metal divot tool being used to open a glass Corona beer bottle

Can you bring a divot tool on an airplane?

It’s no secret that I enjoy the game of golf. I have traveled with my golf clubs by checking them in a soft-sided travel case countless times. On a recent trip, I realized that I forgot to pack my divot tool in my travel bag. Divot tools aren’t sharp, but they do have a pointed end that might potentially be mistaken for a weapon. That led to us asking a question that had never crossed my mind before: can you bring a divot tool on an airplane or would the TSA confiscate it during security screening?

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TSA Guidelines for Traveling with Divot Tools

I went straight to the Transportation Security Administration for their official ruling on divot repair tools. According to the TSA, travelers are allowed to travel with divot tools in either their carry-on bag or checked baggage. 

This means that your friendly neighborhood TSA agent shouldn’t give you any grief when you bring your divot tool through their security checkpoint. 

Transportation Security Administration logo
Thanks for the clarification, TSA!

What are the best divot tools to travel with?

Unless you have an abnormally large divot tool that exceeds 7 inches in length (at which TSA might classify it as a “non-compliant tool”), there’s no need to deviate from your go-to divot tool.

Since they are small & easy to carry, you should be able to easily stow it away in one of your carry-on duffel bags or travel backpacks.

I personally use a pretty basic divot tool from a local golf course, but there are some unique tools on the market:

Multi-functional Divot Tool: Birdicon Divot Tool (check latest price on Amazon)

metal divot tool being used to open a glass Corona beer bottle
For the golfer who needs an all-in-one tool for hitting greens & pounding beers

Most Unique Divot Tool: Insta Golf Spider Divot Tool (check latest price on Amazon)

red metal divot toll with non-standard metal prongs
If you like being different, this funky divot tool is for you

Spring-loaded Divot Tool: Indiana Metal Craft Stainless Steel Switchblade Divot Tool (check latest price on Amazon)

metal switchblade-style divot marker with customized ball markers
This made-in-USA divot tool features personalized ball markers

Final Thoughts

I was relieved to learn that the TSA won’t take away my favorite divot tool in case I forgot to put it in my checked bag before my next flight.

Golfing while traveling is one of my favorite ways to reconnect with friends & family, and it’s a great way to trick myself into getting a little exercise when visiting a new destination. Based on our research, you can rest assured that you are allowed on an airplane with a divot tool in your carry-on bag.

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