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Prohibited and Restricted Items

CBP has been entrusted with enforcing hundreds of laws for 40 other government agencies, such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These agencies require that unsafe items are not allowed to enter the United States. CBP officers are always at ports of entry and assume the responsibility of protecting America from all threats.

The products CBP prevent from entering the United States are those that would injure community health, public safety, American workers, children, or domestic plant and animal life, or those that would defeat our national interests. Sometimes the products that cause injury, or have the potential to do so, may seem fairly innocent. But, as you will see from the material that follows, appearances can be deceiving.

Before you leave for your trip abroad, you might want to talk to CBP about the items you plan to bring back to be sure they're not prohibited or restricted. Prohibited means the item is forbidden by law to enter the United States. Examples of prohibited items are dangerous toys, cars that don't protect their occupants in a crash, bush meat, or illegal substances like absinthe and Rohypnol. Restricted means that special licenses or permits are required from a federal agency before the item is allowed to enter the United States. Examples of restricted items include firearms, certain fruits and vegetables, animal products, animal by products, and some animals.

Absinthe (Alcohol)

The importation of absinthe is subject to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations (21 C.F.R. 172.510 and the Department of the Treasury's Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau regulations (27 C.F.R. Parts 13.51, 5.42(a), and 5.65. The absinthe content must be "thujone free" (that is, it must contain less than 10 parts per million of thujone); the term "absinthe" cannot be the brand name; the term "absinthe" cannot stand alone on the label; and the artwork and/or graphics cannot project images of hallucinogenic, psychotropic or mind-altering effects. Absinthe imported in violation of these regulations is subject to seizure.

Alcoholic Beverages

In addition to U.S. laws, the laws of the state in which you first arrive in the United States will govern the amount of alcohol you may bring with you, and whether you need a license. If you plan to bring alcoholic beverages with you, before you depart, you should contact the state's applicable alcoholic beverage control board to determine what you need to do to comply with that state's laws and regulations.

Automobiles

Automobiles imported into the United States must meet the fuel-emission requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency and the safety, bumper, and theft prevention standards of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Trying to import a car that doesn't meet all the requirements can be difficult. Please see the Importing a Motor Vehicle page for more information.

Almost all cars, vans, sport utility vehicles and so on that are bought in foreign countries must be modified to meet American standards, except most late model vehicles from Canada. Passenger vehicles that are imported on the condition that they be modified must be exported or destroyed if they are not modified acceptably. Also under these circumstances, the vehicle could require a bond upon entry until the conditions for admission have been met.

And even if the car does meet all federal standards, it might be subject to additional EPA requirements, depending on what countries it was driven in. You are strongly encouraged to contact EPA and DOT before importing a car.

Information on importing vehicles can be obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency Web site. You may also find importation information from the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance.

Copies of the brochure Importing or Exporting a Car can be obtained by writing to:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection P.O. Box 7407 Washington, DC 20044

You can also visit the Exporting a Motor Vehicle page. The EPA Automotive Imports Fact Manual can be obtained by writing to the Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC 20460. You can also visit the EPA Web site .

Cars being brought into the United States temporarily, by nonresidents, (for less than one year) are exempt from these restrictions. It is illegal to bring a vehicle into the United States and sell it if it was not formally entered on a CBP Form 7501.

Biological Materials

You may need a U.S. Department of Agriculture permit and/or a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention permit to import biological specimens including bacterial cultures, culture medium, excretions, fungi, arthropods, mollusks, tissues of livestock, birds, plants, viruses, or vectors for research, biological or pharmaceutical use. Permit requirements are located under "Permits" on the USDA Web site and CDC permit information can be found on the Etiologic Agent Import Permit Program page. For more information, please visit the Importing Biological Materials into the United States page.

Ceramic Tableware

Although ceramic tableware is not prohibited or restricted, you should know that such tableware made in foreign countries may contain dangerous levels of lead in the glaze, which can seep into foods and beverages. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that if you buy ceramic tableware abroad - especially in Mexico, China, Hong Kong or India - you have it tested for lead release when you return, or use it for decorative purposes only.

Cultural Artifacts and Cultural Property

Most countries have laws that protect their cultural property. Art/artifacts/antiquities; archeological and ethnological material are also terms used to describe this material. These laws include export controls and/ or national ownership of cultural property. Even if purchased from a business in the country of origin or in another country, legal ownership of such artifacts may be in question if brought into the United States.

Therefore, although they do not necessarily confer ownership, you must have documents such as export permits and receipts when importing such items into the United States.

While foreign laws may not be enforceable in the United States, they can cause certain U.S. laws to be invoked. For example, under the U.S. National Stolen Property Act, one cannot have legal title to art/artifacts/antiquities that were stolen - no matter how many times such items may have changed hands. Articles of stolen cultural property from museums or from religious or secular public monuments originating in any of the countries party to the 1970 UNESCO Convention specifically may not be imported into the United States.

U.S. law may also restrict the importation of specific categories of art/artifacts/antiquities. For example, U.S. laws restrict the importation of:

• Any pre-Columbian monumental and architectural sculpture and murals from Central and South American countries;
• Native American artifacts from Canada; Mayan pre-Columbian archaeological objects from Guatemala; pre-Columbian archaeological objects from El Salvador and Peru; archaeological objects like terracotta statues from Mali; Colonial period objects such as paintings and ritual objects from Peru;
• Byzantine period ritual and ecclesiastic objects such as icons from Cyprus; and
• Khmer stone archeological sculpture from Cambodia.

Importation of items such as those listed above is permitted only when an export permit issued by the country of origin where such items were first found accompanies them. Purveyors of such items have been known to offer phony export certificates.

As additional U.S. import restrictions may be imposed in response to requests from other countries, it is wise for prospective purchasers to visit the U.S. Department of State website.

Merchandise determined to be Iraqi cultural property or other items of archeological, historical, cultural, rare scientific and religious importance illegally removed from the Iraq National Museum, the National Library and other locations in Iraq, since August 6, 1990, are also prohibited from importation.

Defense Articles or Items with Military or Proliferation Applications

Classified and Unclassified Items that have military application that are considered defense articles, thus require a license before the permanent export, temporary import and temporary export abroad. Such items may include software or technology, blueprints, design plans, and retail software packages and technical information. If CBP officials suspect that a regulated item or defense article has been temporarily imported/exported or permanently exported without a license, they are subject to detention and possible seizure for violation of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. A complete list of commodities and regulations can be found on the Directorate of Defense Trade Control's (DDTC) website. Teams that have both a commercial and military application are considered to be dual-use commodities and may require an export license depending upon the specifications of the commodities. These commodities may include hardware, software, technology, blueprints, design plans and technical information. A complete list of commodities and regulations controlled under the Export Administration Regulations can be found on the Bureau of Industry and Security website.

Dog and Cat Fur

It is illegal in the United States to import, export, distribute, transport, manufacture or sell products containing dog or cat fur in the United States. As of November 9, 2000, the Dog and Cat Protection Act of 2000 calls for the seizure and forfeiture of each item containing dog or cat fur.

The Act provides that any person who violates any provision may be assessed a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for each separate knowing and intentional violation, $5,000 for each separate gross negligent violation, or $3,000 for each separate negligent violation.

Drug Paraphernalia

It is illegal to bring drug paraphernalia into the United States unless prescribed for authentic medical conditions such as diabetes. CBP will seize any illegal drug paraphernalia. Law prohibits the importation, exportation, manufacture, sale or transportation of drug paraphernalia. If you are convicted of any of these offenses, you will be subject to fines and imprisonment.

Temporarily taking a firearm or ammunition outside the United States for personal reasons. i.e., hunting, or other personal recreational activities.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reminds United States Citizens (USCs) and U.S. Legal Permanent Residents (LPRs) who intend to temporarily export from the United States a firearm(s) and/or ammunition that they must comply with export control statutory and regulatory requirements.

The temporary export of firearms is governed by the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) administered by the BIS for firearms “subject to the EAR.” Generally, a BIS license is required to temporarily export a firearm. Travelers may be able to utilize the 15 CFR 740.14 Baggage (BAG) license exception, which provides special provisions for exporting firearms and ammunition. Under Lice. Exports of firearms under License Exception BAG must follow the export clearance requirements under 15 CFR 758.11. Export clearance requirements for firearms and related items, which refers to the CBP Form 4457 requirements described below in this guidance.

A nonimmigrant alien leaving the U.S. may export or reexport under the BAG license exception only such firearms controlled under ECCN 0A501 and ammunition controlled under ECCN 0A505 and only if he or she brought the firearms and/or ammunition into the United States under the relevant provisions of Department of Justice regulations at 27 CFR part 478 .

USCs, LPRs and nonimmigrants utilizing the BAG license exception are required present the firearms and ammunition for inspection to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer prior to departure from the U.S. To complete this process, the traveler must complete the Certificate of Registration for Personal Effects Taken Abroad CBP Form 4457 and present the merchandise being declared under the BAG license exception to a CBP Officer prior to departure from the U.S. the CBP Form 4457 must be presented along with the firearm(s) and any returning unused ammunition to CBP upon return to the U.S.

It is important to note that the Form 4457 is only for reentry into the U.S.; it is not an entry document to the importing country. It is the responsibility of the traveler to comply with the import laws of the country to which they are traveling.

Additionally, the permanent or temporary exportation of a firearm and/or ammunition that may be regulated by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) administered by the U.S. Department of State, Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), or by the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). Also, travelers may be required to possess the appropriate Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) form.

For additional information on the regulatory requirements of other government agencies and information on licenses, forms, and exemptions, please refer to links below.

• Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC)
• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
• Bureau of Industry and Security
• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Guidance for U.S. Persons Traveling Outside the U.S. with Firearms and/or Ammunition
• Transportation Security Administration – Transporting Firearms and Ammunition

Fish and Wildlife

Certain fish and wildlife, and products made from them, are subject to import and export restrictions, prohibitions, permits or certificates, as well as requirements. CBP recommends that you review the U.S. Fish and Wildlife page for additional information before you depart if you plan to import or export any of the following:

• Wild birds, land or marine mammals, reptiles, fish, shellfish, mollusks or invertebrates;
• Any part or product of the above, such as skins, tusks, bone, feathers, or eggs; or
• Products or articles manufactured from wildlife or fish.

Endangered wildlife species, and products made from them, generally may not be imported or exported. You will need a permit from the FWS to import virtually all types of ivory, unless it is from a warthog. The FWS has many restrictions and prohibitions on various kinds of ivory - Asian elephant, African elephant, whale, rhinoceros, seal, pre-Endangered Species Act, post-CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) and many others - and urge you to contact them before you acquire ivory in a foreign country. You may contact the Management Authority at 1-800-344-WILD (1-800-344-9453) Pressing Option 3 will provide you with general information, and Option 4 will connect you to the permits section. You can also get information on permits at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website.

You may import an object made of ivory if it is an antique. To be an antique the ivory must be at least 100 years old. You will need documentation that authenticates the age of the ivory. You may import other antiques containing wildlife parts with the same condition, but they must be accompanied by documentation proving they are at least 100 years old. Certain other requirements for antiques may apply.

If you plan to buy such things as tortoiseshell jewelry, or articles made from whalebone, ivory, skins or fur, contact the:

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Division of Law Enforcement 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041

You can also call 1-800-344-WILD (1-800-344-9453) or visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website. Hunters can get information on the limitations for importing and exporting migratory game birds from this office as well or from the Migratory Birds website.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has designated specific ports of entry to handle fish and wildlife entries. If you plan to import anything discussed in this section, please contact CBP about designated ports and the brochure Pets and Wildlife, which describes the regulations CBP enforces for all agencies that oversee the importation of animals.

Some states have fish and wildlife laws and regulations that are stricter than federal laws and regulations. If you are returning to such a state, be aware that the stricter state laws and regulations have priority. Similarly, the federal government does not allow you to import wild animals into the United States that were taken, killed, sold, possessed or exported from another country if any of these acts violated foreign laws.

Food Products (Raw and Prepared)

You may bring bakery items and certain cheeses into the United States. The APHIS website features a Travelers Tips section and Game and Hunting Trophies section that offers extensive information about bringing food and other products into the U.S. Many prepared foods are admissible. However, bush meat made from African wildlife and almost anything containing meat products, such as bouillon, soup mixes, etc., is not admissible. As a general rule, condiments, vinegars, oils, packaged spices, honey, coffee and tea are admissible. Because rice can often harbor insects, it is best to avoid bringing it into the United States. Some imported foods are also subject to requirements of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Prior Notice for Food Importation

The Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002 (Bioterrorism Act or BTA), Public Law 107-188, established the requirement that food items, imported (or offered for import) for commercial use, including hand-carried quantities, be properly reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration prior to arrival of those items in the United States. The FDA prior notification timeframes (by transport mode) are two hours by land, four hours by rail or air, eight hours by vessel and prior to the "time of mailing" for international mail.

Food that was made by an individual in his/her personal residence, or food purchased by an individual from a vendor that is sent by that individual as a personal gift (for non-business reasons) to someone in the United States is not subject to Bioterrorism Act requirements. However, food that is sent to an individual in the United States by a business is subject to special requirements of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. For instance, if you go to a food shop in England and buy a gift basket, then take it to the post office or a courier service to send to a friend, the shipment is not subject to BTA requirements. But if you go to that same shop and ask them to send the gift basket for you, the shipment is subject to BTA requirements, and the vendor will have to file Prior Notice. Many travelers are finding that vendors will not ship food directly to U.S. residents because the reporting requirements can be time-consuming to complete.

In general, failure to provide complete, timely and accurate prior notice for Bioterrorism Act regulated items, can result in refusal of admission of the merchandise, movement of the goods to an FDA registered facility (at importer expense) and/or civil monetary penalty liabilities for any party that was involved in the import transaction.

Fruits and Vegetables

Bringing fruits and vegetables depends on a number of factors. For instance, consider the apple you bought in the foreign airport just before boarding and then did not eat. Whether or not CBP will allow the apple into the United States depends on where you got it and where you are going after you arrive in the United States. The same would be true for Mediterranean tomatoes. Such factors are important because fresh fruits and vegetables can introduce plant pests or diseases into the United States.

One good example of problems imported fruits and vegetables can cause is the Mediterranean fruit fly outbreak during the 1980s. The outbreak cost the state of California and the federal government approximately $100 million to get rid of this pest. The cause of the outbreak was one traveler who brought home one contaminated piece of fruit. It is best not to bring fresh fruits or vegetables into the United States. However, if you plan to, contact either CBP or check the Permits section on the USDA-APHIS website for a general approved list on items that need a permit.

Note: The civil penalty for failing to declare agricultural items at U.S. ports of entry will cost first time offenders $300. The penalty for the second violation goes up to $500. To avoid receiving a penalty all agricultural items and present them to Customs and Border Protection for inspection so that an agriculture specialist can determine if it is admissible.

Game and Hunting Trophies

Information on bringing back your game or hunting trophy can be found at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Information on Hunting and Fishing page. Currently, 14 ports of entry are designated to handle game and trophies; other ports must get approval from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to clear your entry.

Depending on the species you bring back, you might need a permit from the country where the animal was harvested. Regardless of the species, you are required to fill out a Fish and Wildlife Form 3-177 , Declaration for Importation or Exportation.

Trophies may also be subject to inspection by CBP for sanitary purposes. General guidelines for importing trophies can be found on under the APHIS Import Authorization System (IAS) on the Guidelines for the Importation of Ruminant, Swine, and Bird Trophies website, or by writing to:

U.S. Department of Agriculture APHIS, VS, Strategy & Policy, APIE 4700 River Road, Unit 40 Riverdale, MD 20737-1231

You can also call (301) 851-3300 , option 4.

Nonhuman primate trophy materials may require a permit from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prospective importers of nonhuman primate trophy materials from nonhuman primates should review the permit requirements and complete an application form, following the Guidance for Individuals Wishing to Import Non-Human Primate Trophies, Skins or Skulls . Trophy materials of other animals under import embargo because of viral zoonotic infections, such as civets, Asian birds, and African rodents, may be imported if the body has been sufficiently processed to render it non-infectious. Proper methods of accomplishing this include:

• Heating to an internal temperature of 70 degrees Celsius (158 degrees Fahrenheit) or placing in boiling water for a minimum of 30 minutes);
• Preservation in 2 percent formaldehyde;
• Chemically treating in acidic or alkaline solutions (soaking in a solution below pH 3.0 or above pH 11.5 for 24 hours); or
• The use of hypertonic salts.

Also, federal regulations do not allow the importation of any species into a state with fish or wildlife laws that are more restrictive than federal laws. If foreign laws were violated in the taking, sale, possession or export to the United States of wild animals, those animals will not be allowed entry into the United States.

Warning: There are many regulations, enforced by various agencies, governing the importation of animals and animal parts. Failure to comply with them could result in time-consuming delays in clearing your trophy through CBP. You should always call for guidance before you depart.

Gold coins, medals and bullion, formerly prohibited, may be brought into the United States. However, under regulations administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, such items originating in or brought from Cuba, Iran, Burma (Myanmar) and most of Sudan are prohibited entry. Copies of gold coins are prohibited if not properly marked by country of issuance.

Haitian Animal Hide Drums

Haitian goat hide drums have been previously linked to a case of cutaneous anthrax, and the CDC restricts entry of animal hide drums from Haiti if they have not been processed in a way that renders them non-infectious. Travelers should be aware that untanned animal hide drums from Africa may pose a similar but low risk for cutaneous anthrax.

Meats, Livestock and Poultry: The regulations governing meat and meat products are stringent. You may not import fresh, dried or canned meats or meat products from most foreign countries into the United States. Also, you may not import food products that have been prepared with meat.

The regulations on importing meat and meat products change frequently because they are based on disease outbreaks in different areas of the world. APHIS, which regulates meats and meat products as well as fruits and vegetables, invites you to contact them for more information on importing meats. A list of countries and/or regions with specific livestock or poultry diseases can be found at the Animal Disease Status website.

Rule of thumb: when you go abroad, take the medicines you will need, no more, no less.

Narcotics and certain other drugs with a high potential for abuse - Rohypnol, GHB and Fen-Phen, to name a few - may not be brought into the United States, and there are severe penalties for trying to do so. While these drugs or devices may be legal somewhere else, they may not legally enter the country and will be confiscated, even if they are prescribed by a foreign physician.  The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) may also have other restrictions on bringing controlled substances into the country. 

If you need medicines that contains controlled substances listed in schedules II, III, IV, or V (e.g., some cough medicines, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, antidepressants, or stimulants), do the following:

• Declare all drugs, medicinals, and similar products to the appropriate CBP official;
• Carry such substances in their original containers;
• Carry only the quantity of such substances that a person with that condition (e.g., chronic pain) would normally carry for his/her personal use; and
• Carry a prescription or written statement from your physician that the substances are being used under a doctor's supervision and that they are necessary for your physical well being while traveling.

U.S. residents entering the United States at international land borders who are carrying a validly obtained controlled substance (other than narcotics such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or LSD), are subject to certain additional requirements. If a U.S. resident wants to bring in a controlled substance (other than narcotics such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or LSD) but does not have a prescription for the substance issued by a U.S.-licensed practitioner (e.g., physician, dentist, etc.) who is registered with, and authorized by, the Drug Enforcement Administration to prescribe the medication, the individual may not import more than 50 dosage units of the medication into the United States.

If the U.S. resident has a prescription for the controlled substance issued by a DEA registrant, more than 50 dosage units may be imported by that person, provided all other legal requirements are met. Note: Only medications that can be legally prescribed in the United States may be imported for personal use. Be aware that possession of certain substances may also violate state laws.

If you have any questions regarding the importation of a controlled substance into the United States, please contact the Drug Enforcement Administration, Office of Diversion Control, International Drug Unit, at (202) 305-8800 . 

Merchandise from Embargoed Countries

Generally, you may not bring in any merchandise from Cuba and Iran. The Office of Foreign Assets Control of the U.S. Department of Treasury enforces economic sanctions against these countries. To bring in merchandise from these countries, you will first need a specific license from the Office of Foreign Assets Control. Such licenses are rarely granted. License applications can be submitted to the OFAC online portal . 

These regulations do change from time to time, so it is suggested that you contact the Office of Foreign Assets Control before traveling to these countries to determine what may or may not be brought back.

• You may, however, bring from any of these countries information and informational materials - books, magazines, films, posters, photographs, microfilms, tapes, CDs, records, works of art, etc. Blank tapes and blank CDs are not informational materials.
• Gifts of up to $100 (U.S.) in value.
• Household and personal effects, of persons arriving in the United States that were actually used abroad by the importer or by other family members arriving from the same foreign household, that are not intended for any other person or for sale, and that are not otherwise prohibited from importation, and
• Accompanied baggage from personal use normally incident to travel.
• There are non-comprehensive embargo programs administered by Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control with respect to the following regions, countries or entities: Western Balkans; Belarus, Cote d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq (for cultural property), Liberia (Former Regime of Charles Taylor), Sierra Leone, Syria, Zimbabwe, and Persons Undermining the Sovereignty of Lebanon or its Democratic Processes and Institutions.

OFAC also administers programs that target individuals and entities wherever they are located. Those programs currently relate to foreign narcotics traffickers, foreign terrorists, and Weapons of Mass Destruction proliferators. See OFAC's website for a list of those persons and entities.

There are some travel restrictions with respect to certain embargoed countries. You should check the Sanctions Programs website to determine which countries are subject to travel restrictions before making any plans to visit these countries.

If you plan to take your pet abroad or import one on your return, please review the Bringing Pets and Wildlife into the United States page for additional information. You should also check with state, county and local authorities to learn if their restrictions and prohibitions on pets are stricter than federal requirements.

Importing animals is closely regulated for public health reasons and also for the well-being of the animals. There are restrictions and prohibitions on bringing many species into the United States.

Cats are subject to inspection at ports of entry and may be denied entry into the United States if they have evidence of an infectious disease that can be transmitted to humans. If a cat appears to be ill, further examination by a licensed veterinarian at the owner's expense might be required at the port of entry.

Cats are not required to have proof of rabies vaccination for importation into the United States. However, some states require vaccination of cats for rabies, so it is a good idea to check with state and local health authorities at your final destination.

All pet cats arriving in the state of Hawaii and the territory of Guam, even from the U.S. mainland, are subject to locally imposed quarantine requirements.

Dogs must also be free of evidence of diseases that could be communicable to humans. A general certificate of health is not required by CDC for entry of pet dogs into the United States, although some airlines or states may require them. Dogs must have a certificate showing they have been vaccinated against rabies greater than or equal to 30 days prior to entry into the United States. This certificate should identify the dog, show the date of vaccination, the date it expires (there are one-year and three-year vaccinations), and be signed by a licensed veterinarian. If the certificate does not have an expiration date, CBP will accept it as long as the dog was vaccinated 12 months or less before coming to the United States. Dogs coming from rabies free countries do not have to be vaccinated.

These requirements apply equally to service animals such as Seeing Eye dogs.

If your pet does not meet CDC's entry requirements as described above, contact CDC at [email protected] to discuss your particular situation.

Birds may be imported as pets as long as you comply with APHIS and U.S. Fish and Wildlife requirements.

Advisory: Until further notice, there is a temporary ban on the importation of pet birds from countries/ regions affected with highly pathogenic Avian influenza subtype H5NI. See the Animal and Animal Product Import Information website for more information.

All non-U.S. origin pet birds imported into the United States (except from Canada) are required to be quarantined for 30 days in a USDA animal import quarantine facility at the owner's expense. A reservation at the facility must be made in advance by contacting the USDA port veterinarian at one of the special ports of entry listed below. A cost estimate for the quarantine will be provided at that time. Once the reservation is made and payment is received in full for all quarantine services, the animal import quarantine facility will issue a USDA import permit (VS Form17-129). This permit must accompany the bird while in transit.

The USDA defines pet birds as those that are imported for personal pleasure of their individual owners and are not intended for resale.

Document and Quarantine Requirements:

• USDA import permit (VS Form17-129);
• Current Health Certificate issued by a full-time salaried veterinarian of the agency responsible for animal health of the national government in the exporting country of origin;
• 30-day Quarantine in an USDA Animal Import Center; and
• Fish and Wildlife Services Certification (if necessary).

USDA Quarantine Centers and Ports of Entry

• All non-U.S. origin pet birds must enter the country and undergo quarantine at one of the following import quarantine facilities.
• These are the only ports of entry available for importing non-U.S. origin pet birds.

New York Animal Import Center (NYAIC) USDA, APHIS VS 230-59 Rockaway Blvd., Suite 101 Jamaica, NY 11413 Telephone: (718) 553-3570 Fax: (718) 553-3572 Port of Entry : JFK International Airport

Miami Animal Import Center USDA-APHIS-VS 6300 NW 36 Street Miami, FL 33122 Telephone: (305) 876-2200 Fax: (305) 876-2201

Port of Entry: Miami International Airport

The 30 day quarantine period officially begins when your pet bird arrives at the quarantine facility.

For additional information visit the APHIS Animal Health website.

Other common pets such as rabbits, ferrets, hamsters, gerbils and guinea pigs may be imported if they are in good health. The importation of reptiles and invertebrates is restricted; please contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for additional guidance. Most species of snails are not admissible. Contact APHIS for additional information. All civets, African rodents and nonhuman primates are prohibited except for science, education and exhibition. These species cannot be imported as pets. Refer to the CDC's Traveling with Pets, Importation of Animals and Animal Products into the United States website for more information.

Photographic Film

CBP will not examine film you bought abroad and are bringing back unless the CBP officer has reason to believe it contains prohibited material, such as child pornography.

You will not be charged duty on film bought in the United States and exposed abroad, whether it is developed or not. But film you bought and developed abroad counts as a dutiable item.

Plants and Seeds

Some plants, cuttings, seeds that are capable of propagation, unprocessed plant products and certain endangered species are allowed into the United States but require import permits and other documents; some are prohibited entirely. Threatened or endangered species that are permitted must have export permits from the country of origin.

Every single plant or plant product including handicraft items made with straw, must be declared to the CBP officer and must be presented for CBP inspection, no matter how free of pests it appears to be. For information on importing plants or plant products visit the Plant, Organism and Soil Permits page.

Soil is considered the loose surface material of the earth in which plants, trees, and scrubs grow. In most cases, the soil consists of disintegrated rock with an admixture of organic material and soluble salts. Soil is prohibited entry unless accompanied by an import permit. Soil must be declared and the permit must be verified.

Textiles and Clothing

In general, there is no limit to how much fabric and clothing you can bring back as long as it is for your personal use or as gifts. If you have exceeded your personal exemption, you may have to pay duty on the items. Unaccompanied personal shipments (packages that are mailed or shipped), however, may be subject to limitations on amount.

On January 1, 2005, quotas for all countries that are part of the World Trade Organization (WTO) were eliminated. There are still some countries, like Vietnam, that are not part of the WTO that have quotas in place for commercial shipments. These countries may require an additional document called a "visa" accompany the shipment.

China could have limits on particular garments called "safeguards." It is recommended that you contact a CBP import specialist in your area or at the port where you plan to import to determine what countries are subject to quotas and what products from China are subject to safeguards.

There may be additional documentation required for textiles from other countries such as the African countries that require a visa to be placed on a commercial invoice in order to get duty-free treatment. There may also be a certificate of eligibility document requirement to get duty-free treatment under many of the free trade agreements that are negotiated between the United States and the foreign government. These are not admissibility documents, but allow you to import your garments duty-free, provided certain conditions are met.

Trademark and Copyrighted Articles

CBP enforces laws relating to the protection of trademarks and copyrights. Articles that infringe a federally registered trademark or copyright or copyright protected by the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works are subject to detention and/ or seizure. Infringing articles may consist of articles that use a protected right without the authorization of the trademark or copyright owner or articles that copy or simulate a protected right.

Articles bearing marks that are counterfeit or inappropriately using a federally registered trademark are subject to seizure and forfeiture. The importation of articles intended for sale or public distribution bearing counterfeit marks may subject an individual to a civil fine if the registered trademark has also been recorded with CBP. Articles bearing marks that are confusingly similar to a CBP recorded registered trademark, and restricted gray market articles (goods bearing genuine marks not intended for U.S. importation for which CBP granted gray market protection) are subject to detention and seizure.

However, travelers arriving in the United States may be permitted an exemption and allowed to import one article of each type, which must accompany the person, bearing a counterfeit, confusingly similar or restricted gray market trademark, provided that the article is for personal use and is not for sale.

This exemption may be granted not more than once every 30 days. The arriving passenger may retain one article of each type accompanying the person. For example, an arriving person who has three purses, whether each bears a different infringing trademark, or whether all three bear the same infringing trademark, is permitted only one purse. If the article imported under the personal exemption provision is sold within one year after the date of importation, the article or its value is subject to forfeiture.

In regard to copyright infringement, articles that are determined by CBP to be clearly piratical of a protected copyright, i.e., unauthorized articles that are substantially similar to a material protected by a copyright, are subject to seizure. A personal use exemption for articles, similar to that described above also applies to copyrighted articles for the personal, non-commercial use of the importer and are not for sale or distribution.

You may bring back genuine trademarked and copyrighted articles (subject to duties). Products subject to copyright protection most commonly imported include software on CD-ROMs, sound recordings, toys, stuffed animals, clothing with cartoon characters, videotapes, DVDs, music CDs and books. Products subject to trademark protection most commonly imported include handbags and accessories, and clothing.

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?

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. 

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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How to Pack Knives & Sharp Objects in Your Checked Luggage

Last Updated: December 17, 2023 Fact Checked

• Packing Knives Safely
• Can knives go through TSA?

TSA Rules for Sharp Objects

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising . Hunter Rising is a wikiHow Staff Writer based in Los Angeles. He has more than three years of experience writing for and working with wikiHow. Hunter holds a BFA in Entertainment Design from the University of Wisconsin - Stout and a Minor in English Writing. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 13,329 times. Learn more...

If you want to bring a knife with you on your next trip, you can easily pack it in a checked bag on your flight. You’re allowed to travel with knives in a checked bag, but it’s important to store them properly to prevent injuries and keep the blade safe. Keep reading, and we’ll walk you through all the security precautions to take, plus what other sharp items you can and can’t travel with.

Things You Should Know

• Knives are allowed on checked bags. Just put the knife in its sheath or wrap it in bubble wrap and packing paper before putting it in your bag.
• You cannot bring any knives through TSA in a carry-on unless they have blunt, non-serrated edges or are made of plastic.
• Pocket knives, Swiss army knives, and utility knives must be packed in checked baggage.

Safely Packing Knives in Checked Luggage

• There isn’t a restriction on blade length when you pack a knife in a checked bag.
• While the TSA allows any type of knife in a checked bag, make sure to check customs restrictions for countries you’re traveling to internationally.
• Label the knife’s package so any airline security immediately recognizes what’s inside. That way, they’ll be more careful handling the package as well.

Can knives go through TSA in a carry-on bag?

• Blades that have blunt, non-serrated edges or are made from plastic are allowed on your carry-on bag.

• If you have scissors in a carry-on, let TSA officers know before you go through security.
• Sheathe or wrap scissors in a checked bag to prevent any injuries.

• Inform the airline attendant when you check your bag that it contains a sword so any handlers stay safe.
• Even foam toy swords are not allowed on planes unless they’re in a checked bag. [9] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Transportation Security Administration U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safety by setting and enforcing travel protocols Go to source

Expert Q&A

• TSA agents have the final say on what’s allowed through security checkpoints, so they may prohibit any items that could be considered dangerous. [11] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Transportation Security Administration U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safety by setting and enforcing travel protocols Go to source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

Other wikiHows

• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/knives
• ↑ https://youtu.be/HzMqOtg7bik?t=9
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/utensils
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/scissors
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/multi-tools
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/disposable-razor
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/swords
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/foam-toy-sword
• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all-list

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Traveling with Knives: A Comprehensive Guide to Safely Transport Knives

Traveling with knives isn’t as straightforward as one might think. It’s a delicate dance between safety, legality, and necessity. Whether you’re a chef on the move or a camper preparing for a wilderness adventure, knowing how to travel with your knives is crucial.

Navigating the rules and regulations surrounding knife travel can be a daunting task. From airline policies to destination-specific laws, there’s a lot to consider. But don’t worry, this guide aims to simplify the process, offering practical advice for knife enthusiasts on the go.

Remember, it’s not just about packing your knives safely, but also ensuring you’re adhering to all applicable laws, especially when traveling by plane . Whether you’re checking them in your luggage or packing them in a carry-on, this article will provide essential tips for traveling with knives.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Rules: Airline Policies and Regulations

Embarking on a journey with knives is no trivial feat. It’s deeply rooted in understanding the rules and regulations put in place by airlines and governing authorities. Airline specific policies play a significant part in facilitating the safe and legal travel with knives.

Different carriers have different policies when it comes to carrying knives. Some airlines allow checked in knives, while others have a complete ban. It’s crucial to know these policies before stepping foot in the airport. Websites for airlines often have sections dedicated to restricted items. A quick scan of these sites can save a lot of hassle tomorrow.

TSA (Transportation Security Administration) guidelines , the U.S. authority for aviation security, dictate airline norms for all U.S. carriers. According to TSA, you can transport knives in your CHECKED bags. However, knives are not allowed in carry-on baggage. So, any traveler heading to the airport with a knife should ensure it’s securely packed in checked luggage.

Another aspect worth considering is the destination country’s laws . Each country has its own set of laws and regulations, there are places, like the UK and Canada, where carrying certain types of knives is outright illegal. Therefore one has to be exceptionally cautious about the legalities in the final destination, you wouldn’t want to land in trouble upon arrival.

Researching Destination-Specific Laws

After understanding general safety measures and airline policies, it’s crucial to research destination-specific laws related to carrying knives. Country-specific laws can significantly vary, with some places having more stringent regulations than others.

In some destinations, carrying certain types of knives, such as switchblades, folding knives, or even multi-tools with small blades, can be illegal. These strict regulations may also extend to the knife’s blade length. Always ensure to check for specific information about blade length restrictions in your target destination.

Various digital tools make it easier for enthusiasts to stay updated about changing knife laws and regulations. Apps like ‘Knife Laws’ can be a valuable resource, providing comprehensive, updated information on knife laws in the US and around the world.

This app includes location-based updates , offering real-time information on laws and restrictions in your current location. Having this at your fingertips allows you to ensure you’re always in compliance with local regulations, whether you’re planning a trip, on your way, or already at your destination.

Additionally, if you’re a member of a knife enthusiast group or forum, it can be worth reaching out to fellow users for their experiences and advice related to specific destinations.

To summarize, it’s important to thoroughly research the knife-carrying laws in your target destination. This process involves understanding the types of knives regulated, knowing the size restrictions, utilizing digital tools like ‘Knife Laws’ app, and seeking advice from fellow enthusiasts. This preparation helps ensure a hassle-free trip while adhering to all pertinent rules and regulations.

After this, there are some additional factors to consider in your knife travel journey, such as the potential cultural implications of carrying a knife and what to do if you unexpectedly have to part ways with your valuable item.

Packing Your Knives Safely: Tips and Techniques

Moving forward to the practical aspect, let’s discuss some of the safest ways to transport knives. You want to ensure your knives won’t cause any injury or damage. A basic rule of thumb: always pack knives in your checked luggage . Remember, TSA guidelines don’t allow them in carry-on baggage.

Start by wrapping your knives. Wrapping the blades with thick paper or cloth helps prevent accidents. Securely fasten the wrapping with rubber bands or some type of tape. Knife sheaths or knife cases are another excellent option. These are specially designed to hold knives securely in place. You can also opt for knife rolls, which are particularly helpful for chefs or culinary enthusiasts traveling with multiple knives.

After wrapping your knives, place them in sturdy, hard-sided luggage. This kind of protection is vital to ensure that sudden shifts or impacts in transit don’t risk blade exposure or injury to airport personnel.

Consider a lock for your luggage . While not a necessity, it’s a great way to add an additional safety layer. Just ensure it’s a TSA-approved lock to allow airport security access if needed.

Finally, don’t forget to declare your knives to security personnel during check-in to avoid any inconvenience. This step lets them know you’re not only aware of the rules but have also taken care to pack your knives safely.

Once your knives are packed securely, there’s one key element to consider before heading to your destination – understanding the local knife laws and regulations. Apps like “Knife Laws” are an excellent tool for staying updated with this crucial information. Remember, the laws may differ from one destination to another. Therefore, equipping yourself with knowledge of these details is quintessential.

In this digital era, turning to online forums for advice can be extremely beneficial. Connect with other knife enthusiasts who have traveled to your intended destination. They’ll likely provide firsthand experience and advice about coping with locale-specific laws and regulations.

Best Travel Knife Options: Folding vs. Fixed Blade

When choosing a blade for travel, one is often faced with the classic debate: Folding vs. Fixed Blade . Each type has its unique advantages and requirements when it comes to transport which are important to consider.

Consider a folding knife if you’re looking for a portable, space-saving option. They’re compact and can be safely tucked away when not in use. The folding mechanism helps protect the blade and minimizes the risk for accidental injury. Brands like Spyderco or Benchmade offer a good range of folding knives that are suited to varying needs.

Fixed blade knives on the other hand, are typically more robust and weighted. They don’t require the extra mechanism of folding which can be seen as an advantage for some. They also are more low maintenance as there’s no hinge to care for. A drawback though is they demand more elaborate case strategies for safe transport, such as sheathing or wrapping securely.

Tips for Carrying Knives in Carry-On Luggage

Even though it’s generally advisable to check-in knives during air travel, there are certain circumstances where one might need to carry knives in their carry-on bag. However, this isn’t a task to be taken lightly. Travelers must adhere to strict rules and guidelines set by various security services, primarily the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Firstly, not all knives are permitted in carry-on luggage . According to TSA guidelines, only plastic or round-bladed butter knives are allowed in your carry-on. Sharp knives, regardless of their length or type, must be checked in.

While packing the allowed knives, it’s important to protect both the knife and the surrounding items. Safely wrap the knives to prevent harm to yourself or security personnel handling your bag. Bubble wrap or thick cloth can serve as protective layers around the knives. Securing the knife with a rubber band or tape can provide extra safety.

There’s inevitably a security check one has to pass before boarding any flight. During this process, do not attempt to conceal any allowed knives. Notify the security officer upfront about their presence in your luggage. Transparency is key in ensuring a smooth checking process.

Investing in knife-specific luggage can be another smart move for frequent travelers. This baggage provides dedicated sections for knife storage, often with built-in security measures. It not only offers extra protection but also helps in organizing travel gear.

If a knife is an absolute necessity in your travel kit, one option is to consider mailing the knife to your destination ahead of time . This will allow for carrying knives that are not permitted in either checked or carry-on luggage.

Remember, adhering to the rules can help avoid unnecessary hassle at the airport. It is recommended to cross-verify with local security guidelines and restrictions to make sure compliance isn’t an issue while traveling with knives.

Let’s move on to discuss some other essentials when it comes to traveling with knives. They will equip you more to ensure a safe journey while carrying these sharp tools.

Traveling with knives doesn’t have to be a daunting task. It’s all about being prepared, informed, and respectful of the rules. Packing knives securely in checked luggage, using protective sheaths, and opting for hard-sided luggage can ensure safety. Remember, declaring your knives at check-in is not just courteous, it’s mandatory. Apps like “Knife Laws” can keep you updated on local regulations, making your journey smoother. Whether you choose a folding knife for its portability or a fixed blade for its sturdiness, ensure it’s TSA-compliant. If you’re considering carrying a knife in your carry-on, be transparent during security checks and protect your knife and other items. If all else fails, consider knife-specific luggage or mailing your knife ahead. Adhering to these guidelines will help you avoid fines and ensure a safe, hassle-free trip with your knives.

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• Ingredients

How to Pack Knives for Travel

Published Aug. 25, 2023.

Whether you’re moving to a new house, getting your gear together for a camping trip, or heading to a rental home on vacation, bringing a set of knives with you is a must for the enthusiastic home cook.

But packing them for travel can be tricky—what is the safest way to tote them around, both for yourself and for your much-loved knives? Some of America's Test Kitchen's equipment experts and test cooks weighed in with their top tips.

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Knife-Packing Essentials

1. A knife guard

No matter how you end up packing your knives, having a knife guard —especially for the bigger ones—is the best way to ensure safe transport. A knife guard is essentially a holster for your knife that fits snugly around the blade to avoid it coming into contact with fingers or poking through travel bags.

The very best knife guards have a secure, tight fit, which means there’s no such thing as a best overall choice . . . just the best choice for your knife. ATK Reviews Senior Editor Miye Bromberg put together a guide on how to find the right guard for your knife .

2. A knife roll

Miye also suggests that once you’ve secured your larger knives in a knife guard, you’ll want another layer of protection from a knife roll. Knives tend to rattle around in knife rolls, meaning the knife guard will prevent them from dulling.

The Best Chef’s Knives for $75 or Less

How to pack knives without a knife guard or knife roll.

If you've found yourself with travel plans but without these specific knife-packing items, that's OK. There are still safe ways to transport your precious knives without needing to take a trip to the kitchen supply store (prepping for travel is tough enough on its own!).

If you find yourself in the midst of packing without a knife guard, for example, you can make one yourself . All you’ll need is a manilla folder or sheet of thick cardboard.

Cook’s Country Senior Editor Matthew Fairman also gets in the DIY mood when packing knives. “I've used both corrugated cardboard and heavy paper from shopping bags to wrap up the blades of my knives,” he said.

To use cardboard, Matthew simply cuts the sheet to size, folds it in half, and tapes it closed over the knives, ensuring the sharp blades are facing towards the folded cardboard. For the heavy paper technique, he wraps the blades in multiple layers of the paper, rolls the knives in an apron or kitchen towel, and secures the bundle with rubber bands.

For those who like to plan ahead, Senior Editor Jessica Rudolph keeps her knives’ packaging for times like this. “I keep the original packaging that my good knives came in and put them back in their wrapping and boxes for big moves,” she said.

Finally, America’s Test Kitchen cast member Lawman Johnson suggests using an item of clothing for maximum safety: “I wrap an old undershirt around my knives, securing it with rubber bands when they’re fully rolled up,” he said.

Knife-Packing Tips

Once you’ve secured the essentials, here are five more tips to ensure a safe trip with your knives:

• While you should take every precaution with larger knives, you can skip guarding your smaller knives before packing them in a knife roll. “I'm generally not super careful about smaller knives (like paring knives)—they tend not to bang into other knives in a knife roll the way the larger ones do,” Miye notes.
• Ensure your knives are clean and dry before you pack them to avoid the possibility of rusting or dulling.
• Label any boxes that contain knives or knife rolls. You wouldn’t want to be absentmindedly rifling around in a box with knives, no matter how secure they are.
• Once you’ve arrived at your destination, immediately unpack your knives and set them out in a designated location away from moisture or where they cannot be accidentally bumped into.
• When repacking your knives, don’t be lazy about those knife guards—pack them away the same way you brought them, and they’ll arrive back home as sharp as when they left.

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American Knife and Tool Institute

Keeping Knives in American Lives Since 1998

Traveling With Knives Presents Challenges

April 25, 2013

General Travel and Safe Transport of Knives Tips

By Mike Haskew

Purchase an AKTI Luggage Tag

In the post 9-11 era, traveling with knives by air or ground requires a heightened awareness of applicable laws and methods for safe carry and transport to and from the destination.

When an airline is involved, the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) enforces strict rules. A knife owner traveling with his or her trusty two-blade trapper is subject to scrutiny and possible confiscation, just as the knife dealer traveling to a show with multiple collectible pieces, or the chef heading home from a culinary event. The TSA had announced plans to revise its restrictions on knives carried aboard aircraft by passengers rather than packed in luggage effective April 25, 2013. Implementation was stopped on the policy which would have allowed folding knives of up to 2.36 inches in length and less than a half-inch wide to be carried legally and be consistent with international guidelines.

Some lawmakers have strongly opposed the TSA policy revision and are contemplating legislation to reverse any TSA decision and ban carry-on knives of any size from aircraft. Nevertheless, the planned revision marks a significant victory for knife owners.

“There is no flexibility for TSA officers, only absolutes,” commented C.J. Buck of Buck Knives. “There has been an evolution within the PIL (Prohibited Items List) that is the final word in what can or cannot be carried through security and onto aircraft. Small knives of very specific description will soon be allowed; however, all other knives must be checked. It is perfectly legal to transport in your checked luggage anything that is legal to possess. Traveling by plane usually involves crossing state lines, so you should verify any possession restrictions, both state and local, regarding your destination.”

Travelers who board commercial bus lines are subject to stringent rules as well. Greyhound, for example, prohibits knives and other sharp or edged implements aboard its vehicles, although it offers a shipping service for those who require it. The bus line also abides by local laws when it comes to knives, and the fact that state lines are frequently crossed may pose additional issues for knife owners.

Driving a personal vehicle to a destination still requires a knife owner to understand the basic knife laws in certain jurisdictions. These statutes vary from state to state, considering blade length, types of opening mechanisms, and definitions of switchblade versus assisted opening.

Of course, observing general rules of safe knife use is a must. “Basic safety means do not use a knife while the car is in motion,” urged Buck. “It is the same as the old adage of not running with scissors, only you are in a car going 70 miles per hour.”

Extended safety precautions include maintaining an emergency or first aid kit in the vehicle, complete with an implement capable of cutting a seat belt in a situation that requires the extraction of an accident victim.

Air travel remains the most problematic for knife owners, particularly collectors and those who make their living with knives, such as purveyors, custom knifemakers, or show and venue promoters. C.J. noted, “With checking your knife in your luggage, just be sure the blade is properly protected so that under some pretty rough treatment the blade will not be exposed and damage your other items, destroy your luggage, or hurt a baggage handler. I always pack knives in sheaths or at least a cardboard blade cover. I also wrap multiple knives in bathroom towels. It keeps them secure and safe from scratches from vibrating surfaces.”

Some travelers prefer to pack their knives in specially designed folding cases, such as those made by Pelican or Bill’s Custom Cases, or simply put the knives in the back pockets of their pants, and then roll the pants securely in the suitcase. Others use zippered pouches, foam padding, and bubble wrap tubes to prevent knives from rattling around in an airplane’s cargo hold and being otherwise scratched or damaged during transfer or luggage inspection.

Despite increased surveillance efforts, some travelers are still concerned about potential damage or theft by baggage handlers or TSA screeners. Knifemaker Ken Onion reported losing 14 custom knives worth approximately $40,000 sometime during a trip to a show in California in 2006. Others have experienced losses or damage to their luggage and contents. Although some confusion exists, it is permissible to request hand inspection of luggage by TSA personnel after disclosing the presence of knives and for the traveler to be present during the inspection to personally lock the baggage following the screening process.

Small GPS tracking devices may be used to track luggage and ensure that it is on the same plane as the owner. Photographing or videotaping the contents of luggage may also help identify any piece that is lost or stolen, and insurance is available.

Knife show organizer and promoter Steve D’Lack of Fifty Fifty Productions is an advocate of shipping knives to their destination rather than running the greater risk of loss or damage during air travel. “I have heard of knife handles being cracked when they were taken out of the baggage, and many times the guys searching luggage have no clue about how expensive knives are,” said Steve. “I know there have been thefts at airports and that some inspectors have been caught during sting operations.

“If you go by car, the knives are always in your possession,” D’Lack continued, “but it is best not to fly with knives, in my opinion. Airlines do lose luggage. I like to wrap the knives up and ship them, and I do that from 10 to 12 times a year. The package can be insured when it is shipped. You know your knives have been in somebody’s hands, and everything is pretty safe. I may start shipping my clothes that way too instead of packing luggage!”

Purveyor Neil Ostroff of True North Knives is a firm believer in shipping knives, whether to an upcoming show or for delivery to a customer. The only knife that goes into his pocket or luggage is the one he intends to carry upon arrival.

“I rarely travel with knives,” Neil commented. “I have no faith in the airline staff and handlers, although I believe the TSA to be honest. We take great care in packing knives so they arrive at their destination in the same condition as when they leave here. It has almost become an industry joke about how long it takes to unpack knives from us once they arrive at their destination.”

When knives arrive at True North from a supplier, they are checked for any damage three separate times. When knives are shipped out, they are placed in TNK logo pouches if these have not been supplied by the custom knifemaker. Each knife is then placed in a bubble wrap mailer, then in a second heavier bubble wrap mailer, and ultimately surrounded by recycled packing filler inside the FedEx or UPS shipping box.

“In 15 years, we have not had a single complaint of a knife damaged in transit,” concluded Ostroff. People do make mistakes, and there is always the potential for that forgotten pocketknife or small folder that exceeds TSA policy standards to be inadvertently left in a briefcase that finds its way to a screening station. Procedures are likely to vary from airport to airport; however, when an owner has a knife confiscated it is reasonable to ask for a receipt and whether the owner can return at a later time and claim his property. If a knife is missing after baggage is claimed, file a report with the airline and expect the incident to be referred to the TSA for possible resolution.

“As you might imagine,” commented C.J. Buck. “I am often traveling with knives, many of them. Our local airport is Spokane International, and since we are usually wearing Buck branded clothing and travel often, it is routine for the screeners to ask where we are off to this week. I have made many a decision whether to run an item back to the car or donate it to the cause.”

With all the emphasis on safe travel and the prevention of terrorist attacks aboard aircraft or ground transportation, additional revisions to some of the most restrictive TSA regulations may come in the future. “I am sensing an openness to reevaluate the restrictions in air travel,” said Buck. “It is not to sacrifice safety for convenience, but rather to improve security by focusing the screeners’ attention on items that truly do pose a danger to the airplane.”

Meanwhile, those who travel with knives do well to be informed about knife laws and exercise care in the transportation, shipping, and carrying of these essential tools.

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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Travelling with knives

If you are as fond as we are of our knives, the thought of travelling with them might have crossed your mind. Because what is more frustrating than renting a holiday home and being stuck with a drawer of blunt blades of questionable origin? Or arriving on a campsite with just the one pocket knife? 

Safely packing knives is not an easy task (believe us, we’ve put A LOT of thought into the matter), so how do professional chefs do it? 

As one the most trusted brands in the industry, our friends at Mercer Culinary are supplying professional chefs with not only knives but also rolls and cases that allow them to take their knives wherever they go. Using a knife roll for knives and utensils means you too can travel with your knives safely. Not only does a knife roll protect the blades on your knives from banging against each other and getting damaged in the process - it also keeps you safe!

And the best: if you purchase a Mercer Culinary knife roll through this link , you'll save an extra 10%! 

No matter if you are participating in your town's Big Chilly Cook Off, go camping for a week or just want to give your Mom a helping hand with the Thanksgiving feast:  Take your knives wherever you travel! Safely. For yourself and your knives.

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

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. 

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

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. 😉

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

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.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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Carrying a knife is hard to do while crossing state borders because local and state laws vary across jurisdictions. For this reason, it is better to ship them instead of carrying one along with you.

Even when you are shipping your knives, be careful while in a federal facility. There is always a chance that you did not do your research right. If that is the case, and you find yourself in a confrontation with the authority, be respectful and cooperative.

So it is best to do as much research as possible about the knife laws when on the move. They are often complex and overlapping, but the Federal Interstate Transport Act hopes to make that more convenient. 

Regardless of the intertwining laws, knives are beautiful, and there is no reason to refrain from buying them. Online Knife Show is the right place to get the perfect knives for your collection.

AKTI and Preemption Laws

There are a lot of knife-carrying regulations that need your attention as you venture out from your home. For instance, if you go on a trip from Boston to Rhode Island, there are six sets of knife-related laws. Therefore, you need to look into all the ordinances and rules.

In a federal facility like a post office, military base, or a federal court, you are under federal jurisdiction. In such places, carrying a knife can be a punishable offense. However, if it is your first time offending, then you may get a sentence reduction.

AKTI helps the knife carrier to keep out of trouble by establishing preemption laws. Meaning, the state law will overrule local ordinances. Thus, you can carry a knife in all parts of the state regardless of city or town ordinances.

Knife Regulations

Although many legal authorities often come into conflict, there are five main types of restrictions. Here are the basics that you need to know about knife carrying:

The Deployment of Knives

There are places where the deployment of a knife falls under legal concern. For instance, in many areas, balisongs and automatic knives are under restriction, whereas other folders are not.

The Length of the Blade

There are a lot of areas where you can carry a small knife. However, when it comes to larger knives, the authority will not be lenient.

Locking Knives

A locking knife is one that has a locking mechanism that keeps the blade in place. There is a restriction on such knives in many areas.

Concealing Knives While On The Move

Depending on the state, you might get into trouble if you conceal a knife while traveling. Look into the laws regarding concealing a knife before you think of doing it.

Restriction of Knives With Particular Names

In some states, some knives are okay to carry while others are not. It depends on the name of the blade. For instance, daggers, dirk knives, and push knives may not be legal to carry.

Carrying  Knives While On An Airplane

When it comes to knives, the federal government and airlines have very strict and rigorous laws against them. They have policies that you have to abide, or else you may face punishment. To get aboard the plane, first, you have to get through the security checkpoints. To pass through, you have to consent to a search of your person.

Furthermore, you are also consenting to the search of your luggage and bags. So if you have a knife in your pockets, the airline security will find it. You cannot have a knife on you or in your carry on luggage. TSA and other laws prohibit this strictly so that there is no incident on the plane.

However, you can have a knife in your luggage after checking. Since it won’t be in your hands, it’s fine to have. Make sure that your knives are secure in sheaths, casing, or knife rolls. A great idea would be to buy a TSA lock to secure your knives. You will be wise to inform the airline security of the knives you carry before they check for anything. Also, ask for the inspection in your presence.

Don’t try to sneak in a knife in your carry-on luggage as the act is a punishable offense. However, if you forget about a knife that you are carrying, there are a few things that may happen. TSA allows you to go back to your vehicle and keep it there. Their policy also enables a meticulous check of your luggage. You may have to give up the knife to the TSA. Finally, you will have the opportunity to mail the blades. For this reason, A lot of airport security checkpoints have mailboxes around.

Carrying Knives While Travelling Via Railway 

If you are traveling by rail, you can’t have knives on you or in your bags. It’s not even okay to have knives in your stow-away luggage.

Although the laws and regulations preventing you from carrying knives on rail exist, the enforcement is weak. However, it would be best if you did not take advantage of the leniency. After all, laws are laws because people abide by them. You have to check the regulations first hand if you are thinking of carrying knives along with you.

There are some exceptions, such as Greyhound. They allow you to keep knives in your stow away luggage while you travel with them.

Carrying Knives In Personal Vehicles

Traveling in your car is not safe either if you have knives in the vehicle. If there are restrictions on knife carrying in the state you are in, police can stop you. They might proceed with a search without a search warrant.

Once the police find the knife, you will have to go into custody. So, don’t go on a random adventure with knives. It is best to research the state laws of the places you will be in.

Shipping Your Knives

You can ship your knives via USPS , but FEDEX has fewer restrictions. There are certain knives that you cannot ship as its a federal offense. UPS and DHL are good for shipping as they have no restrictions regarding knives. However, it is best to read up on their policies before using their service. Also, learn the laws of the arrival location.

Make sure that the packaging of your knives is secure. You should use a knife roll or a padded case to enclose your knives.

Final Thoughts

Carrying a knife is tricky if you are traveling across states. The laws regarding knives vary from state to state, so it is wise to research all the rules carefully.

You might not be able to travel with your knives in certain modes of transportation. For this reason, consider shipping your knives. However, be aware of the policies of the shipping company.

Knives are not unlawful to have. After all, they aid in security and survival. But some regulations protect people from possible mishaps. Be safe and follow the rules while traveling with knives. 

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Traveling with Knives

Posted by American Edge on Oct 21st 2020

Most knife enthusiasts never leave home without a knife in your possession. While our knives are important to us, we need to be cautious of our knives when we travel. It’s a bit of a tricky subject, however. There is no way to absolutely guarantee the legality of carrying your tool during travel due to the complexity of laws between states and cities.

It is pertinent to check the laws and ordinances in any and all of states and cities that will be passed through when you travel. Federal laws should be regarded as well. This means that when you enter a federal facility, you accept the regulations of said federal building (i.e. post office, military base, courts). When these laws are not followed, severe consequences will ensue. Extra punishments are also generally carried out if you were to carry a knife while committing a federal crime.

There are five primary forms of knife restrictions- keeping in mind that some knives may be legal to own, but not carry. The five primary regulations are blade deployment (how the blade is deployed such as an out-the-front knife), blade length, lock mechanism, concealed carry, and per se limitations (banning of specific knives such as daggers).

Air travel is restricted not only by the federal government, but by individual airlines as well. When you pass through security and when you place you bags through the luggage scan, you are consenting to both a personal search as well as a luggage search. Knives are not allowed in carry on luggage, but are allowed if you check your bags. When packing a checked bag with knives, consider using a sheath, knife roll, or case for added protection. It is also suggested that a TSA lock be used as well as requesting a search in your presence just as a precaution.

Rail travel is arguably the most restrictive form of travel when it comes to the banning of knives. Different rail travel companies have different policies, so be sure to check with the company before carrying onto their platforms.

No matter how you choose to travel, we highly recommend doing your research prior to. The bottom line is be aware of the laws that you are subjecting yourself to when carrying. Always plan ahead.

For more information on knife laws, be sure to read here:

https://kniferights.org/if-arrested/

https://knivesadvisor.com/how-to-travel-with-knives/

https://www.akti.org

• #Air Travel
• #City Ordinance
• #Knife Laws
• #Knife Restrictions
• #Knife Rights
• #Knife Travel
• #Rail TRavel

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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

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 You Buy A Knife from Overseas and Ship into the US?

There is a fine knife that you want to get, but the vendor is overseas.

In most cases, this is when you start thinking about how best to get the knife to your location and if that is even legal at all.

With the updated knife laws in the US and how they are still mostly subject to interpretation, should you buy a knife from overseas to import into the States?

Buying knives overseas is not illegal as long as the knives are not illegal in the US. Otherwise, the parcel could be seized at customs and you could incur some felony charges regards the purchase and intended possession, sales, or redistribution of such knives.

Read on to find out more about buying knives from overseas legally.

Table of Contents

Why Would You Need to Buy Knives from Overseas?

Thanks to Amazon, several knife brands locally established in the US, and a ton of brick-and-mortar vendors, you have more than enough knives around you.

However, there are times when you will prefer to go with an overseas vendor.

Some of such cases are:

Buying from a foreign manufacturer

Not all of the good knife manufactures are in the US.

Some of the brands that I love but that didn’t set up shop in the US are Zwilling, Henckels, and Wusthof. With shops all over Europe, you could decide to buy knives from there, cutting out the middleman and getting better deals on your package.

If getting a reduced cost price is your reason for shipping knives from overseas, though, I recommend that it’s not worth it.

Considering the average wait time, custom duties that you might have to pay, possible taxes, and levies, the costs add up in the end.

Securing a collectible

A collectible might turn up anywhere in the world.

If you are a lover of knives and you collect them, you might have to ship a knife from overseas at some point.

In this case, make sure to find the best courier service to bring your knife in so that it goes through customs seamlessly and gets to you without hassles also.

Traveling back with a knife

Maybe you got a fine set of knives on your recent holiday trip to some other country.

It is already established that you cannot bring knives on planes. At least, neither on your person nor in your carry-on luggage.

In this instance, you also want to bring knives that you did not buy in the US back home.

Domestic unavailability

I have come across some fine knives sold by reputable global brands which are yet to make it into the local market.

Sometimes, the knives are here but not sold by enough vendors. So, they are not enough to go around.

In these instances, I can see why you would want to order yours if you’re interested in that knife.

Special Considerations Before Buying Knives from Overseas

I would like for your transaction to go as smoothly as possible if you are following through with it.

Thus, make sure you consider the following before completing the deal:

Check the laws

Some knives are illegal under certain local, state, and federal laws .

With kitchen knives, you don’t have to be that careful. When we’re talking military/ tactical knives, outdoor blades, and other specialist or utility knives, you should be more careful.

From the knife blade length to the type of knife that it is , everything has to conform with the local laws. Otherwise, you might have your knife confiscated and even face legal troubles on top of that.

Vet the vendor

Some vendors will open up fake websites and online stores to sell non-existent knives to you at a good price.

When the deal looks too good to be true, it is good advice to run.

That is why I stick with Amazon – or other trusted brands that sell directly – when buying knives online.

This is not to say that there are no reputable online vendors out there. I would just be very careful when trusting my money and credit card details to just any website I come across.

Are you old enough?

There are certain age restrictions around knife purchases in different US states. I have written all about that here .

You might get in trouble if you were buying knives online as a way to circumvent these laws.

Anyone can go online and claim that they are an age which they are not just to get access to knives. If you are not legal enough to own a kind of knife, it is best to stay away till you cross the legal age limit to have one of such.

Consider the costs

Sometimes, you think the knives in your local shop are expensive and you can get a better deal by yourself.

For starters, these knife shops have had to pay some shipping charges, levies, and taxes. They have also taken the wait time out of the equation for you. Finally, they tack on a profit margin so that they stay in business.

While I would never subscribe to paying above board for a knife, I also understand that vendors need to make or profit or break even at least.

When you order your knife by yourself, you might soon be faced with the harsh reality of wait times, and how much more you are going to pay.

Your credit card provider

It might not happen to you, but I have encountered cases of blocked cards because the users tried to buy something abroad.

If you don’t use your card this way normally, your credit card issuing company might think that someone is trying to make fraudulent purchases on your card. Hence, they will freeze your account and block the card until you clear the situation up with them.

This is another reason why you need to make sure you are buying from a reputable vendor. In any case, look out for this issue if it happens so that you can resolve it with your credit card company ASAP.

Use Tracking

This is non-negotiable.

You want to know the status of your package at every point. When you can, get tracking on your package.

A lot of packages get lost yearly and that could have been solved with effective tracking. At least, that way, you know when the package stopped pinging you so it’s easier to trace where it got lost at.

Besides that, you also get the peace of mind of knowing when your knife(ves) gets in so you can prepare to take delivery.

How Long Do You Have to Wait When Buying Knives from Abroad?

The wait time is usually a factor of what shipping routes and packages you opt for.

In most cases, the cheaper the option you’re going for, the longer the knives are going to take to get to you.

As a general rule, you should expect the timeframes represented in the table below:

How Much Do You Have to Pay for Importing Knives to the US?

If you’re not buying a very expensive knife or a large set, you wouldn’t have to pay any extra tariffs or levies.

Across the common shipping services (USPS, Airmail, FedEx), small packages are overlooked and won’t be charged.

Some of these shipping services require that the price of the item be declared. Generally, below the $200 range, you won’t have to pay anything.

When it’s above that range, additional taxes and levies might be tacked on. In most instances, these dues are between 5-6% of the declared value of the knife.

I have also heard cases where courier services look into the package if they feel like the declared price does not correspond to what is shipped. For that reason, I think it’s best to simply be honest and straightforward with them.

The table below attempts at establishing the tariffs that you would have to pay, depending on what shipping option you take.

Unlike in other countries where the courier service handles all of the collection and delivery, there is a handoff to the US Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) service once your package arrives in the States. For that reason, I recommend looking through the US CBP guide for more specific information, if you need that.

The reading can be a bit bulky but you should find what you are looking for in there.

Final Words: Buying Knives from Overseas

Buying knives from overseas can be straightforward if you know what you are doing.

Ensure the knives are legal, pick the right vendor, know what the customs rules are and you should be covered. When you miss out on one or more of these things that you are supposed to know, though, the prices can fast become herculean.

If you’re interested in buying any knife and shipping to the US, you have everything that you need to get started in here.

Show me your knife, and I'll tell you who you are. I know my knives - maybe not as well as my mother - but enough to write helpful guides for you. Enjoy!

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Biden-Harris Administration Announces Final Rule Requiring Automatic Refunds of Airline Tickets and Ancillary Service Fees

Rule makes it easy to get money back for cancelled or significantly changed flights, significantly delayed checked bags, and additional services not provided  

WASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris Administration today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a final rule that requires airlines to promptly provide passengers with automatic cash refunds when owed. The new rule makes it easy for passengers to obtain refunds when airlines cancel or significantly change their flights, significantly delay their checked bags, or fail to provide the extra services they purchased.

“Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them - without headaches or haggling,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg . “Our new rule sets a new standard to require airlines to promptly provide cash refunds to their passengers.”  

The final rule creates certainty for consumers by defining the specific circumstances in which airlines must provide refunds. Prior to this rule, airlines were permitted to set their own standards for what kind of flight changes warranted a refund. As a result, refund policies differed from airline to airline, which made it difficult for passengers to know or assert their refund rights. DOT also received complaints of some airlines revising and applying less consumer-friendly refund policies during spikes in flight cancellations and changes. 

Under the rule, passengers are entitled to a refund for:

• Canceled or significantly changed flights: Passengers will be entitled to a refund if their flight is canceled or significantly changed, and they do not accept alternative transportation or travel credits offered. For the first time, the rule defines “significant change.” Significant changes to a flight include departure or arrival times that are more than 3 hours domestically and 6 hours internationally; departures or arrivals from a different airport; increases in the number of connections; instances where passengers are downgraded to a lower class of service; or connections at different airports or flights on different planes that are less accessible or accommodating to a person with a disability.  
• Significantly delayed baggage return: Passengers who file a mishandled baggage report will be entitled to a refund of their checked bag fee if it is not delivered within 12 hours of their domestic flight arriving at the gate, or 15-30 hours of their international flight arriving at the gate, depending on the length of the flight.  
• Extra services not provided: Passengers will be entitled to a refund for the fee they paid for an extra service — such as Wi-Fi, seat selection, or inflight entertainment — if an airline fails to provide this service.

DOT’s final rule also makes it simple and straightforward for passengers to receive the money they are owed. Without this rule, consumers have to navigate a patchwork of cumbersome processes to request and receive a refund — searching through airline websites to figure out how make the request, filling out extra “digital paperwork,” or at times waiting for hours on the phone. In addition, passengers would receive a travel credit or voucher by default from some airlines instead of getting their money back, so they could not use their refund to rebook on another airline when their flight was changed or cancelled without navigating a cumbersome request process.  

The final rule improves the passenger experience by requiring refunds to be:

• Automatic: Airlines must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops.   
• Prompt: Airlines and ticket agents must issue refunds within seven business days of refunds becoming due for credit card purchases and 20 calendar days for other payment methods.  
• Cash or original form of payment: Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in cash or whatever original payment method the individual used to make the purchase, such as credit card or airline miles. Airlines may not substitute vouchers, travel credits, or other forms of compensation unless the passenger affirmatively chooses to accept alternative compensation.    
• Full amount: Airlines and ticket agents must provide full refunds of the ticket purchase price, minus the value of any portion of transportation already used. The refunds must include all government-imposed taxes and fees and airline-imposed fees, regardless of whether the taxes or fees are refundable to airlines.

The final rule also requires airlines to provide prompt notifications to consumers affected by a cancelled or significantly changed flight of their right to a refund of the ticket and extra service fees, as well as any related policies.

In addition, in instances where consumers are restricted by a government or advised by a medical professional not to travel to, from, or within the United States due to a serious communicable disease, the final rule requires that airlines must provide travel credits or vouchers. Consumers may be required to provide documentary evidence to support their request. Travel vouchers or credits provided by airlines must be transferrable and valid for at least five years from the date of issuance.

The Department received a significant number of complaints against airlines and ticket agents for refusing to provide a refund or for delaying processing of refunds during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. At the height of the pandemic in 2020, refund complaints peaked at 87 percent of all air travel service complaints received by DOT. Refund problems continue to make up a substantial share of the complaints that DOT receives.

DOT’s Historic Record of Consumer Protection Under the Biden-Harris Administration

Under the Biden-Harris Administration and Secretary Buttigieg, DOT has advanced the largest expansion of airline passenger rights, issued the biggest fines against airlines for failing consumers, and returned more money to passengers in refunds and reimbursements than ever before in the Department’s history.

• Thanks to pressure from Secretary Buttigieg and DOT’s flightrights.gov dashboard, all 10 major U.S. airlines guarantee free rebooking and meals, and nine guarantee hotel accommodations when an airline issue causes a significant delay or cancellation. These are new commitments the airlines added to their customer service plans that DOT can legally ensure they adhere to and are displayed on flightrights.gov .  
• Since President Biden took office, DOT has helped return more than $3 billion in refunds and reimbursements owed to airline passengers – including over $600 million to passengers affected by the Southwest Airlines holiday meltdown in 2022.   
• Under Secretary Buttigieg, DOT has issued over $164 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations. Between 1996 and 2020, DOT collectively issued less than $71 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations.  
• DOT recently launched a new partnership with a bipartisan group of state attorneys general to fast-track the review of consumer complaints, hold airlines accountable, and protect the rights of the traveling public.  
• In 2023, the flight cancellation rate in the U.S. was a record low at under 1.2% — the lowest rate of flight cancellations in over 10 years despite a record amount of air travel.  
• DOT is undertaking its first ever industry-wide review of airline privacy practices and its first review of airline loyalty programs.

In addition to finalizing the rules to require automatic refunds and protect against surprise fees, DOT is also pursuing rulemakings that would:

• Propose to ban family seating junk fees and guarantee that parents can sit with their children for no extra charge when they fly. Before President Biden and Secretary Buttigieg pressed airlines last year, no airline committed to guaranteeing fee-free family seating. Now, four airlines guarantee fee-free family seating, and the Department is working on its family seating junk fee ban proposal.  
• Propose to make passenger compensation and amenities mandatory so that travelers are taken care of when airlines cause flight delays or cancellations.   
• Expand the rights for passengers who use wheelchairs and ensure that they can travel safely and with dignity . The comment period on this proposed rule closes on May 13, 2024.

The final rule on refunds can be found at https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/latest-news and at regulations.gov , docket number DOT-OST-2022-0089. There are different implementation periods in this final rule ranging from six months for airlines to provide automatic refunds when owed to 12 months for airlines to provide transferable travel vouchers or credits when consumers are unable to travel for reasons related to a serious communicable disease. 

Information about airline passenger rights, as well as DOT’s rules, guidance and orders, can be found at   https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer .

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Has Salman Rushdie changed after his stabbing? Well, he feels about 25, the author tells AP

Salman Rushdie’s “Knife” details the author’s recovery after being stabbed and left blind in his right eye. The AP’s Hillel Italie says the book shows that the 2022 attack “did not crush him. It didn’t take his spirit away.” (April 19) (AP production by Gary Gerard Hamilton)

Salman Rushdie poses for a portrait to promote his book “Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder” on Thursday, April 18, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki)

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NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly two years after the knife attack that nearly killed him, Salman Rushdie appears both changed and very much the same.

Interviewed this week at the Manhattan offices of his longtime publisher, Random House, he is thinner, paler, scarred and blind in his right eye. He speaks of “iron” in his soul and the struggle to write his next full-length work of fiction as he concentrates on promoting “Knife,” a memoir about his stabbing that he took on if only because he had no choice.

But he remains the engaging, articulate and uncensored champion of artistic freedom and the ingenious deviser of “Midnight’s Children” and other lauded works of fiction. He has been, and still is an optimist, helplessly so, he acknowledges. He also has the rare sense of confidence one can only attain through surviving one’s worst nightmare.

“In ‘Midnight’s Children’ I wrote about optimism as a disease. People get infected by it and I think I got a lifetime infection,” he says.

Salman Rushdie’s new memoir, “Knife,” is out now.

• The book is his first since the 2022 stabbing that hospitalized Rushdie and left him blind in eye.
• An AP reporter witnessed the attack at the Chautauqua Institution in New York.
• Rushdie returned to public life last spring, attending the PEN America gala.
• The trial for the man charged with stabbing Rushdie was delayed after a judge ruled he could seek the memoir’s manuscript and related materials.

Chronologically, he is nearly 77, the age his father was when he died, an age he sees a kind of milestone in his own quest to beat expectations.

Internally, he feels about 25.

A self-described nice child, one who did not see himself as destined to get in trouble, Rushdie has had a life well beyond even his own boundless dreams. The 1981 Booker Prize win for “Midnight’s Children” established him as a dynamic voice of post-colonial literature. Nearly a decade later, he would reach a terrifying level of fame with “The Satanic Verses,” and the call for his death issued by Iran’s Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

Rushdie was driven into hiding. But by August 2022, he had thought himself safe enough to address a conference in western New York with minimal security: No one was on hand to stop a young assailant, Hadi Matar, from rushing the stage and stabbing him repeatedly. Matar, then 24, has been charged with attempted murder and assault.

Rushdie spoke to The Associated Press about why he wrote the explicit account of his attack, what he has learned about himself and what he might do next. This conversation has been edited for clarity and length.

AP: When you started working on “Knife,” were you frightened at all?

RUSHDIE: I was worried about retraumatization, that was the worry. And the first chapter, in which the actual attack is described in great detail — that was very goddamn hard to write.

AP: You just got right to the point.

RUSHDIE: Yeah. You know, don’t beat about the bush. Because the reason this book exists is because that happened.

AP: Writers talk a lot about they don’t know how they really felt about something ...

RUSHDIE: ... Until you write it down.

AP: And is that how it was for you?

RUSHDIE: Yeah. Also, I have a very good therapist and actually this is a book written also with the help of a therapist. I was talking to him every week, and discussing what I was doing. And he was helpful, actually. Very clear thinking and helped me clear my thinking. So that was something I had not done before.

AP: You’ve discovered that you’re tougher than you thought you were.

RUSHDIE: If you had told me that this was going to happen and how would I deal with it, I would not have been very optimistic about my chances.

AP: Was there that fear in the back of your mind? You might not be able to handle this?

RUSHDIE: I’m not good with fear. I’m not good with pain. You know, I’m just an ordinary guy hoping those things don’t happen, that you don’t have to deal with fear and pain.

AP: I remember you writing about how, after the fatwa, there was a period where fiction was a struggle. Where are you in that place now?

RUSHDIE: I don’t have the next novel. I hope I will, but the only fiction I’ve written since finishing this book is a kind of story. It’s a thing I don’t know quite what to do with. It’s a story that’s about 60 pages, 65 pages long. And I’m not sure whether to think it’s like a novella or whether I want to add to it and make it more, or that I want to cut it in half and make it a story.

AP: So much of “Knife” is about reclaiming your life. Is one measure of being all the way back “I’ve got the next novel”?

RUSHDIE: That will feel good. I’m always happiest when I have a book to write.

AP: I would imagine there are a hundred different ways to look at the attack and the damage. But one way is, has it intruded upon your imagination?

RUSHDIE: Well, it did. For six months after the attack, I couldn’t even think about writing. I wasn’t physically strong enough. And when I did sit down to write, initially, I didn’t want to write this book. I actually wanted to get back to fiction, and I tried and it just seemed stupid. I just thought, “Look, something very big happened to you.” And to pretend that it didn’t and just go on telling fairy tales would seem like — I would have felt like I was avoiding the subject.

AP: Something that strikes me in this book is when the moment comes, there’s a voice inside you saying, “Well, here it is.” Even as you had gotten back to pretty much a normal life.

RUSHDIE: I did think about it in the early years, obviously, when the danger level was very high. I did think about how somebody could come out of a crowd, and, I had had dreams about it before.

AP: Was there ever that fear that maybe this was just your fate?

RUSHDIE: No, I don’t believe in fate.

AP: What do you believe in?

RUSHDIE: Well, anti-fate.

AP: Coincidence?

RUSHDIE: Taking charge of your life is what I believe in.

Salman Rushdie in New York. (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki)

AP: One of the things I remember thinking when I first heard the news of the attacker was how young the attacker was. He wasn’t born when you wrote “Satanic Verses.”

RUSHDIE: No, not for 10 years or something.

AP: It’s as if you and that book are somehow fixed in the subconscious.

RUSHDIE: And it’s not even the book because nobody takes the trouble to read it. It’s just the name of that book associated with me, me demonized as a bad guy. But I don’t know this man, you know? I mean, I know the little bits that we have been told — that his mother said after he came back from visiting his father in Lebanon that he was very different, much more religion oriented, critical of her for not having taught him properly about religion. And then for four years, in a basement.

AP: It’s like you’re some kind of abstraction out there.

RUSHDIE: I don’t know why it became me that after all this very long time in the basement, playing computer games and watching videos. Why it became me that he fixated on.

AP: When you were growing up, did you imagine yourself as the type of person who would get in trouble?

RUSHDIE: Not at all. I was a very quiet kid. I was really well behaved. My sister, who’s one year younger than me, she was the naughty one. She would beat people up for me and I would get her out of trouble.

AP: You talk about you happy childhood, you’re a nice boy. But “Midnight’s Children,” so much of your work, you’re trying to get some kind of reaction.

RUSHDIE: You’re trying to write a big book, you know?

AP: And a book you probably knew might make somebody unhappy.

RUSHDIE: Oh, yeah, but who cares, you know?

AP: Where does that comes from?

Salman Rushdie poses in New York. (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki)

RUSHDIE: I had it as a child. I had the confidence of being loved and supported by my parents. And I’ve always been kind of academically excellent. So you grow up in that way. You give yourself permission to do things. Because you’ve been treated in that way. And also, of course, remember, I was 21 in 1968. I’m a child of the ‘60s.

AP: How changed, if at all, do you think you are compared to two years ago?

RUSHDIE: I’m still myself, you know, and I don’t feel other than myself. But there’s a little iron in the soul, I think. And I also think the thing that happens when you get really a close up look at death — that’s as close as you can get without actually doing the dance of death and heading off to nowhere — it stays with you.

AP: What does that mean?

RUSHDIE: It means there’s a shadow. It means the presence of the ending.

AP: How old do you feel? Internally.

RUSHDIE: (laughing) About 25.

AP: You do?

RUSHDIE: I think one of the great things about writing — you need a kind of youthfulness to do it, because it requires energy, imagination, dreaming. It’s a young man’s game. I’ve said somewhere that when you’re young and you’re writing, you have to fake wisdom. When you’re older and you’re writing, you have to fake energy.

AP: Can you fake energy?

RUSHDIE: Well, I’ve tried.

April 22, 2024 - Salman Rushdie

Season 29 E 37 • 04/22/2024

S29 • E27 The Daily Show April 3, 2024 - Alison Brie

S29 • e28 the daily show april 4, 2024 - sebastian junger and ken harbaugh, s29 • e29 the daily show april 8, 2024 - christiane amanpour, s29 • e30 the daily show april 9, 2024 - alex garland, s29 • e31 the daily show april 10, 2024 - vampire weekend, s29 • e32 the daily show april 11, 2024 - hanif abdurraqib, s29 • e33 the daily show april 15, 2024 - david e. sanger, s29 • e34 the daily show april 16, 2024 - mayan lopez, s29 • e35 the daily show april 17, 2024 - orlando bloom, s29 • e36 the daily show april 18, 2024 - brittney spencer, s29 • e37 the daily show april 22, 2024 - salman rushdie, s29 • e38 the daily show april 23, 2024 - stephanie kelton, s29 • e39 the daily show april 24, 2024 - andy kim, s29 • e40 the daily show april 25, 2024 - kyle chayka, kyle chayka - "filterworld" - extended interview the daily show s29 e40, "south park: snow day" trailer south park, make the most of a day off with "south park: snow day" south park s26, "star trek: very short treks" has lightyears of laughs star trek: very short treks s1, fires and full moons breed a new terror on wolf pack, this game of m.a.s.h. is a real monster in cursed friends cursed friends.

Travel firm Viking aims for up to $10.8 bln valuation in US IPO

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Reporting by Jaiveer Singh Shekhawat in Bengaluru; Editing by Sonia Cheema and Maju Samuel

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Take Five: Fed straight ahead

A U.S. Federal Reserve meeting and Apple and Amazon reporting results will keep investors' focus in the days ahead on the global rates outlook and on tech earnings, while growth and inflation data from Europe and China are also coming out.