Roberta Aguirre
When travelling, it's important to be aware of what you can and cannot carry in your hand luggage. Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board. However, there are restrictions on the size and number of bags, and certain items may be prohibited. Liquids, for example, are subject to special rules and may need to be screened separately. It's worth noting that even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm or poses security concerns. Ultimately, the decision rests with the TSA officer or airport staff. To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is advisable to plan ahead, pack properly, and familiarise yourself with the specific guidelines of the airline and airport.
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What You'll Learn
Liquids in hand luggage
Passengers are subject to specific restrictions when carrying liquids in their hand luggage. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety of everyone on board and to facilitate the screening process at the airport.
The general rule is that liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in travel-size containers of no more than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag for these items. This rule applies to common travel items such as toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, and lotion. It is important to note that food items and powders can block x-ray images, so it is recommended to pack these in hold luggage to reduce delays.
Some items, such as medication, are exempt from these restrictions. If the medication is in tablet form or liquid in a container that is 100ml or smaller, no proof is required. For larger containers, a prescription or a letter from a doctor may be necessary. Medical equipment is allowed if essential for the journey and must be screened separately with supporting documents.
It is always advisable to check with the airline and airport before travelling, as different countries may have varying rules. For example, Denmark's Billund Airport has implemented new 3D scanners that can detect explosives, allowing passengers to carry up to two litres of liquid. Additionally, some airlines might have specific restrictions on the number and size of bags allowed. Proper planning and packing can help facilitate the screening process and enhance your overall travel experience.
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Restrictions on electronic devices
When it comes to electronic devices, there are a number of restrictions and rules to be aware of when travelling. Firstly, the rules on what you can carry in hand baggage and hold luggage differ depending on the country and airport. Therefore, it is important to check the regulations of your departure and arrival airports, as well as any countries you are travelling through.
In general, electronic devices containing lithium batteries, such as laptops, smartphones and tablets, should be carried in carry-on baggage. Spare lithium batteries are prohibited in checked baggage and must be placed in carry-on luggage. If a carry-on bag is checked at the gate or plane side, any spare lithium batteries must be removed and kept with the passenger in the aircraft cabin. For American Airlines, the maximum number of lithium-ion batteries allowed in carry-on baggage is two, not exceeding 160 Wh each, with airline approval.
Electronic devices with lithium batteries that are placed in checked baggage must be completely powered off and protected to prevent unintentional activation or damage. Devices capable of generating extreme heat must have the heating element, battery or other components removed to mitigate the risk.
When passing through security, personal electronic devices larger than a cellphone, such as e-readers, digital cameras, laptops and tablets, typically need to be removed from carry-on bags and placed in a separate bin for screening. However, small appliances like electric razors or toothbrushes do not need to be removed. As of 2025, some airports are introducing new scanners that allow passengers to leave their electronics in their bags for screening, but it is still advised to assume that electronics will need to be removed at the checkpoint.
Additionally, certain electronic items are prohibited from being used on board the aircraft, even if they are allowed in carry-on baggage. This includes electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, which must be stored in a way that prevents accidental activation.
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Dangerous and restricted items
- Liquids: There are restrictions on the amount of liquid you can take in your hand luggage. Containers must be 100ml or smaller, and airport staff may need to open them for screening.
- Medication: You must carry proof that any medication is prescribed to you, unless it is in tablet form or a small liquid container (100ml or less). Medical equipment is allowed if essential for your journey and must be screened separately with supporting documents from a medical professional.
- Electronic devices: All electronic devices must be powered on for inspection. Devices without power will not be permitted onboard. Lithium-ion batteries and portable power banks are restricted, and batteries should be removed from checked bags and placed in carry-on luggage in separate plastic bags.
- Lighters and matches: You can carry one lighter, which must be kept on your person throughout the flight.
- Food and powders: These items can block x-ray images, so it is recommended to place them in hold luggage to reduce delays.
- Alcoholic beverages: Alcoholic beverages over 70% by volume are prohibited. You can carry a maximum of 5 liters per passenger for beverages between 24% and 70% alcohol content in checked bags.
- Firearms and ammunition: Small arms ammunition for sporting purposes are allowed in checked bags if securely packed in the original manufacturer's packaging.
- Musical instruments: You may need to make special arrangements for travelling with large musical instruments, such as purchasing an extra seat.
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Food items and powders
When it comes to food items, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has stringent rules for liquids. Certain creamy or liquid foods, such as peanut butter, olive oil, and salsa, must comply with the TSA's 3-1-1 rule or be placed in checked baggage. This rule also applies to creamy or spreadable items with a soft consistency, such as dips, jams, and preserves. These items are permitted in checked luggage but are restricted to containers smaller than 3.4 ounces in carry-on luggage. Canned goods are also subject to the 3-1-1 rule and typically require additional screening due to their size. Cooked foods without liquids are generally safe in both carry-on and checked bags. Fresh fruits and vegetables can be tricky, but their dried forms are usually acceptable. Interestingly, fresh eggs are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags, despite being technically liquid on the inside.
Regarding powders, the TSA has implemented specific guidelines. Powder-like substances, including granules, exceeding 12 ounces (350 milliliters) in carry-on baggage may require additional screening at the central checkpoint. Powders exceeding this limit that cannot be resolved during screening will not be permitted in the aircraft cabin and will be discarded. For convenience and to avoid potential disposal, it is recommended to place non-essential powders exceeding 12 ounces in checked bags. If you intend to carry powders on an international flight, it is advisable to check with the security agency of the foreign country for their specific regulations.
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Airport security screening
Baggage Allowance and Restrictions:
Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or small handbag, on board. However, it's important to check with your specific airline beforehand as there may be variations in their policies. Your carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. If it doesn't fit, you may need to check it in. Make sure your carry-on items are labelled appropriately in case they need to be checked. Some airports and planes may have additional carry-on restrictions, so it's always best to be prepared.
Screening of Liquids and Medication:
Airport security staff may need to screen liquids at the security point. This includes items such as breast milk, baby food, and prescription medication. For medication, you must provide proof that it has been prescribed to you, unless it is in tablet form or liquid in a container that's 100ml or smaller. It's recommended to pack liquids in your hold baggage (checked luggage) whenever possible to reduce delays. Different countries may have varying rules regarding liquids, so always check with the relevant airlines and airports before travelling.
Electronic Devices:
Electronic devices and electrical items that you can carry on a flight may vary depending on your destination country and airport. Officers at the security checkpoint may ask you to power up your electronic devices, including cell phones. Devices that cannot be powered on will not be permitted onboard the aircraft.
Dangerous and Restricted Items:
Airport security staff will not allow any items that they consider dangerous, even if they are typically permitted. This includes items such as lighters, which must be kept inside a resealable plastic bag and cannot exceed one per person. Food items and powders should be placed in hold luggage as they can obstruct X-ray machine images, leading to manual bag checks and potential delays. Some items, such as musical instruments, may require special arrangements, so it's best to contact your airline in advance for clarification.
Additional Considerations:
When travelling with a baby, you are allowed to carry enough baby food, milk, and sterilised water for the journey. You can also bring breast milk in hand luggage, but it must be in individual containers of no more than 2 litres. Pushchairs, walking aids, and wheelchairs are usually allowed in the cabin but will need to be security screened first. Battery-powered mobility aids may have additional requirements, so check with your airline.
Remember that proper planning and packing can significantly facilitate the screening process and enhance your overall travel experience. For specific item inquiries, you can contact the relevant airport or airline authorities for detailed information.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the airline and how strict the gate agents are. Some people have reported being allowed to bring a third bag, especially if it is a small bag of food or airport-purchased goods. However, others have reported that staff were very strict and only allowed one carry-on item and one personal item.
Yes, there are rules on what you can and cannot carry in your hand baggage and hold luggage. This includes dangerous and restricted items, as well as liquids, food items, powders, and electronic devices. The rules may vary depending on the country and airport you are travelling to or from, so it is important to check with your airline before you travel.
Airport security staff will not let anything through if they consider it dangerous, even if it is usually allowed. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. The final decision rests with the TSA officer.
