What Are You Allowed to Take in Your Hand Luggage?
Picture this: you’re buzzing with pre-holiday excitement, suitcase ready to go… but then that nagging doubt hits. Can you bring your favourite shampoo? What about those essential medications? Navigating hand luggage rules can be a bit of a minefield, but don’t stress! We at Northern Wanderers are here to clear things up. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what you can and can’t pack in your hand luggage, plus those handy exemptions that make travel a breeze. Let’s unpack it! 🧳
Be sure to take a look at our other guides like Packing Tips, such as 7 Tips for travelling with a Laptop. Enjoy.
Key Takeaways from this article
Know Your Airline’s Rules: Every airline has its own specific guidelines on hand luggage size, weight, and what you can bring. Always check their website for the most up-to-date information to avoid surprises at the airport.
The 100ml Liquid Rule: For liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes, stick to containers that are 100ml or less. These must fit into a clear, resealable plastic bag for security screening.
Exemptions Exist: Essential items like medications (with documentation) and baby necessities are often exempt from the usual hand luggage restrictions. Notify your airline in advance if you need special accommodations.
Plan Ahead for Special Items: If you’re travelling with medical equipment, sports gear, or anything out of the ordinary, contact your airline well before your flight to ensure they can take care of your needs.
When in Doubt, Check: If you’re unsure about whether you can bring a specific item in your hand luggage, always consult your airline or the airport security website for the latest guidance.
What you can take in your hand luggage
Hand luggage – your trusty travel companion that stays with you throughout the journey. But how much can you squeeze into it? Well, different airlines have their own rules about size and weight limits, so always check their websites for the latest. Here’s the general gist to get you started:
General guidelines: Most airlines stick to a pretty standard size for hand luggage. You’ll need to make sure your bag fits the measurements they provide (think small suitcase or a decent-sized backpack). Weight restrictions also apply, so say goodbye to packing those hefty dumbbells!
Clothing and essentials: Let’s face it, no one wants to arrive at their destination with nothing but the clothes on their back! Pack some changes of clothes depending on how long you’re away – roll them up to save space. Don’t forget essentials like toiletries (we’ll get to those liquid rules in a sec) and your chargers.
Valuables and documents: Your passport, travel documents, wallet, and any high-worth items are best kept in your hand luggage. After all, you don’t want to risk them getting lost in the hold.
Tip: Always check with your airline what the maximum dimensions you can take on the plane. Too big and it will have to go in the hold and cost you money.
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Liquids
The 100ml rule – it’s the bane of many a traveller’s life! But there’s a reason for it, so let’s break it down:
What’s the deal with 100ml? Security measures limit individual liquids, gels, pastes, creams, and aerosols in hand luggage to 100ml containers. This helps screeners at the airport get a clear picture of what’s inside. Some airports are removing the rule!
Exemptions and packaging: All your liquids need to fit into one clear, resealable plastic bag (usually provided at security). Each container can’t be more than 100ml, even if it’s only half full.
What even counts as a liquid? This is where it gets a bit tricky. Think shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, mascara, sunscreen, lip gloss… even things like jams and soft cheeses! If it’s spreadable, pourable, or sprayable, it likely falls under the liquid rule.
Tips:
- Decant your favourites: Pick up some travel-sized bottles and transfer your go-to toiletries to stay within the limits.
- Choose solid alternatives: Swap liquid shampoo for a shampoo bar, or ditch the body wash for soap – problem solved!
- Buy after security: Need more than 100ml of something? Grab it at duty-free after you’ve passed through security.
Related article: 10 Travel myths debunked
Exemptions
Breathe a sigh of relief – there are some essential items exempt from the liquid rule. These generally include:
- Essential medical supplies: Things like prescription medications (with a label or doctor’s note) and necessary liquids for medical conditions are allowed in larger amounts.
- Baby formula and infant necessities: You can bring enough baby milk, formula, sterilised water, and baby food for the journey, but be prepared to explain these to security.
Important: Always notify airport security about exemptions in advance – it smooths the process.
Related articles: How to plan a trip travel guides
Baby food and baby milk
Travelling with baby humans requires a whole extra level of packing finesse. Don’t worry, most airlines understand those essential baby needs! Here’s the lowdown:
What’s allowed: You can usually take enough baby food, pre-prepared formula, sterilised water, and breast milk to cover the duration of your journey (including connections). While these exceed the 100ml limit, there’s generally no hard cap.
Packaging rules: Baby food containers don’t always need to go in the clear liquids bag, but be prepared to open and taste some of it at security. Sterilised water usually needs to stay sealed until after the screening.
Breast milk: Rules vary slightly by airline. Some allow you to bring frozen breast milk, while others request it to be liquid. It’s always best to check with your airline for specifics.
Heating facilities on planes: Flight attendants are generally happy to heat up baby food or milk – just give them a heads-up, especially if you need hot water for formula.
Tips:
- Pack for the unexpected: Planes get delayed, trips take longer than planned. Bring a little extra formula or milk, just in case.
- Cooling packs: If you’re bringing breast milk or pre-made formula, think about insulated bags or cooling packs to keep things fresh.
- Don’t be shy to ask for help: Flight attendants are used to travelling families. Need some extra hot water? A hand with getting organised? Don’t hesitate to ask.
Extra Note: If you have special dietary requirements for your little one, make sure to contact the airline in advance.
Related article: Essential tips for flying with a baby
Medicines, medical equipment, and mobility aids
Travelling with medical necessities requires a little extra attention to ensure a smooth journey. Let’s break it down:
Carrying prescriptions and over-the-counter medication: Prescription medications are generally exempt from the 100ml rule. Keep them in their original packaging with clear labels, and consider carrying a doctor’s note for additional clarity. For over-the-counter meds, stick to what you might need for the trip’s duration.
Traveling with medical equipment: Essential items like CPAP machines, blood glucose monitors, and even liquid oxygen can usually be taken on board. However, you must notify the airline in advance to ensure they have everything in place for you.
Regulations for mobility aids: Wheelchairs, walking aids, and other mobility devices often fall under the category of ‘Special Assistance.’ Contact the airline well before your flight to arrange transport and ensure they can accommodate your needs.
Tips:
- Carry a medical summary: Keep a list of medications, dosages, and any relevant medical conditions handy. This is helpful if you need to explain anything at security or during your trip.
- Pre-arrange assistance: Don’t leave it to chance. Contact the airline well ahead of time, especially if you require special accommodations on board or assistance navigating the airport.
- Factor in extra time: Getting through security with medical equipment and medications could take longer. Arrive at the airport early to avoid unnecessary stress.
Important: Always consult your doctor before travelling, especially if you have a medical condition that might impact your journey.
Related article: 20 tips for Travelling with Diabetes , Senior Travel Guide
Duty-free
Ah, the lure of duty-free shopping! It’s easy to get swept up in those shiny bottles of perfume and giant chocolate bars, but there are some rules to keep in mind:
Purchases at the airport: Duty-free items are those you buy after clearing security, before your flight. These often have tax reductions, making them temptingly cheaper. Have your boarding card ready!
Restrictions on bringing duty-free items: While they may be a bargain, you can’t breeze through customs with endless bottles of duty-free liquor. Each country has its own limits on what you can bring in – check the government website of your destination.
Connecting flights: Here’s where it gets a bit tricky. If you have a connecting flight, your duty-free liquids might be over the 100ml limit for your next leg. These usually need to be sealed in special tamper-proof bags when you buy them, along with your receipt.
Tips:
- Avoid impulse buys: Don’t just grab something because it’s “duty-free.” Make sure it’s something you actually want or need. It isn’t always cheaper!
- Know your limits: Check the duty-free allowances for your destination country before you splurge. You don’t want to get hit with unexpected customs fees.
- Hold onto your receipts: Keep those duty-free purchase receipts handy – you might need to show them at customs.
Extra Note: Many airlines allow you to pre-order duty-free and collect it on board. This can be a great timesaver if you’re short on time at the airport. Easyjet definitely do this!
Electronic items
From your laptop to your trusty travel camera, electronic devices have become part and parcel of any journey. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
Laptops, tablets, and phones: These items can generally be carried in your hand luggage without any issues. However, at security, you’ll need to remove larger electronics from your bag for separate screening.
Cameras and photography equipment: Most cameras and standard gear are fine in your hand luggage, but double-check with your airline if you’ve got large professional equipment (some might need to go in the hold).
Battery banks and power banks: Spare batteries and power banks are essential for long journeys. Make sure they’re in your hand luggage and comply with airline regulations (there’s usually a limit on capacity). These will also need to be removed for inspection.
Tips:
- Keep it charged: Ensure your devices are well charged before your flight, especially if you plan to rely on them for entertainment.
- Check restrictions: Some airlines have specific rules regarding certain electronic items or battery types, so check their website before you pack.
- Protect your gear: Invest in a padded case or sleeve for laptops, cameras, and other delicate items. Remember, bags get thrown around on a journey!
Special consideration: Always remember to declare any valuable electronics if you’re traveling internationally to avoid any hassles at customs.
Related article: Light Travellers guide , Travel Like a Pro with these tips
Sports equipment
Whether you’re a skiing enthusiast, a keen cyclist, or an avid golfer, packing sports equipment can be a logistical hurdle. It’s doubtful you will be putting sports gear in your hand luggage, but here’s the breakdown:
Traveling with sports gear: Most airlines allow sports equipment, but it often falls under the category of ‘Special’ or ‘Oversized’ luggage. This means additional fees and prior arrangements with the airline.
Airline policies on specific equipment: Different airlines have different rules about things like skis, snowboards, golf clubs, and bikes. You’ll need to check the specifics on their website.
Packing considerations: Invest in good quality travel cases designed for your sport. These offer protection and often have wheels for easier maneuvering around the airport.
Tips:
- Book ahead: Don’t leave it to the last minute. Contact your airline well in advance to arrange the transport of your sports equipment and find out about any extra charges.
- Consider renting: If your trip is short or the hassle of hauling bulky equipment outweighs the benefits, renting at your destination might be more convenient.
- Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance that specifically covers sports gear, especially if your equipment is high value.
Note: Some sporting equipment, like hiking poles with sharp points, may not be allowed in your hand luggage. Always check security restrictions.
Other things you can take as hand luggage
Apart from the big categories we’ve covered, there are lots of other smaller bits and bobs you might want to take on the plane with you. Here’s a look:
Small musical instruments: If you can comfortably fit it in the overhead compartment, most airlines allow smaller instruments like a guitar or violin. Larger instruments will likely need to be checked, so always contact the airline for their specific rules.
Gifts and souvenirs: Wrapped gifts are usually fine in hand luggage, but if they seem suspicious to security, they might get unwrapped for a closer look. When buying fragile souvenirs, think about how you’ll safely get them home – will they survive in your hand luggage?
Personal items: Things like hair straighteners, umbrellas, and most non-flammable personal care items can generally go in your hand luggage. Always check the latest TSA (or equivalent) list for prohibited items.
Tips:
- Pack fragile items carefully: If you’re bringing anything delicate, use bubble wrap or clothes to protect it within your bag.
- Think about the practicalities: Will you really use a bulky hairdryer at your destination? Could you replace it with travel-sized toiletries instead?
- When in doubt, check: If you’re unsure about a specific item, it’s always better to double-check with your airline or airport security website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, in general you can bring snacks and even homemade meals, but check regulations for your destination country as some have restrictions on things like fresh produce.
Generally, no. Pocket knives, scissors with large blades, and similar items are best packed in checked luggage.
If your bag is too big or too heavy, you might be asked to check it in at the gate, usually for a fee.
Yes! There are extensive lists of banned items that can’t be in your hand luggage or checked luggage. These include obvious things like weapons, but also less obvious items like flammable liquids. Always refer to your airline or travel authority website for the most up-to-date information.
Final Thoughts
Packing for a trip can sometimes feel overwhelming, but hopefully, this guide has shed some light on the tricky world of hand luggage restrictions. Remember these key tips to streamline your packing experience:
Tips for stress-free packing: Planning ahead is your best friend! Thoroughly research your airline’s hand luggage rules, especially if you’re travelling with medical equipment or sports gear.
Checking airline websites: Airlines are constantly updating their policies, so always double-check their websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Planning ahead: Give yourself ample time to pack and avoid that last-minute scramble. Create a packing list (or download ours!) and stick to the essentials.
With a bit of preparation, you’ll be sailing through airport security with your hand luggage in tow, ready to embark on your next adventure! Happy travels! ✈️
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve successfully packed in your hand luggage? Share in the comments!
Related articles: Packing
Recommended website: Airline baggage rules
Nick Harvey
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