Ryanair has strict hand luggage rules, and plane passengers have been told they need to stop packing a common item inside. It’s essential travel advice to follow
Katie-Ann Gupwell Content Editor
11:39, 28 May 2026Updated 11:41, 28 May 2026
Ryanair urged people to avoid the item (stock image)(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
With many people taking to the skies at this time of year, those flying with Ryanair in the near future need to familiarise themselves with some essential rules before stepping on board. The airline has a number of strict policies in place to help make journeys safe for passengers, and there are several things worth knowing before heading off on your holidays.
Ryanair is an enormously popular airline, yet there’s a chance you might not be fully up to speed on everything you need to know about travelling with them. With the holiday season about to hit full swing, now is an ideal opportunity to brush up on your travel knowledge.
This isn’t the first time useful travel advice has made headlines recently, either. It was previously revealed that a straightforward error could result in inflating the cost of Ryanair flights.
The subject of what you’re permitted to carry in hand luggage recently sparked a lively debate on Reddit. One passenger asked: “Hi! Has anybody successfully travelled with small scissors?
“[I have] some tiny scissors (Swiss army knife style). They are under 6cm and don’t include any knife or other dangerous tools. Does anyone happen to have any advice?”
The post swiftly generated a great deal of discussion, with users sharing a wide range of opinions and experiences.
One said: “Scissors? I wasn’t allowed a nail clipper in the EU, let alone scissors!” Another added: “I have little folding ones, they always get through.”
A third replied: “Put them in checked luggage? It can be used as a weapon. I wouldn’t even try to bring that through security.”
Meanwhile, a fourth also commented: “Honestly, it’s a gamble. Even if they’re teeny tiny, some airports won’t risk it. Just pack them in checked luggage. Not worth the stress or losing another pair.”
What do people need to know?
While regulations may differ between airlines, Ryanair has strict rules that passengers must adhere to when it comes to travelling with scissors. You may be surprised to learn that certain scissors should never be placed in your hand luggage, and there’s a very good reason for this.
The Ryanair website states: “The following items must not be carried on board, but may be carried as part of your checked baggage. Objects with a sharp point or sharp edge capable of being used to cause serious injury, including scissors with blades of more than 6cm, as measured from the fulcrum.”
As a general rule, small scissors are permitted in hand luggage provided the blade measures 6cm or less from the pivot point; however, regulations can vary between airlines and airports. The key thing to remember is that any scissors with blades exceeding 6cm must be packed in your checked luggage.
Certain airlines may permit round-ended or blunt scissors, but passengers should exercise caution when packing their bags. The reasoning behind the rule, as Ryanair outlines, is that such items are classified as sharp objects that could potentially be used as weapons.
In order to uphold stringent cabin security, passengers are prohibited from carrying certain items in their hand luggage. Large scissors are amongst those that are not permitted.
If you’re ever unsure about what you’re allowed to bring on board, get in touch with your airline for guidance. Additional information should also be available on their website.