🍷 Corkscrew

If the corkscrew has an attached blade or foil cutter, it will be confiscated at the checkpoint. Corkscrews with blades are prohibited in carry-on under TSA rules and equivalent rules in other regions. A corkscrew with no blade — just the helix worm and handle — is permitted and will pass through without issue.

The rule is consistent across all regions we cover — a corkscrew without any attached blade is permitted in carry-on, while one with a blade or knife component is prohibited. There are no regions that are more or less lenient on this particular item. If you are unsure whether your corkscrew qualifies, check it rather than carry it on.

The blade on a corkscrew foil cutter is often a short, folding piece of metal that shows clearly on the X-ray image. Screeners who flag it will open your bag and manually inspect the item. If the blade is present, the corkscrew will be confiscated regardless of how small or blunt the blade appears.

Choose a corkscrew that is a simple helix with no attached cutting blade — a basic wine key or T-handle corkscrew with only the worm is permitted in carry-on. If your corkscrew has a foil cutter or any blade component, pack it in your checked baggage where it is allowed without restriction. Alternatively, many hotels and wine shops at your destination will have one available.