Probably a stupid question, but I have a Stainless Leatherman type all in one utility knife. I definitely want to only pack this in the check-in luggage. The blade and saw are under 2 1/2 inches and do not lock. Will it be a problem? I'm a little paranoid this trip since they made me dig out a little bic lighter from Check-In Luggage last time.
Francis,
A Leatherman tool should be fine as long as it's carried in checked luggage and not carry-on. Have a look at This List on the TSA website. They recommend that sharp objects in checked luggage be "sheathed or securely wrapped" to prevent injury to baggage inspectors.
I've carried a Swiss Army Knife in checked luggage on past trips, and never had any problems.
Happy travels!
Thank you Ken.
That is one of the funniest things I've read in a long time. :)
I always play it safe and take a good quality plastic picnic knife. To be stopped or have it confiscated is a waste of time and a loss of your personal property.
Francis, my husband packs a metal corkscrew and pocket knife in his checked luggage, and then carries them with him while in country. Never had a problem in 3 trips, and on the last trip he said he wished he'd brought his Leatherman. Just don't pack a lighter!
I have an old Leatherman that I bring on every trip [if I check luggage]. Never had a problem with it. A few times the customs people have asked me to open it and show them the features. Since it folds up safely, it's pretty safe to carry without a pouch or sheath.
I always take a "ToolzAll" which I believe to be similar. It has phillips and regular screwdrivers, a file, knife blades, openers, all configured into a wire-stripper/plier. I even used it in Sorrento to repair a shower head support rod which I found held up with a "Walmart" bag! ! !