Are You Allowed To Bring Crochet Hooks On A Plane? Here's What TSA Says

When it comes to flying, traveling with nothing but a carry-on can be a bit of a minefield in terms of what you're allowed to bring and what's better off getting left behind. From drinks to electronics and toiletries to snacks, there's a whole list of items that come with their own set of rules and regulations at the hands of the TSA. However, not all items are as easy to categorize as you might think. In fact, there are several unexpected things you can't even bring through TSA — like snow globes, toy swords, and gel candles — as well as several more seemingly suspicious items that don't actually cause any issues. 

Take, for example, your trusty pair of crochet hooks. Because while they might look menacing — we've all seen enough horror movies to imagine the worst, right? — they're actually perfectly fine to wrap, pack, and bring through airport security, per the TSA's official website. Despite their pointy ends and potential to be mistaken for a more threatening object, these tools have been given the green light for air travel on various occasions by the TSA. So whether you're working on crocheting yourself a holiday beach bag or just getting started on a simple scarf, you can fly easy knowing your crochet hooks won't bring you any trouble at the security checkpoint.

Crafty travelers and hobby enthusiasts will be happy to know that bringing crochet hooks and knitting needles along for the ride is allowed under TSA guidelines, as long as they meet specific requirements. "Needles, thread, yarn, [crochet] hooks and scissors (under 4in from the pivot point) can go in carry-on bags," the agency shared on their official X (formerly Twitter) account. Before you go, however, make sure to double-check the size of your scissors if you're bringing them along, and consider packing your carry-on the TSA way — for example, using a clear and easily accessible bag for your craft supplies — in order to help speed up the security screening process and avoid any setbacks.

At the end of the day, having your crochet hooks handy while traveling means you won't have to worry about how you'll spend your time waiting for and during your flight. Instead, you can go ahead and keep your hands (and brain) busy, as well as try to calm pre-flight jitters and even pass the time during any pesky unexpected delays.