Each tool that comprises the entire Stak can also be used or carried individually.

Windeler Extra Stak Magnetic Multi Tool F 3 24 2

Spanning just 4.09” in length and tipping the scales at just 3.35oz, the entire suite of Stak-able tools all feature a Ti6AL4V construction with a bead-blasted satin finish, plus each Stak benefits from the use of Windeler’s new Polnetik connector design which utilizes updated 316 marine grade stainless steel magnet shells, a stepped machined CD pattern, and ultra-potent N52 Neodymium magnet. Another major highlight of the Extra Stak is no doubt its included 2.36” drop point blade. Sporting one of the most clever low-profile folding knife designs I’ve ever seen, this blade nestles into a unique frame-locking titanium handle scale that covers the blade’s edge when not in use. Forged in 440C, this drop point blade is also offered with the option to upgrade to a LC200N construction for just $30 more. It’s crucial to note that the blade is easily removable — leaving the rest of the Stak to adhere to TSA regulations — plus it can also be carried as a standalone EDC blade (and a ridiculously low-profile one at that!). In addition to the four Staks that comprise the Extra Stak, this modular magnetic multi-tool can also be optioned with an available Torx driver Stak, a Surf Stak, and a Cycle Stak. With the option to be supplemented with other available Staks, Windeler’s multi-tool design let’s you build out the perfect multi-tool based on your unique wants and needs — plus let’s you make on-the-fly swaps and adjustments to suit different applications or uses, such as removing its blade when traveling for example.

Windeler Extra Stak Magnetic Multi Tool F 3 24 3

It’s hard to even know where to begin when describing everything that I loved about the Windeler Extra Stak. It’s an insanely cool, well-calculated design that allows for an unparalleled degree of modularity, practically guaranteeing that it will be conducive to your EDC wants and needs, assuming you option the thing correctly. Whether dealing with the knife, bottle opener, pry tool, or bit drivers, each tool is sized in a way that allows the user to achieve ample grip. They also feel as good in the hand as they look — and they look amazing. When testing the Extra Stak, we opted to supplement the product’s included Staks with the brand’s newer folding scissors Stak and folding pliers Stak — the latter of which employs a ridiculously cool and ridiculously clever opening setup. With that said, the thing can also be optioned with any other item from Windeler’s rapidly-growing ecosystem of beautifully-designed EDC gear . Clearly designed by a team with an engineering background, this highly versatile design is also brought to life using super premium components and equally top-shelf craftsmanship and build quality. Thanks to powerful magnets, each Stak snaps right into place and lines up perfectly. Removing and swapping them is also ridiculously easy — yet they’re still secure, with the magnets being strong enough to keep everything coupled together. In fact, you really do have to intentionally shake the whole thing in order to get them to uncouple.

As much as I genuinely love the Windeler Extra Stak, it does have aa few minor downsides to it. Though the basic concept for this stacking modular magnetic system is admittedly pretty brilliant, its IRL use at times leaves a bit to be desired, as I found the tools often needed to be removed and used individually in order to be most effective — though the magnetic-stacking setup makes adding and removing tools a total breeze which hugely lessens this complaint. This was because using some of the tools while they were connected to the rest of the stack made their functionality a bit awkward. I also quickly found that the Extra Stak’s magnets were so strong that they often grabbed a hold of any other alloy items that they were sharing my pocket with. Lastly, while I think it’s fairly easy to justify thanks to its super premium materials, stellar build quality, and generally outstanding design, the Windeler Extra Stak does come at a fairly steep price, with the Stak starting at $159 (or $189 for the LC200N-bladed model), and going up from there, with the price steadily increasing with each supplementary Stak that you add.

Verdict: A totally novel take on a modern multi-tool that’s as modular as it is premium, the Windeler Extra Stak is a highly-versatile, stacking magnetic titanium multi-tool system that can be built out and configured to lend itself to practically any use or application — plus with a frame-locking titanium knife attachment that can easily be removed on the fly, the Windeler Extra Stak is totally TSA-compliant as well.

Note: The Windeler Extra Stak comes with 4 Staks, though we opted to test it with the available scissors and pliers Staks.

Material(s): Steel, Titanium, Magnets Functions: 6 Length: 4.09” Weight: 3.35oz+

Made from grade 5 titanium
Has onboard storage for 8 different bits
Bit holders & driver slots are all magnetically coupling
Spring-loaded thumb-slider is smooth & fidget-friendly
Functionality limited to just bit driving

Best Bit Driver: TSA-approved or otherwise, when we talk about multi-tools, we’re almost always referring to pocketable tools that cram several functions into a compact package. The Big Idea Design Bit Bar II is a little bit different in this regard, as it only really offers a single function, however, it offers said function so well, that it’s definitely worthy of a spot in your EDC loadout whether traveling or commuting to the office. The Bit Bar II is an updated second generation everyday carry bit driver that retains its predecessor’s onboard storage for eight of the most commonly-used bits, as well as its top-shelf grade 5 titanium construction. Spanning just under 4.5” in length, the Bit Bar II is comprised of a DLC-coated titanium body that boasts a titanium pocket clip and a thumb-slider mechanism that raises and exposes the tool’s eight bits, allowing one to easily be removed and then inserted into the thing’s driver slot for using.

Though it’s also offered in a bare stonewashed titanium version, we opted to test Big Idea Design’s DLC-coated “Battle-Worn Black” model, which not only looks great right out of the box, but it also does a fantastic job of hiding scuffs, scratches, scrapes, and other inevitable wear and tear. I also really appreciate the fact that everything from the pocket clip to the hardware has been hit with a matching DLC coating, plus the bits themselves feature a black oxide coating so they also match the faded, blacked-out motif . The new thumb-slider mechanism also makes deploying and accessing the tool’s included bits even more effortless than on the first-gen Bit Bar. And, not only is the gen-two’s bit storage super secure and super easy to access, but it’s also pretty fidget-friendly too.

In typical Big Idea Design fashion, an enormous amount of thought has gone into the development of the Bit Bar II, as it boasts a slew of features and elements that are just wildly practical, such as how it features two different bit driver angles, and the fact that it uses magnets to secure the bits, both for its storage slots, and the its two driver ports. On top of an included leather carrying case, the Bit Bar II ships with a super handy 60mm (2.36”) extension bar that hugely ups its real-world utility and use, allowing you to more easily access tighter spaces. The design and size of this tool’s body allowed me to get a really decent grip on it, while still remaining plenty pocketable — an area that hugely separates it from other EDC driver tools on the market. The thumb-slider mechanism and its spring-loaded action are incredibly smooth, and all of the bits fit squarely into their slot, and snap right into place thanks to the thing’s array of embedded magnets. Very seldom do pocket-style tools compare to their full-sized counterparts as far as functionality and utility go, though the second-gen Bit Bit is definitely an exception. This is almost certainly my favorite aspect of the Bit Bar II, as it feels more like using a regular full-size tool than it does a pocketable multi-tool.

Though there’s no denying that the Bit Bar II represents a pretty massive step forward from its first-generation predecessor, there were still a few minor issues I stumbled upon when testing this TSA-approved multi-tool. First off, I would have liked to see BID incorporate a pry tool or bottle opener into the design of this item, as it really only affords one function — even if it does this one function better than just about any other multi-tool out there. Second, while I love the way the tool’s grade 4 titanium pocket clip has been integrated into the design without any visible hardware, I did find the clip to be incredibly stiff, making it difficult to slip over a pant pocket. I imagine this may change over time as the clip breaks in, but I never noticed it getting easier to use over the course of my testing period. And, at just over half-a-pound, the Bit Bar II is definitely on the heavier side. Third, as much as I really do appreciate the extension arm, it does make the tool generally less pocketable, as you either have to carry this additional element, or leave it at home and not get the performance benefit that it offers. (It is crucial to note that the included leather carrying case does have a slot to accommodate the extension arm, though it adds a decent amount of bulk). Lastly, we should probably talk about the Bit Bar II’s price, as $120 is admittedly a lot to spend on what’s essentially a pocket screwdriver. With that said, I do actually I think it’s fairly easy to justify this item’s MSRP when you factor in its design, construction, and overall functionality — not to mention the fact it comes backed by a lifetime warranty .

Verdict: With a pocket clip-equipped grade 5 titanium body that features a spring-loaded deployment system, magnetic coupling throughout, dual driver angles, and onboard storage for eight bits, the Big Idea Design Bit Bar II is something of the ultimate everyday carry bit driver tool. Though it lacks the versatility and wider utility of its multi-functionary counterparts, the second-generation Bit Bar more than makes up for it with just how well it tackles its lone function.

Material(s): Titanium Functions: 1 Length: 4.35” Weight: 8.1oz

Materials: Materials like stainless steel and titanium are going to be the ones to look out for here. Both are very tough and durable, with the former having great scratch-resistant properties and the latter being significantly more lightweight.

Size: If you’re going to be carrying anything in your pockets, you’ll want them to be somewhat diminutive in size. The options below are all rather small, be it in total volume or slimness (e.g., credit card multi-tools that fit into your wallet).

Tools: Like any multi-tool, the number of tools , along with the type of tools offered, is of most importance to your purchase-making decision. If you value drivers and wrenches, certain TSA-approved options won’t be of value to you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something bare and simple, then you probably won’t need any of the well-equipped options.

Keyrings: The benefit of many TSA-approved multi-tools is the addition of a keyring. This adds a quality of fun to your carry as well as a convenience factor to prevent you from losing your unit.

Versatility: While this list is limited to TSA-approved models, it no doubt affords a multi-tool additional versatility — and therefor value — if it’s able to lend itself to a wider range of uses that extend beyond traveling, as quite a few of our favorite TSA-approved multi-tools also make for stellar additions to practically any EDC loadout.

Price: Generally speaking, you tend to get what you pay for when shopping for multi-tools, with pricer models getting you larger bodies, more premium materials, and often more functionality. With that said, the more expensive multi-tools seldom afford the same level of value as some of the more budget-focused multi-tools that offer much better bang for your buck .

Offering phenomenal bang-for-your-buck with a sub-$15 price tag, the Nite Ize DoohicKey is a surprisingly-well-constructed racket key tool that incorporates half-a-dozen functions into its low profile frame — which spans just 2.6”. Crafted from stainless steel, this award-winning item also features removable flat head and Phillips bits, plus sports an integrated carabiner for easy attachment or carrying.

What’s especially interesting about the SOG MacV Tool SM1001 multi-tool isn’t that it’s under 3” in length or its black-finished 3Cr13 stainless steel construction, or even that it incorporates 12+ tools into its functionality. What’s the most enticing thing about this device is the fact that the Studies and Observations Group has managed to pack all of those features into an item that’s shaped to look like the original skull icon from the MACV SOG Special Forces group from the Vietnam War.

The GIRIAITUS Ratcheting Pry Bar isn’t your average multi-tool, as this pry bar’s construction features an integrated bidirectional ratchet, along with a ballpoint pen, a bottle opener, multiple hex openings, and a box opener. With both a keyring hole and pocket clip, this TSA-friendly multi-tool also affords multiple carrying options, making it even more conducive to travel.

Crafted from composite and constructed around a stainless steel core, the Tactica M.100 Multitool is another TSA-approved pocket tool that punches well above its weight. Clocking in at only 1.6oz and measuring just 3.3” x 2.0” x 0.5”, the M.100 manages to cram a whopping 17 tools and functions into its pocketable footprint, including a bottle opener, magnetic bit driver, multiple hex openings, and a ruler, just to name but a few.

Like The James Brand’s Halifax, the WESN MT is a masterclass in multi-tool minimalism. Made in America and backed by a lifetime warranty, this mono-construction item is machined from a solid block of titanium billet and features an integrated bottle opener, pry bar, flathead screwdriver, and scraper tool.

The Griffin GPT Titanium (short for “Griffin Pocket Tool”) isn’t just one of the best TSA-approved multi-tools on the market, it’s undeniably one of the very best mono-construction EDC multi-tools, period. Offered in multiple sizes, constructions, and finishes, the GPT Titanium measures just 3.0″ x .60″ x 0.2”, yet still manages to sport a full dozen of integrated tools and functions — making it an obvious go-to choice for both everyday carry and traveling alike.

Want to check out an additional selection of multi-tools that aren’t restricted to just TSA-approved models? Then be sure to check out our wider guide to the best multi-tools for our testing and hands-on reviews of the latest and greatest pocketable multi-tool powerhouses.

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The Best Gear for Travel

By Wirecutter Staff

Traveling well can be one of life’s great pleasures, whether you’re alone or with family and friends.

But what does it mean to travel well? We’d say that along with traveling safely (of course), traveling well involves avoiding hassle, carrying a single bag (if possible), and bringing only the necessities.

“Traveling well is a fine balance between finding inspiration in the unknown while being grounded in something,” said Wirecutter founder Brian Lam. “Sometimes that is a memory of home, a family, a significant other, friends, etc. Sometimes it’s just the familiar, reliable stuff in your bag.”

Over the past 10 years, we’ve spent hundreds of hours researching and testing dozens of products to find the most dependable items that will help you travel well. On top of that, we sought the advice and wisdom of Doug Dyment, author and creator of OneBag—a traveling businessman and public speaker, he has logged millions of miles over the past few decades—as well as travel-gear reviewer Eytan Levy, the Snarky Nomad.

And we relied heavily on the experiences of Wirecutter staff, an especially mobile group of individuals. Our staffers have worked remotely from every continent except Antarctica—the five most frequent flyers among us travel about half a million miles in any given (normal) year.

The research

Flying/riding, just in case, travel tips.

A person walking through an airport with the Travelpro Platinum Elite carry-on bag.

A well-packed bag is one that contains less than you think you need but everything you actually need. If possible, fitting everything into one carry-on and personal item will give you more freedom compared to checking a bag or two. You’ll be glad you did if (and when) things don’t go according to plan. While carry-on-only isn’t feasible (or advisable) for every trip—especially extended business trips or weddings where you need multiple outfits to maintain appearances—if in doubt, it’s better to cut.

Carry-on backpack (non-roller)

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

The Allpa’s clamshell design makes organizing your things simple. The strap design lets you easily wear this durable bag on your back or carry it in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind, but most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility and clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts depending on how much you’ve packed. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

We spent six months testing 22 bags, and in the end we chose two as our top picks for travelers determined to never check luggage again: the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (for most trips) and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L features an easy-to-pack clamshell design and highly adjustable straps that make it a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. Handles on all four sides of this bag make it easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it, and the Allpa’s straps are contoured to comfortably fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The bag is protected by a full lifetime warranty and has the build quality to back that up. Its front panel is made of a waterproof, TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester (a strong fabric covered in a flexible plastic coating), which means you can lay it on its back in a wet field or in gravel without worrying about moisture soaking through or jagged edges ripping the fabric. The rest of the paneling is made with 1,680-denier ballistic nylon, which feels similar to a strong canvas but with a more prominent weave. After four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item to store under the seat) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage that Kit Dillon, Wirecutter’s senior staff writer who covers luggage, uses.

One caveat: The Allpa has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth—which is where the personal item comes in handy. As the name suggests, “personal items” are very, well, personal, and no one bag will work for all travelers; we offer a range of recommendations in our full guide to them .

A tester from behind, wearing the uniformly black, sporty Peak Design bag

The larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. Not so with the Peak Design: It looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack. You can access the bag through a back panel, which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch, as well as through a front one, if you unzip the pass-through divider. You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps that run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters.

If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. It still feels larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for the ability to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400D nylon and polyester fabrics—it feels tough, but not as tough as the Cotopaxi Allpa. As for flaws, it is expensive, especially if you commit to the entire system of packing cubes and camera cubes . The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses, though Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty.

Finding the right bag is a personal choice, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we have picks in our full review of carry-on travel bags that can double as traveling offices , bags that are easy to carry while you’re walking long distances , and budget options for travelers who want to give the one-bag strategy a try.

Carry-on bag (rolling)

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Great features, great value.

This spinner carry-on offers the best balance of size, value, reliability, and durability, with high-end details. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

Since 2015, we’ve researched several dozen suitcases and gone hands-on with the 67 most promising candidates in a variety of tests—including having active flight attendants test bags for us in a fake plane fuselage in their training facility. We determined that for most people the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner offers the best balance of features, durability, and price for most flyers who log less than 25,000 miles annually.

A person sitting in an airport chair with our pick for best carry-on luggage in front of them.

It features smooth-rolling, user-replaceable wheels; solid and comfortable, telescoping handles; and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid internal chassis. The Elite only improves on past iterations in the Platinum line by reducing the size of the stowed handle (which used to jut out about an inch) and adding a second zippered, exterior pocket for easy access on the go and a USB pass-through extension that lets you insert your own battery pack for charging your phone. And at 7.8 pounds when empty, this carry-on bag is about half a pound lighter than its predecessor. Compared with other bags in this price range, you also get surprisingly high-end components and a warranty that covers anything, even airline damage, for the life of the bag (as long as you register the suitcase within 120 days of purchase, which is easy to do on any smartphone).

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

For frequent flyers.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles a year, invest in a bag with unique features, superior details, and plenty of expandable room. This manufacturer guarantees your satisfaction.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles annually and you’re willing to invest in a higher-quality product, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-Inch Carry-On Expandable Spinner. It can fit more clothing than any bag we tested, thanks to a cavernous interior and clever expansion and compression system that can adjust to variable levels beyond open and shut. Over a five-year period before the pandemic, Wirecutter’s founder, Brian Lam, put more than 150,000 miles on his. His only complaint was that longer pants will need an extra fold, or to be rolled. In taller bags, pants will only need to be folded over once.

Checked luggage

If you need to pack more stuff than a carry-on and a personal item can hold, our first piece of advice would be to reconsider whether you need that extra outfit “just in case.” But you’ll have times when you need to travel with several pairs of shoes, formalwear, a winter coat, special equipment (like diving or camping gear), or all of the above. In these cases, there’s no way to avoid checking a bag.

Osprey Farpoint 55 Men’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with taller torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Farpoint has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

Osprey Fairview 55 Women’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with shorter torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

If you’re going somewhere where you’ll need to walk a lot (particularly if there’s dirt or cobblestone roads), we recommend a travel backpack. We like the Farpoint 55 and the sized-for-smaller-torsos Fairview 55 because they’re comfortable and have plenty of room to store, and separate, our essentials. The front of the main pack unzips like a suitcase, so you can easily fit and access a week’s worth of clothes and toiletries. The daypack, which attaches to the front of the larger pack, has room for camera gear, daily essentials, and a small laptop (via a built-in sleeve). It’s also easy to stow. The main pack’s straps can tuck behind a zippered flap, so they won’t catch on anything if you check your luggage.

These bags are made of a heavy-duty recycled polyester that stands up even to long trips–one of our testers has traveled with a Farpoint 55 for years, across dozens of countries for months at a time, without damaging it. If something does happen, though, Osprey has a lifetime warranty.

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner

The best checked bag for most travelers.

The bag provides a luxury feel at a reasonable price, with a capacity, warranty, and reliability that should suit most travelers. The 25-inch model should offer plenty of room for most people without going over airline weight limits.

If you don’t plan on walking around while carrying all your stuff, the 25-inch Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner Suiter is our favorite piece of checked luggage for all of the same reasons we loved the carry-on size: It has excellent organizational features, it’s especially durable, and it has a better warranty than anything in its price range.

Luggage tags

Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag

Strong and easy to see.

Rugged silicone and a metal cable mean this tag (which comes two to a pack) may well outlive your luggage. The brightly colored case displays its owner’s name but keeps other personal information out of sight.

A good luggage tag should be durable, simple to use, and discreet. Ultimately, a tag should allow someone to get your luggage back to you quickly and easily, and it should withstand the wear and tear of being thrown onto conveyor belts time and again. After researching the top-rated and best-selling models, reading existing luggage-tag reviews, and comparing fourteen tags , we recommend the Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag for most travelers because it’s the only one we’d trust to survive being smashed by other bags, jammed into walls, and generally abused by baggage handlers. It’s the most durable tag we tested, and it comes in a wide selection of colors to help any bag stand out from the rest.

The Ovener tag’s silicone body seems nearly indestructible and is available in a rotating selection of colors (you get two tags per pack). Whereas other tags also feature metal cables, this tag has a metal grommet to keep the cable from eventually wearing through the silicone case.

Should you lose your bag, the Ovener makes it easy for a Good Samaritan to find your contact information. To fully access the info card, you have to unscrew and remove the metal strap; this lets the card slide out of the case. Most luggage tags we tested secure their info card in this way. It isn’t a difficult or time-consuming process, but it is an extra step compared with using a tag that displays all of your information openly. Still, for anyone who wants to keep their contact information out of view, the extra step is worth it.

Another approach to increasing privacy is to hide information in a QR code, as the Dynotag Smart Deluxe Steel Luggage Tag does, or to provide a user ID number, as the Okoban UID Luggage Tags do. But these seem like overly complex solutions to a problem that doesn’t really exist.

Compression sacks

Originally designed for reducing the bulk of lofty sleeping bags, compression sacks are stuff sacks modified with additional nylon end caps that can be pulled together by strings or straps to remove air and create a smaller, denser package that’s easier to pack. Most travelers use compression sacks to condense socks, underwear, and other stuff you don’t mind getting wrinkled into a package with half as much overall volume. For example, an 8- to 12-liter sack can compress a fleece jacket and a long-weekend’s worth of socks and underwear into something that fits in one hand. They also make a decent pillow in a pinch.

Osprey StraightJacket (8L)

Easier access, less compression.

It has a full-length zipper on its side that allows access to the bag’s entire contents. However, it doesn’t compress as tightly as traditional designs.

Most compression sacks require you to empty out the stuff at the top to get to the stuff below it, but the side-zipper design on the Osprey StraightJacket allows access to the entire contents of the bag at once. The compression straps attach sideways, and are less likely to get tangled and twisted like on most compression sacks with lengthwise straps. It can also sit up on its own, and the handle design lets you break it out as a last minute carry-on to avoid an overweight-baggage fee. However, it doesn’t compress down as compactly as the traditional designs we tested so it’s not the best option if compression is your top priority.

GobiGear’s SegSac takes a different approach to solving the same access issue: It has four inner dividers that run the length of the sack in order to keep your socks separate from your underwear, winter accessories, towel, what have you. This means you don’t have to take out your T-shirts to get to your socks. Unlike the Osprey, it compresses just as much as a normal compression sack, but it loses points for versatility because the segmentation prevents it from handling large items like a down jacket or sleeping bag.

Packing cubes

Packing cubes could change your life. (Okay, maybe just your traveling life.) Packing cubes are basically bags to hold your clothes that you organize within your luggage. Though seemingly superfluous, they’re brilliant in action. If you imagine your suitcase as a dresser, you can think of these cubes as individual drawers: Put all your underwear and socks in one container, all your shirts in another, and your workout clothes in yet another. Then pull out only the cube you want. They make packing and repacking wonderfully simple.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

Well built with easy access.

Simple and solidly constructed, these packing cubes keep your bag organized while you’re traveling.

The three-piece Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set keeps a week’s worth of clothes organized and moves easily from suitcase to hotel dresser. We’ve been recommending the previous version of these cubes for years, and after testing this updated set, we now recommend this version.

The full-size cube is great for shirts, shorts, and insulating layers. The half-cube and quarter-cube are perfect for underwear, socks, and other thin fabrics such as stockings or sleepwear. These cubes are made of 300-denier polyester (a strong fabric) and stay upright when empty, so they’re easy to pack. The Pack-It cubes’ windows are made of the tightest mesh link we tested—better for resisting snags—and the smooth zippers close easily around all corners, even when a cube is overstuffed.

The Eagle Creek cubes have the ability to unzip fully to allow full access to their contents while sitting in a dresser drawer. That means your clean clothes stay protected against some potentially dicey motel dressers. In 2022, Eagle Creek updated the design of these cubes, and now the company no longer uses YKK zippers, which are widely accepted as the best around . That said, we couldn’t tell any difference between Eagle Creek’s zippers and other brands’ YKK zippers, even with a magnifying glass, and their performance was indistinguishable. (For what it’s worth, an Eagle Creek product manager assured us that the proportion of zipper-related warranty claims hasn’t changed since the company made the switch from YKK.)

Most travelers are likely to be well served by the Reveal set. But if you value lightness above all, the more expensive Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is about 50% lighter than similar-size competitors (just over 1 ounce for a medium cube, whereas the Eagle Creek classic style weighs about 4 ounces). Unlike the Reveal set, this set is water resistant. However, the Isolate design’s thin sides—which don’t allow the cubes to stand up on their own—make those cubes a bit more challenging to pack than the Reveal cubes.

Buying the right gear can help organize your existing travel kit, but it’s a red herring if your goal is better portability. “It’s mostly the clothing that allows you to reduce what you need to carry,” explains veteran traveller Eytan Levy, better known as the Snarky Nomad . That’s because clothing, which is very voluminous, makes up the bulk of what’s in your bag. He recommends traveling with basic-looking clothes because you can always buy or rent something nice in a pinch, whereas lugging around formalwear just in case will always be a pain. It also helps if you can avoid cotton and stick to merino and synthetic fabrics, which dry faster. This allows you to do laundry by hand in the sink as needed to reduce the amount of clothes you need to carry.

Travel underwear

Men and women's underwear laid out on top of each other.

Good travel underwear keeps you feeling fresh and clean, even when your destination is gritty. To find the best , we researched an array of underwear designed for men and women to find 37 pairs meeting our criteria: moisture-wicking and breathable, quick-drying, odor-resistant, stretchy, stylish, and cut to fit a variety of body types.

We then conducted rigorous pretesting (wearing the underwear for two days at a time, machine-washing them repeatedly, and tracking their drying speed when hung on a clothesline) before taking them out into the real world. Our testers went backpacking 215 miles throughout Portland, Oregon; hiking in the Canadian Rockies, including walking from the lowest point in the Continental US to the highest; and road-tripping to the national parks of the West. Testers who flew to their destinations wore the underwear on the plane, too.

Afterward, we checked for signs of wear, such as seam breakage and pilling on the fabric. As we continued to test the finalists, we repeatedly checked for durability problems. In addition to comfort and fit, we noted whether each pair seemed lightweight and packable.

ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief

Best for most men.

Durable, quick-drying, and relatively inexpensive, this soft-fabric version of ExOfficio’s time-tested Give-N-Go undies will get the job done for years.

May be out of stock

The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief is the best men’s underwear for travel because it balances fit, comfort, odor-proofing, and value better than anything else we’ve tested. The Sport Mesh fabric excels at breathing and wicking and has better odor-resistance than other fabrics. It feels soft on the inside and smooth on the outside so it slides against your pants instead of creating friction, reducing potential for chafing. It also features a sculpted crotch area that gives wearers some much-appreciated support, without feeling stifling. These boxer briefs dry quickly, pack compactly, and weigh less than almost all the other boxer briefs we tried—basically they’re everything you’d want from a pair of excellent travel underwear.

Patagonia Women's Active Hipster

Best for most women.

These light, stylish, quick-drying hipsters stay in place whether you’re walking, flying, or hanging upside down.

The Patagonia Active Hipster doesn’t appear special upon first glance. Only after trying everything else and living through their failures to stay put did we remember what “special” really means in a pair of underwear: Feeling as if you’re wearing nothing at all. The Patagonias have the best fit, comfort, and style out of all the panties we tested. The nylon material is fast-wicking and better than most synthetics for odor-proofing, making it well suited for athletic activities. The Active Hipster is lightweight and packable, and is the fastest-drying underwear we tested—making them perfect for minimalist travelers who go weeks at a time with just one or two pairs. But these same characteristics make them great for any traveler looking for comfortable, packable panties, regardless of where you’re going or what you’re doing.

Budget pick

Uniqlo Men Airism Boxer Brief

Comfortable, compact, and fast-drying, these are a great value but don’t fit quite as nicely and aren’t as supportive in the crotch.

Uniqlo Women Airism Ultra Seamless HipHugger

Similar fabric to the Men’s Airism, with a no-ride cut for women, these underwear are the least expensive of any we tested and among the best performing.

If you want to spend as little as possible without sacrificing performance, the Uniqlo Airism line has long been a great choice for men and women who can wear sizes small and medium. In recent years, both lines have expanded their size range somewhat (men to 3XL, and women to XL). If these fit, you can replace an entire underwear drawer on a tight budget, as long as you can deal with the slightly odd cut and less-effective odor-control treatment.

If you’ve never traveled with merino wool socks, you’re missing out. These aren’t the scratchy wool socks your grandpa wore in the army; they are soft and stretchy ones that have natural sweat-wicking and odor-resisting properties that keep your toes comfortable under all conditions—even when wet. This combination of odor, moisture, and temperature regulations makes them ideal for traveling. "Because of its natural anti-bacterial properties, washing merino wool on a daily basis isn’t absolutely necessary,” explains Snarky Nomad , "after letting it air dry overnight while you sleep, it’ll seem brand new.” The only major downside is that merino tends to be a bit pricier than synthetic counterparts. But it’s a worthy trade-off, since you can go for longer with fewer pairs.

Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock (Women’s)

The best quality for women.

The best mix of comfort, durability, and cushioning in a versatile height.

Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock (Men’s)

For the best quality.

The same great versatile sock as the women’s model, but in different color options and more sizes.

Darn Tough’s Light Hiker Micro Crew socks (both the men’s and women’s versions) have been our favorite hiking socks for years. Darn Tough made its name through its quality guarantee : “Our socks are guaranteed to be the most comfortable, durable, and best fitting socks you can buy. In a nutshell, if you wear a hole in them, we will replace them free of charge, for life.” Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers (hardcore backpackers who walk from Mexico to Canada in one continuous trip) praise them for their durability, comfort, and blister resistance. When you hold a pair of Darn Toughs next to a pair of Smartwools (which only have a two-year guarantee ), the difference is clear. The Darn Toughs are more tightly knit, the yarns are finer and feel sturdier, and the stitching is tighter.

Darn Tough Women's Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock

The best non-wool women’s hiking sock.

This midlevel cushioned sock for women is the best synthetic option for most climates and terrains.

Darn Tough Men's Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock

The best non-wool men’s hiking sock.

This synthetic men’s sock is perfect for day hiking in most weather.

If you are sensitive to wool, prefer a vegan product, or want a cooler option for the summer, we also like the Darn Tough Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock, which comes in women's and men’s sizes.

We appreciated how breathable this sock felt. While wearing the Coolmax Micro Crew in hot summer weather, our testers’ feet stayed dry and sweat-free. The shorter micro-crew height makes the Coolmax Micro Crew suitable for both boots and shoes, too. And like all Darn Tough socks, this model comes with a lifetime warranty.

Indosole Flip Flops (women’s)

A quality flip flop in women’s sizes.

These stylish beach sandals come in a wide range of colors. Be careful, though: Indosole sizes tend to run a little small.

Indosole Flip Flops (men’s)

A quality flip flop in men’s sizes.

These beach sandals are the same as the women’s version but cut a bit wider; we still think they run a little smaller than regular shoe sizes.

A good pair of travel flip-flops should be lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof. The men’s and women’s Indosole Flip Flops offer the best combination of quality, comfort, and easy packability. Unlike many flip flops, which slap against the ground with every step, the subtle arch support of this flip flop kept it secure against our feet. Plus they’re made from waterproof, recycled materials. Keep in mind, though, that our testers found these shoes to run a bit small, so we suggest sizing up for the best fit.

Clothesline

While doing laundry at home can be a large weekly event, OneBag author Doug Dyment recommends approaching travel laundry as a part of your daily routine, especially if you’re trying to pack as little as possible: “The laundry should be more like cleaning your teeth—something you do everyday. It only takes about five minutes to do it. Every night, do your socks and underwear and you’ll have clean socks and underwear everyday.”

A secure, hassle-free option

The Flexo-Line attaches easily to a door handle or faucet and grips garments securely between its loops.

Check out OneBag’s laundry packing list if you want specific tips on how to do it and what you’ll need, but it’s a pretty simple setup: All you need is a toiletry bottle of powdered detergent, a towel to help expedite drying, and a travel clothesline to finish the drying process while you sleep at night.

Specifically, you want a braided—not twisted—surgical latex clothesline with looped ends, which means you want a Flexo-Line . The Flexo-Line can stretch up to 7 feet long, which is enough to span most hotel bathtubs, and it has loops that you can attach easily to a door handle, bath spigot, or faucet. The braided construction is superior to twisted designs made from other materials because the latex does a better job of gripping garments securely between the loops, which means you don’t need any additional clothespins.

Dyment has tried them all, but the Flexo-Line is the one he comes back to. As he explained to me in an interview, “There are others that are fine, but there are far more that are not fine.” More specifically, Dyment says to avoid anything that’s not made of latex , because clothes will inevitably slip out of them. He also says to never, ever trust a suction cup: “They don’t work, period.” If the Flexo-Line is unavailable, Dyment says that the Rick Steves collection from Kiva Designs also makes a nice braided line that is a bit more expensive. If you have a latex allergy, Dyment recommends going with a length of cord ( paracord is nice because it’s durable and you can use it for other things as well) and stainless steel safety pins meant for cloth diapers , because they take up far less space than a clothespin and won’t rust. In fact, it’s worthwhile to get these items even if you can use a latex line because they’re great for making luggage repairs and performing other MacGyver-ish tasks in a pinch. To hang up the clothesline, we recommend using a bowline knot on one end and a taut line hitch on the other. These knots work well together because the bowline creates a simple, slip-proof loop to anchor one end while the taut line hitch allows you to adjust for tension and locks tightly in place. If you could commit any two knots to memory forever, these are the ones to learn.

Laundry detergent

Minisoak Travel Packs

A travel size version of the best delicates detergent.

Perfect for traveling because you don’t even need to rinse it out.

When you’re washing your underwear in a hotel sink, you want a fast and easy experience. For this, we recommend the no-rinse detergent Soak . That’s right, we said no rinse . You just add a drop to the sink, fill with water, and leave your garments to soak. Then press out the water and hang. Done.

In our tests of delicates detergents , Soak cleaned almost as well as our top laundry detergent, Tide; plus, it comes in individual packets of powder that are great for traveling, as well as in travel-size bottles of the liquid version . In addition to unscented, it's available in a variety of scents, although Lacey and Celebration are not the most descriptive of scent names. They all smell nice, not overpowering. Soak also comes in an assorted travel pack with two single-use packets of each scent, if you want to test-drive one or two before you buy. In that mini size, you get eight packets for $11 currently, but you really need only a squeeze, not the the whole packet, to wash a couple of pairs of socks and underwear.

One downside to Soak is that you won’t find it in a grocery store or big-box store. But it is available online at Soak’s site . And if you really want to walk into a store and put your mitts on a bottle, you can find it at most local yarn stores.

Don’t feel like buying Soak or bringing along a bit of your own detergent? Shampoo also works pretty well for cleaning garments in a pinch, so make use of that free bottle from the hotel. But a caveat: Neither Soak nor shampoo contains enzymes , which are biological molecules in laundry detergent that break down certain stains. If you have especially stinky or stained clothes, you might need to break out the Tide .

When we first published this guide, this section addressed only toiletry kits and bottles, razors, and packable towels. The times, and traveling, became more complicated. One thing we've learned in the past few years is that face masks can be useful whenever you’re sick and don’t want to share your misery. Fortunately, compared with early 2020, medical-style N95s and KN95s (which many experts recommend as the best protection) are widely available. They’re easy to tuck into a bag, which we do now whenever we travel.

Toiletry kit

We’ve researched dozens of travel toiletry bags and dopp kits over the past several years, and we tested 23 of the top-rated contenders in our most recent round of tests. After packing and unpacking a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries, conducting spill tests, and living out of the top performers on the road, we have a few different picks that stand out thanks to their style, packability, and quality of construction.

The Sea to Summit bag hanging open from a shower shelf.

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small)

A space-saving hanging bag.

This lightweight, well-organized bag fits a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries into a compact package. It’s meant to be hung, which makes it good for tight spaces, but it doesn’t have much in the way of internal structure.

The Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small) is compact and durable. It’s small enough to stash in a backpack or laptop bag, but it holds enough travel-size toiletries to keep us supplied for a week. You can open it and hang it from a shower curtain or towel rod to easily see and grab your items. It comes with a shatterproof mirror, two micro-mesh zip pockets and an open pocket for toothbrushes, lip balm, and tweezers, and a large compartment for bulky lotions and hair-care items.

L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

For more stuff and longer trips.

With a 6.4-liter capacity and over a dozen compartments, this toiletry bag has a place for everything—and everything will stay put during transit, too. It can also accommodate non-travel-size bottles.

The L.L.Bean Personal Organizer (medium) is a great option for longer trips and people who travel with full-size bottles. Its 6.4 liters of storage spread across a dozen compartments means there’s a dedicated place for pretty much everything you could want to bring on a trip—it even has a removable mesh shower caddy for shampoo and body wash. This level of organization is crucial for larger toiletry bags because, as we discovered after years of traveling with our picks, contents that aren’t securely fastened can shift around in transit, which increases the chance of spilling. The downside of all this organization is that the L.L.Bean weighs 14 ounces when empty, so it’s not ideal for carry-on travel.

If neither of these bags seems right for you, read our full review of the best toiletry bags and dopp kits to learn more about our picks and everything we tested.

Toiletry bottles

Sea to Summit TPU Clear Zip Pouch with Bottles

These six TSA-friendly bottles are sturdy and smartly designed, dispensing liquids more precisely than any of the other bottles we tested.

For traveling with liquids in your carry-on, the Sea to Summit set is your best bet. All six bottles conform to TSA size limitations; three of them can hold 3 ounces of liquid each, and three can hold 1.5 ounces each, for a total of 13.5 ounces. Despite the set’s name, the bottles themselves are made not of thermoplastic polyurethane—“TPU" refers to the zip pouch—but a high-density polyethylene material, much like what you’d see used in most plastic milk jugs. It has an almost-smooth, semi-transparent surface just textured enough that it’s not slippery when wet. The plastic is also flexible enough that you don’t have to squeeze very hard to get your shampoo or liquid soap or whatever going. An insert at the mouth of each bottle helps regulate the flow, and the screw tops prevent liquids from leaking in transit.

Razor (faces)

Gillette Mach3

The best manual razor for most faces.

This classic razor’s three widely spaced blades provide the best balance of speed, smoothness, and safety. Its handle is comfortable and well designed, and replacement blades can be had for a fair price.

We researched more than 100 and tested 11 manual razors for our full razor guide , concluding that the Gillette Mach3 is our top pick for manual razors. Although the three blades require a little extra time for a closer shave, it performs comparably to the latest and greatest offerings for as little as half the price.

The Gillette Mach3 provides the best balance of speed, smoothness, and safety. The Mach3’s simple, round handle is easy to grip and maneuver, and its three blades offer a close shave without over-irritating the skin or getting clogged with hair. And the price of Mach3 blades—$2 per cartridge or less, whether you buy them online or in a store—came close to, or even beat, the pricing of shave-club rivals, and the Mach3 shaved better than those competitors.

Razor (legs/body)

Gillette Venus Smooth

The best body razor.

This classic Venus is one of the easiest razors to grip and maneuver and its three-blade design keeps the blades remarkably free of hair.

Disposable razors (both the completely disposable and replaceable-cartridge variety) are fine to take through airport security , and among them we like the Gillette Venus Original best for traveling. Although it’s now the runner-up pick in our guide to body razors —it was formerly the top pick—we believe that its simple aloe lubricating strips, which don’t become tacky when wet, make the Venus more travel friendly than our new top pick . Plus, as with any Venus, the Original’s body is compatible with any other Venus head and many heads from Gillette’s facial razors, making replacement heads easier to find when you’re on the road.

The Original’s head has three blades separated by considerable slats of space, making it far easier to clean the head between strokes. The Original is intuitive to hold and secure to maneuver, thanks to a contoured handle with corrugated chevrons of rubber. Though our testers have a wide range of hand sizes, no one found the Original difficult to grasp. Despite the significant ribbing, it doesn’t feel too bulky. Gillette claims its razors have lasted for five weeks; we think one razor for a weeklong trip should be fine.

(Know that, confusingly, the Venus appears for sale on some retail sites under the name Venus Close and Clean or Venus Smooth. It’s the same razor. If you’re unsure which Venus model you’re looking at, check for the Original’s three blades and trademark sea-foam blue color.)

Towel (packable)

PackTowl Personal

The best all-around packable towel.

The PackTowl Personal Towel is lightweight, soft, absorbent, quick to dry, and odor-resistant.

We put 20 top-rated towels through a battery of tests including regular shower use, a trip to the beach, camping, and a 48-hour stay in a ziplock bag under the hot Hawaiian sun. After all was said and done, the Packtowl Personal Towel is still the best all-around travel towel for most people. In addition to being the softest lightweight towel we tested, it was more absorbent than competitors made of similar materials. It had the best odor-resisting abilities and comes with a convenient mesh carrying pouch. We also have alternate picks for ultralight and all-natural towels below.

The Personal Towel’s suede-like material was the softest of the thinner towels. The Personal Towel also had superior absorption when compared with other similarly constructed towels such as the Sea to Summit DryLite —in our tests, it absorbed 2.8 times its weight in water, while the others absorbed between 2.3 times and 2.7 times.

One of just two we tested that featured an added antimicrobial treatment, the Personal Towel was only a little musty smelling after 24 hours in a sealed ziplock bag, and remained unchanged at 48 hours.

If you’re looking for a budget option, consider the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel , which is a tad smaller than our other picks and is made from a seemingly lighter-feeling fabric. Unlike most budget options, it has an antibacterial coating and still managed to carry a pleasant smell after being testing in different environments.

Regardless of how you get to your final destination, it’s likely you’ll be stuck in a seat that’s less than ideal. Travel gadgets that claim to reduce this misery, such as compression socks, are popular. But when they take up precious luggage space for the duration of your trip—not just the flight or train ride–they need to be worth every cubic inch of space. The less you can make do with, the better off you’ll be.

Neck pillow

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

More support for most necks.

Its tall memory-foam walls let it offer more support than any other pillow we tested. It’s also shaped to sit flush against a headrest, and it compresses to a manageable size.

The uniquely angled back on the Travelrest Ultimate sets it apart from other travel pillows we tested because it can lay flat against the seat back. Most other pillows have a rounded back, which pushes your head away from the headrest. The Travelrest also has rubber grip dots to prevent slipping while sleeping. This pillow’s spongy memory foam cushions the entire circumference of your neck, preventing your head from leaning far in any direction, and its adjustable Velcro strap ensures it can fit most necks. The pillow’s cozy velour exterior is removable and machine-washable. Although it doesn’t pack flat, the Travelrest weighs less than a pound and compresses to a quarter of its size when rolled into its Velcro-strapped carrying case. Our only complaint is that the Travelrest’s high walls, though supportive, can push over-ear headphones off of the ears of people with shorter necks.

Noise-cancelling headphones

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

The best over-ear noise-cancelling headphones.

The Bose 700 headphones deliver excellent noise cancellation in a comfortable, lightweight design that’s traveler friendly—but they carry a high price.

The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 over-ear set has the most versatile active noise cancellation we’ve ever tested. With 10 levels of noise reduction to choose from, everyone should be able to find a setting that meets their needs. We also enjoyed the lightweight and comfortable design and the easy-to-use controls. What distinguishes the Bose 700’s ANC is the amount of adjustability it gives you: Most noise-cancelling headphones offer controls for only on/off or maybe high/low/off, but with the Bose 700 pair you can set the ANC level from 0 to 10, so you have more flexibility to dial in the ideal setting for your comfort. The 20-hour battery life, while not the best we’ve seen, is more than sufficient to get you to most destinations. We have additional options—including earbuds and surprisingly good budget options for over-ear headphones and earbuds —in our full guide to noise-cancelling headphones .

Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs

For blocking out the most noise.

These blocked the most noise in our controlled testing and got the most votes from our subjective sleep panel.

When you’re traveling, it can be difficult to fall asleep to unfamiliar noises. That’s why we spent several hours researching new contenders and tested four top-rated models while sleeping in a house that was next to an airport in order to determine that Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam earplugs are the best earplugs for sleeping.

The Mack’s 37.1 dB noise reduction rating was the highest among the models we tested. According to Cooper Safety , that’s enough to reduce the volume of a gas lawnmower to that of a normal conversation. What made the Mack’s earplugs so effective is the fact that we could insert them and rest assured that they would stay in the whole night. Meanwhile, the Howard Leight MAX1 might be a favorite from crowdsourced sleep-aid review site Sleep Like the Dead , but the earplugs would inevitably fall out in the middle of the night. Thus, they failed to block out the noise of planes landing and taking off throughout the night, despite the MAX1’s 33 dB noise reduction rating. The Howard Leights also made our ears ache on occasion, whereas the Mack’s has a tapered shape that was consistently comfortable night after night.

The Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs cost about 20¢-35¢ per pair when purchased in a 50-pair pack. They come in a plastic case is about the size of a large coffee mug, which is small enough to toss in a large bag or suitcase. Many other ear plugs like our runner-up, the 3M’s E-A-Rsoft OCS1135 , can only be ordered in industrial-size lots that, while perhaps appealing to those who travel constantly (or run a hostel), are annoying to store and often lack a reusable container of any sort.

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

For air travelers and back-sleepers.

The lightweight and contoured Nidra mask is a light-blocking win for most face shapes, with deep eye cups that allow the wearer to blink freely and arrive feeling refreshed.

When bright lights hamper peaceful shut-eye, we recommend the light-blocking, contoured Nidra Deep Rest sleep mask. Of the 14 masks we tested , the Nidra blocked the most light on the most faces. It’s contoured to rest on your face like a pair of soft goggles, with fabric lenses that sit around your eyes (instead of directly over them). This design provides more space for your eyes to flutter during REM sleep, ensuring that you come through red-eye flights with less redness in your eyes. Makeup wearers will also appreciate that, with the Nidra’s elevated eye cups, there’s a smaller chance of smudging.

Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask

A flat, silk mask.

A silken exterior material, a flat design, and an adjustable strap make this mask a fit for almost any face, but it puts pressure on the eyes.

Mzoo Sleep Mask

A smooth, contoured eye mask.

Soft, structured, and contoured, this mask stays on all night and prevents any light from seeping through

If the Nidra Deep Rest doesn’t fit your face quite right, we also recommend the Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask and the Mzoo Sleep Mask . The Alaska Bear mask lacks contoured eyecups and thus applies some pressure to the eyes overnight like any regular eye mask does. But its flat design easily conforms to fit your face, and its silk exterior feels smooth and soft against skin (the padding is made of cotton). Its relative lack of structure makes it more difficult to knock off when you’re tossing and turning.

The Mzoo mask’s eyecups have a convex gap so your eyes can open and close. That gap is surrounded by a memory foam padding that rests on the perimeter of your eye sockets. The effect is such that you don’t feel like your eyes are being forced closed, but there is a bit of compression near your temples, eyebrows, and cheekbones. Most—though not all—of our testers found this sensation soothing. One liked how the contour of the eyecup kept the mask from brushing against their eyelashes, which makes it a good choice for people who wear eyelash extensions.

Few things are better than landing at an airport, turning on your phone, and having it just work. No hassles, no stress, no worries about brutal roaming fees. You can check in with loved ones, scope out the route to your lodgings, and maybe post an Instagram story or two—because your phone works just like it does at home. This is especially freeing, and it makes travel so much easier. (Of course, phones aren’t the only useful tech to bring: Check out our accessories reviews for guides to the best cables ( USB-C , Lightning , and Micro-USB ), Wi-Fi hotspots , Bluetooth speakers , and more.)

Unlocked mobile phone

One of the most useful gadgets for international travel is an unlocked smartphone that’s compatible with cheap, prepaid phone plans you can sign up for at your destination. Unless your carrier offers plans including high-speed data that you can access internationally (i.e., you’re with T-Mobile or Google Fi), traveling with a phone under contract with a major carrier means paying an arm and a leg for data. Being able to access data-guzzling apps like Google Maps or Google Translate on the fly is worth the hassle to unlock a phone. Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp are free, easy ways to communicate with people you meet on your trip and people from home. Plus there’s checking email, TripAdvisor, banking, social media, and so on.

An “unlocked” phone means you can buy prepaid SIM cards in the country you’re visiting, letting you access their local network for significantly less money than the roaming fees incurred by your home carrier. With a prepaid SIM, your phone effectively becomes a new phone with a new (now local) phone number. Instead of seeing “Verizon,” “AT&T,” or “Sprint” at the top of your phone, you might see “Vodafone,” “Yes Optus,” “M1,” or whatever provider you choose in the country you’re visiting. The first thing to check is if your phone will work where you’re going. If you’re unsure if your phone will work where you’re going, check the Wikipedia page for your phone or contact your provider.

Your phone will also require a removable SIM. (If your phone has an eSIM, as all new iPhones do, check out our blog post about those.) Most countries require a passport or other ID to buy a prepaid SIM without a contract, but switching the SIMs is easy. Most stores will do it for you while you’re there. Depending on the country/provider, this could take as long as 10 minutes but is often faster. The next question is easily the most complicated: Can you unlock your phone? Each carrier has different rules and criteria. Generally, if you have a brand new, expensive phone, they may not let you unlock it (there’s usually a waiting period after the purchase date). But if it’s a little older, or if you’ve paid it off, they probably will. The thing to remember is that a provider can deny an unlock request without giving a reason. You might be lucky, though; certain phones on certain providers are unlocked by default. Here are Verizon and AT&T’s pages on unlocking. Alternately, you can buy a pre-unlocked phone just for travel. Amazon and Best Buy, for example, sell unlocked phones. This is also a good option if you think you might lose your expensive phone and a cheaper one will suffice while you travel.

Plug adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best universal travel adapter.

With four plugs that will work in most countries, plus faster-charging USB ports (and more of them) than its competitors, this adapter is the best all-around choice.

You save $4 (17%)

In a sea of almost-identical travel adapters, the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter stands out, combining the best of the features we look for. It contains the three most common international plugs and a US-style plug, which should cover you in the majority of countries around the world. It has the most USB ports—four of the standard USB-A and one USB-C—of any universal adapter we tested, and it charged more of our devices faster. A replaceable fuse and an included spare should take the brunt of any accidental, unfortunate, or shockingly bad connections. The Epicka is fairly compact and well built, and it even comes with an extra USB cable and a nylon case.

However, no universal travel adapter is truly universal, and they’re all a lot bulkier and more expensive than simple plug adapters. If you want the smallest adapter possible, or if you’re going someplace where a universal adapter won’t work (more on that in a minute), a plug adapter could be what you need.

Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set

The best plug adapter.

Individually, these tiny plug adapters are smaller, lighter, and cheaper than any universal travel adapter. To juice up multiple devices, though, you’d need a separate multiport charger too.

The tiny plug adapters from Ceptics are barely larger than the prongs they convert. Small, simple, and cheap, they’re perfect for someone who wants to carry only the adapter they’ll need and who already has a multiport USB wall charger they like. Like our universal adapter picks, this set contains the three most common international plugs and the US plug. However, it also includes a somewhat rarer plug used in some European countries that has two thick, cylindrical prongs. This means that the Ceptics set will likely cover you in even more places—as long as you pack the appropriate plug adapter. These charts should help you find the shape you need before you order.

However, getting your gear to work in different countries isn’t quite as simple as it should be, and there’s no single solution that’s guaranteed to work for everyone. Our picks should work for you, but you may have some random piece of equipment, or be traveling to some country, for which our “good for most” picks just won’t work. (Case in point: One Wirecutter editor visited Iceland a few years back. The house she stayed in had outlets unlike anything on those charts, and the plug adapters she had used elsewhere in Reykjavik didn’t fit at all. It turns out the mystery sockets belonged to an obscure Italian system from the 1960s that was popular in Iceland for a time. Luckily, the hosts had power strips in the house that her adapters fit into.) The world is a big place, and when it comes to electricity and wall outlets, there’s a lot of variation. That’s important to keep in mind.

Whether two-prong or three-prong, an adapter just changes the shape of your plug, not anything about the electricity coming through the wires. However, this usually isn’t a problem because almost every power brick that comes with modern electronic gear is capable of accepting both the 110-volt standard used in the US and the 240-volt commonly used abroad. If your device has a power block on the cord, it likely says something like “100-240 V ~ 50/60 Hz”—that’s the all-clear to use it without a voltage converter so long as the range covers the voltage of the country you’re visiting . This includes the vast majority of modern laptop and USB chargers.

Products without some sort of power block at the end or with a non-detachable cord—in particular, things with heating elements like hair dryers and curling irons—are more likely to need a voltage converter. Putting 220 V through a US 110 V device would be like attaching a firehose to a drinking fountain—you’re likely to blow your face off. But voltage converters are tricky devices, and most of the inexpensive ones have awful (or dishonest) reviews. Since hotels and hostels will often have hair dryers and most newer gear can do the full range of voltages, we strongly recommend that, whenever possible, you only bring items that work with a much simpler (and more reliable) adapter.

Wire/gadget organization system

Now that every device has a battery, every battery has a charger, and every charger has a cable—never mind power-plug adapters if you’re traveling abroad—the sheer quantity of accessories needed just to keep your gadgets running can take up more space than the devices themselves. And unless you organize them, you can bet on having to blindly fish them out of the least convenient spot at the bottom of your bag. Recently, our pick for carrying tech necessities, the Incase Nylon Accessory Organizer, which had been out of stock for a few years, returned to the Incase website and appears to be in stock. If you prefer mesh to easily see your contents, , we also like the Container Store Micro Mesh Pouches .

The Incase cable organizer is a poly-nylon blend, so it’s durable. It is a soft-shell bag, however, so its contents can distort the bag’s shape when it’s full. But the bag’s edges remain rigid—so the seams don’t pucker—its contents don’t fall out, and zipping and unzipping the bag is still easy. We have other picks in our full guide to bag and cable organizers , including a roll-up bag and a stylish duo of cosmetics travel pouches ; we’ll also start testing other options to replace this one.

USB battery packs

A USB battery pack (also called a power bank) can keep your small electronics—from phones and cameras to tablets and more—going while you’re on the road. Although the length of your trip will determine exactly how much extra juice you’ll need to have on hand, whatever your requirements, we have a great USB battery recommendation for you. The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K weighs about half a pound, and its rounded edges make it easy to hold or slip into a pocket. Its USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port can charge most handheld devices and recharge itself at top speed (with the right USB-C cable and wall charger), and it can pass power to another device while being recharged from a wall outlet. It only comes in one color, but it has enough capacity to fully charge most smartphones up to three times, as well as built-in USB-C and Lightning cables that are easy to slide in and out of their holsters.

If you’re traveling for leisure, try not to get too wrapped up in technology because you might miss what you’re actually there to do: experience a new place. OneBag’s Doug Dyment said in an interview, “Wearing headphones and staring at a screen is like putting a digital wall around yourself when you’re traveling. It makes you seem unapproachable and uninterested in what’s around you.” That may be a good thing if you do truly want to be left alone, but Dyment went on to say that some of his most memorable traveling experiences were the result of just looking lost and getting help from the locals. “One minute, you’re a lost foreigner in an unfamiliar village, then someone asks if you need directions. Before you know it, you’re eating dinner with his family.”

Travel binoculars

Athlon Optics Midas ED

The overall best binoculars.

Amazingly affordable with great optics, these binoculars have performance comparable with that of many models that cost thousands more.

Our top pick for binoculars is durable and great for near-home hikes. In hot or dusty environments that may call for a clearer optical boost, the Athlon Optics Midas ED 8×42 binoculars deliver top quality. Its focus dial offers a wide range of depths that makes it easier to see whatever it is you desire—birds, grass or darkened areas of the forest. Our recommendation comes with the assistance of a professional ornithologist who spent over 100 hours putting 17 pairs of binoculars to the test in the mountains of Southern California and the rain forests of southern Mexico.

Although the Celestron TrailSeeker ED binoculars don’t offer a clear edge-to-edge view to the same degree of the Athlon Optics Midas EDs , they’re a comparable runner-up model that’ll be lighter on your wallet if having binoculars while traveling is a must. The TrailSeekers are equipped with great light-gathering qualities, close focus, and impressive optical resolution. Or, if you’re concerned about saving space, we liked the Pentax AD 8x25 WP binoculars. While not quite as powerful as our other picks, this compact pair of binoculars is well made and easy to fit into a carry-on while traveling via plane.

Ebook reader

Amazon Kindle (2022)

The best e-reader for most people.

Amazon’s most affordable Kindle is also its most portable, and it’s finally been upgraded with sharper text on its 6-inch screen and support for USB-C charging. Those features bring it in line with much-pricier e-readers.

The entry-level Amazon Kindle finally got an upgrade and is now our favorite e-reader , with the same crisp display and USB-C charging as the pricier Kindle Paperwhite has (and with double the storage space of the previous entry-level model). Amazon’s well-stocked ebooks store remains its biggest selling point, along with the ease of checking out library books via Libby and sending them directly to a Kindle.

Even if you don’t have time for pleasure reading on your trip, it’s worth investing in a Kindle because many major travel guides are available in fully searchable ebook formats now. Furthermore, e-texts will also work on your phone, tablet, and computer, thanks to the Kindle ecosystem.

Packable daypack

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack

A pack that fits in your palm.

Toss this lightweight, phone-sized packable bag into your luggage or coat pocket, and you’ll never get caught without a spare bag again. If you need something to carry every day, though, we think you’ll prefer one of our more-structured picks.

Packing a stowable daypack, one that stuffs down to fit in your luggage when not in use, is a relatively small investment of space in exchange for a high return of function and flexibility. After researching dozens of packable daypacks across a spectrum of portability, features, and prices, and then packing, unpacking, loading, wearing, and drenching the top-rated finalists during multiple rounds of testing, the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack is the smallest and lightest packable backpack we recommend. Packed up, it is very discreet: nearly the size of a keychain accessory.

The bag itself is a no-frills sack made from a paper-thin siliconized Cordura nylon, which means it’s very light and water-resistant. It has reinforced stitching at stress points, allowing the Ultra-Sil to carry more weight than you would expect. That said, since this pack is made of such thin, light material, carrying large or awkwardly shaped loads is somewhat uncomfortable, especially when compared with our more structured picks.

If comfort or waterproofing is important to you, check out the alternative picks in our review of packable daypacks for travel .

Field Notes 3-Pack Original Kraft Memo Books

For ultimate portability.

Field Notes are cheap but contain high-quality paper that earns praise from pen and stationery geeks across the web.

For writing your adventures as you travel, you can’t beat the portability, practicality, and romanticism of a pocket notebook. There’s nothing better in that category than Field Notes (three-packs available in a variety of styles and types ). These pocket-sized notebooks are widely praised for their excellent paper quality, and the Pen Addict’s Brad Dowdy tells me “Field Notes is pretty much the runaway pocket notebook champ.” Dowdy has praised it for the lack of feathering or bleedthrough with almost any pen, as well as for the light brown ruled lines, which are easier to write over than solid black. Austin Smith of Art Supply Critic told us in an email that his recommendation is “Field Notes has it, no question.” The Well-Appointed Desk has reviewed a slew of different Field Notes variants for those looking for something a bit more interesting.

Field Notes Expedition

A weather-resistant option.

Weather-resistant Expedition Field Notes are great if you’re writing in wet conditions, but don’t get them if you don’t need them. The synthetic paper feels weird and can cause some inks to smear.

If you think you’re going to be writing in foul weather, Field Notes also has the waterproof Expedition version with pages made from a synthetic water-and-tear resistant paper. You should only get these if you really need them, because otherwise, they just feel unnaturally slick and are more prone to smearing ink. At least one user has said that the paper shows less soaking through when wet than the similar Rite in the Rain books . The one caveat is that the synthetic paper will only work with pencils and certain inks ; thankfully, the Uni-ball Jetstream RT , our pick for best pen , definitely makes the grade.

Things can go wrong while you’re traveling, both where you are and where you’re not. Though you can’t prepare for every worst-case scenario, the peace of mind that a little bit of preparation grants will allow you to focus on what’s in front of you, instead of having to worry about what could go wrong. But preparation doesn’t simply mean buying more stuff just in case; it also means making efficient use of what you already have.

Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit

For the best combination of sewing tools.

The Merchant & Mills Rapid Repair Kit is the only travel kit we found that had objectively high-quality thread and scissors.

There’s nothing quite like a wardrobe malfunction to put a damper on vacation, especially when traveling with limited clothing. A good travel-size sewing kit allows you to mend a popped button or ripped seam on the fly—or even tackle more pressing issues like fixing a tent, sleeping bag, or backpack. After 15 hours of research, interviews with sewing teachers and avid home sewers, and tests of six travel and full-size kits, we found the Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit had by far the best tools and was the easiest to keep organized. Standard travel sewing kits usually contain mediocre thread and plastic-handled scissors that break easily. They can also be hard to keep organized (a truth we confirmed when testing six top-rated travel and full-sized kits). The Merchant & Mills set was the only one that had high-quality thread, all-metal mini scissors (don’t worry, the TSA shouldn’t stop you ), and a durable tin case (about the size of a deck of cards) to keep everything well organized.

Because the sewing pins are neatly stuck into paper inside a slim envelope and the three needles are housed in a mini glass vial, this kit also limits the risk of losing a sharp object in your bags. We found the Merchant & Mills needles easier to thread than others (no need for a fussy needle threader!) and we also like the vintage-looking safety pins that come clipped together along with two small white buttons. Although this kit only comes with black and white thread, the thread is strong and there’s more of it than you’d get in a flimsier set with shorter strands of multiple colors. We do think it would be nice if the kit included a more durable measuring tape than the paper one included, but overall everything about this kit is leagues ahead of anything else we considered. We didn’t find editorial reviews for any of the kits we tested, but the Merchant & Mills rapid repair kit was recommended by several sewing bloggers and is sold in many reputable indie fabric shops.

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

The best umbrella for most people.

This is a solidly built, easy-to-find umbrella that holds up in high winds. It also comes in a variety of colors.

price may vary by color or style

An umbrella you take traveling should be small, light, sturdy, and affordable. After putting in 66 hours of research and evaluating a total of 48 umbrellas across five rounds of testing (including one thunder-snowstorm), we found that the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is the best umbrella for most people. Its durable, nine-rib construction held up admirably against gale-force winds, and it’s as sturdy as umbrellas that sell for more than twice as much.

The Repel folds up to an 11½-inch long, 14-ounce package that fits easily into most bags and glove boxes. And it forcefully expands at a touch of a button to reveal an ample 37-inch-diameter canopy that protects your head and torso from precipitation in all but the windiest of conditions. Its lengthy, textured handle is easy to grip for hands of all sizes. We also appreciate that the Repel comes in a wide variety of colors, so it’s easier to pick yours out of a crowded umbrella bucket. Finally, despite its affordable price, it’s backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee, but only if you purchase directly from Repel and register the item under the company’s warranty.

A person holding a red Repel Easy Touch umbrella in the rain.

Packing method for clothes

While packing cubes and other organization tools are helpful for maximizing your bag’s usable space, efficient packing is also achievable without the aid of tools and compartments. One Bag’s Doug Dyment tried all manners of folding aids and compression products but was unsatisfied with their claims of compression and wrinkle prevention. Frustrated, he developed his own method of packing clothes compactly called the Bundle Method, which he’s used and perfected over several decades of traveling.

The Bundle Method involves layering your shirts and pants at opposing angles on a flat surface, then wrapping them around a small “core” parcel (e.g. a packing cube full of underwear and socks). We won’t get into details, but Dyment does on his website ; you can watch this easy-to-follow video from NBC . The resulting bundle is compact and has no sharp creases that will require ironing out later on. Additionally, Dyment explains that “the slight tension created in the fabric by the wrapping process, along with the anchoring of the resulting bundle, greatly reduces the chances of wrinkling.” You then put it in your bag and use the tie-down straps to provide just enough pressure to keep it together.

While simple to perform, this packing method isn’t something you can master in one go. It takes a bit of practice, but once you get it, it’s like riding a bike. The downside is that you can’t just leave your clothing packed and expect to be able to access your underwear without fully unpacking your clothes first. But unpacking is a good habit to get into anyway, as it allows your clothes to breathe and avoid wrinkles or mildew. Wirecutter founder and frequent traveler Brian Lam says that unpacking the moment he enters a room has a grounding effect that allows him to feel a bit more at home in a new environment.

If this sounds like too much of a hassle for you, you can do what we did before we found out about bundling: roll up your socks and underwear tightly and place them in packing cubes, then put your wrinkle-prone items (shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, jackets) in a garment folder—we used the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Garment Folder . This is also travel guru Rob King’s preferred method of packing. Though the garment folder is not quite as space-efficient as the bundle method due to the added bulk of the folder and folding board, the plastic backboard does go a long way towards preventing wrinkles. Just be aware that if you leave your clothes in there for longer than a day, they’ll begin to develop unsightly creases that require an iron to get rid of.

A big thank-you to the Hotel Lucia in downtown Portland, Oregon, for lending us a suite to use for the photos in this guide.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Wirecutter Staff

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Good Pocket Knives for Travellers

What is a good pocket knife for travellers.

A good pocket knife is a knife with multi-purposes. It needs to be useful when you are travelling. My grandfather told me this: When you go somewhere, always carry a piece of rope and a knife. With a good pocket knife, you will also carry some additional useful tools. When we backpack, we like to save money and it is less expensive to buy your food in local supermarket than to go to restaurant. With a knife, you will be able to cut bread or saucisson (cold sausage). If you travel in France, most of the wine bottles have proper corks. This means that you will need to have a corkscrew. A pocket knife will help you with this too!

What are the Best Pocket Knives to Buy?

These are the 2 best pocket knives for travellers from our point of view depending on your country of residence. If you are from UK, the Victorinox Ranger Swiss Army is the best buy. For other countries of residence, it is the Leatherman Wave or Victorinox 3.0339

Off The Tourist Treadmill is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

Best Pocket Knife For UK Users – Victorinox Ranger Swiss Army

Best Pocket Knife For US Users – Leatherman Wave Plus

What is a Legal Pocket Knife?

A legal pocket knife is a folding pocket knife, which has a blade that is 7.62 cm (3 inches) or less. If you need to catch a flight, you can’t take a pocket knife inside the plane. Your pocket knife needs to travel inside your backpack or suitcase. The pocket knife needs to be folded manually as automatic knives are usually not permitted on aircraft.

For UK residents, it is not legal to have a pocket knife with a lock blade.

It is advisable to check the legislation of the country you are going to visit. In some countries, you can’t walk about with a pocket knife. These countries are rare, but it is best to check with your airline and with TSA regulations.

How to Clean your Pocket Knife?

A good knife is a clean knife! You need to keep your knife in good condition to avoid any injuries. I always do a quick maintenance every month to avoid any accumulation of dust in it. If you don’t take good care of your knife, you will have problems using it which will adversely affect your experience with it. For example, your pocket knife might become hard to open properly.

If your knife comes into contact with salt water, it is very important to rinse it properly with fresh water as soon as possible. Afterwards, you need to dry it properly with a tissue and then apply adequate oil. I found this one ( Triple elite oil ) on Amazon and it does the job very well. It’s also cheap and we like good value for money.

The easy way to clean your pocket knife is to use an old toothbrush to remove all the dust. With the toothbrush, you will be able to access deep inside the knife. This operation can also be done with soap and clean water. If you find areas filled with accumulated dust or mud and you have difficulty removing it, you can use a toothpick or small screwdriver to remove it. If you still have difficulty in removing the dirt properly, you can leave your pocket knife in a bowl with hot water. It will soften the mud and it will then be easier to remove it with the toothbrush.

Good Pocket Knives Blade Material

There are different kinds of blade material. Some materials are stronger, others are sharper.

1. Stainless Steel Blades

This material is the most common and best for pocket knives because of its durability and resistance to corrosion. However, they are less sharp than carbon or ceramic blades (used for kitchen cutlery only).

2. Carbon Steel Blades

This material gives the sharpest blades and is much easier to sharpen than others. However, they are prone to corrosion and rust and need to be cleaned thoroughly after use.

3. Ceramic Blades

As I said, this is a very good knife but almost only used in kitchens because they are vulnerable to cracks if dropped.

How to Close a Pocket Knife?

The pocket knife needs to be closed in an appropriate way to avoid any injury. To close your pocket knife, you need to take your knife in one hand with the sharp edge of the blade facing you.

With the other hand, fold back the blade into the handle and make sure the holding hand’s fingers are not close to the handle to avoid injury. Always refer to the manufacturer for latest guidance of use.

How to Have the Sharpest Pocket Knife

This will depend on the quality of the blade. A poor quality blade needs to be sharpened more often than a good blade. You need to get to know your pocket knife and it will become obvious when it needs to be sharpened. In my experience, I would say that sharpening should become part of your cleaning process. When you give your pocket knife a deep clean, it is a good idea to sharpen it at the same time. I bought this sharpener Lansky Sharpeners on Amazon and it has all the quality I was looking for. It’s easy to use, has 4 tools in one and, most importantly, is easy to transport (113 Grams).

Best Pocket Knife Brand

If you want to have a good pocket knife with all the qualities you are looking for, you need to keep to well-known and reputable manufacturers.

The Victorinox Swiss Army pocket knife are the most well-known brand and there is a reason for that. They have been manufacturing pocket knives since 1884. In 1881, they started to produce knives for the Swiss army and the popularity of these well-made knives comes from this time.

More recently, the Gerber company was created in 1910 and, since then, has produced quality pocket knives. They also produce a multi-tool pocket knife and those knives are used in a lot of outdoor activities.

Later, in 1970, the Leatherman company opened. The big success of this company is the multi tool pocket knife with pliers. Leatherman and his wife travelled Europe and the Middle East in 1975 with a car. His car broke down often and this gave him the inspiration of a boy scout knife with pliers and plenty of tools. Now, Leatherman produce very good multi tool pocket knives with pliers.

There are plenty of other good manufacturers for pocket knives like the Benchmade company, Boker, Buck knife or Opinel . However, this article is to focus on the best pocket knife for travellers.

What I Need from a Pocket knife When I Travel the World

Remember that the TSA approves a blade of maximum length 7.62 cm (3 inches) and no lock blade for the UK.

The pocket knife needs:

To be easy to use.
To be easy to maintain.
To incorporate a bottle, tin and screw-cork opener.
To have screw drivers.
To have a sharp blade to do jobs easily and efficiently.

Other features are less important for me, but maybe they have more significance for you. Maybe you want pliers or scissors. This is up to your needs, but in my experience, I use a bottle opener more often than pliers. To help you make your decision, below is the best pocket knife for travellers by manufacturer.

Best Pocket Knife by Manufacturer

Victorinox pocket knife, victorinox evolution s557 swiss army pocket knife.

For me, the Victorinox Evolution S557 is the best companion when you are travelling. It has all I need to make my life easier and, on top of that, it has plenty of tools which can be useful. I was very happy to have a tweezers to remove a short piece of wood stuck in my finger!

The only missing tool is a saw. I know some of you like to have a saw and I agree it can be useful sometimes. It is only for this reason that it gets 4,5 stars.

1. Lock Blade 2. Nail file with : 3. – Nail cleaner 4. Can opener with : 5. – screwdriver 3 mm 6. Bottle opener 7. – screwdriver 6 mm 8. – Wire stripper – 9. Corkscrew 10. Reamer, punch and sewing awl 11. Serrated edge Scissors 12. Philips Screwdriver 13. Universal Wrench – 14. Pliers 2 adjustable opening with : 15. – wire crimper 16. – wire cutters 17. – Nut wrench 18. Key ring

Victorinox Ranger Swiss Army Pocket Knife

The Victorinox Ranger offers all the tools I need. In addition, it has a saw. It has a hook which is very convenient to carry plastic bags after shopping. However, it doesn’t have a Phillips screwdriver or pliers. Its design is simple and it is less ergonomic than the Evolution because you have less grip with it. It’s also less expensive than the Evolution for good quality.

Best buy for UK travellers. This knife can be used in the UK and in other countries as well.

Tools List:

Large blade, small blade,can opener, screwdriver 3 mm, bottle opener, wire stripper, screwdriver 6 mm, reamer, punch and sewing awl, corkscrew, scissors, wood saw, nail file, metal saw, metal file, nail cleaner, screwdriver 2.5 mm, chisel 4 mm, multipurpose hook, toothpick, tweezers, key ring.

Victorinox Evolution Swiss Army Evolution S13

The Victorinox Unisex’s Camper is the best budget knife for travellers. If you are looking for the best value for money, choose this one. It has all the tools you need to travel in comfort. However, if you need a tool to fix or repair something, you may not able to do it with the Unisex’s Camper.

Victorinox Swiss Army SwissTool Spirit Plus Multi-Tool, Includes Nylon Pouch

The SwissTool Spirit Plus is the best in the range of Victorinox Pocket knives. It has an impressive 38 different functions. It comes with a nylon pouch. Although it’s a little bit pricey, it’s worth it. You can do almost every thing with it.

pliers, screwdriver 2 mm, screwdriver 3 mm, short thin wire (max 40 HRc), screwdriver 5 mm, opener, 7.5 mm screwdriver, sheet, scissors, belt cutter blade, wood saw, awl, Philips screwdriver PH1 and PH2, chisel, lever, wire bender, stripper (stripper) Wire, opener, ruler (230 mm), ruler (9 inches), crimping (electro), hard wire cutter, lanyard hole, individual ressort, lockable sliding, nylon case

Gerber Pocket Knife

Gerber mp600 legend multitool.

If you want real tools to be able to fix a lot of things, the Gerber M600 is very good in this category. This pocket knife is very robust with stainless steel and aluminium handles with a rubber insert for more grip and comfort.

Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Multi Tool

Gerber Bear Grills Ultimate tool has 12 stainless steel tools with which you can face almost everything. This pocket knife is made to last and is easy to use. You won’t be disappointed by this pocket multi tool knife.

Needlenose pliers (spring loaded), Scissors, Wire cutters, Fine blade tool, Serrated tool, Saw, Phillips screwdriver, Small flat screwdriver, Large flat screwdriver, Bottle opener, Can opener, Lanyard ring

Gerber Dime

The Gerber Dime has 12 tools and you can access a lot of the tools without needing to open it. This is a very good budget pocket knife. It fits perfectly inside a pocket and, if the tool fits your use, it is a good pocket knife to have with you when you are travelling or not. For some people, the tools are a little bit hard to open.

Spring loaded needle nose pliers, Standard Pliers, Wire Cutter, Tweezer, Bottle Opener, Fine Edge Knife, Retail Package Opener, Scissors, Medium flat head driver, Coarse and fine files, Philips driver, Lanyard Ring.

Gerber Suspension Multi-Tool

The Gerber Suspension has 15 tools. It is also fitted with spring loaded pliers and looks very good. It’s definitely a real multi tool which can help you in tricky situations. Check out the price because it was recently on sale and at this price you need to buy it!

Needlenose pliers (spring loaded), regular plier, ‘V-Cut’ wire cutters, Scissors, Fine blade, Serrated, Saw, Phillips screwdriver, Small flat screwdriver, Medium flat screwdriver, Bottle opener, Can opener, Lanyard ring, fine edge blade.

Leatherman Pocket Knife

Leatherman – wave plus multitool with premium replaceable wire cutters and spring-action scissors, stainless steel.

The Leatherman Wave is the best alternative to the Charge TT. The principal tools can be opened without needing to unfold the knife (420HC Knife, Wood/metal file, Diamond-coated file, 420HC Serrated Knife and the saw). Best buy for non-UK residents.

Needlenose Pliers, Regulard Pliers, Hard-wire Cutters, Wire Cutters, Wire Stripper,420HC Knife, Wood/metal file, Diamond-coated file, 420HC Serrated Knife and the saw, Spring-action Scissors, Ruler, Can Opener, Bottle Opener, Large Bit Driver, Small Bit Driver, Medium Screwdriver.

Leatherman Tread Bracelet, Wearable Multitool

If you are looking for something slightly different, the Leatherman Tread Bracelet it is an innovative high-quality multi-tool bracelet. This bracelet has 10 different links with up to 29 tools that you can carry with you wherever you go. It conforms to transportation security administration (TSA) regulations. This means that you can have it with you all the time (even in the cabin of a plane). It is fully customised and you can add links to incorporate your watch like the one below.

Each bracelet link has a different tool, including:

Link 1- 3/32″ Screwdriver | 1/8″ Screwdriver
Link 2- #1-2 Phillips Screwdriver | 1/4″ Box Wrench | 3/16″ Screwdriver
Link 4- Cutting Hook | SIM Card Pick | Carbide Glass Breaker
Link 6- 5/16″ Screwdriver | 3/8″ Box Wrench | 1/4″ Screwdriver
Link 7- 3/32″ Hex Drive | 3/16″ Box Wrench | 1/8″ Hex Drive
Link 8- 1/4″ Hex Drive | Oxygen Tank Wrench | 3/16″ Hex Drive
Link 9- 5mm Hex Drive | 10mm Box Wrench | 6mm Hex Drive
Link 10- 3mm Hex Drive | 8mm Box Wrench | 4mm Hex Drive
Link 11- #1 Phillips Screwdriver | 6mm Box Wrench | #2 Phillips Screwdriver
Clasp – Bottle Opener | 1/4 Socket Adaptor | #2 Square Drive

Pocket knives are very useful when you travel and I hope I have helped you to choose the right one for you. If you like this article, please help us by sharing it. You may also be interested by a backpack. Read this article to know all the important features for choosing a backpack.

Olivier De Winne

Olivier De Winne studied and worked in France until 2005 when he moved to England. In the past, he has set up and managed several companies in different industries. Olivier is excited about his new career as a digital nomad. He is currently co-founder of two websites and two YouTube channels. His aim is to be free of the rat race.

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Hi, I use Victorinox Deluxe Tinker at work. It’s small but still has a pair of pliers. I carry Victorinox Explorer when I’m out and about. It’s the same size as Tinker, but has a magnifying glass – great for a small print while shopping. Also has a corkscrew, which is a must on a holidays. In the Explorer I’ve replaced the handles with added ballpoint pen, pin and also bought a small Victorinox screwdriver which sits in an empty space of the corkscrew.

Thanks for sharing your tips

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Knives Advisor

Your Trusted Resource for Knives

Traveling with Knives: What You Need to Know [2024]

Updated February 15, 2024 by Joseph Stein

One question we often get at Knives Advisor is “can I pack my knives when travelling by place?”

Certain items are clearly prohibited on airplanes, including explosives and flammables. But what about knives? Can you pack knives in checked luggage? If so, what types of knives are allowed? And are do these restrictions vary across all of the states and/or countries you plan to travel through?

In this article, we’ll do our best to answer these questions. We’ll also touch on other related topics, including best ways to pack knives in luggage, how to protect checked knives from theft, international knife laws and more.

Disclaimer: Please note that this article is not legal advice. It is only meant as background information to help you with further research. If you need legal advice, talk to an attorney. If you’re seeking the latest airline regulations, contact the airport and/or airline representatives directly. It’s important to fully understand the regulations on packing knives in luggage, since packing the wrong type of knife may get you arrested. Regulations change often, and the recommendations provided in this article may not reflect the current set of regulations.

Can You Bring Knives on Planes in Hand Luggage?

The TSA (Transport Security Administration) is the regulatory body that controls airlines that operate within the United States. According to the TSA, all items that can be used as weapons are banned from cabin luggage. This includes knives.

The only kinds of knives allowed on airplanes are the common round-bladed or plastic butter knives. You are able to freely pack them inside your carry-on, personal item (ie, purse or backpack), or carry them inside a pocket when going through airport security.

According to the TSA, there are no limitations on how many plastic knife utensils you can bring, and there are no requirements on concealing/packing them. So long as long as these have a rounded end, are made from plastic, and meant for food consumption, you should be good to go.

In 2013, TSA announced that they were considering allowing knives with small blades in cabin baggage, including pocket knives and potentially small tactical knives with blade lengths under 6cm (2.36 inches). Note, however, that this proposed rule was never actually implemented as it was quite contentious.

We have found a few contradicting articles related to this update which researching this article. But as of today, keep in mind that only plastic or round-bladed butter knives are allowed in any cabin luggage .

Can You Pack Knives in Checked Luggage?

According to the TSA, you can bring any type of knife in your checked luggage. This includes Swiss army knives, shurikens, and even swords . The TSA doesn’t restrict the blade length, and there are no specific restrictions on blade curvature, concealed blades, or other related knife characteristics.

That said, the TSA requires that any sharp objects be safely and securely packed inside passenger luggage. This allows security agents to check contents without getting harmed in the process. When packing a knife in checked luggage, always secure the blade to avoid accidental injuries that may happen if an inspection is performed. The last thing you want is to injure an inspection agent that is merely doing his/her job. If an inspection officer get injured because you didn’t properly secure your knives, you may get sued.

Note, however, that just because the TSA allows a particular item in your checked luggage doesn’t automatically mean you’re in the clear. The TSA is only one entity when it comes to regulating the contents in checked luggage. Many types of knives are banned from checked luggage by other airline representatives, customs, as well as other authorities.

Butterfly knives are a good example. While these types of knives are not legal in many states, the TSA may not care if you’ve checked a butterfly knife in your luggage. However, if the TSA security officer recognizes this type of knife as illegal in that specific state, he/she could contact the local police and have you arrested for carrying an illegal knife. So in sum, the TSA doesn’t enforce knife laws but the police do.

Do You Have to Declare Knives in Checked Luggage?

Do you need to declare knives when travelling?

Officially, you aren’t required to declare knives in your luggage in the US since knives are classified as “sharp objects”. The TSA requires you to declare firearms , large quantities of medications, and other items. But currently, they do not require you to declare sharp objects.

That said, we advise that you voluntarily declare knives at the check-in desk, particularly if you’re flying internationally. During periods of stress such as the holiday season, airline employees can sometimes forget or even misunderstand the rules. Additionally, some countries require all knives to be declared. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and voluntarily declare any knives in your luggage,

While it’s not required to declare a knife in checked luggage within the US, we’ve heard of instances where a person’s checked baggage wasn’t loaded on the airplane because security officers found an undeclared knife in the suitcase. Generally speaking, most travelers who pack knives in their checked luggage declare them, and this is typically not an issue. So don’t chance it. It’s quick to do, and may even prevent your luggage from not getting loaded on the plane.

Types of Knives that are Allowed in Checked Passenger Luggage

ALLOWED: Pocket Knives/Swiss Army Knives

In general, pocket knives such as Swiss Army Knives are pretty much legal worldwide. In our research, we haven’t identified any state or country where pocket knives are banned. So, while you may want to double check with your airline, it’s likely you will be able to safely pack your pocket knife in your checked luggage.

ALLOWED: Kitchen Knives and Chef Knives

It is perfectly fine to pack common kitchen knives, such as chefs knives and other similar varieties, in your checked luggage. You shouldn’t have any trouble here, as this is a very common type of knives.

However, keep in mind that packing an expensive set of kitchen knives may be susceptible to theft so pack carefully. That said, we haven’t heard of any instances where a set of kitchen knives were stolen from checked luggage.

LIKELY ALLOWED: Antique Knives and Blunt Decorative Knives

While it is true that most countries will allow decorative/antique knives in your checked baggage, some will not. Admittedly, this is a bit of a gray area and could be subject to a search. If the antique or decorative knife has a long blade or a blade that is highly curved, always check with the local authorities before travelling. This includes representatives of all countries you may pass through during international travel, including layover/connecting airports. Of course, for expensive antique knives, you will also want to ensure they are properly insured.

Can I pack a decorative knife in checked luggage?

LIKELY ALLOWED: Small Fixed-Blade Knives with Short Blades

If you have a knife with a short, fixed blade that is not concealed, it should be fine to include in checked baggage. However, this will depend on both the departure and destination state/country. You will want to research the laws for “concealed carry” as this varies by state and country. For example, some countries restrict knife length to 3 inches, some restrict knife length to 5 inches, while some have no restrictions. The same is true for US states.

LIKELY ALLOWED: Damascus Knives

Damascus steel is a type of steel with a unique wavy patterned design. In addition to having appealing aesthetics, Damascus steel is desirable as it is typically both hard and flexible. It also holds its edge well. Generally speaking, Damascus knives are treated in the same way as fixed blade knives. This means that the TSA allows you to pack Damascus knives in your checked luggage. However, knives that exceed a certain blade length are banned in some states and countries. That said, Damascus knives typically fall under this limit, but as always check with your airline representatives if you have doubts.

LIKELY ALLOWED: Fake Plastic Toy Knives and Swords

When it comes to toys (ie, toy swords and knives ), the TSA is not completely clear. On their website, the TSA recommends that all toy weapons should be packed in your checked luggage; however, it also suggests that some items might also be allowed in hand luggage.

The bottom line is this. If you decide to travel with a toy knife and it is sharp and/or looks like a real knife, pack it in your checked luggage. While blunt plastic knives that look like toys might be allowed in hand luggage, this isn’t clear and the final decision always rests with the security officer.

LIKELY ALLOWED: Balisong Trainer (Squiddy) Knives

Sometimes called “Squiddy” knives, Balisong knives are replicas of butterfly knives without a sharp blade. These are specifically designed as training knives, and help people safely practice butterfly knife skills.

As of this writing, Balisong knives appear to be legal in all US states; however, they aren’t legally specified in many countries. If you are flying internationally, they may be confiscated and you might find yourself in a room with a translator explaining yourself.

According to the TSA, Balisong knives fall are categorized as “fake knives and toy knives resembling real knives” and these are banned in hand luggage. That said, they are allowed in checked luggage.

Types of Knives that are Illegal to Travel With

While some knives are allowed when travelling, many types of knives are explicitly banned in certain parts of the US and abroad. Generally speaking, knifes that are banned either have a long blade, a concealed blade, or a blade that can otherwise inflict serious injury.

When travelling, always avoid packing these kinds of knives in checked luggage and choose alternative means of transport. This may include standard mail, or other shipping services such as UPS or FedEx.

Flick Knives

Flick knives (otherwise known as automatic knives or switchblades) are characterized by a concealed blade that rapidly appears when a user presses a button. Because flick knives are banned in most US states and many countries, avoid packing them in any checked luggage.

Butterfly Knives

Like flick knives, butterfly knives are also banned in most US states and countries. As a result, avoid packing them in any checked luggage.

Knives That Look Like a Pen, Lighter, or Other

Sometimes you may come across knives that resemble various everyday items, such as lighters and pens. These “spy-knives” or “lighter knives” are clever and make interesting gifts for your outdoorsman friends. But they are banned in most places. Avoid packing these suspicious-looking knives in any luggage when you travel.

Throwing Knives, Axes and Shurikens

Knife throwing, axe throwing, and tomahawk throwing is a fun pastime and sport. And many throwing venues and clubs are opening up throughout cities in the US. However, traveling with a set of professional throwing knives can be a real pain, particularly for those travelling to competitions. Regulations vary, so be sure to check with the authorities before travelling. But as a general rule, assume that traveling with sharp throwing objects is highly restricted. Practice throwing knives and shurikens made of heavy rubber, however, are legal.

Push Daggers

Push daggers are a specific class of weapon characterized by a perpendicular handle and straight blade. These are designed specifically for penetrating, not slicing. Sometimes popular as a means of personal defense, push daggers have little use other than self-defense. As a result, they are banned in many states and countries. Avoid packing any push daggers in your travel luggage.

Fixed Blade Bowie/Hunting Knives

While some fixed blade knives are legal, some with longer blade lengths or serrated edges are banned in many states and countries. Always confer with the authorities before packing one in your checked luggage, but assume that these are banned.

Can You Bring Kitchen Cutlery (Silverware) on Planes?

In general, yes. According to the TSA, kitchen cutlery is allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage, but kitchen knives are not allowed in hand luggage.

According to the TSA, “knives, except for plastic or round-bladed butter knives, are not allowed in carry-on bags.”

Unlike knives, you are free to bring metal forks and spoons in hand luggage as well as in checked luggage with no restrictions. When traveling with a knife set, we suggest wrapping the entire block with packing tape in your checked baggage to secure the contents in flight.

Despite this, TSA regulations are always changing. The bottom line is that if you are travelling and need to bring your chef knife set, this must be packed in your checked baggage.

What are the Knife Rules for International Flights?

Before traveling internationally, it’s important to always check the knife rules specific to each location you’re travelling to. This includes any connecting countries.

At a minimum, we recommend the following:

First, identify the country-specific airline regulator. In Canada, for example, the airline regulator is the TCCA (Transport Canada Civil Aviation), while in the US it is the TSA (Transport Security Administration).
Second, identify representatives for each country and/or state you plan to fly to or through. For example, if you’re flying from London Heathrow (UK) to Houston, Texas (US) with a connecting flight in Tampa, Florida (US), you have to check the knife laws for the UK, Texas, and Florida.

TSA (Transport Security Administration/USA) Knife Rules

The TSA controls airlines that operate within the United States. According to the TSA, round-bladed plastic butter knives are allowed in hand luggage. However, all other knives have to be safely packed inside checked luggage.

The final decision rests with the TSA officer as to whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint. Before departing on a flight to or within the US, please confirm the latest regulations as these can change.

IATA (International Air Transport Association/Worldwide) Knife Rules

The IATA is an international trade association that controls roughly 82% of global air traffic, according to Wikipedia. According to the IATA, they have banned all knives in hand luggage . However, you can pack any type of knife in checked luggage. Before departing on an international flight, please confirm the latest regulations as these can change.

TCCA (Transport Canada Civil Aviation) Knife Rules

According to the TCCA, which is the regulatory body that controls airlines that operate throughout Canada, knives that have blades shorter than 6 cm ( 2.4 inches ) are allowed in hand luggage. However, knives that have blades greater than 6 cm in length need to be packed inside checked luggage. Additional restrictions on what to bring can be found can be found here . Before departing on an international flight to or within Canada, please confirm the latest regulations as these can change.

CAA (Civil Aviation Authority/UK) Knife Rules

According to the CAA, which is the regulatory body that controls airlines that operate throughout the United Kingdom, penknives (or pocket knives) with blades less than 6 cm ( 2.4 inches ) are allowed in hand luggage. However, multi-tools are banned regardless of blade length. It appears that the CAA allows any other type of knife to be packed in checked luggage without any restrictions. Before departing on an international flight to or throughout the UK, please confirm the latest regulations as these can change.

CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Administration/Australia) Knife Rules

The CASA is the regulatory body that controls airlines that operate within Australia. According to the CASA, all knives are banned from hand luggage . That said, it appears that you are free to pack them inside checked luggage. Before departing on an international flight to or throughout Australia, please confirm the latest regulations as these can change.

CAAC (Civil Aviation Administration of China) Knife Rules

The CAAC is the regulatory body that controls airlines operating within China. This organization is tough on knives, and has banned many different types of knives – even from checked luggage. We strongly recommend reviewing their knife regulations before traveling. You may want to follow up directly with a representative of the airline you’re using to be sure as well.

What Knife Blade Length is Allowed by TSA?

As of now, it appears that the TSA does not allow any type of knife in hand luggage. The only exception to this rule is a round-bladed or plastic butter knife. Every other type of knife should either be packed securely in checked luggage or mailed to your destination (ie, using FedEx, UPS, etc).

Some folks have pointed out that the TSA may allow knives with blade lengths under 6cm (2.36 inches), but it turns out that this is not true. In 2013, the TSA announced that they were considering allowing knives with blades under 2.36 inches in hand luggage. The proposal was highly contentious, and fortunately was not passed. This was certainly a win for the travelling public in terms of overall safety.

In sum, there is currently no TSA-approved knife or TSA-approved blade length. While rounded butter knives are allowed in hand luggage, metal butter knifes are occasionally removed from a passenger’s hand luggage by an inspector. Keep in mind that the final discretion rests with the TSA security officer.

How to Pack Knives in Checked Baggage

If you are allowed to pack your knife or knives in checked luggage, keep in mind that how you secure them is important. If your bag is flagged and checked, the last thing you want is for an agent to get injured. If your knives are not properly secured and the inspection agent gets injured, at best your knives can get confiscated. And at worst, you may be sued.

According to the TSA (Transport Security Administration):

“Any sharp objects in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.” Source: TSA

There are a handful of techniques we’ve seen folks use that are effective when securing your knives in checked luggage. See what works for you. The goal is not to conceal your knives (they will be picked up in any metal detection anyway), but to secure them properly in the event that your luggage is inspected.

Pack your knife/knives in a sturdy container made of either wood or metal. Ideally this will be secured with a TSA-friendly lock.
Sandwich your knife/knives between two pieces of cardboard and tape the package tightly together. Place in a secure place in your luggage.
Wrap your knife/knives in socks and put the contents inside a shoe or boot (if packed)

What are the Knife Regulation in the US

We suggest starting your research with this overview of knife regulations for all US states from the American Knife & Tool Institute (AKTI).

What are the Knife Regulations in other Countries

We suggest starting your research with these resources:

Canada knife laws
United Kingdom knife laws
Australian knife laws

We hope you found this article on travelling with knives useful. If you must travel with knives, we recommend that you always pack knifes in checked luggage – regardless of whether they are real or toys. Never pack knives in your carry-on bags.

We also recommend contacting airline representatives for each airline you travel on, as well as representatives within each state and/or country you travel through. Keep in mind that regulations can and do change, so be sure to get the latest information.

Also note that the final decision typically rests with the transport security administration as to whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint. Within the United States, this includes the TSA.

Doing a little research can go along way when in comes to travelling with knives safely.

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The 6 Best Multi-tools for Travel, Tested and Reviewed

We put 30 multi-tools to the test to find the best ones you can take on the go.

In This Article

Our Top Picks
Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

Tips For Buying
Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Whether you need a pocket knife to whittle sticks on a camping trip, a hex wrench to adjust your seat on a bike trip, or a screwdriver for a quick fix at home, nothing beats having a good multi-tool on hand. We tested 30 multi-tools to search for the best ones to travel with — testing for performance, ease of use, features, value, and durability. We even performed a drop test to make sure there was no damage after the multi-tools fell onto a concrete floor from hip height.

“The type of multi-tool you choose will vary greatly depending on what you need to use it for,” says Kevin Boyle, senior design editor at Wood Magazine , noting there are specialty multi-tools for everything from gardening to camping. But, while multi-tools are indeed multi-talented, they are meant to complement your toolbox, not replace it. “Multi-tools aren’t made to be comparable to regular full-size tools,” Boyle says. “They are best for simple, everyday tasks.”

Out of the 30 multi-tools we tested, our favorites featured a variety of tools in pocket-size formats to take on the go. We found tools that would be best for camping, cycling trips, keychain attachments, and more. No matter where you are traveling, these multi-tools will help you be prepared for anything.

Best Overall

Leatherman wave+.

It offers an excellent range of tools that are intuitive and effective.

Although it is small in size, it’s too bulky to actually tuck in a pocket.

Leatherman has long been known as a leader in multi-tool manufacturing, and the 18-tool Wave Plus continues this trend. Even with 18 tools, nothing seemed unnecessary or out of place. We found the handles to offer a good grip, and while we wouldn’t exactly call it a comfortable grip, it’s easy to use in one hand. We found the tools and blades are easy to open and use, including the locking mechanisms. We did notice that to access some of the tools you have to open others, which can seem a bit unwieldy at first, but it’s easy to get used to. The tools are mostly intuitive, though we needed help from Google to ensure we were using the bottle opener properly. The pliers were particularly effective, though for some of the other tools, we’d prefer to reach for a full-size, stand-alone tool instead.

While it is indeed pocket-size, we found it too heavy and bulky to keep in a pocket, so it’s better to hang from a belt. It survived our drop test with flying colors, so you can feel confident about carrying it during travel . We thought the quality and performance were well worth the price; in fact, we might consider paying more for such a sturdy and useful multi-tool.

The Details: 1.2 x 0.7 x 4 inches (closed length) | 8.5 ounces | 18 tools

Travel + Leisure / Henry Wortock

Best for Camping

Gerber gear truss.

It’s a compact tool that has 17 features for various camping uses and can be stored safely.

It doesn’t have a corkscrew.

Packing for a camping trip requires careful strategy, so your multi-tool needs to be as light and compact as possible. Even with an impressive 17 tools to its credit, the pocket-size Gerber Gear Truss more than fits the bill. This multi-tool is built for travel: one of us that participated in testing even keeps one in our car for easy access while on the road. But packability isn’t its only superpower. The tools are the main star, and they are as intuitive as they are effective. The pliers are sturdy and the blades are quite sharp on the saw, knife, wirecutter blade, and scissors, which all stow easily. The “titanium-like” finish made the tools survive our drop test without a scratch, and while the knives did come out a little bit on impact, there was no danger or damage.

Even if you’re just an occasional camper, this is a worthy tool to have on hand. The 17 tools are curated well — including a bottle opener for drinks, though we would love the addition of a corkscrew — and are a great value for the price.

The Details: 1.75 x 0.5 x 4.35 inches (closed length) | 8.4 ounces | 17 tools

Best for Cycling

Topeak mini 18+ multi-tool.

It’s got everything you need for quick fixes on a bike trip.

Non-cyclists should look to other multi-tools for more features and functions.

A compact yet well-stocked tool bag is a must-have for every cyclist, which is why the right multi-tool comes in clutch for those long rides. With this 20-function multi-tool from Topeak, you need not worry about fixing a flat tire or adjusting your seat and can just focus on the open road. We found that each tool opened and closed easily, though none lock in place. While it doesn’t have blades, scissors, or pliers, it has enough hex wrenches to save a cyclist’s day . There’s also tire level and a chain repair tool so you can keep on riding. It’s compact enough to fit in a front pant pocket, but it’s made to stow in a bag beneath your bike seat. It’s also quite durable, with no discernable damage during our shock test.

This is indeed a tool made for cyclists: in fact, if you’re not a road warrior, you won’t get much use out of this except for the screwdrivers and bottle opener. It’s a good option for beginning riders still getting the hang of certain tools, though we noticed the manual is small enough to pack along with the tool.

The Details: 3.2 x 1.7 x 0.8 inches (closed length) | 6.4 ounces | 20 tools

Best Splurge

Leatherman free p4 multi-tool.

It has a great variety of tools that are sturdy enough for home improvement projects.

The longevity isn't as great as we would hope for a tool this expensive.

Another Leatherman multi-tool makes our list — and for good reason. The tools are easy to lock and unlock, though we observed that it’s better to use both hands to open and close it completely. The tools are sturdy and sharp: there are two blades sharp enough for sawing, a pocketknife perfect for whittling, and two sharp scissors. We found that the pliers grip well and can easily snip through plastic and wire. We also liked that there are both flat and Phillips screwdrivers.

The Leatherman name speaks for itself and so does this particular multi-tool, which we think is durable enough even to use for home improvement projects. If you’re handy at home or need to be while on the go, this is a great tool that’s worth the price. All told, we were impressed with the variety and effectiveness of the tools. Yes, this is the priciest selection on our best multi-tools list, but we definitely think it’s worth the splurge, especially if you travel often.

The Details: 5.38 x 7 x 1.25 inches (closed length) | 12 ounces | 21 tools

Wetols 21-in-1 Multi-Tool

With 21 tools to choose from, you’ll be hard-pressed not to find a feature you need.

The plier cutters aren’t as sharp as we’d like.

Don’t let the budget-friendly price fool you: we found this 21-feature multi-tool to be sturdy and useful yet compact for travel. We prefer to keep it in a pouch — which can hold additional screw bits — on the belt strap, but it can fit in a front pocket as well. Take your time exploring all the features of this multi-tool, which felt heavy yet comfortable in our hand during testing. Among the numerous fold-out tools are a blade for cutting wood, flathead and Phillips screw bits, and a bottle opener. We found most of the tools effective, though the rope threads got stuck in the plier cutters when we attempted a cut. It survived our shock test without any damage, so it’s as durable as some of the pricier ones on our list. It’s hard to believe this nifty little gadget is so affordable, and it’s totally worth buying one to have on hand for fixing things in a pinch.

The Details: 4.88 x 2.44 x 1.65 inches (closed length) | 11.8 ounces | 21 tools

Best Keychain

Gerber gear dime multi-tool.

Gerber Gear

It’s compact and the tools stow very easily.

The blades could be sharper and there’s no Phillips screwdriver.

We were impressed with the overall effectiveness and durability of this mini multi-tool from Gerber Gear. It might be one of the smallest tools on our list, but it’s mighty, having survived our shock test without a scratch. While this tool is compact and lightweight enough to keep on a keychain, the tradeoff is that some of the tools are so small that they don’t offer enough leverage to be truly effective. There’s no Phillips screwdriver, so keep that in mind if you plan to use your multi-tool mostly for driving screws. There’s no locking mechanism, but everything stows away easily without any sharp edges (in fact, we found the blades and the wire cutter to be a bit dull). At just $29, it’s a budget-friendly tool to keep handy, though those who reach for a multi-tool more often might prefer to use this as a backup option rather than the primary tool.

The Details: 2.75 x 4 x 0.6 inches (closed length) | 2.2 ounces | 12 tools

Other Multi-tools We Liked

There were some other multi-tools we found useful during testing, although we found some minor issues that prevented them from being on our main list.

Rak Hammer Multi-tool : If you’re in the market for a multi-tool with a hammer, this is a budget-friendly option. However, the very feature we love makes it too large to store easily, making this a poor option for air travel — but it could work for a road trip.

Leatherman Skeletool Lightweight Multi-tool : This multi-tool is super light at just five ounces. It scored well during testing, but it didn’t have as many useful tools and features as some of the others on our list.

RoverTac Camping Essentials 14-in-1 Survival Tool : While we appreciated the hatchet for use during camping and other outdoor activities, this feature made it far less portable than the other travel-friendly multi-tools on our list.

Our team of experts tried out 30 multi-tools. First, we evaluated the design and ease of access, noting the arrangement of each tool, how safe it was to open/close any blades or knives, and how easy it was to engage/disengage the locking mechanism. For pocket-size tools, we paid attention to how easy or challenging it was to tuck them away in an actual pocket. When testing larger ones, we clipped them to keychains, backpacks, and tool belts as alternative storage options.

We then put each device through its paces, trying out each tool for its dedicated task: for example, we used the screwdrivers on the multi-tools to tighten a screw into a piece of wood and the pliers to snip a piece of wire. Next came the shock test, in which each multi-tool was dropped from hip height to simulate it falling out of a pocket. We then noted whether each multi-tool’s construction or function was damaged in any way.

We made our final selections for this best multi-tools list based on performance, ease of use, features, durability, and overall value.

Tips for Buying

Be mindful of size and weight.

Comfort of use is important when choosing a multi-tool, so you don’t want yours to be too large or heavy. If it hurts your hand to use it, it’s not the one for you, says Boyle of Wood Magazine . He also recommends looking for features like spring-loaded pliers that make it simple for you to operate with just one hand.

Think about the features you’ll need

Your multi-tool will only be as useful as you find the individual tools to be, so keep in mind what features and functions you’ll want yours to have. Boyle recommends choosing a multi-tool at least with a knife , pliers or wire cutters, and a screwdriver (both Phillips and flathead). “Some multi-tools have way too many tools that are not necessary or useful for everyday use,” Boyle says.

Above all, make sure the blade locking mechanism is easy to use and that the rest of the features are intuitive. Boyle says it’s a good thing if you can figure out how to use each tool without consulting the manual.

Pay attention to materials

Boyle recommends stainless steel-constructed multi-tools to prevent rusting, though plastic is another good option. Proper storage is key to ensure that your multi-tool is protected from the elements and impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on the multi-tool’s design. The TSA prefers that you don’t keep any sharp objects in your carry-on bags, which will preclude you from boarding a plane with a multi-tool that has a knife or blade of any length. However, if your multi-tool has scissors instead of a blade, you can keep it in your carry-on as long as the scissors are four inches or shorter in length. In general, you can pack multi-tools in checked bags, which might be your best bet to avoid any delays in the security line, or worse, having your multi-tool confiscated.

While no state (at the time of writing) will bar you from owning a multi-tool, the carry laws will vary, particularly if your multi-tool has a blade. Typically, you can carry a multi-tool if it has a blade that’s four inches or shorter in length. You’ll need to check with your own state’s laws regarding open vs. concealed carry of multi-tools, as some features are perceived as weapons and can indeed be used as such. Above all, common sense prevails if you plan to carry your multi-tool.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Barbara Bellesi Zito reviewed insights from our Travel + Leisure editors with an eye toward the most user-friendly and travel-friendly options in multi-tools. For professional insight on the most effective features, she consulted Kevin Boyle, senior design editor at Wood Magazine .

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Can You Bring a Knife in a Checked Bag Internationally?

When traveling internationally, many people wonder if they can bring a knife in their checked bag. The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. There are specific regulations and restrictions in place that travelers need to be aware of.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibits knives in carry-on luggage in the United States and European nations, except for plastic or round-bladed butter knives. However, knives can be packed in checked baggage if they are sheathed or securely wrapped. It’s important to check the laws of the specific country you are traveling to, as they may have additional restrictions on carrying knives. Additionally, airlines may have their own policies regarding knife transportation, so it’s crucial to review these guidelines before packing a knife in your checked bag.

Key Takeaways:

Knives are generally prohibited in carry-on luggage for international travel.
Knives can be packed in checked baggage if they are sheathed or securely wrapped.
It’s important to check the laws and regulations of the specific country you are traveling to.
Airlines may have their own policies regarding knife transportation.
Always review the guidelines provided by both the TSA and the airline before packing a knife in your checked bag.

TSA Regulations on Carrying Knives in Checked Baggage

When it comes to carrying knives in checked baggage , the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific regulations in place to ensure the safety of passengers and airline staff. It’s crucial to understand and abide by these guidelines to avoid fines, delays, or even criminal charges.

According to the TSA, any sharp objects, including knives, in checked bags must be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors. This means that simply placing a knife in your luggage without proper protection is not allowed.

To comply with TSA regulations , it’s recommended to use a sturdy container or protective sheath for your knife. This will prevent any accidental contact with the blade and reduce the risk of injury during baggage handling. Additionally, wrapping the knife in a soft material, such as cloth or bubble wrap, will provide extra cushioning and prevent shifting or jostling during transport.

Remember that it’s important to declare any sharp items or potential weapons, including knives, to the airline and TSA agent at the security checkpoint. Failure to declare these items or any prohibited items can result in serious consequences. It’s always better to be transparent and follow the rules to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

It’s worth noting that the TSA’s regulations may change periodically. To stay updated on the latest prohibited items list and guidelines, it’s recommended to regularly check the TSA website or mobile app for any updates or changes that may affect your travel plans.

Remember, the TSA regulations are in place to maintain the safety and security of all passengers. By understanding and following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth and safe travel experience for yourself and others.

Types of Knives Allowed in Checked Baggage

When traveling internationally, it’s important to know which types of knives are allowed in your checked baggage. While knives are generally prohibited in carry-on luggage, there are specific rules and regulations regarding the types of knives that can be safely packed and transported in your checked bag.

Here are the types of knives that are generally allowed in checked baggage:

Fixed Blade Knives : Fixed blade knives with a blade length of 7 inches or less are allowed in checked baggage. These knives should be securely packed to prevent any accidents during the transportation process. It’s important to ensure that the knife is properly sheathed or wrapped to avoid any injuries.
Folding Knives : Folding knives with a blade length no longer than 4 inches are also permitted in checked baggage. Just like fixed blade knives , folding knives should be securely packed to prevent any accidents. Make sure that the knife is folded and locked into place before packing it.
Pocket Knives : Pocket knives of various sizes are allowed in checked baggage. These knives usually have a small folding blade and can be easily carried in your pocket. However, it’s important to ensure that the blade length of the pocket knife adheres to the specified limit.
Kitchen Knives : Kitchen knives are essential tools for cooking, and they are allowed in checked baggage. If you plan to travel with your favorite kitchen knife, make sure it is securely wrapped or stored in a protective cover. This will help prevent any damage or injuries during transportation.
Multi-Tools : Multi-tools , which often include a variety of tools such as knives, pliers, screwdrivers, and more, are allowed in checked baggage. These versatile tools can come in handy in various situations, and they are permitted as long as they meet the size and weight restrictions set by the airline.

It’s important to note that any knife with a blade longer than the specified lengths is strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. Additionally, any knife that is deemed to be a weapon, such as switchblades or daggers, is prohibited. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations and restrictions of the country you are traveling to, as they may have additional rules regarding the transportation of knives.

Knowing which types of knives are allowed in your checked baggage can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. By adhering to the regulations and securely packing your knives, you can enjoy the convenience of having your knives with you while traveling while also promoting safety for yourself and others.

Knives Prohibited on Planes

When it comes to air travel, there are certain knives that are universally prohibited on planes. These knives are deemed dangerous and pose a threat to the safety of passengers and crew members. It is important to be aware of these prohibited knives to ensure a smooth and secure travel experience.

Here are some examples of knives that are not allowed on planes:

Switchblades: Switchblades are knives with a blade that can be quickly released with the push of a button. These knives are designed for quick and easy deployment, making them a potential threat in the confined space of an aircraft.
Balisongs or Butterfly Knives: Balisongs , also known as butterfly knives, have a blade that swings out from the handle. These knives are often associated with martial arts and are considered dangerous due to their ease of concealment and potential for harm.
Disguised Knives: Disguised knives are designed to look like everyday objects, such as pens or belt buckles. These knives are not easily recognizable as weapons, making them a significant security risk on planes.
Throwing Stars: Throwing stars , also known as ninja stars, are prohibited due to their potential to harm others. These sharp, pointed objects can cause injury if thrown or mishandled, and their use is not permitted on planes.
Straight Razors: Straight razors , with their non-retractable long sharp blades, are also prohibited on planes. These razors are typically used for shaving but can be used as weapons, posing a threat to the safety of passengers and crew members.
Swords, Sabres, and Spears: Sharp weapons such as swords , sabres , and spears are generally banned by most governing bodies. These weapons are not suitable for air travel due to their size, heft, and potential for harm.

It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and there may be other types of knives that are prohibited on planes. It is always best to check with the relevant authorities or airlines for the most up-to-date information on prohibited items.

Remember, the safety and security of everyone on board is of utmost importance, and knowing and abiding by the regulations on prohibited knives is essential for a hassle-free and secure journey.

Tips for Safely Packing Knives in Checked Luggage

When it comes to packing knives in your checked luggage, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some essential tips to help you safely transport your knives:

Choose the right luggage: Opt for sturdy and durable luggage with a hard shell to provide maximum protection for your knives during transit.
Pack knives separately: Pack each knife in its own protective cover or sheath to prevent any scratching or damage to the blades.
Secure the sharp edge: Tightly encircle the blade with paper or napkins to prevent any accidental cuts. Use duct or masking tape to secure the wrapping in place, ensuring it stays intact throughout the journey.
Place the knife in the middle of the luggage: Position the knife in the center of your luggage, surrounded by soft objects like clothes or towels. This provides additional padding and helps prevent any movement during transport.
Lock the luggage: Use a TSA-approved lock to secure your luggage. This ensures that only authorized personnel can access the contents while providing peace of mind.
Consider a hard-sided container: If you want extra protection for your knife, consider placing it in a hard-sided container within your luggage. This offers an additional layer of security and prevents any potential damage from external forces.

By implementing these tips, you can safely pack your knives in checked luggage and have peace of mind knowing that they will arrive intact at your destination.

In conclusion , when traveling internationally, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the regulations and restrictions on carrying knives . While knives are generally not allowed in carry-on luggage, they can be packed in checked baggage if you adhere to certain guidelines. It is vital to check the laws and regulations of the specific country you are traveling to, as well as the policies of your chosen airline regarding knife transportation.

By following the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines for packing sharp objects in checked luggage and taking necessary safety precautions, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey while keeping both yourself and others safe. Always stay updated on the latest regulations and guidelines to avoid any fines, delays, or legal consequences.

Remember these essential travel tips for packing knives : choose a sturdy and durable luggage with a hard shell, pack knives separately in their own protective covers or sheaths, securely wrap the sharp edge to prevent injuries, place the knife in the middle of your luggage surrounded by soft items, lock your luggage with a TSA-approved lock, and consider using a hard-sided container for extra protection.

By being aware of the regulations, following the rules, and taking precautions, you can travel with your knives responsibly and enjoy your journey with peace of mind.

Can you bring a knife in a checked bag internationally?

Yes, knives can generally be packed in checked baggage if they are sheathed or securely wrapped. However, it is important to check the specific regulations of the country you are traveling to and the airline’s policies regarding knife transportation.

What are the TSA regulations on carrying knives in checked baggage?

The TSA prohibits knives in carry-on luggage but allows them in checked baggage as long as they are sheathed or securely wrapped. Any sharp objects in checked bags should be packed in sturdy containers or protective sheaths to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.

What types of knives are allowed in checked baggage?

Fixed blade knives with a blade length of 7 inches or less, folding knives with a blade no longer than 4 inches, pocket knives , kitchen knives , and multi-tools are generally allowed in checked baggage. However, knives with blades longer than the specified lengths are strictly prohibited.

What knives are prohibited on planes?

Switchblades , balisongs or butterfly knives, disguised knives , throwing stars or ninja stars, straight razors , and sharp weapons like swords and sabres are universally prohibited on planes.

What are some tips for safely packing knives in checked luggage?

When packing knives in checked luggage, it is recommended to choose sturdy and durable luggage with a hard shell. Pack the knives separately in their own protective covers or sheaths to prevent scratching or damaging them. Secure the sharp edge with paper or napkins and tape. Place the knife in the center of the luggage surrounded by soft objects and use a TSA-approved lock to secure the luggage. Consider using a hard-sided container for extra protection.

Source Links

https://www.cabinzero.com/blogs/our-journey/can-you-bring-knives-on-planes
https://us.santokuknives.co.uk/blogs/blog/can-you-travel-with-kitchen-knives-in-checked-luggage
https://www.uponarriving.com/tsa-knives-rules/

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American Knife and Tool Institute

Keeping Knives in American Lives Since 1998

Traveling With a Knife

Exercise caution when traveling with a knife.

(Follow the American Knife & Tool Institute’s efforts to protect knife users traveling from state to state by introducing the federal Interstate Transport Act . The burden on knife users of trying to know, understand and comply with complex, overlapping laws and legal authorities will be replaced by reasonable protections.)

There is simply no way to guarantee that you will be able to legally carry your knife when traveling because of the patchwork of state and local laws. A bit of preparation can help, but given the state knife laws, it is often wise to ship knives instead of traveling with them.

This is not legal advice. It can’t be because of the vast number of legal considerations. These are tips for knife-carrying travelers. If you have legal questions, ask a lawyer.

Legal Authorities

Imagine a trip from one city in one state to another. Boston, Massachusetts, to Providence, Rhode Island, for example. In this single trip of about 50 miles, a knife owner will be subject to no fewer than six different sets of laws regarding knife carry: 1) Massachusetts laws; 2) Boston ordinances; 3) ordinances of cities and towns passed through on the trip; 4) Rhode Island laws; 5) Providence ordinances; and 6) federal laws. As such, before you travel, you should check all of the laws and ordinances of the departure state and city, any pass-through states and cities, and the arrival state and city, as well as federal laws regarding knife carry.

If you travel between states or into federal facilities (such as a federal court, post office, or military base), you subject yourself to federal jurisdiction. Committing a crime while subject to federal laws and carrying a knife can have extremely severe consequences. Federal crimes are punished according to sentencing regulations, and those regulations treat carrying a knife very disfavorably. You may receive extra punishment for carrying a knife while committing a federal crime. Additionally, you may be ineligible for sentence reductions and other safety valve reductions for first-time or minor offenses.

AKTI and others have been instrumental in reforming knife laws on the state level, and a growing number of states now have “preemption” laws. In a state with preemption laws, the state law automatically replaces all local ordinances. So if a knife is legal to carry in one part of a state, it is legal in every part of the state regardless of the local town or city ordinances that have not been revoked. Check out our list of states with preemption laws .

Legal Regulations

In addition to the multiple and sometimes conflicting legal authorities, there are five primary forms of restrictions. Be aware that in some locations, whether the knife is concealed or not is also important. Be aware that some knives are legal to own but not to carry. Here are the primary forms of regulation:

Blade Deployment : some locations regulate laws based on how the blade is deployed. Automatic knives and balisongs, for example, are more regulated than other kinds of folders.
Blade length : many places restrict larger blades.
Locks : in some locations locking knives are restricted.
Concealed carry : in many states whether the knife is concealed or not impacts its legality.
Per se limitations : some states have regulations banning specifically named knives like daggers, push knives, and dirk knives.

Traveling by Air

Never try to “slip” a knife through a security checkpoint. This is very severely and regularly punished. If you have a knife and forget about it until the security checkpoint, TSA policy will let you: 1) return it to your vehicle; 2) return to the counter and check the knife in your luggage; 3) forfeit it to TSA; or 4) mail it. It may be worthwhile to include a padded self-addressed mailer in your carry-on travel gear just for this occasion. Most airports have mailboxes near the security checkpoint for this very reason.

Traveling by Rail and Bus

Traveling by Personal Vehicle

Even in your own vehicle, there can be some peril in traveling with a knife. In addition to all of the legal authorities mentioned above, in many states, cars can be more easily searched by the police than your home or person. Furthermore, traveling from state to state can expose you to federal legal authority. Finally, if stopped or arrested, it is possible that your car could be searched without a warrant, depending on the state.

Shipping Knives

USPS has very restrictive laws and regulations about shipping knives. Shipping banned knives can be a federal offense (see above Legal Authorities for more). The Federal Switchblade Act and related laws and regulations limit which knives can be shipped by the United States Postal Service.

FedEx has no specific prohibition on knife carry, but its corporate policies ban shipping items that are illegal in the arrival location. UPS and DHL have no restrictions. Remember that dealing with corporate policies is different than legal authorities. Private companies have virtually no limitations on their ability to search your packages. Check their websites for their current policies. It is their company, and they can make the policies.

If you decide to ship a knife, make sure that the knife is secure. Use a knife roll or padded case, if possible, and secure the blade in the handle if it is a folder and secure the sheath to the knife if it is a fixed blade. Also, think about insurance for the knife as well as a signed receipt required if the knife is very expensive.

BOTTOM LINE:

Research knife laws when you are traveling, checking the departure, travel-through, and arrival location laws
Be aware of states with preemption laws
Plan ahead depending on your mode of travel
Consider shipping knives instead of traveling with them
Be very careful traveling through federal facilities or shipping knives via USPS
If you are confronted by law enforcement, see here for more tips

This article was written by Anthony Sculimbrene, Esq., a New Hampshire criminal defense attorney who worked for 12 years for the New Hampshire Public Defender and has extensive trial experience. He is an avid outdoorsman, and blogger and contributes legal expertise to the American Knife & Tool Institute compliments of Microtech.

To remind you to put your knife in your checked bag, Purchase an AKTI Luggage Tag Article – Traveling with Knives Presents Challenges Airline Permitted/Prohibited Items – Knives are allowed in your checked baggage. Amtrak Permitted/Prohibited Items

As a nonprofit association, AKTI’s role is to be the reasonable and responsible advocate for the knife-making and knife-using community; educating, promoting and informing that knives are important tools.

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Pocket Knife

In general, you are prohibited from traveling with sharp objects in your carry-on baggage; please pack these items in your checked baggage.

Best Knives for Travelers

When you’re preparing for a big trip, it is great to know you’re prepared with the best traveling gear. Clothing, electronics, and luggage choice can go a long way toward making your trip safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.

Well-made knives have been mankind’s most basic and reliable tool for a long time, so don’t underestimate the value of a good knife and the uses you can get from it while traveling. Here are some factors to consider and a few options worth considering.

Factor #1: Legality

This consideration largely depending on the kind of traveling you will be doing. The restrictions on airplanes are understandably much stricter with regards to knives than other forms of travel, so if you are taking a plane, then plan accordingly. This means your favorite ESEE machete is not going on the plane hanging from your belt! But, while this is obvious, knife regulation varies widely from state to state .

This means even if you’re not flying and will be simply taking a road trip, you could land yourself in trouble with authorities if you have the wrong kind of knife in the wrong state. Some places like South Carolina have few restrictions on what you can carry, while California, for example, has much more strict laws.

What’s the best approach for this? Err on the side of caution and check all laws in areas you might be traveling. This goes double for traveling abroad; most countries have stricter laws than the U.S. For example, having a knife of any kind in public in London is illegal, in part due to the amount of knife crime there. It should be easy to check in advance what you should be allowed to carry.

Factor #2: Purpose of the Knife

There is no doubt that some knives stand head and shoulders above others in terms of craftsmanship and durability, but a bad knife suited to the job at hand is infinitely more useful than a knife—ill-suited to what is required. A switchblade won’t be much use at dressing a hunting kill, and a machete won’t be great for opening boxes.

Knives have many uses, from opening boxes and chopping fruit to bushcraft while camping. By and large, most people would use a knife for a combination of outdoor tasks, security, or general purposes.

Factor #3: Knife Characteristics

While there is no doubting the value of a knife perfectly suited to its purpose, like a 4-inch fixed blade full tang hunting knife, this is less feasible if you are going to be traveling. You will need some measure of compromise, choosing a smaller, lighter, safer knife. Here are some of the characteristics you should think about:

Folding fixed-blade: While fixed-blade knives are more sturdy and easier to use for difficult tasks, they are more likely to be illegal and much more cumbersome to carry. For these reasons, a folder is more appropriate for most kinds of travel .
Blade type: Drop point blades are generally stronger and sturdier than clip-points and are thus better for most general tasks. But, with the range of options available, from tantos to a nice sheepsfoot blade, read up on the different types of blade to determine which type suits your needs.
Handle material: The old-fashioned charm of wood or bone blade is undeniable, and these materials hold up well for most purposes. Newer materials like micarta are more durable, lighter, and provide a better grip. If your traveling needs include heavy-duty tasks, then a synthetic handle might be best.
Blade size: A shorter blade is nearly always better for traveling. Even the most demanding hunting chores can be handled with a 4-inch blade, so, realistically, a 2-3-inch blade will be fine for traveling.

Summing up, a discreet folder is in most cases ideal, and a sturdy and short drop-point blade is a good choice. Here is a nice collection of hunting and camping knives ,

Factor #4: Price

If you’re a regular traveler for work or recreation, investing in a good knife can be rewarding since you’ll get a lot of use from it. Many manufacturers make high-quality blades for under $100, which will compete well with much-higher-priced products. But, if you have more to spend, you can find some enduring works of craftsmanship for good prices that should last a long time.

What Should You Go For?

Air travel: This is the strictest category, and most knives won’t be allowed for carry on . But many manufacturers, especially Victorinox and their famous Swiss Army Knives, are designed specifically with TSA regulations in mind.

Road trippin’: If you’re staying in the U.S. and driving long distances, you’re probably looking for a versatile knife that can handle day-to-day tasks required on the road, as well as a few automotive tasks. For this, you should have something you can comfortably keep on your person and get access to easily. For this, something along the lines of the Kershaw Launch 4 would be a great option.

Outdoor travel: If you’re going to be exploring the great outdoors in combination with your traveling, then something more heavy duty (but also low-key and handy) is what you need. A knife like the ESEE Candiru is a nice option. It’s is unobtrusive, easily accessible, sturdy enough for small bushcraft tasks, with a full-tang and drop-point.

Imagine hiking alone and being without a knife. It would not be fun without a knife so you better prepare now.

Final Thoughts on Knives For Travelers

When you’re on the road for business or pleasure, it is a good feeling to know you’re prepared for what could come up. A good knife has many applications, and, regardless of the type of trip you’re taking, there is nearly always something you might need a knife for, from slicing an apple to cutting a tag. Legality, portability, and durability are the main concerns.

A folding, drop point, discreet blade of fewer than 4 inches is, in most cases, ideal, but this depends on your needs.

Thankfully, there are lots of great manufacturers catering to those who need a good traveling knife.

Is there anything else we should know to get the best knife for travel? Please share in the comment section below or via email , on Twitter , Facebook , Instagram or Google+ . We would love to hear from you!!

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Everyday carry: international travel.

May 19, 2017 by Scott Witner 11 Comments

I recently had to travel to Alberta Canada for a business trip and wanted to ensure I had a minimal set of tools to effect my survival – just in case. Knowing I was going to have to deal with airport security and customs, I needed to choose gear that would pass their security scans and checks. I needed reliable everyday carry gear that wouldn’t ‘break the bank’ in the event it got confiscated during the security check points. Listed below is the minimal set of gear carried for the duration of my stay in Canada. I had other items with me in my day pack, but this short list is my baseline for what I will carry regardless of location.

One thing you want to keep in mind when traveling to other countries is their laws pertaining to knives and other concealed weapons. If you find yourself being questioned by local authorities you need to stay one step ahead by doing your homework on what’s legal, but the key is to blend in and not draw attention to yourself, thus avoiding this in the first place.

Blade – When traveling via airlines, I always put my knife in my checked bag. I prefer to always have a blade with my once I’m at my destination. When home, more often than not, I carry an Emerson knife , but I don’t want to risk some greedy TSA agent going through my bag and taking my higher end knife. When I set out to look for a knife to use when traveling, it had to meet certain criteria.

The knife had to be $50 or less (this way if it gets stolen I’m only out $50 at the most)
Full size pocket clip (personal preference. I wanted something similar to my Emerson clips)
Assisted opening so that it can be deployed quickly with one hand
Stainless steel liners for overall strength and durability.
A decent blade steel (something that holds a decent edge and is easy to maintain)
Non-threatening appearance (no crazy blade profiles or blade lengths over 3.5”)

After searching online based on my above criteria I settled on the Kershaw Blackout . This knife was on the top end of my budget, but it had all the features I was looking for, plus it’s made in the USA. I made a few modifications to fit my personal needs.

Shortened the pocket clip a bit, rounded the edges (similar to an Emerson), and applied Loctite to the clip screws (known for loosening up on this particular model).
Increased the surface area for deploying the blade via the thumb stud (easier for deploying with gloves on) or under stress.

Light – This is the one item you can carry with you on the plane that can be used to subdue an attacker with either the bright light or by using it as a blunt striking tool. I’ve carried Sure Fire lights in the past, but as I said with the blade I don’t want to risk losing a high value item to airport security. With that said I had two primary requirements.

No more than $50
Uses standard batteries that are easy to find (no CR123 batteries)

One manufacturer came to mind once I started looking; Streamlight . The Streamlight ProTac 1AA was a simple decision. The ProTac 1AA as the name implies used only 1 AA battery and still manages to put out a bright beam of light. The flashlight is also waterproof, shockproof, and had an indestructible pocket clip. The clip comes in handy if you want to clip it to the bill of your hat for hands free use. The size of the flashlight fits perfectly in the palm of my hand. I choose to carry the light in my back pocket with my wallet.

First Aid/Trauma – In order to carry first aid/trauma items on my person for everyday carry this had to be extremely simple and take up very little room. After a lot of thought, trial & error, and consulting with an expert in the industry, I’ve settled on two items, that’s it! These items can be carried on your person through the airport and onto the plane as well.

Band-Aides – I carry a handful of band-aides inside my wallet. These rarely ever get used, but it’s nice to have if you get a small non-life threatening cut. I have two kids as well so these come in handy for them more often than not.
Quik Clot Combat Gauze – This comes in a vacuum packed package making it extremely compact to carry in a pocket. Rather than just carrying standard compressed gauze, I chose the Quik Clot Combat Gauze because it’s a hemostatic gauze which is much more effective at stopping traumatic bleeding. I carry the combat gauze in my rear pocket opposite my wallet.

Scott Witner is the Editor of The Loadout Room and handles product sourcing for both Crate Club and Cuna Dog. He is a former Marine Corps Infantryman with 2ndBn/8th Marines and was attached to the 24th MEU(SOC) for a 6 month deployment to the Mediterranean. He has completed training in desert warfare at the Marine Air Ground Combat Center, mountain warfare and survival at the Mountain Warfare Training Center and attended the South Korean Mountain Warfare school in Pohang.

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Putin says he sees no threat warranting use of nuclear arms but warns Russia could arm Western foes

President Vladimir Putin says that he sees no current threat to Russia’s sovereignty that would warrant the use of nuclear weapons but has again warned that Moscow could send arms to countries or groups to strike Western targets

ST. PETERSBURG, Russia -- President Vladimir Putin said Friday that he sees no current threat to Russia’s sovereignty that would warrant the use of nuclear weapons but again warned that Moscow could send arms to countries or groups to strike Western targets.

Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum , Putin said use of nuclear weapons is only possible in “exceptional cases” and that he does not believe “such a case has arisen.” The Russian leader has repeatedly raised the specter of a nuclear attack since he sent troops into Ukraine in 2022.

On Friday, he repeated a warning made days earlier that Moscow “reserves the right” to arm Western adversaries as a response to some NATO allies allowing Ukraine to use their weapons to strike targets inside Russia.

“If they supply (weapons) to the combat zone and call for using these weapons against our territory, why don’t we have the right to do the same?” Putin asked.

“But I’m not ready to say that we will be doing it tomorrow, either,” Putin added, suggesting that it might affect global stability.

He didn’t specify where such arms might be sent. The U.S. has said that Russia has turned to North Korea and Iran to beef up its stock of relatively simple weapons, but Moscow could dip into its stock of high-tech missiles to share with adversaries of the West if Putin decides to fulfill his threat.

The United States and Germany recently authorized Ukraine to hit some targets on Russian soil with the long-range weapons they are supplying to Kyiv.

On Wednesday, a Western official and a U.S. senator said Ukraine has used American weapons to strike inside Russia under newly approved guidance from President Joe Biden that allows American arms to be used to defend Kharkiv , Ukraine’s second-largest city. The official, who was not authorized to comment publicly on the sensitive matter, spoke on condition of anonymity.

Putin also said he sees no need for a new round of mobilization to beef up Russia's forces in Ukraine because, he said, “people come voluntarily and go to the front lines to defend the Motherland.”

Russia mobilized 300,000 reservists in the fall of 2022 amid a series of military setbacks in Ukraine, an unpopular move that prompted hundreds of thousands to flee the country to avoid being drafted.

Putin made the comments during a question and answer session with a pro-Kremlin moderator at the forum, which has been used by Russia for decades as a showcase for touting the country’s development and to woo investors.

Earlier in a speech, he said the Russian economy is growing despite international sanctions and said Moscow has increasing economic ties with countries in Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

Putin said Russia “remains one of the key participants in world trade,” despite the sweeping sanctions , imposed for sending troops into Ukraine, that cut off much of Russia’s trade with Western Europe, the U.S. and their allies.

The main driver of Russia’s economic growth is the fighting — now as important to the Kremlin economically as it is politically.

Russians are finding a few imported staples, and most global brands have disappeared — or been reincarnated as Russian equivalents. But not much else has changed economically for most people, with massive state spending for military equipment and hefty payments to volunteer soldiers giving a strong boost to the economy.

Associated Press writer Aamer Madhani in Washington contributed.

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The Savvy Traveler's Guide to Carrying a Pocket Knife
TSA and international air travel. For U.S. travelers, the TSA rules are clear — pocket knives must be checked in your luggage, not carried onto the plane. However, international regulations vary greatly, and it's not safe to assume that what's allowed in one country will be permissible in another. A good rule of thumb is that blades ...
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Quick Answers. #1 - Best Overall Pocket Knife - Benchmade Bugout. #2 - Best Ultralight Pocket Knife - Benchmade 533. #3 - Best Multi Tool - Leatherman Free P4. #4 - Best Bargain Pocket Knife - Opinel Number 8. #5 - Best Multi Purpose Knife - Swiss Army Camper Knife. #6 - Best Small Knife -Gerber Swagger Drop Point Knife.
Can You Bring a Knife in a Checked Bag Internationally
Carrying a knife while traveling can be a tricky business, especially when you're traveling internationally.Different countries have different laws and regulations regarding knives in checked bags, and even within the United States, the TSA has its own set of guidelines.In this blog post, we'll be discussing everything you need to know about bringing a knife in a checked bag ...
5 Knife-Carrying Tips for International Travel
1 Do Your Homework in Advance. Knife laws vary dramatically from country to country, so doing research in advance is invaluable. Internet knife forums typically have international membership. Using them to ask about knife laws and their actual enforcement for a particular country usually elicits good information from natives and frequent visitors.
Tips for Traveling with Knives in Europe
7. In Eastern Europe, the Balkans and Turkey, full-size tactical folders such as the ZT Knives 0452CF Sinkevich are popular for everyday carry and no one seems alarmed by them. When traveling in Europe, the author and his wife often use small folding knives—from right to left, a Victorinox EVOGrip, Spyderco Dragonfly and Spyderco Cricket ...
How to Travel Internationally with Your Leatherman
Hook it to the front of your jeans instead of on the outside of your backpack, for example. If you're wearing a Tread bracelet, always be sure to put it back on after you've used it. And of course, Leatherman multi-tools are sold around the world, so, if you do find that yours has gone missing, you can always find another one on the road.
The Most Versatile Pocket Knives and Multitools for Air Travel
If you can't bear to be without your trusty multitool, these are the most versatile EDC pocket tools that pass TSA scrutiny. Contents. Gerber Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless. Swiss+Tech Polished SS 19 ...
Tested: The Best TSA-Approved Multi-Tools
Best Minimalist Pick: The James Brand Halifax is a tiny TSA-approved keychain multi-tool with a simple yet clever design. Spanning less than 3.0" and weighing less than half-an-ounce, the Halifax consists of a .125-inch-thick slab of billet that's machined into shape before being fitted with a bottle opener insert.
The Best Gear for Travel in 2024
The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief is the best men's underwear for travel because it balances fit, comfort, odor-proofing, and value better than anything else we've tested ...
Good Pocket Knives for Travellers
These are the 2 best pocket knives for travellers from our point of view depending on your country of residence. If you are from UK, the Victorinox Ranger Swiss Army is the best buy. For other countries of residence, it is the Leatherman Wave or Victorinox 3.0339.
Traveling with Knives: What You Need to Know [2024]
These "spy-knives" or "lighter knives" are clever and make interesting gifts for your outdoorsman friends. But they are banned in most places. Avoid packing these suspicious-looking knives in any luggage when you travel. Throwing Knives, Axes and Shurikens. Knife throwing, axe throwing, and tomahawk throwing is a fun pastime and sport.
The 6 Best Multi-tools for Travel, Tested and Reviewed
Leatherman has long been known as a leader in multi-tool manufacturing, and the 18-tool Wave Plus continues this trend. Even with 18 tools, nothing seemed unnecessary or out of place. We found the ...
Knives
The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint. Except knives with rounded-blades, blunt edges without serration/teeth such as butter knives, or plastic cutlery. Any sharp objects in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.
Can You Bring a Knife in a Checked Bag Internationally?
Knives are generally prohibited in carry-on luggage for international travel. Knives can be packed in checked baggage if they are sheathed or securely wrapped. It's important to check the laws and regulations of the specific country you are traveling to. Airlines may have their own policies regarding knife transportation.
Traveling With a Knife
Traveling by Rail and Bus. Rail travel is very restrictive of knife carry. Amtrak, for example, bans knives completely. They are not allowed on your person, in your carry-on, or in stowed luggage. Generally speaking, this policy is not as strictly enforced as the TSA policies, but its lack of enforcement does not mean the laws and regulations ...
Pocket Knife
Pocket Knife. In general, you are prohibited from traveling with sharp objects in your carry-on baggage; please pack these items in your checked baggage. For more prohibited items, please go to the 'What Can I Bring?' page. The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint. In general, you are ...
7 TSA-Approved Multitools for Carry-On Luggage
According to the TSA: "In general, you are prohibited from traveling with sharp objects in your carry-on bags. Multitools (multipurpose tools) with knives of any length are prohibited. Please pack these items in your checked bags. Multitools (multipurpose tools) with scissors less than 4 inches may be placed in carry-on bags."
Best Knives for Travelers
Newer materials like micarta are more durable, lighter, and provide a better grip. If your traveling needs include heavy-duty tasks, then a synthetic handle might be best. Blade size: A shorter blade is nearly always better for traveling. Even the most demanding hunting chores can be handled with a 4-inch blade, so, realistically, a 2-3-inch ...
Travel gear
Travel Gear. Show the world you mean business, wherever your day takes you. The elegant yet practical Victoria Signature Briefcase offers a 2-in-1 bag that glides effortlessly from office to evening out. The removable pouch doubles as a clutch that works with any outfit. A detachable shoulder strap switches things up and takes care of your ...
FRWK and CKF
From Russia With Knives - online store with excellent custom knives. Shipping around the Globe works, but takes a bit longer, please be patient :) Catalog. 8 (800) 555-04-91. Phone in Russia. Working hours: We ship orders Mo-Fr. Site works 24/7. Search. Search. Search. Show all results. Personal area. Compare 0. Favorites 0. 0.
Everyday Carry: International Travel
Adventure & Travel; Knives & Tools; Overland; Disaster Preparedness; Footwear; Womens Gear & Clothing; Pic of the Day, It's Graduation Time; Get Ready for Winter Fun: The Ski Gear Guide; Vehicle Preparedness: Fast access to essential items | Grey Man Tactical RIP-M; Overland Essential | Midland Radio MXT275 | GXT1000; Close; Men's Lifestyle
Travel Insured International Travel Insurance Review 2024
Cons. Medical coverage of $100,000 per person is on the low side compared to top competitors but might be enough for your needs. Missed connection benefits of $500 are low compared to other top ...
What Do You Call a Knife Without a Blade?
Journal Editorial Report: The week's best and worst from Kim Strassel, Mene Ukueberuwa, and Dan Henninger. Image: Al Drago/Bloomberg My parents gave me a Swiss Army Knife for Christmas when I was ...
Putin says he sees no threat warranting use of nuclear arms but warns
President Vladimir Putin says that he sees no current threat to Russia's sovereignty that would warrant the use of nuclear weapons but has again warned that Moscow could send arms to countries ...
What we know about the Moscow concert hall attack
CNN —. Russia has been left reeling in the wake of the nation's worst terrorist attack in decades. ISIS has claimed responsibility for the massacre, which saw armed assailants storm a popular ...
Crocus City Hall attack
On 22 March 2024, a terrorist attack which was carried out by the Islamic State - Khorasan Province (IS-KP or ISIS-K) occurred at the Crocus City Hall music venue in Krasnogorsk, Moscow Oblast, Russia.. The attack began at around 20:00 MSK (), shortly before the Russian band Picnic was scheduled to play a sold-out show at the venue. Four gunmen carried out a mass shooting, as well as ...

The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Carrying a Pocket Knife

TSA and international air travel

Choosing the Right Pocket Knife for Traveling

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The Best Pocket Knives and Travel Tools – EPIC Guide For 2024

Quick Answers

#6 – Best Small Knife – Gerber Swagger Drop Point Knife

Benchmade Bugout

Benchmade 533

Leatherman Free P4

Opinel Number 8

Swiss Army Camper Knife

Gerber Swagger

Leatherman Bond Multi-Tool

Swiss Army Huntsman Knife

Petzl Spatha

About Knives and Other Tools

Opening Style

How It Feels

Versatility

#3 – Best Multi-Tool – Leatherman Free P4

#4 – Best Bargain Pocket Knife – Opinel Number 8

#5 – Best Multi-Purpose Knife – Swiss Army Camper Knife

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

#7 – Best Multi-Blade Knife – Leatherman Bond Multi-Tool

#8 – Best Knife With Scissors – Swiss Army Huntsman Knife

#9 – Best Cheap Pocket Knife – Petzl Spatha

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Aiden Freeborn

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Avoiding Confusion: Can You Bring a Knife in a Checked Bag Internationally?

TSA regulations for carrying knives in checked bags

International regulations for carrying knives in checked bags

How to pack a knife in a checked bag for international travel

Alternatives to packing a knife in a checked bag

How to properly care for your knife before traveling

How to transport a knife in a carry-on bag

The difference between a pocket knife and a folding knife

How to pack and transport a knife for a hunting or fishing trip

Tips for Traveling with Knives in Europe

“Can I Bring My Knife to Europe?”

European Knife Regulations: A Primer

German Knife Laws

French Knife Laws

Spanish Knife Laws

UK Knife Laws

Danish Knife Laws

European Knife Laws by Region

European Knife Law Tips

Common Sense and European Knife Laws

Choosing Knives to Bring to Western Europe

Western European Security Checks, Police Searches and Knives

Carrying Knives in Eastern Europe, the Balkans and Turkey

Trust Your Internal Compass

Get the Most Out of Your European Trip

Keep Learning About Knife Laws — in the United States

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Gerber Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless

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Tested: The Best TSA-Approved Multi-Tools for Hassle-Free Travel

Best TSA-Approved Multi-Tools

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Toor Knives Keychain Multi-Tool

The James Brand Halifax

Gerber Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless

Windeler Extra Stak

Big Idea Design Bit Bar II