First off: This post is about a tiny Leatherman multitool. Not a gun, not a sword, not something that can actually hurt someone. Just a small, harmless tool that is unfairly banned from planes because of onerous TSA regs. No one is going to do 9/11 with tiny pliers and a fingernail-sized screwdriver.

Now that that’s cleared up…

There are 2 things I hate: Going without my keychain-sized Leatherman, and checking a bag at the airport. Unfortunately, these things are in conflict, as TSA won’t let me take my precious Squirt (actual product name… ew) in my carry on. Over the years, I’ve probably lost half a dozen multitools to overzealous airport security, both in the US and abroad.

I’ve probably gotten it past security over a dozen times, but there doesn’t seem to be any consistency to it. Packing it between my razor and my beard trimmer worked for a while, until it didn’t. Lining it up with the handlebars of my suitcase worked a couple times. But then I lost another one.

“Did you know they sell airport-friendly Leathermans that don’t have a knife?” Yes I do. Did you know that several overseas airports straight up don’t care, and will take it anyway? (I’m looking at you, Philippines and Costa Rica.)

I don’t need a different tool. What I really need is a reliable method to get this tiny tool past security, so that I can peacefully open beers, fix janky hotel showers, and open the occaisional package without having to buy a new Leatherman every year.

Thank you in advance for your calm, measured, and helpful responses.

  • rufus
    3·
    9 months ago

    Yeah. I’m mistaken. Sometimes I read things too fast. Thx. And good luck with your multitool. I feel you. I don’t leave the house without my trusty swiss knife, a spoon, some duct tape and cable ties. And I use these regularly in everyday life and even more so while travelling. I can eat yoghurt everywhere, MacGyver me out of situations and fix somone’s broken-down trolley at the airport with the cable-ties. With those things you’re not only prepared for every situation, but you occasionally make someone’s day.