As we pack our bags for a trip, deciding what essentials to carry can be daunting. Tools, especially drills, are items not often talked about in the context of travel. So, you might wonder, can you bring a drill on a plane?
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) brings a straightforward answer to this question – drills and drill bits are not permitted through the security checkpoint and inside your carry-on baggage. This isn’t surprising, given these tools’ potential to cause harm. It’s vital to be informed about the rules and procedures, so let’s delve into more detail.
Drills and The TSA: An Overview
The TSA is responsible for ensuring passenger safety on aircraft, leading them to have strict rules regarding what you can bring on a plane. Consequently, specifically for our query, “can you bring a drill on a plane,” the TSA necessitates drills, cordless drills, or drill bits to be packed in checked baggage only.
Can I Take a Drill In Checked Luggage?
All kinds of drills, regardless of their type, shape, or size, are included in the list of items allowed in checked baggage. Only spare uninstalled lithium-ion batteries must be removed and placed in carry-on baggage for safety reasons.
For other small tools, like screwdrivers, you can keep them in your carry-on baggage as long as they are less than 7 inches in length, when measured from end to end.
What About a Cordless Drill?
Cordless drills are allowed on planes but packed in checked baggage only. However, for safety reasons, their detachable batteries must be packed in carry-on baggage.
Ensuring Drill Safety: Guidance on Packing
Proper packing is essentiaivil for safe and comfortable travel. Here are some tips for preparing your drill for a flight:
- Choose a lightweight drill: If you own several drills, opt for the lightest and most portable drill. Cordless drills are lightweight, user-friendly and a great travel companion, even with their accessories.
- Securely pack your drill: Your drill original box, or toolkit case can offer the best protection during travel. If you’re not keen to pay for extra fees for checking in the box, you can place the drill in a bag inside your checked luggage. Remember to wrap your drill in a soft fabric for added protection.
Final Thoughts:
You can take almost all types of tools, including drills, in your checked baggage. However, any tool that can be used as a weapon or could pose a threat to the safety of the airplane will not be accepted in carry-on baggage.
As a traveler, you also need to ensure you’re not carrying anything with sharp heads, a long blade, or anything heavy enough to swing in your drill kit. Moreover, remember to take any separated batteries for your drill and put them in your carry-on baggage because of potential fire hazards.
