What can you carry in hand luggage? Allowed and prohibited: a list of what you can take and what you cannot take on an airplane in hand luggage in Russia and abroad

- a question that interests passengers of many airlines. People do not always understand what belongs to this category of luggage, what items can be taken into the cabin, and what is better to leave at home or check in with regular cargo.

What is the essence?

First, let's look at what is considered hand luggage on an airplane. This is a special type of baggage that is allowed to be taken into the cabin of an airliner. It has its own rules and regulations for transportation, depending on the rules of the airline. For example, economy class passengers receive one seat, and business class and 1st class passengers receive twice as many.

It is believed that the equivalent of one place is a bag or backpack containing personal items. This is wrong. The main criterion is the weight of hand luggage and its dimensions. It is these parameters that the carrier is based on. Such baggage is subject to a number of restrictions, which may vary.

General prohibitions

Before checking in for a flight, it is important to be clear about what you cannot take on the plane. Generally speaking, the category of prohibited cargo includes weapons, liquefied gases, as well as dangerous substances (radioactive, toxic, caustic). The category of prohibited items also includes explosives, liquefied gases, sharp objects, including household appliances such as wire cutters, a corkscrew, scissors, a folding knife and others.

Below we will consider in detail what you can take in hand luggage on a plane, and what items are prohibited in relation to food, cosmetics, medicines, digital equipment and other cargo.

Food

First, let's look at what you are allowed to carry. from food. As a rule, airlines restrict passengers in this matter by prohibiting the carriage of jelly-like and liquid foods. But you can take with you:

  • Nuts.
  • Fruits.
  • Sandwiches.
  • Cookie.
  • Chips and other products.

If you are flying with a child, you are allowed to take baby food. If jellies, juices or yoghurts are found before departure, they will most likely be prohibited from being carried. This also applies to food that is packaged in cans. Those products that are allowed to be brought on board are recommended to be packed in transparent bags, which speeds up the inspection procedure.

Before departure, pay attention to the carrier's requirements, as they may vary. Pay special attention to goods from DutyFree stores. They are allowed to be taken on the plane, but only if they are packaged in a bag and have a receipt in hand.

Cosmetics

Women often ask what they can take with them. from cosmetics. As a rule, carriers allow you to bring into the cabin:

  • Blush.
  • Eyeliner.
  • Shadows.
  • Powder and other means.

As for jelly-like compositions, as well as liquids that are packaged in containers larger than 0.1 liters, it is prohibited to take them with you. The only option is to transfer your items to checked luggage. In addition, it is not permitted to bring pressurized cans into the cabin. In this case, the total volume of liquids carried should not exceed 1000 ml. This nuance should be taken into account before departure.

Medical supplies

An equally important issue is medications. The following medications are allowed as hand luggage:

  • Pills.
  • Hydrogen peroxide.
  • Materials for dressing.
  • Various drops.

All products should be sealed and carried with instructions for use. Otherwise, customs officers may have questions for the passenger, up to and including the need to conduct a detailed inspection. If there is an injury, hand luggage can be supplemented with special means for movement, for example, crutches. Regarding the upper limit of liquids, the same rules apply here as mentioned above.

Digital equipment

According to airline rules, you can take digital equipment on board the plane - a laptop, player, tablet, camera, charger and even a hairdryer. But there is a limitation regarding mobile phones. It can be brought into the cabin, but must be turned off. This is due to safety concerns, as radiation from mobile devices can interfere with the operation of aircraft electronics.

If you plan to carry large equipment with you that exceeds the permissible dimensions, it is better to check it in as regular luggage.

What to do with documents and jewelry?

According to airline rules, you are allowed to take valuables, jewelry, wallets and important documents with you in hand luggage. You also need to take your passport with you so as not to accidentally end up in a foreign country without documents. There are situations when luggage does not fit on one plane and then it can be sent on the next flight.

Clothing and personal care items

When it comes to personal hygiene items, you can bring a toothbrush and toothpaste, a comb (without a handle), wet wipes and even nail polish remover on board the plane. At the same time, it is prohibited to take cutting or piercing things into the salon. This rule also applies to nail scissors.

From clothes you can take with you a coat, a jacket (sweater), an umbrella, a blanket and a shawl. Generally speaking, it is allowed to take almost all clothing if it does not contradict the airline’s rules and does not exceed the permissible standards (dimensions, weight).

What are the weight and size restrictions?

Separate question - How much hand luggage can you take on a plane?. Here, each airline has its own rules, which depend on the destination, ticket price, flight class and other factors. There are only two main criteria, namely size and weight:

  • Dimensions. They should not exceed 56 cm in length, 46 cm in height, and 25 cm in width.
  • Weight. Requirements vary here and different airlines may have limits ranging between 3 and 15 kg.

Results

Despite some similarity in the requirements of air carriers regarding hand luggage, some rules are strictly individual. For example, low-cost airlines that provide budget flights are stricter about hand luggage and allow you to take a minimum of things into the cabin. There is a maximum of one seat per person. More established companies will have fewer restrictions. In any case, it is important to clarify these points in advance, even before purchasing a ticket and checking in for the flight.

For air travel, a list has been approved of what cannot be taken on a plane for safety reasons.

It is important that all travelers are aware of the details of such a list, so as not to find themselves in an awkward position and not to say goodbye to their favorite and often expensive items that are prohibited from being carried on the plane.

Let's try to understand the rules for transporting things in hand luggage, and what is better to put in a suitcase or not to take at all.

List of things allowed on the plane

You can safely transport:

  • Medicines, including various dressing materials, drops and tablets. It is recommended that they be in the original packaging from the manufacturer and with an insert for use. Then customs officers will not have suspicions about the possible transportation of prohibited substances under the guise of a regular painkiller;

  • Technical devices. It is not forbidden to take small gadgets, such as a phone, laptop, camera or tablet, into the salon. Another question is that not all of them can be used during the flight, for example, a telephone;
  • Items that require special precautions are allowed in the aircraft cabin, such as musical instruments, film equipment, porcelain, ceramic and glass objects. Therefore, the answer to the question whether glass can be carried in hand luggage is positive;
  • Warm things. If the room may cool down after turning on the air conditioners, you will want to dress a little warmer, so some warm clothing will be relevant;
  • Printed publications. Despite the frequent availability of airline magazines on board, you can also take your favorite book on board;
  • Additional handbags that fit the size of the company's requirements, for example, a women's handbag or clutch, or a case for photographic equipment;
  • Foodstuffs. In general, carrying food in hand luggage is not prohibited. You can take sandwiches and fruit with you. Those who cannot imagine themselves without eating sweets often ask whether it is possible to carry sweets on a plane. This is also permitted, it is only better that they have markings and standard packaging.

What is prohibited from being carried on an airplane?

Remember, these items are prohibited from being transported on an airplane - either as hand luggage or in checked luggage!

Under no circumstances should you take:

  1. Everything related to weapons - both real pistols, rifles and bladed weapons, and their imitation. The exception, most likely, will be plastic children's “blasters”. This also includes explosives, ammunition, gas canisters, and other means of defense and attack, including lighters.
  2. Piercing and cutting objects. This includes scissors, various knives, razors and blades, and metal nail files. Is it possible to carry a knife on an airplane if it is a souvenir type and does not pose a danger? According to international law, transporting such items is not prohibited. Nevertheless, many airlines set their own rules for obedience, and the human factor plays an important role here, so it is better not to risk it and put such a knife in your luggage.
  3. Hazardous substances associated with toxicity, poisonous properties, chemistry, radioactivity. Their transportation is already dangerous in itself, even if it is intended for peaceful purposes. This is something that cannot be taken in hand luggage or luggage of absolutely any airline, be it Transaero, Pobeda or any other.
  4. Liquids and jelly-like substances. This category is associated with various kinds of drinks, gels, pastes, lotions and other things of this kind. However, a reservation should be made regarding the transportation of cosmetic substances. Is it possible to carry shampoo on a plane, for example? This is possible if its volume does not exceed 100 ml. The same applies to the placement of cosmetic bottles, the total volume of which cannot exceed a liter.
  5. Some types of food. In general, it is allowed to bring food into the cabin, for example, sandwiches, fruits, chips, cookies, and baby food. It is important to be aware of restrictions on type, packaging and volume. Prohibited foods on an airplane, which definitely can cause problems, include liquid and jelly-like food. You should avoid yoghurts, jellies, and foods in jars.

Rules for carrying hand luggage on an airplane

Hand luggage in all dimensions should not be more than 1 m 15 cm. There is a reason for this - things should be placed on the shelves.

As for weight, it should be between 3-12 kg at the discretion of the airline.

Again, this is done so that passengers can independently place their bags and other luggage on the shelves. This is due to compliance with the rules of transportation restrictions, which became stricter after the events in the USA on September 11, 2001.

Worth noting: everything that cannot be taken as hand luggage on the plane will be placed on the counter - it is in the best interests of the traveler to pack your luggage correctly from the beginning.

Not the least issue is packing things for the passenger compartment.

According to experienced travelers, the best options are:

  1. A special suitcase for hand luggage when transporting especially valuable items. Otherwise, it will be very bulky to carry on a plane.
  2. A carry-on bag that is often compacted to fit the size during customs control. It is better to purchase this option on wheels, otherwise it will not be very comfortable to carry it around the airport.
  3. A backpack that is considered the most convenient to take on a plane. In terms of size, it undoubtedly fits all dimensions, it is comfortable to move, and meanwhile your hands are not busy.

In general, all details regarding hand luggage should be clarified with each airline. You need to be especially careful with low-cost airlines, whose rules for transporting free luggage have recently become more stringent.

They have a clear rule: one carry-on bag for one person. This means that it is important to put everything intended for the salon into one content, with the exception of crutches, strollers and warm clothes.

Concern for flight safety forces air carriers to introduce strict rules for the carriage of baggage on planes. The list of prohibited items is the same for passengers of all classes, but may vary slightly at airports in different countries. The ban also applies to the crew of the aircraft.

Items prohibited from carriage in both carry-on and checked baggage

The rules stipulate that potentially dangerous substances and objects cannot be carried on an airplane:

Category Scroll
Weapon
  • firearms - rifles, carbines, pistols, etc.;
  • cold - bayonet knives, stilettos, daggers, etc.;
  • gas, pneumatic weapons;
  • stun guns.
Explosives and substances
  • substances - tar, dynamite, gunpowder, TNT, explosive liquids, ammonal, etc.;
  • items - cartridges, caps, primers;
  • pyrotechnics and signaling devices - smoke bombs, sparklers, flares, firecrackers.
Gases
  • liquefied or compressed substances in cylinders;
  • household and technical gases;
  • lighters, cans for recharging them;
  • aerosols;
  • refill cylinders (for example, with compressed air for scuba divers);
  • aerosols;
Flammable liquids
  • acetone;
  • brake fluid;
  • carbon disulfide;
  • esters;
  • ethylcellosols;
  • brake fluid;
  • menthol;
  • gasoline, kerosene;
  • solvents;
  • petroleum products (even in the form of samples).
Rapidly flammable solids
  • calcium phosphate;
  • red, yellow or white phosphorus;
  • matches;
  • metal potassium, sodium or calcium;
  • organic peroxide;
  • colloidal nitrocellulose.
Poisonous and toxic substances, poisons
  • nicotine;
  • brucine;
  • arsenic;
  • strychnine;
  • mercury;
  • antifreeze substances, etc.
Corrosive substances that may cause corrosion
  • salt;
  • peroxides;
  • acids;
  • lime;
  • polyester resins, etc.
Radioactive substances
Magnetized substances

In addition, the rules note that it is prohibited to carry asbestos, dry ice and other solids and liquids on the plane that could damage the cargo or be dangerous to people.

On international flights, you should remember that it is prohibited to carry living plants, their seeds, and soil in your luggage or hand luggage to Russia.

Important! Crossbows, cutlasses, swords, broadswords, yagagans, swords, etc. can be carried in the luggage compartment of the airliner.

What not to take in hand luggage

In addition to items from the general prohibition list, the following items are not allowed in the aircraft cabin:

Important! In addition to firearms, you are not allowed to take replicas of firearms into the cabin.

Restrictions on transportation of items

Subject to the restrictions, you can carry in the luggage compartment of the aircraft:

Restrictions for carriage in hand luggage:

Items Type of restriction
Medical thermometer No mercury
Mercury tonometer
  • in standard case;
  • one copy per person.
Mercury barometer (manometer)
  • in sealed packaging;
  • The package must have the sender's seal.
Disposable lighter One piece per person.
Dry ice (for cooling perishable foods) No more than 2 kilograms per passenger
Hydrogen peroxide (3%) No more than 100 milliliters per person
Non-hazardous aerosols, gels, liquids
  • not more than 100 milliliters;
  • packed in a plastic transparent bag with a capacity of up to 1 liter

Important! Liquids carried in the cabin can be in containers with a volume of up to 100 milliliters. You cannot bring a large bottle containing 100 milliliters of liquid into the cabin of the aircraft.

Drinks and perfumes sold in Duty Free stores are packaged in special plastic bags, sealed or sealed, with a receipt and logo, which can be used to identify the place of purchase.

There are special rules for transporting lithium-ion batteries:

Battery power density Where is it installed? Carriage rules
up to 100 Wh
  • video cameras;
  • music players;
  • watch;
  • mobile phones;
  • laptops;
  • compact medical devices
In the aircraft cabin:
  • must be inside the devices;
  • Spare batteries must be securely packaged.

In the luggage compartment:

  • inside the device;
  • Spare batteries are prohibited.
100-160 Wh
  • powerful laptops;
  • compact medical devices;
  • professional video equipment
In the aircraft cabin:
  • with the permission of the airline;
  • inside the device;
  • You are allowed to carry no more than 1 spare battery per passenger and must be securely packed.

In the luggage compartment

  • with the permission of the airline;
  • inside the equipment;
  • Spare batteries cannot be carried
more than 160 Wh
  • mopeds;
  • parts of hybrid vehicles
Prohibited for transportation.
Important! For compact individual vehicles (hoverboards, unicycles, etc.), carriage in the luggage compartment is permitted subject to the removal of lithium-ion chargers that can be taken into the cabin. Battery power is limited to 160 Wh.

Special permission for transportation

Items prohibited for transportation on an airplane are generally prohibited; in some cases, you can take them on a flight by obtaining special permission from the air carrier.

Permission is requested for the transport of lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of 100-160 Wh. This is done through the Call Center or an air carrier representative during check-in.

As an exception, wheelchairs with lithium-ion chargers with a power higher than 160 Wh are allowed to be carried. Necessary requirements:

  • obtain permission from the air carrier;
  • inform the crew commander where the chargers are located;
  • battery power is allowed less than 300 Wh;
  • Wheelchairs are checked in as luggage at check-in;
  • if the charger is not removable, it must be securely fastened and isolated from electrical circuits;
  • when the battery is removable, it is removed and taken with you into the cabin, carefully packed;
  • The number of spare batteries is limited to one.

Another special transportation procedure concerns weapons:

  1. The air traveler communicates his desire to take weapons and ammunition on board the aircraft when purchasing a ticket.
  2. It is advisable to arrive for registration in advance, at least 2 hours in advance.
  3. It is mandatory to present a permit to store weapons, and when traveling internationally, an export permit.
  4. The weapon must be unloaded and placed in a secure package (case, holster, etc.).
  5. Ammunition must be packaged separately. Weight is limited to five kilograms.
  6. Weapons must be handed over before registration, in the designated area, and received upon arrival upon presentation of a special certificate.
Important! You cannot transport cartridges for gas guns and pistols, or military ammunition.

What happens to seized items?

Seized items that are prohibited for transportation on an airplane and that are of no value are usually thrown away. If items are important to their owner, there are ways to preserve them and retrieve them upon return.

  1. The easiest option is when prohibited items are discovered at the reception desk. In this case, you can give them to mourners, leave them in a storage room, or even send them by mail. If prohibited items are found in hand luggage, but are allowed to be carried in checked baggage, they are transferred to checked baggage.
  2. When unauthorized items are found in carry-on luggage during passport control, they will be confiscated. But you can write an act of seizure and leave them for storage at the airport, and get them back upon return. Sometimes air carrier representatives may themselves hand over detected prohibited items into baggage and subsequently receive them at the baggage belt.
  3. When unauthorized items are found in luggage after check-in, security will notify the passenger through the airline. They will either be confiscated or the passenger will be asked to check in again. There is always a chance to tell about the value of the item and leave it for storage at the airport.
Important! If weapons or ammunition are found without permission to transport them, the seized items are handed over to the police, and the passenger is removed from the flight for investigation.

How to avoid unpleasant situations during inspection

  1. Carefully study the baggage rules of a specific airline before flying.
  2. Try to leave all liquids, including cosmetics, in your checked-in suitcase.
  3. Make sure that you do not have liquid containers larger than 100 milliliters with you. Place liquids needed during the flight in approved containers.
  4. Do not open packages of Duty Free drinks or perfumes before leaving the plane.
  5. To confirm that the medicines carried on the plane are vital, you need to get a certificate.
  6. If medications contain narcotic components, it is worth taking the prescription in Latin with you.

Compliance with simple rules guarantees passengers safety on board the aircraft.

Watch a video about the myths and truths about airplane luggage.

As soon as you buy a plane ticket, or better yet, before booking your trip, pay attention to the baggage conditions. Each airline has its own requirements. The minimum information will be specified when booking the flight, and for details, go to the section of the carrier’s website where the conditions of transportation are indicated. And read our review)

What are the rules for things on an airplane?

Upon boarding, everything the passenger is carrying is inspected and weighed. It turned out that the suitcase exceeds the permissible weight or dimensions - difficulties will arise during registration, which threaten not only loss of time and nerves, but also unplanned expenses.

Pay attention! Musical instruments and animals are transported separately, regardless of the volume of other things. The free carriage norm does not apply to them; you will have to pay extra according to the tariff schedule.

In international air travel, there are 2 generally accepted measures for transporting passenger suitcases: weight concept and piece concept. Free and paid flight options with luggage are affected by:

  • service class,
  • flight duration,
  • luggage dimensions,
  • the weight of things
  • flight direction.

The weight concept or weight measure sets a limit only on the weight of passenger bags. Used by most carriers in Asia, CIS countries and some European companies. For adult passengers and children over two years old, the weight measure allows you to transport free of charge:

  • Economy - no more than 20 kilograms;
  • Business - no more than 30 kilograms;
  • The first - no more than 40 kilograms.

These restrictions include the combined weight of checked baggage and carry-on baggage per passenger. Information about the norm of things is placed on the purchased air ticket. If the requirements change, the carrier must notify the passenger. You are allowed to take no more than 10 kilograms with a size of up to 1.15 meters into the aircraft cabin without additional payment.

If a child under two years old is flying without a separate seat from his parents, the amount of things allowed for him will be 10 kilograms.

Piece concept or quantitative measure defines the number of units carried per passenger. Distributed by airlines in Canada, the USA, and most countries in Central and South America. Among Russian airlines, Aeroflot uses this measure.
With a quantitative measure, regardless of the ticket class, it is allowed to transport no more than two bags weighing up to 32 kilograms each free of charge. The combined weight of the seats does not matter and does not add up. Maximum dimensions for quantitative measure:

  • Economy - no more than 1.58 meters
  • Business - no more than 2.03 meters;
  • The first is no more than 2.03 meters.

Keep in mind: no matter the complexity or distance of the flight, loading and unloading of things is paid by the airline.

Oversized luggage

The following are considered oversized items on an aircraft:

  • a piece of luggage weighing more than 32 kg and measuring more than 2.03 m in all dimensions,
  • any sports equipment,
  • any musical instruments,
  • household appliances.

If you are flying abroad, remember: checked baggage is checked baggage, cabin baggage (hand baggage/carry-on) is hand luggage.

Carriage of baggage in excess of the norm will have to be paid; it is best to clarify the airline’s tariffs and payment terms and arrange them in advance. And at the front desk just show the receipt for payment for oversized items.

The airline may refuse to carry oversized baggage if there is not enough free space in the baggage compartment or cargo of that size does not fit into the loading hatches.

Transportation of fragile and valuable luggage

We recommend keeping important, fragile and valuable items and documents with you and taking them into the cabin if they are the same size and weight as hand luggage. If fragile and valuable luggage is large, but less than 75 kilograms, it will be allowed to be carried in the cabin on a separate ticket.

If fragile luggage does not arrive intact, the carrier will not admit guilt. After all, airline passengers are not legally responsible for the safety of fragile belongings.

If you weigh more than 75 kilograms, you will have to buy several pieces of luggage that are a multiple of the difference in luggage weight and the weight standard for 1 piece. There is no discount system for these tickets.

Hand luggage


Passenger belongings transported on an airplane are divided:

  • luggage - these items travel in the luggage compartment and are handed over to the carrier's employees at the check-in counter before boarding the plane;
  • hand luggage - things that a passenger takes with him into the aircraft cabin; the airline limits them in weight and volume.

Typically, hand luggage should fit into the standard: when traveling in economy class, the weight is 10 kilograms with a size of no more than 1.15 m; when traveling on business, the weight of the suitcase should not exceed 15 kilograms, the sum of the dimensions should not exceed 1.15 m.

In excess of the norm, without taking into account the total weight of baggage, a passenger may carry into the aircraft cabin:
flowers and a woman's handbag, a coat and a stole, an umbrella and a book, a camera and a camera, a laptop and a tablet, a stroller for a child, a bag of groceries or a package.

But this is not certain)
Low-cost airlines greatly narrow the list of things you can take with you. Check the exact list on your airline's website.

Baggage on a regular flight

Each airplane passenger can carry a certain amount of things without paying. The exact volume depends on the type of aircraft and airline regulations. One of the advantages of flying with large companies with regular flights is the large baggage allowance. Carry up to 23 kilograms in checked luggage and up to 7 kilograms in hand luggage free of charge.

The exact amount of free baggage is always indicated on your ticket.

When purchasing tickets for a regular flight at a discount, check with the airline for the maximum size of items in your luggage and cabin. Understand the maximum as approximate. It is important that the sum of the three measurements for the height, width and depth of the passenger's bag is less than the sum of the dimensions in the airline's table.

Flying with luggage on low-cost airlines

The allowed baggage size for low cost airlines is significantly smaller than usual. Some low-cost airlines do not allow luggage to be transported without additional payment, and they also severely limit the amount of hand luggage allowed on the plane.

Air discounters strictly check that items comply with the rules and make money from inattentive passengers who have not read the transportation rules. Near the check-in counter and at the exit to the plane there are scales and frames in which hand luggage must be placed. If the bag is larger, you will have to check it in as luggage and pay a fair amount.
You will be allowed on a budget company plane with only 1 piece of luggage. Some low-cost airlines will still allow you to bring an additional handbag and laptop into the cabin. Read the airline rules carefully.

If your carry-on baggage is larger than the norm and there is nothing to put away, then check in and pay for your baggage in advance online before arriving at the airport. Checking your luggage at the counter before boarding will cost twice as much. And payment at the gate upon boarding will result in a substantial amount.

Advice! Low-cost airlines do not limit the amount of clothing a passenger can wear. Wear the bulkiest and heaviest things possible.

Flying with a discount airline allows you to save a lot of money, but take as little luggage as possible and carefully read the rules for transporting baggage and hand luggage. Then there will be no problems and no loss of money when boarding the flight.

Baggage allowance on charter

The norms for carrying things on a charter flight are determined by the tour operator who sells the tour and is the charterer of the aircraft. On charter flights, passengers are allowed to carry one piece weighing no more than 20 kg and 10 kg for children under 2 years of age (if a separate seat is not provided for the child). The free baggage allowance for charter flights is the same for business and economy class.

Most often, charter companies add up the weight of seats for passengers flying together. But it’s better to divide your luggage evenly, since the company simply will not accept items weighing more than 30 kg for transportation without additional payment.
The hand luggage allowance on charters is 5 kg per passenger. On a charter, they do not strictly monitor the dimensions of baggage and hand luggage; a slight excess is often allowed through without additional payment.

What to do with luggage when flying with a transfer

You can travel in transit on planes of the same or different airlines. It’s more convenient when you change trains without changing the carrier company:

  • all flights will be included in one ticket,
  • you hand over your things at the airport of departure and receive them upon arrival,
  • Airline employees are responsible for the transportation of your belongings.

If you are carrying things that need to be declared, you will have to receive your luggage at the intermediate point and check it in yourself after inspection for the next flight.

It’s more difficult when you fly on several airlines. If the companies are partners and you checked your luggage to your final destination, there will be no differences. But when the carriers are not connected with each other, you will have to work hard:

  • there will be separate tickets for each flight,
  • things will have to be received and returned again at the transit airport,
  • being late for a connection and keeping your luggage safe is your headache.

If you have a connection, allow more time to go through registration and move around the airport. Familiarize yourself with the airport map in advance and plan your route to the connecting point. Travel only with hand luggage.

When we fly without luggage

More and more independent travelers are choosing to fly without checking luggage. Flying with hand luggage is the best way to save time and money and get only positive emotions from the flight.

Save time

Checking in and checking luggage takes time, as does standing in line to check in. Travel with hand luggage and check in before arriving at the airport - avoid standing in line and wasting time.

Another waste of time is getting your luggage. Waiting for luggage after the plane arrives can take up to 1.5 hours depending on the arrival airport. If you only have hand luggage with you, you can go about your business immediately after leaving the plane and going through passport control.

Enjoy your flight

A traveler's worst nightmare is the airline losing your suitcase. Of course, most often things are found, but this unpleasant experience is not worth going through. But what about fears that the suitcase will be damaged during loading or that it will be opened and something valuable will be stolen?
When your things travel side by side in the cabin of the plane, there will be no frantic worries or worries. A comfortable and roomy bag that you take in your hand luggage guarantees the absence of unnecessary worries.

Avoid unnecessary spending

Overweight is a frequent and unpleasant phenomenon for travelers, which threatens additional expenses. In addition, when flying without luggage, you can easily travel with low-cost airlines with their incredibly low price tags.

The main difficulty when flying with hand luggage is the ability to discard unnecessary things. Learn to hit the road with a minimum of luggage. This is especially useful during connections and complex routes. Take everything with you on the plane and your mobility will allow you to visit more places in one trip.

What can you take on a plane in hand luggage?

If you fly with luggage, take into the cabin only what you need during the flight: your favorite book, gadgets, documents and a warm jumper. It is better to keep valuable and fragile items with you too. But if you are traveling exclusively with hand luggage, check which things to pack and which things you will have to leave at home.

A standard “flight” bag should not exceed 1.15 meters in total in all dimensions or be no more than 55x40x20 centimeters. The permitted weight depends on the carrier, but can rarely exceed 10 kg per passenger. If the dimensions are not met, you will have to check in your luggage.
A low-cost airline's requirements for the size of a flight bag may vary significantly. If you don’t want to pay extra, read and fulfill all the conditions of the low-cost carrier.

List of things allowed on the plane

  • Food: You can bring any solid food onto the plane. Do not attempt to bring in liquids, jellies or creams larger than 100 ml. Take your child’s food and drink with you in reasonable quantities and do not have to put it in plastic, but you will need to present it during inspection. Be prepared for additional questions and requests to open and try the content.
  • Medicines: take any non-liquid medicines in reasonable quantities, it is better if they are in the original packaging and with instructions. If you have a large quantity of medications or if the drugs contain narcotic substances, have a prescription and a certificate from your doctor with you to avoid problems at customs.
    The volume of liquid medications and sprays should be less than 100 ml. But you cannot bring aerosols and syringes.
  • Equipment: the list of devices that can be carried by plane depends on the country's security requirements. Usually there are no problems when transporting a phone, laptop, tablet, camera and player. You can also take small household appliances (electric razor, electric toothbrush and hair dryer). If suspicion arises, the inspection service may require you to turn on the device and demonstrate its operation.
    If you are carrying equipment in your hand luggage, remember that the airline limits the number of items in the cabin per passenger and their size.
  • Documents and valuables: it is better to take your passport and all documents necessary for travel (hotel reservations, tickets and car rental), as well as valuables, into the cabin of the plane. If your luggage is lost, all the documents necessary for your stay in the country will be on hand.

  • Cosmetics: Carry bulk and dry cosmetics without any problems, but with liquid cosmetics it is more difficult: the total volume of liquid substances in your hand luggage should not be more than 1 liter, and the volume of one bottle should not exceed 100 ml. If the conditions are not met, you will have to throw away your favorite products during security or return to the check-in counter and check them in as luggage. Aerosols and pressurized containers are prohibited from being taken on flights; replace them with dry products.
  • Hygiene items: there is a ban on piercing and cutting objects on the plane, regardless of their size, so nail scissors, combs with a sharp metal handle and straight razors cannot be carried. Take the paste in a tube of less than 100 ml to avoid problems.
  • Baby accessories: airlines allow you to take a stroller or baby carrier on the plane at no additional cost. They are checked in as hand luggage and handed over to the staff upon entering the cabin.

How to carry Duty Free goods on a plane

You can buy Duty Free products in the duty-free trade zone or during an international flight. There will be no problems with solid goods, but when transporting liquids (perfume, alcoholic drinks, etc.) you need to be aware of the rules:

  • Duty free products must be specially sealed and packaged;
  • do not open the package until you arrive at your destination and pass control;
  • A bottle unpacked at the airport may be prohibited from being taken on a flight.

After purchasing alcoholic beverages at Duty Free, find out the customs requirements for the export and import of strong drinks in the destination country. When purchasing from Duty Free on a complex route, find out the rules for transporting goods in the transit country and the requirements of the carrier.

When returning to Russia, you can carry no more than 3 liters of alcohol per passenger free of charge. When transiting through the Schengen zone, alcohol will be required to be checked in as baggage. And when departing from US airports, only alcohol purchased at American Duty Free will be allowed in the aircraft cabin.

Not all low-cost airlines allow you to carry a package with Duty Free without additional payments; it is considered a separate place and you will have to pay for transportation.

What is prohibited from being carried on an airplane?

It is prohibited to carry any dangerous substances or objects on the plane that could harm other passengers. These are all types of weapons and weapons-like toys, radioactive, poisonous, corrosive substances and gases under pressure. The customs service also has its own restrictions, they relate to money, jewelry, alcohol, tobacco, various valuables and art objects.

Usually, budget travelers don’t think of packing anything from this list, but on signs at the airport you’ll see just such a list of prohibited substances.

Rules for carrying liquids on an airplane

On the plane you will be allowed to take a maximum of 1 liter of liquid substances, in addition, all products are asked to be poured into separate 100 ml containers. Moreover, liquids include only water, but also any creamy or jelly-like products.

Please note that it is prohibited to transport liquids in partially filled containers larger than 100 ml. If 50 ml of shampoo is packaged in a 400 ml bottle, you will have to part with the product during inspection.

  • stock up on mini-packs, preferably with the volume indicated on the package;
  • distribute all liquid and cream products into containers;
  • pack all the products in one transparent bag, preferably 20 by 20 centimeters in size;
  • check that the total volume does not exceed 1000 ml (10 containers).

Where can I get the correct 100 ml containers? Leave the mini-packs that are given when you check in at hotels: you will have shampoo, body wash and cream. Buy miniatures of cosmetics or a travel set of cosmetics, it contains 50-100 ml of products. There are universal packaging of containers for travelers on sale; all you have to do is pour your favorite products and pack your luggage.

A Zip-Lock, which is sold at any office supply store, is perfect as a package. And yet, the volume of liquids of travelers flying together will not be added up.

How to avoid losing luggage during a flight

If you are afraid of losing your luggage during a flight, take steps before your flight to reduce the likelihood of loss:

  1. Remove used luggage tags after your flight. An airport employee will easily make a mistake if the suitcase is hung with old tags and stickers, and will send the baggage along a different route.
  2. Keep valuable and necessary things with you. If it is not easy to replace an item, take it to the cabin, because the carrier is not responsible for the loss.
  3. Label the outside of the suitcase, indicate the city, last name and contact, preferably in English. Inside the bag also put a piece of paper with contacts and a request to return the luggage.
  4. Take a photo of the bag inside and out, keep a list of all valuables, it’s great if you can justify their value by presenting a receipt.
  5. Remove the external straps during the flight - they will get caught on the transport line and the suitcase will get stuck.
  6. Wrap your luggage in film, use packaging at the airport, or wrap it yourself. Stretch packaging will protect against burglars and damage during transportation.
  7. Choose discreet models or buy a special case. Luxury suitcases attract unnecessary attention; expensive bags can be stolen for theft.
  8. Install it on a combination lock and change the code: this will protect the bag from opening when dropped and zipped and will scare away or at least slow down robbers.
  9. Insure your luggage against loss: if the suitcase is lost, the insurance company will reimburse the amount of damage. To do this without any hassle, use one of the stores to buy insurance online

Why does luggage get lost?

  • 50% of luggage is lost due to failures and inconsistencies in airport operations,
  • 15% of bags are not loaded onto the plane due to a lost or missing luggage tag,
  • 15% remain on the baggage belt - passengers simply do not pick them up,
  • 20% of luggage goes missing in other ways for various reasons.

Where do our missing suitcases end up?

When checking in, a special tag with markings is hung on the bag; the ten-digit barcode contains complete information about the luggage:

  • Last 6 digits - unique baggage identifier
  • 3 digits in the middle - flight number designation
  • The first digit is the baggage class.

The tag is a guide that allows the airport system to direct luggage along the correct route, moving along the transport belt the suitcase ends up at the desired point: the luggage compartment of the aircraft or the baggage claim area. If there is no tag, there is a problem on the line or the barcode is not read correctly - the bag ends up in lost baggage or flies on the wrong route.

Where do suitcases disappear at the airport?

    1. To distant distances: if a mistake is made in the marking of the tag, the suitcase will fly on its own journey: another city, country, continent - the larger the airport, the more exotic the suitcase’s route can be.
    2. Into the desperate unknown: the tag is torn or loosely affixed and is lost when the suitcase passes the transport belt; such unmarked bags end up in the area of ​​unidentified baggage.
    3. To the suitcase detectives. If a suitcase is lost or left uncollected from the transport belt (yes, this also happens) and the tag on it is intact, suitcase detectives come into action. By punching the barcode in the internal system, they find all the data about the owner and contact him to please him with the news of the find.
    4. On the international wanted list. World Tracer System is an international baggage tracing system in which most airports in the world participate. The system is automated and searches for missing luggage itself, comparing the route, color, size and weight of the bag within 100 days; you just need to fill out an electronic application using a special form.
    5. For opening and inspection: if the owner of the luggage does not show up within 5 days, the suitcase is opened, because personal belongings can help in finding the owner. If after 2 weeks the owner of the bag has not been found, it is sent to a storage warehouse.
    6. For auction: as soon as 100 days or 3 months have passed, the search for the owner of the lost luggage stops. All such bags end up on a special sale, where they are sold without opening. The starting price is very low, and the contents will be a surprise for the buyer. This kind of auction is quite popular in Europe and America, because there is always a chance to buy a suitcase with valuables inside.

What to do if the airline has lost your luggage

  1. check in the oversized baggage delivery area: non-standard suitcases, skis, strollers or sports equipment will not be waiting on the conveyor belt, but in a special delivery area.
  2. contact Lost & Found: at every airport there is a service that searches for luggage. It is easy to find by following the Lost & Found signs. Show your luggage tag, identification document and fill out the application. It is important to describe the bag in detail and provide special features.
  3. notify the airline: it would not be superfluous to go to the airline counter at the airport and ask them about the procedure; if your luggage is lost on a charter, start from here.
  4. 3 weeks have passed and the suitcase has not been found - it’s time to submit an application to the airline for monetary compensation for lost items. A photo of the contents, an inventory of things, and saved receipts will come in handy here.
  5. If the airline refuses, we go to court, in such cases the judge usually sides with the passenger, and the carrier will have to compensate for material and moral damage.

The suitcase is found in another city or country - the airline is obliged to transport it at its own expense and deliver the baggage free of charge to the address specified by the passenger - this is an international rule that all carriers comply with.

If your suitcase is lost and you find yourself in a foreign country without all your belongings, contact the carrier company for compensation. Many international airlines allocate a small amount for essential items in such situations.

How to carry sports equipment on a plane: skis, snowboards, equipment.

If you are an active traveler, then more than once you have come across questions about how to transport skis or diving equipment, whether it is possible to fly with a snowboard for free, and how much it costs to transport a surfboard. We recommend that you resolve all these issues at the stage or immediately after purchasing a ticket; at the airport it will be many times more expensive and, in the worst case, will end in missing your flight.
It doesn’t really matter whether you have winter or summer equipment; we suggest solving the issue of flying with sports equipment using a simple and effective algorithm:

  1. try to fit into standard luggage: if the size of things allows you to squeeze into standard sizes and weight - we pack and fly;
  2. look for tickets from companies that transport sports equipment for free: such promotions are often carried out by airlines during the season on popular routes;
  3. inform the air carrier in advance that you are flying with sports equipment, indicating the dimensions and weight;
  4. pack your equipment carefully and securely, it is better to use special cases for transportation;
  5. do not forget that sports equipment is issued in the oversized baggage area, and not on the transport belt;
  6. traveling with your own gym equipment is rarely cheap, but the experience is worth it.

Our top flight tip: pack your bags, pack away your luggage, and pack away your luggage!

So, from this article you will find out: is it possible to carry a suitcase the size of an elephant for free, why you have to leave shaving foam at the security check, how to take skis to a resort, why you should learn to fly without things, where to look for a missing suitcase and who the suitcase detectives are.

What cannot be carried in airplane luggage is a question that worries many passengers. This question is more relevant than ever for those who use air transport for the first time. Today, there are detailed lists of items that passengers cannot carry on an airplane.

Each airline sets its own limits and standards, so before your flight you should carefully study the information on official sources and, if necessary, consult with airport staff.

According to statistics, the plane is one of the safest modes of transport. However, for a successful flight and to avoid unpleasant situations, the airline must take care of safety measures during the flight. They depend on the following factors:

  • Environmental factors.
  • Competent behavior of crew members and passengers.
  • Preparation of equipment before flight.

Safety rules do not bypass airplane passengers. Before and during the flight, they must follow a number of rules that reduce the likelihood of emergency situations. For example, a person must strictly observe the weight standards of luggage for transportation, turn off mobile devices, and remain calm.

What items are prohibited from being carried in checked and carry-on baggage?

Before your flight, you should familiarize yourself with the baggage requirements. Carry-on luggage is the suitcase or bag that a person takes with him into the aircraft cabin. Such things will be placed in a special shelf or under the passenger seat. Acceptable limits for hand luggage:

  • Weight no more than 12 kg.
  • Mandatory inspection of the contents by airport staff before takeoff.

Bags weighing up to 30 kg are placed in the luggage compartment of the aircraft. The restrictions do not end with checking the baggage weight limit. It is prohibited to carry the following items on the plane:

  • Weapons (firearms, cold steel, gas).
  • Explosives (dynamite, cartridges, smoke bombs, firecrackers).
  • Gaseous objects (cylinders, lighters, aerosols).
  • Flammable substances (acetone, menthol, kerosene, petroleum products).
  • Toxic items (nicotine, mercury, arsenic).
  • Substances that cause corrosion (salts, alkalis, resins).

It is also prohibited to carry radioactive substances and items that could damage the cargo in the luggage compartment. Your hand luggage should not contain:

  • Stabbing and cutting objects (knives, scissors, corkscrew).
  • Small-sized vehicles (scooter, hoverboard).

It is prohibited to take on the plane dummies that resemble weapons in appearance. The same rule applies to children's toys. You cannot carry flammable substances, flammable liquids, weapons or sharp objects in both hand luggage and the luggage compartment.

Items that can be carried in the luggage compartment of an aircraft

In the luggage compartment and hand luggage you can carry all those things that do not pose any risk to flight passengers. These include:

  • Personal belongings of the passenger (clothing, perfume, personal hygiene products).
  • Cosmetic products. In this case, all products must be packaged in sealed bags or containers.
  • Products. To transport food you need to have special containers. Otherwise, the person may not be allowed on board the plane.
  • Baby food. Mixtures and cereals should also be tightly packed.
  • A child seat, if its dimensions do not exceed the size of an airplane seat.
  • Wheelchairs for disabled people and crutches.
  • Alcohol products, cigarettes. It is worth considering that there are quantity restrictions on such products.
  • Phones, tablets, computers. However, during the takeoff of the airliner, all equipment will have to be turned off.
  • Sports equipment.
  • Medicines. They must be packaged and not banned in many countries.
  • Jewelry and decorations.
  • Books, notebooks, folders with documents.
  • Pets. Provided that they are placed in a special cage or carrier.

If any items do not fit into the established framework or are suspicious, you need to be prepared for inspection by airport staff.

List of items that are not allowed to be carried in the cabin of the aircraft

Carry-on luggage is those things that a person may need during the flight. Therefore, these items must be safe for all passengers on the ship. The list of prohibited items changes annually and depends on the specific airline. Today the following items are not allowed on the plane:

  • Weapon.
  • Flammable liquids.
  • Explosive products.
  • Toxic substances.
  • Oxidizing liquids.

The list of prohibited items for flights also includes quite harmless items:

  • Corkscrew.
  • Nail file.
  • Tweezers for plucking eyebrows.
  • Razor.
  • Manicure set.

If inadmissible items are found, the person will not be allowed on board the aircraft. In addition, a forced inspection may be arranged for him, which is considered not the most pleasant action towards a citizen.

Impossibility of transporting firearms and their replicas in the aircraft cabin

A person who does not have permission to store and transport weapons is prohibited from transporting firearms. The same rule applies to dummies that resemble weapons, knives, and swords in appearance. Therefore, you should not take juvenile toys with you on board. Otherwise, the situation will result in a thorough interrogation, check and cancellation of the flight.

If it is necessary to carry weapons, a person must notify airline employees in advance. The passenger will need to present a permit and also appear for check-in at the airport 2-3 hours before departure. A person must hand over his weapon to an airport employee for the duration of the flight. After arriving at the destination, the passenger will receive all his belongings back.

Items that can be carried in the luggage compartment of an aircraft subject to restrictions

Some items can be carried on the plane, but under certain conditions set by the airline. For example:

  • Alcoholic products may be present on board an aircraft only if they are in sealed packaging. In this case, there should be no more than 5 liters of drink per passenger, and its strength should be in the range of 24-70%.
  • Medicines, thermometer. You are allowed to carry medications that are not recognized as prohibited in many countries around the world. The list changes regularly; you can find the information on the carrier’s official website 1-2 days before departure. The thermometer must be in a special case.
  • Baby strollers are allowed to be taken up the ramp, after which they are sent to the luggage compartment of the aircraft.
  • Professional equipment. Allowed to be carried with special permission, and the passenger can carry no more than 1 spare battery for gadgets.

Products (perfumes, drinks) purchased at Duty Free must be packaged in plastic containers or bags bearing the store logo. You also need to have a receipt with you.

Conditions for transporting liquids

If it is necessary to transport liquid products, it must be taken into account that its volume should not exceed 1 liter. You can take to the salon:

  • Plain and mineral water.
  • Drinks, juices, cocktails.
  • Shampoos.
  • Creams.
  • Cosmetic sprays.

Cosmetic products are also considered liquids. You can bring on the plane:

  • Mascara.
  • Nail polish.
  • Powder, foundation.
  • Lip gloss.

It is worth considering that the volume of each individual container should not exceed 100 ml. Otherwise, the person will have to leave things at the airport or cancel the flight. Baby food falls under the exception category. If a child requires more formula than 1 liter during a flight, airport staff will allow the liquid to be transported in larger volumes.

All tubes and containers with mixtures and cosmetic products must be carefully packaged and placed in special containers. You can buy them at stationery stores. Today, special sealed travel kits are also sold that meet all necessary standards. They contain personal hygiene products, water, and some medications.

Special permission to transport prohibited items. What requirements must be met?

In order to bring certain substances or things onto the plane, you must have special permission. This can be done in multifunctional centers or at the airport. Most often, permission is given when it is necessary to transport batteries whose power reaches 160 Wh. However, it is permissible to transport such items only in the luggage compartment.

A permit will also be required for weapons. It's a little more difficult to get. To do this, a person needs to notify the carrier in advance about the situation that has arisen. To check in for a flight, you will have to arrive at the airport several hours in advance, and you will need to pack your weapon in a safe case or box. Before the flight, the passenger gives it to the airport employee, receives a special certificate and, when landing at the destination, presents it to pick up personal belongings.

Where are the seized items sent?

Those seized items that are of no value to the passenger are thrown away by airport employees. In other cases, personal items are kept and returned after boarding. What methods of preservation exist:

  • Reception desk. Here you can consult with the operator and place all your things in the storage room. If necessary, luggage will be sent by mail to the specified address. If items that are permissible to be kept in the luggage of the airliner are removed from your hand luggage, they are transferred to the luggage compartment.
  • Prohibited items that are confiscated in hand luggage can be collected after the trip. But for this you will need to sign a special act indicating permission to store any things.
  • If prohibited items are found in the luggage compartment after check-in for a flight, the owner of the bags will be informed about this and will undergo a thorough inspection. In such cases, items can be left at the airport after signing a special act.

If airport employees find unregistered weapons, ammunition and dangerous substances, the police will be immediately informed about the situation. In this case, the irresponsible passenger will be removed from the flight and sent to the police station for questioning.

How to avoid unpleasant situations during inspection

To avoid getting into awkward situations during check-in, you must follow the following rules:

  • Before departure, you need to carefully study all the transportation rules specified by a particular airline. You can find them on official sources on the Internet.
  • Leave all liquid items in your luggage and suitcases, and take only the most necessary products for hand luggage.
  • The day before the flight, measure the volume of the prepared containers and pour the liquid into smaller containers if the norm of 1 liter is exceeded.
  • When purchasing goods from Duty Free, you do not need to open them before leaving the plane.
  • When transporting medications necessary to maintain a stable condition of the patient, you must have a doctor's certificate with you.
  • If medications contain narcotic elements, you must provide airport employees with a prescription in Latin.

Transportation of bulky items

It is permissible to transport large items on board aircraft. For example, household appliances or musical instruments. However, you will have to pay money for exceeding the weight limit. The exact amount depends on the tariff plan of a particular carrier. All items must be carefully packed, this will help prevent damage to the cargo.

The list of large items permitted for transportation can be found on the website of the selected airline or from a specialist at the airport. It is worth taking into account all the carrier’s requirements in order to avoid unforeseen problems and not delay the plane before departure.

What is prohibited to take on a plane. Hand luggage and baggage: