Can I Take Nail Clippers on a Plane?

If the prospect of going through TSA security has you nervously biting your nails, go ahead and clip them instead. You can take your nail clippers on a plane, but your neighbor in the seat next to you might frown at flying fingernails. Here are the ins and outs of how to take your nail-care items on a plane.

TSA doesn't restrict nail clippers or any other small manicure items on planes. You can even bring a nail clipper for your dog if you wish. Check with your airline for any carry-on restrictions or special instructions for packing your carry-on baggage. While it's not required, securing your nail clipper, tweezers and other sharp items in a manicure kit or other case will help you easily access them without nicking your fingers. It will also make it easy to find and remove the items should TSA security ask you to do so.

No restrictions exist for your other manicure tools either. Go ahead and pack your nail file, toenail nippers, cuticle cutters and other metal implements. The only restriction is on manicure scissors. They must have less than a 4-inch blade as measured from the fulcrum.

Any liquids you carry onto the plane, such as nail polish, nail polish remover and cuticle remover, must be in 3.4-ounce or smaller containers. The containers, along with any other non-solids you're carrying on board the plane, have to fit in a quart-sized clear plastic bag with a reclosable top.

While it's not technically illegal to whip out your manicure kit and start grooming your nails, be mindful of your neighbors. Your flight attendant might just shudder quietly at your nail trimming, but it's better to head to the restroom to nip that emergency hangnail or tweeze a stray brow. When it comes to polishing your nails, the FAA advises that you consult your flight crew before using anything that emits strong fumes such as nail polish.