Can you bring knitting needles on a plane? - Sharing my first-hand experiences!

[@krystinatran3355]

I just knit on a plane last weekend! I had trouble with my raglan and the older woman sitting next to me happened to be a knitting instructor. What great luck~ it makes me so happy to know that there are knitters everywhere I go

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh wow! that's a nice story...though I am quite amazed you brought the whole sweater on the plane! Wasn't that a bit cumbersome?

[@krystinatran3355]

@@NimbleNeedles If there is a will, there is a way haha

[@kellicoffman8440]

What an awesome story glad someone was there to help

[@gabrielamm5174]

We speak the same language :)

[@KarinMurati]

I love your story ♥♥♥

[@karenholman7975]

an idea is do not take scissors with your knitting project. instead, take an empty dental floss container. put a few buttons sewing needles thread inside the cutter at the top(cuts dental floss) will also cut your thread and your yarn.

[@lubispensieve]

Thank you for this idea! It’s the best I have heard so far!

[@feeberizer]

That's a great idea! I've always used my nail clippers when traveling.

[@ChristophTozer]

Hi Norman, I'm just some guy from Delaware USA. I Love your channel. I'm new to knitting and your channel has helped me a great deal. I have to take my wife to dialysis 3 times a week and I would be bored to tears, for the 4 hours I have to wait for her, if it weren't for knitting. You are a great teacher... thank you for making these videos

[@NimbleNeedles]

thank you chris. And all my best wishes go out to your wife!

[@ottie1954]

Hi! I also used to be a hospital knitter, as my Mom spent so many days of her late time there 😊

[@barbarawolff1826]

In the past few years, I have flown through Atlanta, Nashville, Chicago, and Detroit on Southwest Airlines with my knitting tools, and it was fine. No one stopped me on the flights or in the airports.

[@omeginmari]

I have recently flown from Sacramento, LA, and Omaha all around Thanksgiving of 2022. I had my full set of ChiaoGoo interchangeables in my carry on and two projects on the needles and everything was fine. Happy travels everyone! And Norman, thank you so much for your channel, I learn so many new things from you, thank you!

[@rainbowcactus6774]

I wanted to add that I knitted socks on an ultra long haul flight (UK to AUS) on chiaogoo circulars and ended up splitting the tip of my right pointer finger badly enough to need to treat it for a few days. The dryness in the air meant that the tip of the needle broke my skin when it wouldn't normally. For the flight home I watched my technique and moisturised my hands more often 👍

[@kimberlycockram1894]

Good tip. Thank you

[@Moonbeamglider]

Oh ouch, I’ve split the tip of my finger, so sore. Any tips Norman for protecting finger tips without loosing feel. I’ve tried sticky tape but it curls off.

[@bonnyalma]

You could try using a leather thimble, the kind that quilters use when hand quilting with really sharp sewing needles. Or, just cut the tip off a pair of old leather gloves.

[@mythics102]

I once saw a post in a knitting Facebook group where someone knit socks using colored pencils that they sharpened on both sides, and they weren't confiscated since pencils were allowed on the plane, hilarious workaround

[@magacuellarmonraz1956]

I have actually travelled with bambu knitting needles with no problem, and have also travelled with metallic circular needles. To the metallic ones I removed the tips and put them in my eye glasses metal case, while keeping my project safe in my handbag too. After going through all security controls, I just put on the tips to the needles and knitted at the gate and in the plane.

[@knittingchick50]

“Knitting in the Amazon rainforest is a thing.”🤣🤣🤣 That just cracked me up!!!

[@sandisocean]

Of my own fault, I had never experienced needle confiscation until I naïvely pulled out my knitting just past the security station at Charles de Gaulle, waiting for my friend who was still going through. I've always gotten through with my knitting needles (circular and straight) I think because they are bamboo and not metal. As I sat and knit, the security manager walked over and informed me of my mistake and requested my straight (working) needles. He was kind enough to at least let me finish my row! 🙂 Luckily, I pulled the needles out gingerly enough to get my work back on my circulars when I got onto the plane. Thank you for another great video!

[@robyn3349]

Let you finish your row! I love it!

[@dariamancini963]

That airport confiscated my body lotion too because it was too many ounces. It was completely brand new. At least it wasn’t expensive

[@karenrichmond7547]

Until recently I only crocheted on flights because I figured a hook looked less dangerous than knitting needles. On my last trip I brought my knitting, a simple stockinette stitch beanie on 16" circular bamboo needles.. No problems encountered. I never travel with anything that would be devastating to lose, so my scissors and interchangeable needles stayed home. Nail clippers snip yarn quite nicely and they are less likely to make TSA folks uneasy.

[@melmack2003]

In addition to your suggestions I usually choose plastic needles as opposed to metal....they don't show up on the scanner,

[@Frostedminifirecracker]

Hilarious encounter several years ago, when TSA was still new: I was prohibited from bringing my straight needles (steel or aluminum. But, my circulars were just fine. 🥺 To me, this was funny because circulars are pointy and have a built-in garrote! 😱 Since then, around 2015, I’ve carried small scissors, knitting needles and crochet hooks (very small lace sizes) with no problem. It still seems odd.

[@NimbleNeedles]

well...most of it is a bit odd. Like the no water through security check thingy. But well...I guess there are times to accept the way things are ^^

[@VioletChartreuse]

Yes I have always thought what a great garrote circular needles would make. Just granny doing her knitting..then suddenly that noisy passenger in front is very quiet. No really, I wouldn't do that.

[@Frostedminifirecracker]

@@VioletChartreuse 😮😂😂

[@joa7302]

It has changed so much: I used to work for the Lufthansa booking service from 2004 to 2006 and back then needles were not allowed ! Back then post 9-11 regulations were still in place, and it was a big no no, particularly international flights to the USA. That’s what we were told to tell customers when they asked, and we had a lot of queries in that regard ..

[@cathywhitehead2509]

I am so glad I found you!!! I am flying back to America for a visit and want to bring my small knitting projects with me. I have decided to teach myself continental knitting with your video so I don't bug the person next to me with my American "release the needle and whip your whole hand around the other needle" evasive style! lol. Great tips that put my mind at ease with bringing my needles on a plane!!! You are an awesome instructor!!!

[@KealaniAlexandra]

Hi Norman! Fairbanks, Alaska here. By all means knit on a cruise or flight up here, Princess and Alaska Air are very knit friendly. Besides, the locals will love to check-out your projects. There are lots of small yarn shops to cover anything you didn't have room to pack. But best of all, and I do mean best, come get some Qiviut yarn from our local Musk Oxen. It's pillow soft, very light-weight and magically warm. Come visit.

[@kithg]

I flew to and from Hawaii with Delta, American, and Hawaiian Airlines - never a problem. Wooden circular needles, a manageably sized project, and one of those yarn cutters that has an edge inside a decorative circular sleeve worked out fine. I never even missed a scissor. And it does help pass the time on a long flight.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, I typically don't bring a scissor either. Mostly you really don't need it.

[@lauriewurster3022]

I flew US on American and united this past few months. I always knit on circular knitting needles, and had them in my travel case for knitting needles. No questions asked. I knitted both times on the plane

[@jennifermassello8670]

I’ve never had a problem, even with my keychain scissors- which admittedly are tiny snips- but I have heard horror stories. I love your advice of switching to wood needles, tho- it’s just safer! 😃

[@NimbleNeedles]

at the end of the day, they are also lighter - so less weight you have to carry around. Well..10 grams or so but it does add up ^^

[@betsylatham5023]

@@NimbleNeedles The only issue I had with small (under 4”) scissors, is that in the US, TSA let my carry-on go through no problem, but in Germany security made me take the scissors out of my bag to show them. May want to check whether you need to have them out for security where you are going to save time.

[@schlurpie]

what i can't understand is that what makes wooden needles less dangerous than metal ones? i heard of knitter horror stories where the flight staff cut off the metal circular needles or confiscated them, but wooden ones were left alone. but you know, wooden needles can still stab and also break into splinters. and just look at those jumbo wooden needles, you can easily kill vampires with those 😆😆😆

[@TorchKat]

I flew with my knitting for the first time last fall. I took a Southwest Airlines flight from New England to Arizona (and back again) with a cotton-based baby blanket for my niece. I kept my project and plastic interchangeable circular needles in a mini reusable shopping bag that Walmart was giving away to those who picked up groceries during lockdown. Southwest allows everyone to have one carry-on and one personal item (such as a purse or laptop bag). I stuffed by purse in my carry-on and used the mini bag as my personal item. It was very convenient.

[@NimbleNeedles]

awesome. Thank you for sharing that!

[@merandabubbles1124]

A member/friend in my knitting group told about a friend of hers that had the cable of her circular needles cut by security because they thought it could be used as a garrote!! I love your videos. This one was very informative and helpful. Thank you.

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh wow...well...by that logic you couldn't bring a belt either, right? >.< ah well..guess you shouldn't argue with that security officer ;-)

[@valariehogue5793]

No shoelaces allowed either! Or bags with long straps, or hair ribbons… how ridiculous.

[@jenniferkirkpatrick5926]

I just recently flew this last week and took my Hiya Hiya sharps with me planning to knit. I couldn't knit on the plane due to lack of space (a fairly large person next to me took some of my seat too) but had no problems getting them through security.

[@cindymorgan4639]

Some years back (pre-pandemic), I had my stainless steel circular needles taken from me by customs in Ireland, when I was returning to the U.S.. Very frustrating, as I had travelled to/from Ireland before that, with stainless steel needles, without incident. So, along with actual rules, it also depends on the particular customs/security officer. Ireland was also where security took me aside because of the extra set of guitar strings in my guitar case-they made me take out the guitar & demonstrate that I could play it. I guess the coiled up steel strings looked too much like I was carrying 6 spare garrotes in my instrument case...

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh noes...yah that can be frustrating when one officer says something different than the other >.

[@RocLobo358]

Ireland has some top shelf security theater.

[@ooohlaa13]

I think I have an outta da box solution for the times they want to confiscate expensive needles. Have a stamped self address priority mail or regular envelope made out to yourself in your travel on bag. If they give you a hard time ask them if you could pop them in the envelop and have airline staff person drop in their outgoing mail. Then you could get back those ADDI or other expensive needles and will be waiting for you when you get home! Worth a try. You can always keep the envelope with you so nothing can be confiscated permanently.

[@dorothykeating2524]

m 14:29 ​@@NimbleNeedles

[@AngelusLabyrinth]

This is a video I didn't know I needed! I had always crocheted/knitted when I am on the road but am yet to embark on a plane. This video is so useful and the community in the comments is inspiring me to keep knitting. Cheers and happy travels, knitters. 🥰

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, the comments are an awesome resource! so happy for this community!

[@gavinhenderson4522]

In March 2022 I flew from London Heathrow to Minneapolis St Paul. I am new to knitting but decided to take a chance. I did a little bit of research and decided that a small project; socks, on wooden DPNs would be my best bet. One piece of advice I had was to take a project that had already been started to that there is actually knitting on your needles. Of the eight hours I knitted for maybe two and thoroughly enjoyed it. The flight attendant had a chat with my about my project and was very complimentary. I told her I had recently taken up the hobby and she asked if I had taken classes. I, of course, referred her to this channel. Thank you for another great video Norman

[@NimbleNeedles]

awesome. And yeah, knitting can be such a lovely conversation starter. I had many a chat with flight attendants as well. Thx for sharing, Gavin.

[@jayeclements6452]

Hi Norman! I have always knitted when flying. I'm not a 'good' flyer so it's essential for me to have a distraction. I always use wooden circular needles (my brand of choice is KnitPro Symfonie) which have never presented a problem. I use a thread cutter, the sort that look like a cookie with a bite taken out which is where the blade is, on a lanyard. I find they're fine for anything up to worsted weight. I choose a small, stand-alone project just in case it is confiscated rather than a larger project I am in the middle of. I also laminate the pattern so it doesn't get crumpled and have a bag that I can tuck down my side. Personally, I find the BIGGEST danger when knitting on a plane is being engaged in conversation by people fascinated by someone knitting. One doesn't want to be rude but they can absolutely monopolise your time and reduced good knitting time!!

[@NimbleNeedles]

hahaha...yeah..sometimes those "interrogations" by non-knitters can be abit...well..taxing or gringey, yeah ;-)

[@a.humphries8678]

And mess up the count and concentration .

[@melissashupe5732]

Brilliant suggestions, Norman! I especially appreciated the mention of taking periodic breaks and stretching. Thanks for this video! Prost!

[@NimbleNeedles]

My pleasure, Melissa!

[@downtime86stars17]

I've never had a problem at the airport. But, I do limit myself to small projects (socks, mittens) in my carry-on and use bamboo DPNs or circulars.

[@cindyfrye3026]

Safe travels to everyone if you are going somewhere.

[@jillianjohnson7705]

As a United flight attendant, I love seeing passengers knitting! I always try to engage in conversation, even if just a few moments, because we knitters are a kindred bunch. That being said, this past January I was flying from TLL to FRA (Tallinn to Frankfurt) and my metal tipped circular needles were confiscated by Estonian security prior to entering the airport. I had done plenty of research prior to my trip but alas, they still didn't like my knitting needles. They missed the pair that my project was on, whether by chance or on purpose, but I lost three circular needles and a crochet hook that day. Since then, I have transitioned to wooden/bamboo circular and straight needles for work/travel purposes.

[@southpaw487]

Thank you for all your hard work. I was a very frequent flyer for 30 years and I know you have a very difficult job. I'm amazed at how so many flight attendants can keep smiling...

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah...I have chatted with many a flight attendant over the years. Sadly..there's often very little time on a busy time for these kind of talks :(

[@southpaw487]

I've flown for many years, but was not a serious knitter until the pandemic. This past week, I returned from a trip to Italy and knit on the flights to and from (United). In fact, the flight attendants took an interest in my projects. I took 3 projects: socks on wooden DPNs, small cowl on wooden interchangeable and a longer but lightweight cowl on Karbonz interchangeable. I deliberately did not bring anything with large needles. I also flew an Italian domestic flight on Alitalia and went through security without a problem. I didn't knit on that flight because it was very short. I had folding scissors for the first flight (US to Italy), but put them in my checked luggage for the others.

[@russellsansom1673]

I've never had any problems taking knitting or crochet projects on board, but i always use wood or bamboo when travelling, just in case. I'd also like to suggest that you don't take lots of yarn with you because if you're like me, you'll probably look for a local yarn store and will buy souvenir yarn to remember the trip.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yah...I do that too. I hate typical cheap souvenirs (you know..fridge magnets and the like)...but yarn..that's awesome!

[@annabelle7123]

Recently I’ve flown on Ethiopia Airlines to Ethiopia with a small project. 13 hours flight! As you said, I didn’t knit that much but had no trouble boarding with wooden needles in my cabin luggage. I would not carry them with me in hand bag but sometimes it’s not a problem! I put my metal needles in check in luggage.

[@nans969]

Shortly after 9/11 I flew from Seattle to Rhode Island for a funeral. I just was learning to knit. I brought a small simple project to keep my 12 hour journey busy. Of course, everyone was on high alert. I had metal strait needles. And a couple supplies I needed. TSA took my needles, darning needle( also metal) and a nail file I didn't realize I had in my purse. At that time we were still able to bring liquids and keep our shoes on. Thankfully, everything they took were cheap. A year later had to fly to Florida for another funeral. I had wood circular needle. Plastic darning needle and cat nail clipper instead of scissors. I called the airline to see if those things were fine. Didn't use personal computers much at that time. So, had to talk to a person.

[@NimbleNeedles]

thank you for sharing nan!

[@knitspinfibre]

I always knit on the plane, I only take wood circular needles in my hand luggage and mini foldable scissors, leaving from the UK Birmingham, to Istanbul Turkish airlines and Cyprus, I fly with Turkish airlines and have knitted and crocheted with no problems at all, I do keep my mini foldable scissors in the bag until I need them, Istanbul security are very fussy about metal needles, so I never keep them in my hand luggage.

[@petrawahlbring3840]

Earlier this month I flew from Luxembourg to Frankfurt (LuxAir) and Frankfurt to Chicago (United Airlines, back with Lufthansa) with my wooden circulars without any issues. I knitted the hours away while watching some videos from the inflight entertainment (best one was Slumdog Millionaire :) A cute dress for my baby nice got nearly finished on these flights.

[@NimbleNeedles]

awesome, Petra. It is such a great way to spend the time onboard, right - especially as it comes with entertainment options :)

[@fionaarmstrong6587]

I have carried knitting needles in my hand luggage from the uk to Italy, Portugal and US without incident. Always make sure they are not my best or favourite pair, as I know there is always a random security guard. I have to admit the looks I get in the departure lounge and on flight are amusing. Always take nail clippers.

[@fionaarmstrong6587]

Have since been through Bonn (Germany) airport with no knitting needle issues.

[@robyn3349]

Great tips here! I especially like the ideas of not 'exposing' your tools unnecessarily, having the project started, and non-metal needles. Oh, circular needles - cause I drop them all the time!

[@jacquiejy]

I just flew back from Los Angeles where I purchased a steel Chiaogoo full set... and on the way to the airport it suddenly hit me I couldn't risk bringing my project in my carry on bag in case they were confiscated. I quickly switched out to my older bamboo needles and put the Chiaogoos in my checked bag. Boarded no problem with the 4" circulars. This was on Air Canada. Great video with lots of good info for my upcoming trip to Europe!

[@NimbleNeedles]

thank you for sharing, Jacquie!

[@rheahartt8138]

I just flew with Air Canada last week and had no problems with using my wood knitting needles on board. I did get stopped for an extra security check of my carry on bags, but that was just a minor delay. Next time I think I’ll put my project in a clear plastic bag when I put it through security. Knitting on the plane was a little tricky because I didn’t have a lot of space in economy so I’m glad I took a simple project.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah..it can be super awkward. that leg room sure does make one feel claustrophobic :(

[@cksqult]

Thanks a lot Norman for your great videos, I enjoy them a lot and also learned quite a bit. I‘m a reasonably experienced knitter and have knitted on flight quite a lot. For me sock knitting works well with magic loop and wooden needles. They don’t seem to be too threatening. Metal needles on the other hand seem to be frowned upon, especially by Eurowings, whereas Iceland air, Lufthansa or Emirates have not complained. Flying to Iceland even resulted in some interesting conversations with flight attendants or other knitters on the plane :-)

[@corbinfauntleroy382]

I always take a sock project with me on a plane. I use wooden DPN ,which probably doesn't show up on the X-ray, and its never been a problem.. However I am careful to bring round nose scissors because I have had sharp pointed scissors taken away from me. One quick tip. If you take interchangeable needles on the plane. Disconnect them from the knitting piece and include the needles separately. For some reason, that doesn't cause TSA much concern.

[@NimbleNeedles]

interesting. Thank you for adding that.

[@margarethull3004]

Be ware! I have enjoyed knitting on plane. Female attendant talked knitting with me. But also had needles confiscated (dangerous weapon) at Mexican Airport on return flight. Friends also had similar issues. TSA says OK but other countries have different policies.

[@marianadeboice2659]

Dearest Norman Nimble Needles! How wonderful you are! Thank you for taking the time to make this video! It has been so helpful! I did go on a trip last month, and brought very small, circular, bamboo needles quite successfully. Still, thank you for covering so much!

[@kelliestephens9882]

I have knit on airplanes many times without any problems. I usually fly on Delta. The last time was January 2021, I took my whole set of ChiaoGoo red lace needles. I was going for a month to care for my parents, and wanted my projects with me. I knitted a lot on that trip! I made a heavy wool blanket for my Dad, as he was often feeling cold. I also took my knitting to South Korea two different times, but found I did not knit at all while I was there because I was too busy sightseeing. I did knit on the 18+ hour flight, though! I make sure to bring very small scissors ✂️ 😊

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, that's my experirence as well. Tyically there's just so little time to knit while you are tehre. But i mean..with an 18+hour flight and possibly waiting time at the gate it's still worth bringing some knitting, right?

[@kelliestephens9882]

@@NimbleNeedles absolutely worth bringing! I like to bring small projects with me everywhere. I hope to be able to travel abroad again someday, I have so much more to see and learn! 💖

[@kimeikoraevision5446]

Hi Norman! You look so cute in your travel gear! Thanks so much for taking the time to educate us on thinking about HOW we can set ourselves to travel safely with our beloved fiber arts tools. Also the tips on NOT being TOO optimistic on how much knitting we THINK that we will actually get too! lol. 😅 Great points! Great tips!!! thanks for everything Mr. Nimble Needles!

[@NimbleNeedles]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jurrassitol15]

Hi Norman! I’ve flown many many times internationally and domestically from Sydney and I’ve never ever had a problem with my needles. I’ve flown on Qatar, emirates, singapore, qantas, Lufthansa, Jetstar, virgin, American and British to name a few and have never been stopped. My main tip is to make sure that you have a project already started, so that when they do the X-ray and check they can see its actually knitting and not a weapon. I usually always bring my karbonz or wooden circular needles on flights as they’re versatile for both magic loop and straight knitting. And definitely bring small projects - i love sock knitting on flights and i usually print my patterns out so that i have a paper copy in my project bag. Knitting on flights make the long haul (especially from sydney where flights to places like Bali and japan are a minimum 8-9 hours…and lets not talk about Europe!) go a lot quicker…as well as a good conversation starter :)

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah...that's the one thing that keep me from visiting most of Ozeania...the flight duration from Europe is just insane. And since my body doesn't agree with flying all that much... Ah well...gotta be content with what you have, eh? :)

[@jurrassitol15]

@@NimbleNeedles yep…its a little bit of a long flight…but worth it! I always do the trip in sectors…usually do a stop over in singapore/japan/Dubai/Doha to break it up. Definitely can’t do the planned 24 hour flight that they are going to start running from australia to London 😳 hopefully one day you’ll make it down here!

[@twiggyvlogs6441]

That's good to hear, I'm doing Darwin to London with Qantas next week and I really want to knit

[@fizzknit9446]

Jurrass # I agree with your helpful ideas. And I also start the small projects before hand for airplane travel (ie 4ply - for a baby hat, or socks with after-thought heels) using short circulars.

[@doalux]

i love this video because i get so anxious about things like this. thank you !

[@theastewart6721]

Hi Norman. Great video. The thought of my needles being taken from me would be so upsetting. The idea of bringing an envelope is a great one. I will be flying within the month but will probably bring a crochet project. Or maybe I’ll buy an inexpensive circular needle for a knit project that I will start after landing because we will be driving back and I like to have options, lol. Thanks for sharing all of your great tips! Some of the planes you’ve been on look pretty cool! Now I’m going to rewatch your video on dpns. I have a milestone birthday coming up in July and I’m going to treat myself to a couple of sets! Have a great week and thanks again!🤗😀

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh...well..better start dropping hints ever so often when you talk to friends and relativevs. haha ^^

[@theastewart6721]

I’ve already dropped hints to my husband and kids. But these needles will be my treat to myself!🤗💞

[@JohannaHaggstrom]

I travel a lot (usually three weeks per month) and always bring my knitting without issues. I use Chiaogoo metal needles and typically knit smaller projects, such as socks, hats and simple scarves.

[@collady1]

I went to Scotland for a month in 2018. We flew from Chicago to Edinburgh and I knit about half the time on the plane. When I would get tired, I would visit the toilet. I checked the time when food or water was going to be offered. I planned a nap before and put the knitting away until after I ate or drank. It worked well for me as. I knit a pair of socks that I didn’t have to pack. I did the same on the return with yarn I purchased at a wool festival in Perth Scotland. On a side note, I purchased so much wool yarn I had to purchase an extra bag to check!

[@NimbleNeedles]

haha...those trips to scotland can be dangerous, right! ;-)

[@chixsms]

You could never have too much yarn 😀👍🏼, I too get carried away at the knitting convention every year 👏🏼👏🏼👍🏼

[@collady1]

The socks were knit in a hand dyed yarn what the color way was named Nessie. The toes and heels were Loch. I wore them when we were at Loch Ness. I wish I could send a picture!

[@delfinotartaruga]

Hi, Thanks a lot for all this wonderful informations. Today I tried to fly with Easyjet from Milan to Lisboa with my knitting tool. It worked! I had the opportunity to knit on plane. I have terror to fly and knitting helped me a lot. I brought with me: Knit-Pro round needle green, size 3.00, 5 wooden needles and the set to finish my works like needles and scissors (on Swiss mini knife tool Victorinox). Wonder-Norman! You ar really special. 🌹

[@NimbleNeedles]

that's great to hear - especially that your knitting helped you combat your anxiety!

[@haruejules]

I flew on 26 April 2022 from Japan to the USA on ANA and Delta and knitted all the way on the flight when I was awake. I flew back on 29/30 April on Delta, then ANA. The flights were Osaka - Tokyo - Atlanta - NYC (JFK). I brought my knitting on circular bamboo needles to be extra sure (they tend to be more lax with wood/bamboo vs. steel). I totally agree with Norman on sharp, steel needles. Not a good idea. I tend to carry simple shawls on circular needles or just start a new shawl when I travel to ensure that my project is small. Instead of a project bag, I will bring the yarn and circular needles in a 1L zip lock bag. I will poke a hole through the bag with a pencil about 5cm from the zipper and cut from the hole to the top of the bag on one side so that I can knit while the yarn is in the zip lock bag. The hole and cut enable me to pull yarn from my bag. By making sure I have a new project on my needles, I remove the need for scissors or a tapestry needle. I have a friend who swears she can carry her tapestry needle and scissors anywhere provided she keeps them in her coin purse, but I have never done that myself.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, I agree...i don't really see much sense in bringing tapestry needle and scissors. For the projects I bring, I typically don't need it. Not like i was doing an intarsia project on the plane ;-) Of course, if someone feels more comfortable with having them, why not. Good to know that you can bring them. PS: Osaka - JFK....my...that sounds like a loooooooooooooong trip.

[@valeriehowden471]

Started knitting during the pandemic so have yet to take a project on a plane. Traveled lots in past so kept my in air entertainment to a book. Wouldn't worry too much about a book. I'd be really upset if I lost or damaged a project on a plane. Road trips in Canada are a different story ... easy to have a 3 hour drive so it is perfect for knitting socks or working on crocheted dishclothes.

[@NimbleNeedles]

well, I typically bring special projects. Like simple socks I cast on specifically for the trip. So I am not overly worried about losing stuff. Wouldn't bring that delicate cashmere shawl project either :P

[@marybethgalvin9979]

Great video Norman- very helpful and amusing too !!!

[@yarnycat_crochet]

Im more of a crocheter, but i do knit squares and rectangles lol. If someone tried to hijack a plane with me on it it wouldn’t matter if i was using bamboo or wood knitting needles i would use them 😆 bamboo knitting needles are superior to the metal ones especially after you have used them for awhile. The yarn doesnt slip off as easily but still glides over easy enough for faster knitting. 😊

[@Leslie_ann_h]

Bamboo needles work okay for me but they always feel weird to me (I have some tactile adversions thanks to some issues) so to make the needles less offensive to my tactile adversions I coat them with a layer of builder gel and no wipe top coat for nails.

[@yarnycat_crochet]

@@Leslie_ann_h thats a great idea 😊

[@msy6487]

Growing up, back when I mostly crocheted, I always brought nail clippers to cut my yarn on the airplane 😂

[@mayolson2]

You are always full of great information. I haven't flown much but in case I do in the future this is good to know.

[@barthefortgens268]

A couple of year ago I flew home from Ireland to The Netherlands. At customs control they took my knitting from my bag and told me that the manager had to look at it. After a couple of mins they returned and told me: "Manager said that your knitting is even more beautiful than that of his Granny!" Such a nice experience.

[@NimbleNeedles]

ha! wow...! and there you probably thought things might quickly escalate!

[@PiklizTafia]

I just love your channel. You share so much information with us 😊

[@maizoon4327]

The first thing I do when travelling with knitting is to check if I can take my needles & use nail clippers for cutting (works great). I use hiyahiya flyers as I like to knit socks & gloves so my tips are shorter than other types of needle. My last trip was on easyJet.

[@smallfootprint2961]

I agree with Dana. I knitted on the plane, and also carried my yarn scissors. Don't know the rules about size, etc. but I made a nice little hat and the flight attendant commented on my work.

[@GolfPrincessCL]

Thank you so much for these great tips 😻 We have two trips planned this year that involve flying, and I am so grateful to have this information 🥰🧶 Stay safe 😷💕🌈

[@NimbleNeedles]

awesome! And the good news is: I never had issues with Qatar airways (in fact, my very last flight was with them). (i think I remember you were from DOha, right?)

[@GolfPrincessCL]

@@NimbleNeedles Great! I'm in continental USA but have DOha on my bucket list ✈

[@JadeCaro]

"Getting mold in your wool because you thought knitting in the Amazon rain forest was a thing" 🤣

[@casey0613]

I have always traveled with my Lykke knitting needles, scissors, etc and have never had an issue. I will say I usually only fly Untied and American Airlines Domestically. Buy always check both the TSA and the Airline’s site.

[@curryg1]

I travel loads with my knitting and only had problems twice. Security at Istanbul would not let me through with knitting needles on the way back from a trip despite not having problems on the way out. I let them keep the needles and picked up the stitches when I got home. And Ethiopian Airlines told me to stop knitting in a return flight. Totally agree with circular needles on board as I flew to US yesterday and was using straight (bamboo) needles in economy class. Not a great idea.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah. I did mention that in the video. Instanbul can be a bit problematic. And funnily enough, for me, it also always happened on the return flight.

[@Vasilya1122]

May I just say, your are so grate!!! Love all your tips. You give them with such care and lot’s of helpful details. Really thank you!!! Good luck and happiness to you and your work! 🤗🤗🤗

[@NimbleNeedles]

aww..thank you Vasilya for your kind wishes

[@judylee3589]

Great information Norman! I will be flying next month so I'll be sure to check it all out!

[@christielamb2894]

Thank you for all the useful information and tips. 💜

[@cberger9447]

Perfect timing Norman. I have to travel within the US in July and I’ve been trying to read through TSA, but never would have thought to check the airline itself.

[@ingeleonora-denouden6222]

I only lost my best fabric scissors to the security at the airport. They said scissors weren't allowed. I don't know if that was true, I did not check before my trip ... I never took knitting projects with me on a plane. I only took my drawing and watercolour painting stuff with me (and used it quite a bit, even on board the plane).

[@triniparsons8717]

I’ve been flying with my bamboo knitting needles for more than 20 years from USA to Europe and back and never have had a problem.

[@ellenc4368]

Yesterday after years of travel with small round collapsible scissors, mine were taken away while leaving the Philippines. No issues with my wooden interchangeable needles (bamboo etc), but the scissors were physically torn apart. They did not find the round Clover yarn cutter (in my bag with pens and pencils for work.). Always keep a backup in your carry on, just in case.

[@NimbleNeedles]

sorry to hear that but thank you for sharing it!

[@rosebenton1126]

I crochet and just use a plastic hook when I fly. Never had a problem. Sometimes I get strange looks from people around me.

[@robyn3349]

You are doing "that other thing!" lol

[@rosebenton1126]

@@robyn3349 I want to learn to knit just get confused.

[@Nana-lk3yv]

Very interesiting video. I absolutley had no idea about the restrictions. Good to know! Thank you, Norman!

[@NimbleNeedles]

Glad it was helpful, Nana!

[@lesliehaber5616]

Flew Turkish Air from Dallas to Istanbul (and several internal flights) in April 2022 with a circular wooden interchangeable needle. Left the scissors in my checked luggage and stashed one of those Japanese locket-shaped thread cutters in my project back. No issues whatsoever with security-- I doubt they even noticed them.

[@bharris9824]

Tnx so much for the info. I’ve recently started crocheting and have family in Indonesia. I look forward to crocheting on the plane now.

[@Mspurrier88]

Years ago we flew from US to Mexico. No problem passing through security on the US side, but the Mexican security officer made me cut the needle part from my Addi Turbo circular needles. Fortunately I was using a long enough needle to tie a knot in the cord to stabilize the knitting.

[@ooohlaa13]

Hi Norman, you have turned teaching knitting into a fine art and a math project. I am so grateful because I am a right brainer. i have been knitting socks for 5 years and no 2 seems to come out the same LOL! Best I can do is similar. It is because I may be morphing several patterns and taking notes, or modifying as I go along thinking I will remember what I did. By the next day even, I can't decipher my notes and I am into the right brain hmmmmm. Basically I "wing-it" a lot and I so envy your meticulous style and predictable results. I watched this entire video spellbound and I don't know if I can do it because of having such a maverick style, but I will really try even though I get anxious with all the measurements and decisions. Often get a pleat at the arch and dunno if I have made it for too high or too low of an arch. I so want a rounded toe but even after following round toe patterns mine may have "ears" or look too wedgy. I get toe increases more wonky on one side so I will try your method instead of Turkish and M1. I thank you so much for your dedication. Right now living on SS checks prohibits me from Patreon, have you ever considered a Senior discount fee option? You could require some proof of age so you don't get bargainers but with this group I would doubt that. With the rise of living costs in US, I just have to be really mindful of spending. Just a thought, not a biggie.

[@NimbleNeedles]

hey Barbara, it's not about what I consider but the way patreon works. Basically it's an elaborate tipping platform. So, there are no way to offer discounts or free acess because, typically, you don't ask for a tip discount or a free discount. You can, however, pledge an individual amount. That being said, the Patreon account is there so those who can afford it kinda pay the free videos for those who cannot. ANd if you are currently living on SS checks...well, I would say that kind of sounds like you are the reason why patreon exists :) So, don't stress over it, I would say.

[@lindataylor4397]

I have never had a problem bringing my needles or sewing machine in my carryon in a plane to include going to Barcelona.

[@NimbleNeedles]

you are taking a sewing machine on the plane? really? what for? I mean..do you sew on your seat?

[@christinedenise7844]

I inherited my grandmother’s Featherweight 222 and was bringing it home. There is positively no way I would have checked it. The machine most definitely came on board with me. TSA got a chuckle going through X-ray and I can’t remember if it was examined closer or not. But yes, it happens! And no, I didn’t use it on the plane. 😊

[@nicolelafontaine1720]

What a great question !!! You have been traveling on lovely planes juging from the pictures.

[@NimbleNeedles]

let's say I only included the nicer ones..or rather..in the past years I only flew on nice planes...and before I startd the knitting blog I didn't tend to take pictures of me knitting onboard ^^

[@biniaddi]

PERFECT timing! I am not a frequent flyer and want to take my knitting with me on a flight (Leipzig to Newcastle - Lufthansa) for the first time this summer. They don't list knitting needles on their website so I wasn't sure. Thanks for the tips on what needles and projects would be best. ☺

[@sueguinane9995]

I fly with Lufthansa with knitting quite frequently. Never had a problem. My usual departure airport is Munich.

[@jahbern]

I flew Lufthansa through Munich and flew through London earlier this year and no one even blinked an eye at my supplies. The agent at LHR did want to see my scissors, but they were just snips. I would personally not travel with a treasured pair of scissors or needles just because I might lose them. But I wouldn’t hesitate to bring a project. I flew through 5 European cities in March and had no problem.

[@myohmymads]

Have you had the same experience with Oslo airport too?

[@aliciamartinez6116]

Hi Noman. I have always taken a ziploc bag with a new socks project and my tiny 9 inch circular needles in my travels. Small enough to not call attention and big enough yo keep me busy on long flights 😀

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, sock knitting on plane is awesome. And the ziploc tip is great as well. Cheap alternative to a project bag and probably makes it appear more like: hey, I read the regulations!

[@2acremiraclerunawaylobster330]

I recently did knitting on virgin airline between Manchester and New York. I too precautions with bamboo needles and a rubber stopper. They were a pain to knit with and my project was really big and complicated but I managed ok but balling it up on my lap. I had no issues with officials and security the whole trip 👍🏻👍🏻

[@GaminGawdess]

Norman… what a great informative video!!! You have been very blessed to have traveled to so many places and opportunities to see different wonderful things in this world.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, never have I felt that more than in the past 2 years!

[@cindyceraolo4676]

Hi Norman, I just made a couple of trips in the US once on Delta and the other on Southwest Airlines and have brought my knitting and a pair of scissors with no issues. However, I was on a trip a few years ago and pulled out my knitting and the lady sitting next to me made a nasty comment saying "I can't believe they let you bring those things on the plane", well I looked over at her and she was using a pencil doing a word puzzle, so I replied back to her "I can't believe they allowed you to bring a pencil" she huffed at me and I said what's the difference my needles are less dangerous than your pointed lead pencil. She quit talking at that point. I usually only knit on a pair of socks while I'm flying because they are small and I don't need to have a pattern out. Thanks for your very informative video.

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh wow...some people....

[@haakdraakje]

You looked in my luggage! I always prepare for a Queen size blanket.

[@Moonbeamglider]

I knit a Picot cast on edge on circular needles 2.50 mm to make a intricate coaster, it’s a lot of work but looks great. I was hoping to use this easier inlaid cast on but realise it would be too lightweight for the coasters but thanks Norman I’ll keep going with the classic Picot

[@putrescentcadaver]

Thankfully I've not had any knitting needles confiscated or commented on. I've used aluminum straight needles a few times, thankfully without issue. Mostly I use Chiagoo interchangeable needles without trouble. I've only taken my projects on domestic flights in the USA but I have been through 15-20 different airports with them.

[@gma2one]

Back in 2010 we went to Vegas for my son’s wedding. We were in first class back when it was affordable, didn’t have to pay for luggage, etc. Anyway, we were in the front most seats, I pulled out my knitting and accidently dropped my ball of yarn. We were climbing and…you guessed it, my yarn rolled backwards under the seats all the way to the back! 😄😄 The only way to get it back was to pull it so that’s pretty much what I did. It really was hilarious and most of the passengers never even noticed!

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh my gosh...that's indeed hilarious! I am not sure what I would have done if I saw a strand of yarn/ball snailing it's way to first class^^

[@atsukorichards1675]

My experiences are limited in the past 15 years or so, and only between USA and Japan. I mostly knit the socks with 4 needles. Only time they stopped me to ask for showing the contents of my project bag at the security check was at a Japanese airport, and after that they let me go with them. I have never been asked to stop on the plane - maybe my knitting things are small and unthreatening, though they are pointy all around...

[@peggyjanovick]

I recently flew on Southwest Airline domestic flight. I brought my bamboo DP knitting needles in my carry on bag. I knitted on the plain and on the lay over.

[@christinedenise7844]

That’s because Southwest Airlines ROCKS!

[@Mehaara]

Thank you for the tip about Turkish Airlines! A friend of mine got her tape measure (!) taken away at Istanbul Airport and I thought it might have been a fluke but apparently, they really are super... careful.

[@NimbleNeedles]

they are. Admittedly, the airport is a gateway to many...more unstable countries and is close to a lot of conflict zones, so it kinda makes sense, right?

[@khabsamum6074]

Last week I flew from Riyadh , Bahrain London Heathrow return with gulf air. No scissors allowed but no issue with my circular needles and knitting socks

[@debracisneroshhp2827]

Excellent and very helpful content, Norman! Enjoy the rest of your day, as well. 💖🙌🙌🙌😺

[@NimbleNeedles]

I sure did. Was a lovely warm evening knitting on the balcony :)

[@debracisneroshhp2827]

@@NimbleNeedles 💖😺

[@dramariayoraimalopez1189]

I travel a lot and absolutely knit on the airplane. I change my stainless steel needles to bamboo ones. Pack the metal ones in my checked suitcase and the bamboo pair in use in my carryon. I change them to metal again wherever I arrive. Bamboo needles Are invisible at the check points. No my favorite ones to everyday use but better than nothing at the airplane. Crochet needles usually are not a problem because the hook is not sharp. I use olfa folding scissors which are TSA allowed. Never had a problem.

[@Sheena583]

Thanks so much for this video! I had this question while prepping for a trip, and the first thing I thought was “I wonder if Norman has a video on it?”. Perfect timing. Huge fan of your blog & videos!

[@NimbleNeedles]

awesome! Enjoy your trip! WHere are you flying to? :)

[@Sheena583]

I’m flying from Japan to Italy next month! Lots of time to knit

[@pjfreeman4789]

Thank you, Norman!

[@damdamfino]

Well, you published this a day late for me. 😂 flew for the first time in 4 years yesterday, and I decided to keep my knitting in my checked bags to avoid any possible issues. One time in Madrid I was pulled aside to a scary secret room where they argued whether or not I could have my DPNs with half a sleeve attached.

[@NimbleNeedles]

were you able to keep them in the end? And yeah,...those side rooms can be super scary! (even though technically they really aren't :P)

[@damdamfino]

@@NimbleNeedles that time, yes they let me keep them. I had enough of Spanish 101 left in my brain to understand them talking to each other. One attendant was very angry, saying “I don’t care what they do in America” and the other was being kind and assuming (rightfully) that my blunt, plastic DPNs weren’t going to be a threat. But I’ve had enough of my things confiscated at airport security that it’s actually a trauma for me now. For years the rule of thumb for knitting needles and airport security is “you are at the will of whoever is searching you that day.” And I love my trusty metal US 3 DPNs that aren’t sold anymore that I don’t risk it. Knitting goes in checked luggage to avoid any stress for me. I did always find it funny that somehow circular needles were considered “safer” that straights or DPNs, when I could easily see someone using high quality circs to strangle someone lol

[@bettygraham818]

I read about the regulations flying from Uk airports which said you could carry knitting needles, BUT it was always up to individual security personnel in the airport. I have seen someone knitting in Copenhagen airport waiting for the gate to open so I assume the Danish security staff do allow the needles.

[@songobelemulenga6551]

Thank you for this video. I'm travelling soon, and I was so worried ❤❤❤

[@NimbleNeedles]

perfect timing, then, eh? :)

[@songobelemulenga6551]

@@NimbleNeedles I was just going to resolve to packing all my knitting equipment in my suitcase. I didn't want to risk losing all my needles

[@naomibaker2189]

About 5-6 years ago, I was boarding Air New Zealand in Sydney, flying to Christchurch. My needles were no problem, but the security guy wouldn’t let me bring my 3” embroidery scissors on board.

[@NimbleNeedles]

hope they weren't expensive :( thx for sharing tho!

[@ReallyJillRogoff]

I don't knit on planes, but I used to embroider. Only ever had a problem with my little (left-handed) embroidery scissors in Frankfurt, flying with Lufthansa to London, as I'd forgotten to store them in my checked bag. The gentleman in security was most apologetic, and said he could keep them for me to pick up on my return trip. I wasn't returning to Frankfurt, but appreciated his thoughtfulness. I asked him whether anyone in his family could use them, and ending up 'donating' them to his mother. That was an expensive mistake to make, but the security man could not have been kinder.

[@christinedenise7844]

@@ReallyJillRogoff Even though the ending was not what was ideal for you, I still loved your story. I am sure his mom was so appreciative to get a lovely pair of new (to her) scissors. It’s a bittersweet story, but I am sorry you lost your scissors.

[@barbie-fz4oo]

I was on a Turkish Airlines flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia a month ago. I had gone on a yarn buying spree while in Istanbul and was happily carrying my new project with me on the plane. As I went through security , they found my size 3mm aluminum crochet hook. The security guard stated regulations are no crochet needles period. She did feel bad for me because I could tell, she was a crocheter as she was looking at my work. She went through all the higher-ups to get me permission but sadly in the end, my hook was confiscated. I told her to keep it. It was my gift to her. My husband spent the entire trip going to shops looking for a yarn shop that would replace my hook..yes while we were on a tour after flying on the hot air balloon. It became a group task with others trying to look for shops that had crochet hooks. Very funny memory for me. Btw, I live in Thailand and I always carry work in my suitcase to do when I go somewhere. Crochet hooks and knitting needles not allowed to be used at all on their flights. you can bring them on your carry on, but do not take them out. USA regulations are quite relaxed. United Airways allows me to bring metal knitting needles on board, knit with no restrictions at all. Thankyou for all your very informative videos. Your level of the art of knitting is stellar. I could only wish I could knit like you. Keep those amazing videos coming. I love your practical ideas and very good common sense about knitting.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah...sorry to hear that :( But as I mentioned in the video, turkey/instanbul is a problem in my experience.