I have to admit that I love carrying multitools.
I don’t often need them, but when I do, I love having accessible tools to help solve
a situation, even if it’s just tightening a loose screw or cutting open a package.
Hey, how’s it going everyone?
It’s Ernest from Trip Astute.
In this video, we’re exploring multitools for travelers, and the challenges of traveling
with them.
Also, we’re going to share how you can win an EDC Pocket Armor from Popov Leather, which
is a perfect case for your multi-tool.
I don’t know if it’s just my personality, but I’ve always been a huge fan of multi-tools.
I love the feeling prepared and confident to handle situations.
In fact, I’ve always carried one, whether it be a full-size leatherman or a small keychain
swiss army knife.
However, after 9/11, carrying multi-tools on a plane became nearly impossible, mostly
because of restrictions on blades.
Even tiny keychain-sized multi-tools were being confiscated by the TSA.
So, if you’re someone who likes to travel but also likes to be prepared, I thought we’d
explore the options that are available, and also some tips to keep in mind when traveling
with multi-tools.
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Traveling can be stressful and expensive, so we’re looking for ways to help you maximize
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As I mentioned earlier, anything with a blade is frowned upon when traveling.
Luckily, there are some muti-tools that are geared for travelers.
You’ll see traditional multi-tools that do not include a blade.
There are single piece multi-tools that are often less complicated and more friendly looking.
And there are even wearable multi-tools, like the Leatherman Tread series, that have tool
bits built into a bracelet.
In the traditional multi-tool category, you have a few choices.
Victorinox, which is one of the makers of the Swiss Army Knife, has a tool called the
Jetsetter.
It’s a keychain-sized tool without a knife blade.
It’s very basic, but it might be all you want or need to carry.
Leatherman also has a keychain-sized tool called the Leatherman Style PS.
I actually showed it in a previous video about my every day carry, or EDC.
Gerber also has a keychain-sized multitool called the Dime.
The normal version has a knife blade, but there is a travel version that does not include
a blade.
If you’re looking for a multi-tool with a bit more heft and size, you’ll want to
check out the Gerber MP600.
Just be careful since the tool comes in multiple versions, with one being a no-knife version.
I actually couldn't find it on their website, but I did find it on Amazon.
It may be discontinued, so not sure how long it will be available.
But if you prefer a more traditional sized multi-tool with no knife, it may be your best
option.
The next set of multi-tools are single-piece tools.
These are tools that are usually one or two piece designs tools.
They are generally less expensive than traditional multi-tools and more simple and friendly-looking.
That might seem like a weird thing, but I generally don’t recommend looking too tactical
when traveling.
In fact, I’ve even heard travel sites recommend against wearing anything that looks military-related
when traveling to certain parts of the world as it will only draw unnecessary attention
and scrutiny.
There are a ton of example of tools in this category from all sorts of multi-tool and
knife manufacturers.
For example, here’s from a company called KeySmart called the Alltul Raptor.
I like this one a lot since it has wrench tools which are useful if you think you’ll
be biking.
I’m not much of a cyclist, but I do seem to end up on bikes a lot when traveling, so
having some basic tools to make adjustments is very handy.
The other one-piece tool that I carry a lot when traveling is my Gerber Shard.
Again, I covered it in my EDC video.
It’s a very inexpensive and basic tool, which makes it very useful for traveling.
The last category of multi-tools is wearable tools.
I don’t actually have any of these tools, but they are intriguing to me.
Leatherman was the first ones in this category with their Tread series.
These are basically bracelets and watches that have multi-tool bits built into the band.
To be honest, I don’t know how discrete these bracelets would look when traveling.
But they technically shouldn’t pose an issue when passing through security and could be
a useful way to carry tools.
I haven’t handled one, so I can’t comment on whether they are comfortable or heavy.
While I like the idea of wearable tools, they are a bit pricey, and a bit too flashy for
my taste.
Maybe I’m a bit old school, but I don’t want to draw unnecessary attention toward
myself, especially when I’m away from home.
In terms of carrying tools and knives, I much prefer to carry them in my pocket or bag.
But as you know, we tend to carry a lot more sensitive electronic gear when traveling.
So, keeping things from scratching up your phone or even destroying your pocket can be
an issue, especially when you’re wearing specialty fabrics that are lighter and more
breathable.
The best solution that I’ve found is to use a lightweight and thin case.
I’ve been using a product from Popov Leather called the EDC Pocket Armor.
It can fit a variety of tools and knives including single-piece multi-tools and some slim Swiss
Army Knives and Leatherman tools.
It also has an elastic slot for a small pen, which is very useful.
Also, if you have a knife or multi-tool with a nicer finish, the Pocket Armor can help
protect it from scratches and wear.
In case you haven’t heard of Popov Leather, they are a Canadian leather goods maker that
is fairly popular in the EDC community.
They hand stitch all their products, and they source their leather from Horween, which is
one of the most famous and prestigious leather tanneries in the US.
They make a variety of products, including wallets, belts, watch straps, and travel gear.
They are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and all their products including a lifetime
guarantee.
Popov Leather generously sent over an EDC Pocket Armor to giveaway to you all, so I’ll
include details at the end of the video.
This isn’t a sponsored video, but we thought we’d try to partner with them since they
make a lot of high-quality leather goods that are useful for travelers.
Some of you might be thinking that it’s just not worth carrying a multi-tool while
traveling.
And you might be right.
Though I generally prefer to be prepared.
And if you’re traveling with kids or are going to be in situations where the stakes
might be higher, it never hurts to have tools that can resolve a situation.
In fact, I’ve had some several situations during my travels where they’ve come in
so handy, like when fixing a bike seat post that came loose while cycling around Panama
or even removing a cactus needle that got stuck in my hand in Joshua Tree National Park.
So, if you’re traveling with multi-tools, here are some tips to keep in mind.
1.
Keep it small and simple: While it might be tempting to bring a multi-tool that is at
the limit, for example, a multi-tool that has scissors just under 4-inches which is
required by TSA, you’re probably asking to have it confiscated.
My advice is to keep it small and simple.
Anything that looks complex or potentially larger than necessary is likely going to be
inspected and potentially deemed dangerous.
Also, bright colored tools like a Swiss Army Knife are just going to look a lot more friendly
and less threatening.
With that in mind, 2.
Assume that it will be confiscated: Even if you meet TSA guidelines, your item is still
under the discretion of the agents.
If losing your tool hurts your wallet or if the tool has some kind of sentimental value,
it’s not worth trying to take it on a plane.
This is why I love inexpensive single-piece tools like the Gerber Shard or Alltul Raptor.
Otherwise, I recommend putting it in checked luggage.
3.
Be proactive: If you’re going to take a multi-tool on a plane, I suggest being proactive
and opening all the tools before putting it through the baggage inspector.
I know a lot of people online recommend putting it at the bottom of your bag and playing dumb,
but I don’t think it’s worth the risk or trouble.
4.
Be polite: If you are asked about your tool or even told that it’s cannot pass through
security, I suggest being polite and explaining why the tool meets the guidelines.
As with most things in life, being polite can often help alleviate tension and move
the situation toward a positive outcome.
5.
Bring a stamped envelope: A lot of people online recommend bringing a self-addressed
stamped envelope with you.
That way you can drop it off at the airport postal box to have it shipped back to your
home rather than donating it to TSA.
I’ve never personally done this, but it makes a lot of sense.
6.
Be discrete: Those of you that carry multi-tools or knives are going to think I’m crazy,
but I honestly recommend not using a pocket clip when carrying a tool or knife abroad.
Again, it draws unnecessary attention to the fact that you’re carrying something.
Instead, I recommend carrying it in your pocket or bag.
7.
Know the laws and rules of your destination: While TSA rules and regulations seem strict
in the US, don’t assume that the laws are the same in other countries.
Even if you pack your multi-tool in your check-in luggage and are able to carry it during your
trip, make sure you check local laws at your destination.
For example, many places, like the UK, have restrictions on the length of knives and on
locking blades.
The last thing you want is to not only have your multi-tool confiscated, but also found
accidentally breaking the law.
Even a small knife with a locking blade could be a violation at your destination.
This also goes for other places where there might be a security check.
Just because you can take it onto a plane doesn’t mean it will pass the security checkpoint
at a government office, museum, or even an amusement park.
When in doubt, I suggest leaving it at home, your hotel, or in your car.
Lastly, I mentioned that we were doing a giveaway.
Popov Leather sent us an EDC Pocket Armor to giveaway to our audience.
Just head over to our website to enter.
You don’t have to purchase anything, but there are multiple ways to enter and gain
entries.
By signing up for some of the social media channels or sharing the giveaway, you’ll
earn extra entries into the contest.
The more options you complete, the more entries that you’ll earn.
And of course, there’s no pressure to enter!
The giveaway runs until Friday, July 12th.
We’ll then randomly select our winner on July 13th.
I’ll include a link in the video description.
Keep in mind that the contest is only for US and Canadian residents.
Though if you’re not based in the US or Canada, don’t worry.
We’ll have more giveaways soon, so stay tuned.
Do you travel with a multi-tool?
If so, which one do you carry?
Also, do you have any stories or tips for carrying tools when traveling?
Let us know in the comment section below.
I’ve included Amazon links to the tools shown in this video.
Trip Astute does get a percentage if you use our links.
It doesn’t cost you anything extra, but it helps us to continue building content for
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It really helps us to grow our channel and community.
We wish you all a wonderful holiday season.
Until next time, travel safe and travel smart.