A tip I picked up is using a dental floss container to cut yarn. The little blade in there is just sharp enough to get the job done, and no issues with TSA.
I always bring my knitting and never had an issue. I did have a TSA advent ask me if he could look at my project because he was a knitter. Great video. Thank you
Flew twice with my knitting this week, and used a lot of these tips! I had no questions from security about my knitting on my precheck, domestic flights. If I want to be extra precautious, I separate my metal interchangeable needles from my work and join again after security.
I once brought tailor scissors, fabric and a pattern through TSA checkpoint. The lady opened my bag and questioned my very large scissors. She was a sewist and understood the tailoring scissors, etc. she let me through! I’ve never brought them again because I may not be as lucky the next time.
I still remember the time when my husband and I were flying inside Europe with our daughter who was 6 at the time. She is about your age so this was way before 09/11 and the many TSA rules. To keep her busy on the flight I had prepared a bag with pencils and a tiny pair of PLASTIC KIDS scissors. Guess what? An overly zealous officer confiscated the scissors!!!! Thank you Mark for this very useful video. And, by the way, the lady you talked about in the previous one was just plain rude. One doesn’t go and touch other people’s things, that’s one of the first things a child growing up in a well-behaved family learns. I felt sorry for you, especially since you had upgraded to first class. The takeaway from this is that improper behavior has no social boundary 🫤.
Hi Mark 🙂 as I also used to fly a lot (I leave that mostly to the younger lot nowadays as they have more fun with it), I'm pretty used to to prepare my knitting for flights. I've had fun stories (showing how spinning is possible with the contraption in my carry-on in front of lots of "is she for real?"-faces was really nice😁), but never serious issues. I have several knit kits in little plastic boxes that contain all the notions I usually need, the size is as small as I can get away with. One of these is in my drawer with all the stuff I need for travels (e.g. tiny toiletry bag with tiny toiletry, bag for passport, official documents and foreign money, adapters for different countries, a pouch with knitting needles and crochet hooks in various sizes for eventual yarn purchases etc.) Same with knitting bags, I choose them just about big enough to fit my project, spare ball of yarn, notions and instructions. Here's why: In the airports I take out not just the electronic stuff but also this bag explaining that this is my knitting. As rather often people don't know what these pointy sticks are, they want to see them and this way I show them without much fuzz. As for needles I wouldn't bring my most precious stuff in carry-on (that certainly would be the ONE time somebody would block my needles from travelling with me), but definitely needles that let mit knit comfortably. I used to just take bamboo, but especially with socks I really don't like them, so I decided to try out metals for once accepting that I might loose them. I didn't and I've never looked back since. Adding to your excellent advice I have two more tips on the basis of more cringeworthy experiences: Never leave the box with notions open ("sir, could you please lift your foot, I think my darning needle might be underneath") and always take yarn balls with the working yarn from the inside and tuck them safely into the pouch at the back of the seat in front of you (retrieving your ball from several rows back is a good conversation starter but not very dignified). Have a good weekend! Nanika
Hi Mark..found your channel today but though I’ve been knitting for 70 years, I learned a lot about gauge, help,I desperately needed . So, of course, I went on to watch as many more of your videos that I could fit in today. Like others in your comments, I traveled all over the world for work and now in retirement. I have been to 77 countries BTW if I need to prove credibility . I think we have put way too much much fear in knitters heads about traveling with knitting. Your reviewing the TSA was I am sure helpful to many. In all my traveling I’ve had needles confiscated only once and that was on a military hop in India. I should have known better than to tempt them but it was only way I could get to Darjeeling. So, since you travel internationally, I think you should do a bit on the hazards of international travel when TSA means nothing. There are few but some of your viewers mentioned examples in the comments. I’ll watch all your videos eventually. Thank you.
You mentioned the risk/annoyance of having to carry a just-completed project with you for rest of your trip ...... Go to the post office, and buy a thick mailer that is big enough to hold said project. Do the "SelfAddressedStampedEnvelope thing, fold it as needed, and if you finish that onesie for the neighbor's Great Dane grandpuppie; seal it up and mail it home!
All very good advice, Mark! There's just one thing: those self-addressed envelopes are a good idea - I had to use one once - but unless you're on a flight in your own country, I'd say 'do NOT pre pay!' Because the German post office would not have appreciated my English stamps! Just a thought!
Australia is strict on scissors. I have a Clover pendant that has hidden safe blades that will cut my yarn. Never had an issue with my crochet hooks getting though.
Hi Mark: I always call the airline to verify and I always bring bamboo needles and blunt children safety scissors. So far no problem. Yes, my rescued beagle mix, who was abused prior our adoption at 7 months, and pure breed corgi loves to stick their head out the window when we take them out in the car! The beagle I was surprised by this because she’s scare of a lot of things because of her abusive past. Thanks for sharing! Happy knitting! ❤
Oh, that's a brilliant idea: Put a few of these all-purpose bulb stitch markers into an old dental floss container and two out of four necessities are covered for very little space (the other two are measuring tape and blunt needle, anyting else can be checked in). Thanks for pointing that out, I've never thought of that 🙂
Hey Mark! I fly alot for work and always bring a sock or small project with me for the plane/meetings. I ended up asking the TSA agents at my little regional airport how best to put my notions through the scanner so that my carry on doesn’t get pulled for extra search…. They said (and their colleagues agreed) to pack my notions pouch at the top of my carry on and remove it before my bag goes through the s Amber so that the officer running the Xray can get a good look at everything inside to see that it is harmless. For me this one extra step has saved my waiting in line for that extra level bag search multiple times (as before I started doing this my bag got pulled for search almost every time). So if you do fly a lot it never hurts to ask an officer their thoughts for your airport!
I used to travel by plane multiple times a month for work. I never had an issue in the US. I did have an issue leaving Mexico one time. I was able to resolve it - thank goodness that I speak enough Spanish to convey my point. I would suggest knowing the word for “knitting” when traveling abroad in the appropriate language. Mexico didn’t like my metal needles and almost made me leave those behind. Another checkpoint guy came up and said his mom knit and that they were ok 😅 Like you, I take only what I need. I also take those tiny Hiya Hiya snips instead of scissors- they are cheap in case they get taken and work fine for cutting yarn. I always take a barber cord so I can take the needles out and save my project if I have to. I usually take a hat project and a sock project on a domestic flight. Something pretty mindless so I don’t have to keep looking at a pattern. For long overseas flights, I sometimes take a simple sweater and wooden needles. My biggest fear isn’t losing my project, it is not having something to do on those long boring flights. Have a great trip!
We usually go camping with our own camper. I am slightly restricted on space to use for my entertainment so everything from drawing and crafting supplies to technical equipment goes on a Mini Kånken wich fits perfectly in a cabinet and is easy to carry arround. Usually I take a crochet project with me. Mostly pottholders or triangle shawls. They make great gifts, are quite mindless to work on and are easy to store. By flying everything goes on separate pouches in my backpack to be shown if needed… Greetings from Germany!!!🌸 Heike
Thanks for the info. I've been flying for many years and the only problem I ever had was leaving Greece on Lufthansa. They said the airline has the last word on what's allowable. Unfortunately, I lost a couple of Chiao Goo interchangeable needles, although I was aware enough to grab the cords.
My primary knitting tool these days is my set of IC Chiaogoos. I love them. I still have the very first set of wooden IC needles that I bought years ago and I try to switch projects over to those whenever possible just in case one of the TSA agents is having a bad day. The only time I've ever gotten questions was when I had a pair of socks I was knitting magic loop. They weren't suspicious, just curious (which I understand bc magic loop sometimes doesn't visually make sense if you aren't a knitter). I always make sure to put stoppers or point protectors on my needles in case they decide to go into my project bag (which has not happened, but you never know).
Can you tell me where you got the little blue stitch marker holder with the zippered clear pouches. That looks really handy for traveling. Thanks for a great podcast and practical tips!
Mark, Thank you for covering all travel tips for bringing a knitting project. Some of my friends travel with knitting projects now always take a self addressed envelope because they have lost their knitting tools and projects with TSA in the past trips. I enjoy seeing "Big Cat" and how chilled he is.
TSA is specific to airlines in the United States, as far as I can gather. Other countries have different rules, some of which the airline [and also immigration] staff follow to the nth degree, whilst others tend to use their own initiative. This might include confiscating one's gear - for example, a pair of my nail clippers and tweezers are probably still languishing in somebody's bathroom in Cyprus for three decades! Even if one checks the airline's webpages, there's no cast iron guarantee that your gear won't be taken off you. Several folks have recommended taking wood or bamboo needles as these are less likely to be deemed 'dangerous'. Good luck and happy flying. Also be aware that even having your gear in checked baggage can work out badly if a connecting flight is delayed and you have to hand carry your suitcase to the gate. This really happened to me on an delayed exchange flight from SC to go to CO, when my suitcase was X-rayed and there appeared a 'dangerous object'. The woman officer pointed to the image and asked me what it was."Ma'am, what is that?" Me "It's a fruit peeler." "Ma'am, and what is that for?" Me "It's for peeling fruit." "And what is that, Ma'am?" Me "Apples, pears, mangoes, avocados..." - her colleague standing behind her, and my 18 month old child, struggled to contain their amusement!
İ was flying from Turkey to Cyprus and had 2 plastic crochet hooks with short aluminum tips ,to work on my shawl but they took the hooks and I was so mad ! İ had thought that they wouldn't confiscate plastic items
I've traveled 2 times with my chiagoos . Once internationally and once domestic. Both times they were packed in my checked luggage. I can't afford to replace them so I won't risk it. I put my project on bamboo with a plastic cord ( which I dislike) and only if the gage is so close that the difference won't be noticeable. If it doesn't work I pack it.
I think if anything is going to get confiscated that is technically OK but might disturb a TSA agent, it's scissors with any kind of sharp tip. It's easy to find scissors with a blunt tip. I have some that fold, and I also have some cute little micro scissors that work OK. That's what I take for flights. It seems to me that very sharp 4" (or less) long scissors could really do some damage and I'm not sure why they are allowed TBH. (Edit: Not at all criticizing the beautiful little 1/2" blade scissors in your kit - obviously well within guidelines and minimally dangerous 😊)
Hi Mark, great podcast. I also travel a lot but I do a lot of international travel. I have heard too many stories about confiscating needles on international flights so I crochet when I fly internationally but I knit when I fly domestically. The biggest problem that I have run into is when the flight attendants ask me what I am knitting for them. I use nail clippers because I can buy them in the airport after security. I find that anything plastic goes through security pretty well.
Thank you for pointing out it's for USA rules. So many people in my online groups realize coming back from foreign countries last summer that other countries rules are different. There was an airport in Mexico, I don't recall which state unfortunately, people kept having their new notions either tossed to made to check bags not realizing that the other countries rules applied going onto the plane were different than what the US rules were.
I travel a lot and only got pulled aside once. I had a drop spindle that they were interested in and a KnitKit. After explaining a few of the features of the KnitKit, the guy was like ok, go ahead. Translation: you’re not a thread, you’re just a nerd. 😂
I have 2 and 3 inch needles that I would take if I were to travel so they aren't as intimidating to the TSA security person. Much better than a 5 inch needle lol I really like the padded envelope idea!
The UK is helpfully vague, each individual airport has their own policies but also default to that the airlines also have their own rules too 😅 but I have never had an issue, I tend to take wooden or plastic tools and crochet over knitting (1 live stitch over 100+) when I take knitting I put it on waste yarn/ stitch holder then set it back on the needles after security.
Sound advice! That all makes good sense. And since you have your tablet, have a book uploaded just in case! When all else fails, books also calm anxiety.
I use folding scissors so I don't have to worry about them in my bag. I like using a soft bag so it fits under my seat for easy access. I used to take the tips off the interchangeable and put them deep in my purse. I don't even bother to do that anymore. Love Mr. Big Cat!
I did have a mail envelope and there was postage for sale at the airport plus a Mail Drop…was so handy when my husband had very nice sharp little scissors in his suitcase / shaving pouch . I’m not sure about Mail Drop boxes being available since 9/11.
Damn! I'll miss my sword 😂😂😂 This is a very good idea! The only thing I'd do different is, to put my darning needles and extra needles (they're not 100% necessary) in the suitcase. I can use them when I arrive! If necessary I'd use bamboo, so it doesn't show on the scanner 😊
Great video Mark, thank you. I cannot think of anything worse than having to sit on a flight and not being able to knit because my needles were confiscated. Luckily not happened up to now. Have a good week.
I am getting ready to travel soon, this video was very helpful. I think I will travel with a tunisian crochet project instead of a knitting project (sweater) I am working on. :)
Aww Big Cat! Regarding flights, I take an old set of wooden interchangeable needles just in case they are confiscated, so I don’t risk losing my precious Hiya Hiya needles. Brilliant idea tho to bring a stamped addressed envelope to post things back home, will do that too in future! Being in the UK, I email my airline every single time to get permission and print out the reply to take along. I mainly fly to the USA, and touch wood I have not had problems so far. Brilliant video Mark! Lots of love as always, Pippa xxx
Great tips Mark! I don't fly (haven't been on a plane since 2013) but many of the tips are useful for my travelling by train or bus. Since the space on trains and busses are quite limited I usually bring a project that isn't too large like a sock- or shawl project or a crochet project with granny squares. Then I can pack a larger project to work on at my destination in my suitcase. I also do some mixed media art and I have a special travel pouch for this with watercolourpencils and -papers cut to size, premade backgrounds, a small art journal, a water brush and prestamped images and cutouts.
Thanks for you tips on travel, I’ve been thinking of taking a project when we go to fl in the fall may just check bag since it’s only an hour flight but I have a few months to think about it I also am flying with my partner so that makes for less boardroom
In Europe, scissors more than 6cm or with pointed ends are not permitted. Also many of the cheap airlines don't allow knitting needles. Advice if travelling in Europe...pack your knitting just to be sure!
You skipped over the TSA rule about circular cutters. (It was mentioned under sewing needles.) I was surprised to see that those are prohibited because I have taken them on a lot of flights. I think most TSA agents don't recognize them as containing a cutting edge.
Thanks for all the tips….here in Australia re scissors they also say for us round tip as well as length. Can I ask where you got that gorgeous hard case from? 😊
Very interesting! The red case is from steamline luggage: steamlineluggage.com/pages/pre-summer-sale?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw34qzBhBmEiwAOUQcF1kvwXkCZuM6FaaaZB6WWQCuFgLxdFFwRt6h83HclauW8o1yN1aSzhoCJ1MQAvD_BwE
Two flight stories. One involves knitting. So, many man years ago, long before 9/11 and TSA, I was flying home after Christmas with my young son. This happened in the western part of the US. I had a few gifts my family had wrapped for my husband (who was unable to travel due to work). Due to weather, we had to fly to several very small airports before reaching our destination. At the last small airport, my gifts were taking and they RIPPED OFF THE wrapping paper and opened each gift!!! It was not great. I was so exhausted by that time, I just was happy they did not confiscate the gifts!!! The other story-involving knitting is this. Five years ago, my extended family and I were leaving Salt Lake City airport after visiting my daughter. We had my son, his wife, his 6 month old son, and my husband. Everyone smoothly sailed through the TSA line. Then, I was stopped. Something was found in my bag that was questionable! I had my knitting project in my purse, so it was not that. What could it be? As my grandson started making a big fuss, the TSA agents dug to the bottom of my roller bag. Turns out, there was a straight metal knitting needle that somehow had gotten embeded at the bottom of the bag! It must have been from another trip and I had not noticed it was there! The TSA folks, when they realized what it was, were very kind, and let me through. That was interesting but a little stressful.
Did you ever hear the name Dimash Qudaibergen? Please listen to him, he is one of the best vocalists of our times (in my opinion). Love your videos, btw😊
My rule #1 for travel: never take from home anything you can’t afford to lose - whether it’s a financial or an emotional loss.
A tip I picked up is using a dental floss container to cut yarn. The little blade in there is just sharp enough to get the job done, and no issues with TSA.
Perfect. The only other tip is to have a lifeline in your work just in case.
I always bring my knitting and never had an issue. I did have a TSA advent ask me if he could look at my project because he was a knitter. Great video. Thank you
I literally have a flight in 4 hours. This is amazing
Flew twice with my knitting this week, and used a lot of these tips! I had no questions from security about my knitting on my precheck, domestic flights. If I want to be extra precautious, I separate my metal interchangeable needles from my work and join again after security.
I once brought tailor scissors, fabric and a pattern through TSA checkpoint. The lady opened my bag and questioned my very large scissors. She was a sewist and understood the tailoring scissors, etc. she let me through! I’ve never brought them again because I may not be as lucky the next time.
BEST of the BEST information. I wish every crafty traveler could see this ✈️
I still remember the time when my husband and I were flying inside Europe with our daughter who was 6 at the time. She is about your age so this was way before 09/11 and the many TSA rules. To keep her busy on the flight I had prepared a bag with pencils and a tiny pair of PLASTIC KIDS scissors. Guess what? An overly zealous officer confiscated the scissors!!!!
Thank you Mark for this very useful video. And, by the way, the lady you talked about in the previous one was just plain rude. One doesn’t go and touch other people’s things, that’s one of the first things a child growing up in a well-behaved family learns. I felt sorry for you, especially since you had upgraded to first class. The takeaway from this is that improper behavior has no social boundary 🫤.
Hi Mark 🙂 as I also used to fly a lot (I leave that mostly to the younger lot nowadays as they have more fun with it), I'm pretty used to to prepare my knitting for flights. I've had fun stories (showing how spinning is possible with the contraption in my carry-on in front of lots of "is she for real?"-faces was really nice😁), but never serious issues. I have several knit kits in little plastic boxes that contain all the notions I usually need, the size is as small as I can get away with. One of these is in my drawer with all the stuff I need for travels (e.g. tiny toiletry bag with tiny toiletry, bag for passport, official documents and foreign money, adapters for different countries, a pouch with knitting needles and crochet hooks in various sizes for eventual yarn purchases etc.) Same with knitting bags, I choose them just about big enough to fit my project, spare ball of yarn, notions and instructions. Here's why: In the airports I take out not just the electronic stuff but also this bag explaining that this is my knitting. As rather often people don't know what these pointy sticks are, they want to see them and this way I show them without much fuzz. As for needles I wouldn't bring my most precious stuff in carry-on (that certainly would be the ONE time somebody would block my needles from travelling with me), but definitely needles that let mit knit comfortably. I used to just take bamboo, but especially with socks I really don't like them, so I decided to try out metals for once accepting that I might loose them. I didn't and I've never looked back since.
Adding to your excellent advice I have two more tips on the basis of more cringeworthy experiences: Never leave the box with notions open ("sir, could you please lift your foot, I think my darning needle might be underneath") and always take yarn balls with the working yarn from the inside and tuck them safely into the pouch at the back of the seat in front of you (retrieving your ball from several rows back is a good conversation starter but not very dignified). Have a good weekend! Nanika
Hi Mark..found your channel today but though I’ve been knitting for 70 years, I learned a lot about gauge, help,I desperately needed . So, of course, I went on to watch as many more of your videos that I could fit in today. Like others in your comments, I traveled all over the world for work and now in retirement. I have been to 77 countries BTW if I need to prove credibility . I think we have put way too much much fear in knitters heads about traveling with knitting. Your reviewing the TSA was I am sure helpful to many. In all my traveling I’ve had needles confiscated only once and that was on a military hop in India. I should have known better than to tempt them but it was only way I could get to Darjeeling. So, since you travel internationally, I think you should do a bit on the hazards of international travel when TSA means nothing. There are few but some of your viewers mentioned examples in the comments. I’ll watch all your videos eventually. Thank you.
I use wooden or bamboo needles when I travel. Never have had a problem yet
You mentioned the risk/annoyance of having to carry a just-completed project with you for rest of your trip ......
Go to the post office, and buy a thick mailer that is big enough to hold said project. Do the "SelfAddressedStampedEnvelope thing, fold it as needed, and if you finish that onesie for the neighbor's Great Dane grandpuppie; seal it up and mail it home!
Argh! "Thick" was supposed to be TYVEK!
Thanks for posting links to your singing. I love tenor solos, and A Green Cornfield is a beautiful performance. (Fellow musician, French horn player).
All very good advice, Mark! There's just one thing: those self-addressed envelopes are a good idea - I had to use one once - but unless you're on a flight in your own country, I'd say 'do NOT pre pay!' Because the German post office would not have appreciated my English stamps! Just a thought!
That's GREAT advice!
Australia is strict on scissors. I have a Clover pendant that has hidden safe blades that will cut my yarn. Never had an issue with my crochet hooks getting though.
Hi Mark: I always call the airline to verify and I always bring bamboo needles and blunt children safety scissors. So far no problem.
Yes, my rescued beagle mix, who was abused prior our adoption at 7 months, and pure breed corgi loves to stick their head out the window when we take them out in the car! The beagle I was surprised by this because she’s scare of a lot of things because of her abusive past.
Thanks for sharing! Happy knitting! ❤
Knitting is amazing everywhere ! ♥️🐑♥️🐑♥️
Dental floss containers have built in cutter for the thread.
Oh, that's a brilliant idea: Put a few of these all-purpose bulb stitch markers into an old dental floss container and two out of four necessities are covered for very little space (the other two are measuring tape and blunt needle, anyting else can be checked in). Thanks for pointing that out, I've never thought of that 🙂
Hey Mark! I fly alot for work and always bring a sock or small project with me for the plane/meetings. I ended up asking the TSA agents at my little regional airport how best to put my notions through the scanner so that my carry on doesn’t get pulled for extra search…. They said (and their colleagues agreed) to pack my notions pouch at the top of my carry on and remove it before my bag goes through the s Amber so that the officer running the Xray can get a good look at everything inside to see that it is harmless.
For me this one extra step has saved my waiting in line for that extra level bag search multiple times (as before I started doing this my bag got pulled for search almost every time).
So if you do fly a lot it never hurts to ask an officer their thoughts for your airport!
I used to travel by plane multiple times a month for work. I never had an issue in the US. I did have an issue leaving Mexico one time. I was able to resolve it - thank goodness that I speak enough Spanish to convey my point. I would suggest knowing the word for “knitting” when traveling abroad in the appropriate language. Mexico didn’t like my metal needles and almost made me leave those behind. Another checkpoint guy came up and said his mom knit and that they were ok 😅 Like you, I take only what I need. I also take those tiny Hiya Hiya snips instead of scissors- they are cheap in case they get taken and work fine for cutting yarn. I always take a barber cord so I can take the needles out and save my project if I have to. I usually take a hat project and a sock project on a domestic flight. Something pretty mindless so I don’t have to keep looking at a pattern. For long overseas flights, I sometimes take a simple sweater and wooden needles. My biggest fear isn’t losing my project, it is not having something to do on those long boring flights. Have a great trip!
We usually go camping with our own camper. I am slightly restricted on space to use for my entertainment so everything from drawing and crafting supplies to technical equipment goes on a Mini Kånken wich fits perfectly in a cabinet and is easy to carry arround. Usually I take a crochet project with me.
Mostly pottholders or triangle shawls. They make great gifts, are quite mindless to work on and are easy to store.
By flying everything goes on separate pouches in my backpack to be shown if needed…
Greetings from Germany!!!🌸 Heike
Thanks for the info. I've been flying for many years and the only problem I ever had was leaving Greece on Lufthansa. They said the airline has the last word on what's allowable. Unfortunately, I lost a couple of Chiao Goo interchangeable needles, although I was aware enough to grab the cords.
My primary knitting tool these days is my set of IC Chiaogoos. I love them. I still have the very first set of wooden IC needles that I bought years ago and I try to switch projects over to those whenever possible just in case one of the TSA agents is having a bad day. The only time I've ever gotten questions was when I had a pair of socks I was knitting magic loop. They weren't suspicious, just curious (which I understand bc magic loop sometimes doesn't visually make sense if you aren't a knitter). I always make sure to put stoppers or point protectors on my needles in case they decide to go into my project bag (which has not happened, but you never know).
Thanks Mark! I always bring socks when I fly. Canada has similar rules as the US.
Can you tell me where you got the little blue stitch marker holder with the zippered clear pouches. That looks really handy for traveling. Thanks for a great podcast and practical tips!
On most domestic flights in NZ you still just walk onto plane. Going to be interesting going to Europe later in the year
Mark, Thank you for covering all travel tips for bringing a knitting project. Some of my friends travel with knitting projects now always take a self addressed envelope because they have lost their knitting tools and projects with TSA in the past trips. I enjoy seeing "Big Cat" and how chilled he is.
Awww. I turned up my volume and heard his little motor. So cute!! 🐈😻
TSA is specific to airlines in the United States, as far as I can gather. Other countries have different rules, some of which the airline [and also immigration] staff follow to the nth degree, whilst others tend to use their own initiative. This might include confiscating one's gear - for example, a pair of my nail clippers and tweezers are probably still languishing in somebody's bathroom in Cyprus for three decades! Even if one checks the airline's webpages, there's no cast iron guarantee that your gear won't be taken off you. Several folks have recommended taking wood or bamboo needles as these are less likely to be deemed 'dangerous'. Good luck and happy flying.
Also be aware that even having your gear in checked baggage can work out badly if a connecting flight is delayed and you have to hand carry your suitcase to the gate. This really happened to me on an delayed exchange flight from SC to go to CO, when my suitcase was X-rayed and there appeared a 'dangerous object'. The woman officer pointed to the image and asked me what it was."Ma'am, what is that?" Me "It's a fruit peeler." "Ma'am, and what is that for?" Me "It's for peeling fruit." "And what is that, Ma'am?" Me "Apples, pears, mangoes, avocados..." - her colleague standing behind her, and my 18 month old child, struggled to contain their amusement!
İ was flying from Turkey to Cyprus and had 2 plastic crochet hooks with short aluminum tips ,to work on my shawl but they took the hooks and I was so mad ! İ had thought that they wouldn't confiscate plastic items
I've traveled 2 times with my chiagoos . Once internationally and once domestic. Both times they were packed in my checked luggage. I can't afford to replace them so I won't risk it. I put my project on bamboo with a plastic cord ( which I dislike) and only if the gage is so close that the difference won't be noticeable. If it doesn't work I pack it.
Great tips! It's nice to know you travel so frequently and have never had anything taken away!
In the notions: I’d bring a stitch counter and a pencil
I think if anything is going to get confiscated that is technically OK but might disturb a TSA agent, it's scissors with any kind of sharp tip. It's easy to find scissors with a blunt tip. I have some that fold, and I also have some cute little micro scissors that work OK. That's what I take for flights. It seems to me that very sharp 4" (or less) long scissors could really do some damage and I'm not sure why they are allowed TBH. (Edit: Not at all criticizing the beautiful little 1/2" blade scissors in your kit - obviously well within guidelines and minimally dangerous 😊)
Hi Mark, great podcast. I also travel a lot but I do a lot of international travel. I have heard too many stories about confiscating needles on international flights so I crochet when I fly internationally but I knit when I fly domestically. The biggest problem that I have run into is when the flight attendants ask me what I am knitting for them. I use nail clippers because I can buy them in the airport after security. I find that anything plastic goes through security pretty well.
It seems it only recorded 5 secs. Beautiful background by the way.
BIG CAT IS SO PRECIOUS OMG 😭
Thank you for pointing out it's for USA rules. So many people in my online groups realize coming back from foreign countries last summer that other countries rules are different. There was an airport in Mexico, I don't recall which state unfortunately, people kept having their new notions either tossed to made to check bags not realizing that the other countries rules applied going onto the plane were different than what the US rules were.
I travel a lot and only got pulled aside once. I had a drop spindle that they were interested in and a KnitKit. After explaining a few of the features of the KnitKit, the guy was like ok, go ahead. Translation: you’re not a thread, you’re just a nerd. 😂
I have 2 and 3 inch needles that I would take if I were to travel so they aren't as intimidating to the TSA security person. Much better than a 5 inch needle lol I really like the padded envelope idea!
The UK is helpfully vague, each individual airport has their own policies but also default to that the airlines also have their own rules too 😅 but I have never had an issue, I tend to take wooden or plastic tools and crochet over knitting (1 live stitch over 100+) when I take knitting I put it on waste yarn/ stitch holder then set it back on the needles after security.
Good advice! Today I have been knitting caps as I worked a garage sale for charity.
Sound advice! That all makes good sense. And since you have your tablet, have a book uploaded just in case! When all else fails, books also calm anxiety.
Wonder video as always. Plus, a lot of valuable information that comes from your life experiences. Thank you for helping put people's fears to rest.
Cat appearances on your videos are always a bonus! I rarely fly anymore but these are great tips just in case.
LOVE the furkids!! (I have 7 seniors. 😹)
I'm happy that my trips are road trips!! It's easier. 😉 I'd hate to lose any of my precious supplies.
I use folding scissors so I don't have to worry about them in my bag. I like using a soft bag so it fits under my seat for easy access. I used to take the tips off the interchangeable and put them deep in my purse. I don't even bother to do that anymore. Love Mr. Big Cat!
Thank you I’m on a flight in the am, perfect timing thank you ❤
I did have a mail envelope and there was postage for sale at the airport plus a Mail Drop…was so handy when my husband had very nice sharp little scissors in his suitcase / shaving pouch . I’m not sure about Mail Drop boxes being available since 9/11.
Damn! I'll miss my sword 😂😂😂
This is a very good idea! The only thing I'd do different is, to put my darning needles and extra needles (they're not 100% necessary) in the suitcase. I can use them when I arrive!
If necessary I'd use bamboo, so it doesn't show on the scanner 😊
Great video Mark, thank you. I cannot think of anything worse than having to sit on a flight and not being able to knit because my needles were confiscated. Luckily not happened up to now. Have a good week.
What a sweet kitty! ❤ Great bonus! Wonderful travel tips! Thank you!
I am getting ready to travel soon, this video was very helpful. I think I will travel with a tunisian crochet project instead of a knitting project (sweater) I am working on. :)
Aww Big Cat! Regarding flights, I take an old set of wooden interchangeable needles just in case they are confiscated, so I don’t risk losing my precious Hiya Hiya needles. Brilliant idea tho to bring a stamped addressed envelope to post things back home, will do that too in future! Being in the UK, I email my airline every single time to get permission and print out the reply to take along. I mainly fly to the USA, and touch wood I have not had problems so far. Brilliant video Mark! Lots of love as always, Pippa xxx
Love seeing Big Cat. 😊
Great tips Mark! I don't fly (haven't been on a plane since 2013) but many of the tips are useful for my travelling by train or bus. Since the space on trains and busses are quite limited I usually bring a project that isn't too large like a sock- or shawl project or a crochet project with granny squares. Then I can pack a larger project to work on at my destination in my suitcase.
I also do some mixed media art and I have a special travel pouch for this with watercolourpencils and -papers cut to size, premade backgrounds, a small art journal, a water brush and prestamped images and cutouts.
I'm excited for this episode!! Im traveling to Scotland in November and have so many questions!
That is one comfy kitty!
Thanks for you tips on travel, I’ve been thinking of taking a project when we go to fl in the fall may just check bag since it’s only an hour flight but I have a few months to think about it I also am flying with my partner so that makes for less boardroom
Great video Mark, I think the barber cord could be used as a strangulation tool 🤷♀️ I’m guessing safest to pack in checked luggage. I’m in Australia.
Great information, Thanks!💕
In Europe, scissors more than 6cm or with pointed ends are not permitted. Also many of the cheap airlines don't allow knitting needles. Advice if travelling in Europe...pack your knitting just to be sure!
Loved meeting Big Cat !
You skipped over the TSA rule about circular cutters. (It was mentioned under sewing needles.) I was surprised to see that those are prohibited because I have taken them on a lot of flights. I think most TSA agents don't recognize them as containing a cutting edge.
This is so helpful!
Very good information
Great great great advice!
Thanks for all the tips….here in Australia re scissors they also say for us round tip as well as length. Can I ask where you got that gorgeous hard case from? 😊
Very interesting! The red case is from steamline luggage: steamlineluggage.com/pages/pre-summer-sale?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw34qzBhBmEiwAOUQcF1kvwXkCZuM6FaaaZB6WWQCuFgLxdFFwRt6h83HclauW8o1yN1aSzhoCJ1MQAvD_BwE
GREAT INFO!!! THANKS!
Two flight stories. One involves knitting. So, many man years ago, long before 9/11 and TSA, I was flying home after Christmas with my young son. This happened in the western part of the US. I had a few gifts my family had wrapped for my husband (who was unable to travel due to work). Due to weather, we had to fly to several very small airports before reaching our destination. At the last small airport, my gifts were taking and they RIPPED OFF THE wrapping paper and opened each gift!!! It was not great. I was so exhausted by that time, I just was happy they did not confiscate the gifts!!! The other story-involving knitting is this. Five years ago, my extended family and I were leaving Salt Lake City airport after visiting my daughter. We had my son, his wife, his 6 month old son, and my husband. Everyone smoothly sailed through the TSA line. Then, I was stopped. Something was found in my bag that was questionable! I had my knitting project in my purse, so it was not that. What could it be? As my grandson started making a big fuss, the TSA agents dug to the bottom of my roller bag. Turns out, there was a straight metal knitting needle that somehow had gotten embeded at the bottom of the bag! It must have been from another trip and I had not noticed it was there! The TSA folks, when they realized what it was, were very kind, and let me through. That was interesting but a little stressful.
Thanks. This is very helpful. I am planning a trip to Cleveland. Can you recommend some good yarn stores?
Did you ever hear the name Dimash Qudaibergen? Please listen to him, he is one of the best vocalists of our times (in my opinion).
Love your videos, btw😊
I would love to know more about your hard travelling case. Would you share the manufacturer and where you purchased it please?
Absolutely! It's from steamline luggage:
steamlineluggage.com/pages/pre-summer-sale?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw34qzBhBmEiwAOUQcF1kvwXkCZuM6FaaaZB6WWQCuFgLxdFFwRt6h83HclauW8o1yN1aSzhoCJ1MQAvD_BwE
@@MakerMarkKnits Thanks! That website is very drool worthy. How has your case held up to regular travelling?
It's held up super well to regular traveling.
I've knocked it around a bunch and there are very discreet signs of wear and tear!
I used to take my crochet on planes. Now they pack people in so tightly there is no room to work.
😊
How do you put down a purring cat?
❤