Tweezers and nail scissors in hand luggage – What is allowed?

You've prepared for your trip, packed your suitcase, and put all the essentials in your carry-on – but now you're wondering: Am I actually allowed to take tweezers and nail scissors with me? Especially with personal care items like these, there's often uncertainty, as airport security regulations are strict. In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know to get through security without any problems and start your journey relaxed.

How to safely bring manicure and cosmetic instruments on your trip!

If you want to take manicure and pedicure instruments like nail scissors or tweezers with you, we recommend packing them in your checked baggage. There are no restrictions for manicure and cosmetic instruments in your checked suitcase, so you can transport your tools safely and without any problems.

This has several advantages: You avoid discussions at the security checkpoint and ensure that your instruments arrive at your destination unharmed. Make sure to pack your tools well so that they don't get lost or damage other items in your suitcase.

The good news: Tweezers are generally allowed in carry-on baggage. According to international security regulations, small personal care items that do not pose an obvious danger are usually
permitted. However, there are a few important points to consider:

• Personal care items such as scissors and tweezers are only allowed in carry-on baggage if they do not exceed a maximum length of 6 cm (measured from the pivot point or base).
• Tips and ends should be rounded.
• If your tweezers are classified as a normal personal care item, there are usually no concerns. It's a different matter if the
  security officers assess them as potentially dangerous.

Even though there are general regulations for carrying tweezers and scissors in hand luggage, the exact rules can vary slightly from airline to airline. Additionally, airports and their security checks often have some discretion about what is allowed and what is not. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the regulations of the respective airline and departure airport in advance.

Lufthansa

With Lufthansa, it is permitted to carry scissors and tweezers in hand luggage, as long as they comply with the applicable security regulations. The blade length must not exceed 6 cm, measured from the pivot.

Eurowings

As with Lufthansa, the same regulations apply to items with blades on Eurowings. Nail scissors and tweezers are allowed in hand luggage as long as the blade length is under 6 cm.

Ryanair

Ryanair follows the same regulations as Lufthansa and Eurowings: tweezers and nail scissors are allowed as long as the
blade length is under 6 cm. It's best to pack them in a clear bag to pass through security without problems.

Austrian Airlines

Austrian Airlines also follows the same rules: tweezers and nail scissors are allowed as long as the blade length remains under 6 cm.

Blunt Tweezers and Nail Clippers in Hand Luggage

Nail clippers and blunt tweezers are usually not a problem in hand luggage, as they have neither sharp blades nor pointed ends. Nail clippers, in particular, are practical because they are compact and versatile without violating security regulations.

Which Scissors Are Not Allowed in Hand Luggage?

Not all scissors are allowed in hand luggage – some models are classified as potentially dangerous by security
screening. These scissors are not allowed in hand luggage:

• Blades longer than 6 cm (measured from the pivot).
• Models with sharp points or particularly sharp blades.
• Hairdressing scissors – you should rather stow these in your checked luggage.
• Large craft or kitchen scissors are also not allowed, as they are classified as tools.

If your tweezers or nail scissors are rejected at security, there's no need to panic. There are several ways you can deal with it.

1. Surrender and buy replacements later:
   Stay calm. Security personnel operate under strict regulations – discussions are often futile. If you're not allowed to take the item with you, you can surrender it and buy a replacement later.
   
2. Retrieving the item:
   At many airports, such as in Vienna, you can check the item in later (for a fee), store it in a depot, or have it sent to your desired address by mail. Clarify these options directly at the service counter.
   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Tweezers and Nail Scissors in Hand Luggage

Which countries have special rules?

Some countries, such as the USA or Australia, have particularly strict security regulations. It's worth checking the specific rules of the respective airports before your trip.

Am I allowed to carry tweezers and nail scissors in my checked luggage as well?

Yes, there are generally no restrictions for checked luggage. Here, you can easily carry even larger personal care items.

What applies to other personal care instruments like nail files?

Metal nail files can be problematic, while plastic or glass files are often permitted. Electric personal care devices should also be packed in checked luggage.