Whether you love it or hate it, there’s a knack to packing for your holidays. And with strict security rules, it’s sometimes tricky to know what to take in your hand luggage.
Here's what you need to know about hand luggage restrictions and how to avoid any surprises at check in.
What qualifies as hand luggage?
Hand luggage, also known as cabin baggage or carry-on luggage, is any bag you're allowed to take onto the plane with you.
This could include:
- a small suitcase
- a backpack
- a holdall
- a handbag
- a laptop bag
The size, weight and number of bags you're allowed to take depends on your airline.
Some flights will include a larger cabin bag in the ticket price, while others might only allow a small personal bag – unless you pay extra.
So, to avoid surprise charges at the airport, always check your airline's baggage allowance before you travel.
What items are allowed in my hand luggage?
Most everyday items can go in your hand luggage. But some things might have size, quantity or security restrictions.
Valuables
For extra peace of mind, it's best to keep valuables in your hand luggage. They won't usually be covered if they're packed in checked baggage and get lost or delayed.
These could include:
- passports and travel documents
- wallets and cash
- jewellery
- watches
- mobile phones
- cameras
Electronics
Most personal electronic devices are allowed in hand luggage, including:
- mobile phones
- laptops
- tablets
- headphones
- cameras
- hair straighteners and hair dryers
If you're travelling with batteries or a power bank, check your airline's rules before you fly.
Food and liquids
You can usually take food in your hand luggage, but some foods could be treated as liquids at security.
Food that could be classed as liquids include:
- soup
- yoghurt
- honey
- jam
- sauces
A lot of airports still ask for liquids to be carried in containers of 100ml or less. But with upgrades to security scanners, some airports now allow more. So, always double check the rules at your departure airport before travelling.
You might also be able to take baby food, baby milk and some dietary products in larger containers if you need them for your journey.
Medical items
If you’re travelling with medication, it’s usually better to keep this with you in case your checked baggage is delayed.
This might include:
- prescription medication
- inhalers
- insulin
- EpiPens
- medical devices
If you're taking medication above the usual liquid limits, you might need to show a prescription or doctor's letter.
Learn more in our guide to travelling with medication.
Personal items
Lots of everyday personal items are allowed in hand luggage, like:
- umbrellas
- glasses and sunglasses
- books and magazines
- make-up
- electric razors
- toiletries (within the liquid limits)
Just remember, airport security staff always have the final say on whether an item can travel with you in your hand luggage.
What items aren’t allowed in my hand luggage?
Security restrictions are there to keep you and other passengers safe on your flight.
While the rules will change between countries and airlines, there are some items that are you can’t pack in hand luggage.
Sharp objects and tools
Items that could be potentially used as a weapon are usually banned from hand luggage. These can include:
- knives
- box cutters
- large scissors
- screwdrivers
- drills
- hammers
Liquids, gels and aerosols
Liquids are one of the most common reasons travellers have items taken from them at airport security. Depending on the airport, there are usually strict rules on things like:
- drinks
- perfume
- toothpaste
- shampoo
- shower gel
- sun cream
- deodorant sprays
Because rules change depending on where you are, it's always best to check with your airport before you fly.
Dangerous goods
Certain items are banned in both hand luggage and checked luggage due to safety risks, like:
- fireworks
- explosives
- flares
- harmful chemicals
- toxic substances
- pepper spray
- fuel
Any items that could cause a fire, health or security risk are unlikely to be allowed onboard.
Are hand luggage restrictions the same in every country?
No, hand luggage restrictions always vary between countries, airports and airlines.
While some security rules are similar around the world, there can be differences in:
- liquid limits
- medication requirements
- electronic device restrictions
- what food you can take in and out
- security checks
Before you travel, it's a good idea to check:
- your airline's baggage rules
- the airport's security guidance
- any restrictions in your destination country
- rules at any airports where you'll be changing flights
Want more travel tips?
For a smooth sailing trip, check out our travel hub for more handy guides, checklists and planning tips.
