Razor Types in Cabin Baggage
Limited
Disposable cartridge razors allowed in cabin; safety razors with loose blades must be checked.
Quick answer
Security officers focus on access to sharp edges. Cartridge heads encase the blade, so they’re considered low risk. Traditional DE safety razors expose the blade, making them prohibited in cabin regardless of intent.
Electric trimmers carry lithium batteries; treat them like other electronics. Keep them switched off, guards on, and blades covered to avoid damaging your clothes.
If you’re travelling with multiple blades (barbers, stylists), pack them in their retail cases, tape the packaging, and place them in checked baggage. Declare professional kits if carrying beyond personal use quantities.
Cabin-approved items
- ✔Disposable cartridge razors with blades fixed in plastic heads.
- ✔Electric shavers/trimmers with guards and battery limits met.
- ✔Travel-size shaving gel (≤100ml) in liquids pouch.
Must check-in
- ✔Loose safety razor blades or blade packs.
- ✔Straight razors and barber razors with exposed edges.
- ✔Shaving kits containing scissors beyond 6cm.
Razor decision matrix
| Type | Cabin | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Cartridge razor | ✅ | ✅ |
| Safety razor (DE) | ❌ | ✅ |
| Electric trimmer | ✅ | ✅ (remove batteries if required) |
Do this
- ✅ Carry extra cartridges in sealed blister packs to show they’re unused.
- ✅ Wrap electric trimmers in a cloth pouch to avoid accidental switching.
- ✅ Use transparent toiletry bags so officers identify shaving gear quickly.
Avoid this
- ⚠️ Don’t hide blades inside other toiletries; scanners pick them up.
- ⚠️ Don’t pack used razors with visible residue—clean them before travel.
- ⚠️ Avoid carrying barber shears in cabin; they exceed blade-length allowances.
FAQ
Q. Are razor blade refills without handles allowed?
Yes, as long as they are cartridge refills with edges covered. Loose metal blades are not.
Q. What about eyebrow razors?
If they expose a blade longer than 6cm, check them in. Small plastic-guarded razors usually pass but depend on officer discretion.
Q. Can electric trimmers stay in checked baggage?
Yes, but remove lithium batteries or ensure they’re switched off to avoid vibration incidents.
Tips before you fly
- ✈️ Pack alum blocks or shaving sticks if you want to avoid liquids entirely.
- ✈️ Use travel cases with built-in caps for cartridges; they protect both blades and fabrics.
- ✈️ Keep a small note with airline URLs on prohibited items to show at security if questions arise.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines — simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.