Carrying a Bowie Knife in a Suitcase When Flying
Air travel has certainly become more troublesome since 9/11. However, most travelers would agree that the new restrictions are not without cause. That said, understanding these new restrictions can be a bit problematic. For instance, are you allowed to carry a bowie knife aboard a plane? You might be surprised by the answer to that question – yes, you can. However, you’ll have to follow some special rules setup by the TSA to maintain safety aboard planes.
The answer to that question is “yes and no.” How can that be? First, you have to understand the difference between carryon and checked baggage. For instance, any carryon bag must be sent through a metal detector, before you are allowed to board a plane with it. In addition, any item within that bag will be within easy reach during the flight. Therefore, you cannot carry your bowie knife in your carryon luggage.
However, you cannot just toss your knife in your suitcase. You must follow TSA guidelines to ensure that your knife arrives safe and sound (well, as safe as possible) at your destination. What are these guidelines? First, your knife must be sheathed. Naked blades cannot be transported aboard planes in any form whatsoever.
Second, bowie knives must be secured within their sheath. A strap holding the blade within the sheath will suffice. However, if your sheath is not so equipped, you can opt to wrap your knife in cloth, bubble wrap or some other material. In fact, the more heavily packed your knife is, the better the chance that it will arrive at your destination.
Carrying your bowie knife with you is more convenient than you might think, but it will necessitate that you plan ahead and prepare for any contingencies that might arise. That said, with a bit of forethought, you can arrive at your destination and have your bowie knife with you at the same time, which is better than many travelers assume.
Dylan Sabot is the owner of an online bowie hunting knives store featuring the Cold Steel training knife. Additionally, Dylan is also the President of an online humidors store.
