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Travelling by air can be stressful, especially when it comes to packing. You want to ensure you have everything you need for your journey, but if you pack the wrong things in your carry-on bag, they can easily get confiscated before boarding the plane.
That's why it’s essential to know exactly what is allowed and not allowed on board an aeroplane! In this post, we will guide you through all the correct items you should take in your luggage, as well as look at a few of the more commonly confiscated items and explain why they are prohibited.
What Items Are Allowed in Carry-On?
When it comes to packing for a trip, it's important to understand what items are allowed in your carry-on luggage to make your travel experience as smooth as possible. Read on for useful information about what’s allowed onboard so that you no longer have surprises waiting on the other side!
Liquids
When it comes to packing for a flight, knowing what liquids are allowed and not allowed in your hand luggage can be confusing. Generally, liquids, gels, creams, and aerosols must be in containers that are 100ml or smaller and all containers must fit into a 20cm x 20cm, clear, plastic bag.
You can also save some money (and the environment) here, rather than buying travel-sized miniatures of your favourite toiletries, you can buy reusable plastic/silicone containers, that you can use to decant your products.
However, it's important to note that not all liquids fall under this rule. For example, alcohol above 70% Alcohol by Volume (ABV), compressed gases (e.g., deodorant), and flammable liquids are prohibited in hand luggage. So, before you start filling your plastic bag, make sure you know which liquids are allowed and which ones should be left at home.
Medications
If you are travelling with medications, it is recommended to pack them in your carry-on luggage rather than checked baggage. This ensures that you have quick and easy access to your medication during the flight should you need them. Additionally, this will save you the hassle of trying to locate your medications broad, should your checked luggage get lost or delayed.
It is important to keep all medication in its original packaging to avoid any confusion or issues with security. If you have liquid medication that exceeds the 100ml limit on liquids in carry-on bags, you are allowed to bring it through security if you declare it to security and it is medically necessary.
It is also a good idea to bring a copy of your prescription or a note from your doctor explaining why you need the medication. It is important to research the specific regulations for medication in the country you are travelling to, as some countries may have restrictions on certain types of medication.
For more information on travelling with medications on holiday, check out Dr. Sarah Jarvis’ article on Taking Medications Abroad.
Travelling with a Baby
When travelling with a baby, most airlines allow you to bring a carry-on bag for the baby in addition to your own carry-on luggage. This carry-on allowance typically includes items such as a nappy bag, pushchair, and car seat. However, it is important to check with your airline ahead of time to find out their specific carry-on guidelines for infants.
Many airlines also allow you to bring breast milk, formula, and baby food in quantities exceeding the 100ml liquid allowance, so long as you declare it to airport security, and it is medically necessary for the baby.
As per the UK Governments website, restrictions for baby food and milk are as follows:
| Allowed in Hand Luggage | Allowed in Hold | |
| Breast Milk | Yes, in containers up to 2000ml | Yes |
| Frozen Breast Milk | No | Yes |
| Formula Milk, Cow’s Milk | Yes (baby must be present) | Yes |
| Sterilized Water for the Baby | Yes (baby must be present) | Yes |
| Soya Milk for Babies | Yes (baby must be present) | Yes |
| Baby Food | Yes (baby must be present) | Yes |
| Cooling Gel Packs | Yes | Yes |
You may also want to consider bringing a few extra items in your carry-on, such as a change of clothes for the baby and any necessary medications. Make sure to pack these items in an organized manner to make security screening and access during the flight, as easy as possible.
Electronic Devices
If you're wondering what types of electronics you can take on the plane, you're not alone. The good news is that most electronics are allowed on planes, but there are some restrictions you need to keep in mind.
Some electronic devices can contain lithium-ion batteries that can overheat and catch fire if damaged or subjected to extreme temperatures or pressure changes. If you are unsure whether your electronic devices contain lithium-ion batteries, check with the manufacturer before packing the item.
Devices like laptops, tablets, phones, cameras, and e-readers are usually permitted in your carry-on luggage. Yet, larger items like gaming consoles, hoverboards, or drones may need to be checked in.
Prohibited Items
It's important to keep in mind what you cannot bring as part of your hand luggage. Prohibited items include sharp objects such as knives, scissors, or razors, which can easily become dangerous if mishandled.
Obviously, things like explosives, fireworks, guns, and petrol are definite no-no’s, but things like vapes and electronic cigarettes are also not allowed. Certain sporting equipment is also not allowed to be in carry-on: no cricket bats or golf clubs – these all must be checked into the hold. Anything like this is prohibited, as they have the potential to be used as weapons.
Make sure to check the list of prohibited items before packing your hand luggage to avoid any mishaps at the security checkpoint.
Helpful Tips for Packing You Carry-On
Packing can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to only having a carry-on suitcase for those weekend escapes. You want to pack everything you need but also want to avoid overpacking. The key is to prioritize your essentials and pack them strategically.
Start by creating a packing list that includes all the must-haves for your trip. Then, choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.
Roll your clothes to save space and don't forget to make sure that any liquids you pack are under the 100ml requirement and near the top. Keep these items separate and easy to access in a clear plastic bag, so you can easily pull them out ready for airport security.
When it comes to packing hand luggage for a flight, rules and regulations must be abided by. However, with careful planning and organization of your items ahead of time, you can successfully make sure that all your carry-on belongings comply with the regulations.
If in doubt, make sure to check with your airline, and the regulations of the country you are visiting to make sure you are ok to bring the items you are unsure about.
Each item should be thoroughly researched to confirm what items are allowed on board the plane in your hand luggage before departure. Dedicating the time to bring yourself aware of what is permissible in terms of carry-on luggage, will help alleviate potential stressful scenarios encountered when going through security screening at the airport.