Scissors, razors and small items: what you can bring

Scissors: the 6 cm limit that decides everything

European regulations allow scissors with blades up to 6 cm in the cabin, handle excluded: the measurement includes many manicure scissors but excludes almost all office scissors. It's worth checking the length with a ruler before departing, because blade shape can deceive visual estimation.

Razors: blade type matters, not measurement

Electric razors are always allowed in the cabin. Disposable razors with plastic-protected blades pass without issue, whereas safety razors with exposed and replaceable blades and straight razors must always go in checked luggage.

Other small objects to check

Nail files and tweezers are permitted without restrictions; nail clippers and cuticle scissors with curved blades follow the same 6 cm threshold as standard scissors. Multi-tools and pocket knives are prohibited in the cabin regardless of the main blade length, due to the presence of a fixed or locking blade, and must always be placed in checked luggage.

If the object is nonetheless retained

Some airports offer a postal mailing service from the security checkpoint for objects you care about, for a fee, instead of having to abandon them. Some airlines also apply more restrictive policies than the European minimum: it's worth checking on the airline's website before taking the general rule for granted.

If you're unsure about the measurement of an object, check it with a ruler before closing your suitcase: avoid unnecessary disputes at the security checkpoint.