Preparing for air travel can be a serious challenge due to the strict security rules at airports. Losing baggage or needing to leave it for inspection due to non-compliance with requirements can overshadow even the most anticipated trip. However, problems can be avoided by familiarizing yourself with the rules for carrying items on the plane in advance. In this material, we will discuss what is allowed to be taken on board and what is prohibited, and answer frequently asked questions on this topic.
Permitted Items in Carry-On Luggage
Carry-on luggage is the baggage that passengers take with them into the aircraft cabin. Due to heightened security measures, the list of allowable items is limited:
- Food. Non-perishable items without a strong odor that could inconvenience other passengers are allowed. Snacks, sandwiches, but not full meals, are permitted.
- Liquids. The total volume of liquids per person must not exceed 1 liter. Containers should be transparent bottles with a capacity of up to 100 ml, packed in a clear bag for inspection.
- Clothing and Accessories. Outerwear, headgear, gloves, jewelry, watches, and glasses are allowed.
- Medications. A personal medical kit should contain medications in their original packaging with the owner's name indicated. Prescription medications should be accompanied by a prescription with the passenger's name. Medical supplies (syringes, needles) are allowed after inspection.
- Electronics. Smartphones, laptops, tablets can be taken into the cabin, but they need to be presented at security. Smartphones are allowed to be used only in "Airplane mode" with communication functions disabled during the flight.
This is the basic list for most airlines. However, there may be additional restrictions in individual cases, so it is recommended to check the rules with the carrier.
Checked Baggage Allowances
The rules for checked baggage are less stringent. In addition to items from the carry-on list, the following are allowed in checked baggage:
- Sports equipment (sticks, snowboards, bicycles) with a total of three dimensions up to 203 cm.
- Hand tools: saws, pliers, soldering equipment.
- Canned goods.
If you have specific equipment or tools (spears, crossbows, chainsaws), it is advisable to consult with the airline in advance.
Prohibited Items in Carry-On Luggage
The following items are not allowed in carry-on luggage:
- Any items that can be used as weapons: firearms and cold weapons, multitools, blades, awls, sports equipment of "dual use" (sticks, bats, clubs).
- Flammable and explosive substances: liquids, aerosols, pepper sprays, gas guns.
- Oversized and heavy items weighing more than 5-10 kg and dimensions exceeding 56x45x25 cm.
- Containers with liquids exceeding 100 ml, even if they are empty.
Prohibited Items in Checked Baggage
In baggage checked in the cargo hold, the following items are not allowed:
- Lithium batteries and gadgets with them (must be switched off and packed).
- Plants in pots, seeds (clarification is required from the airline).
- Live animals (transported separately in special containers).
- Gas cylinders, flammable liquids (gasoline, kerosene, lacquers).
- Explosives, ammunition, firearms, pyrotechnics.
- Oxidizers (e.g., hydrogen peroxide).
- Flammable solids (matches, lighters).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum weight of baggage allowed on a plane?
For carry-on luggage, the limit is usually 7-10 kg, and for checked baggage, it's 9-23 kg depending on the airline and class of travel.
How many bags can be carried in carry-on luggage?
Most airlines allow one piece of carry-on luggage (bag, backpack) and one personal item (wallet, laptop bag) to be taken into the cabin. Some carriers allow an additional bag for a camera or duty-free purchases.
Can I bring a lighter on the plane?
Rules vary among different airlines. Some allow one lighter to be carried in the passenger's clothing pocket. Lighters are generally prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage for safety reasons.
What products can be carried in carry-on luggage?
Non-perishable items without a strong odor are allowed: snacks, sandwiches, chocolate, chips, etc. Meals requiring heating should not be brought on board.
Can fishing gear be taken on the plane?
Fishing gear is usually not allowed in carry-on luggage due to the presence of hooks and sharp elements. In checked baggage, their transportation is permitted with proper packaging.
Before traveling, be sure to check the rules with the airline. They may vary depending on the flight destination and other factors.