✋ Hand luggage
Prohibited in carry-on baggage.
🧳 Hold luggage
Permitted.
Based on TSA guidance for United States. Official rules ↗
Hammer rules by country
How carry-on and checked-bag rules for hammer compare across the 14 countries we cover.
Hammer
Airline-specific rules
Common questions
A hammer will be confiscated or returned for checked-bag processing — it is prohibited in carry-on baggage in every region without exception. This applies to all types, including tack hammers and rubber mallets, not just full-size claw hammers.
No — there is no size exception for hammers in carry-on baggage anywhere. Even the smallest tack hammer or jeweller's hammer is prohibited. The only permitted destination for a hammer is checked baggage.
Officers will stop the bag and require the passenger to either surrender the hammer or return to check-in to have it placed in checked baggage. Because hammers are on the explicitly prohibited list in all regions, there is no discretion involved — this is a straightforward confiscation situation if you cannot check the bag.
Pack the hammer in your checked baggage, ideally wrapped in clothing or placed in a padded tool bag to protect both the item and other luggage in the cargo hold. There are no special declaration requirements for hammers — simply placing them in checked baggage is sufficient.
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Browse all Tools →Based on official United States security guidelines. Rules vary by airline and route — always verify with your carrier before travel. · Rules last verified May 2026.