We’ve researched hand luggage size and content allowance for air travel so you don’t have to. Read on to learn what you can bring in your carry-on bag.
These days, more and more travelers are looking to pack light and reduce their burden as they journey from one side of the planet to the other. Whether you want to save money by skipping a checked bag or simply make sure that your hand luggage size is adequate, learning about the requirements ahead of time can spare you a lot of stress.
It used to be easier to travel with hand luggage alone, but the rules have intensified along with increasing threats to security. You may have a number of questions about what is and isn’t allowed. Can you take makeup in hand luggage? Can you take razors in hand luggage? Every airline has its own variation of the rules, so along with following these basic guidelines, you’ll want to check with your airline for further details.
Keep in mind that if you’re flying first or business class, your hand luggage size allowance will likely be more relaxed. Some airlines allow first-class passengers to bring additional bags or personal items, although the security rules for liquids and other hazards remain the same.
What hand luggage size should you consider?
Most airlines allow one piece of hand luggage and another personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag. The general rule is that the personal item must be able to fit beneath the seat in front of you.
The common dimensions most airlines require for carry-on bags is 22 inches by 19 inches by 9 inches (55.88 centimeters by 48.26 centimeters by 22.86 centimeters).
You will also want to consider the weight of your carry-on luggage. A limit of 15 pounds is set by most major airlines. Some airlines, such as China Southern Airlines, restrict hand luggage weight to 11 pounds (4.99 kilograms) or less.
What can you take in checked baggage?
Once you’ve determined you have an appropriate bag for your trip, you’ll need to figure out what can be packed inside. Here are some of the top items people often wonder about.
Can you take food in your hand luggage (AKA carry-on)?
Food is a big concern when traveling long distances. Maybe you follow a special diet, such as vegan or gluten-free, and you don’t want to rely on the airline’s special meal. You might want to save money by skipping the high-priced airport food and packing your own lunch. So, can you take food in hand luggage? The answer depends on what type of food you’re considering.
Food is allowed in your carry-on bag or purse, but it must not be a liquid. If you attempt to bring liquid foods, such as soups, yogurt, or condiments like mustard, your items could be taken from you and thrown out.
If you have a favorite condiment that you’d like to pack on your carry-on, you will need to transfer the condiment into a 3.4 ounce (100ml) container and place it with your toiletries and other liquid items.
Can you take deodorant in your hand luggage?
Deodorant is subject to the same rules as food, so you’ll need to determine whether your deodorant is a liquid or a solid. You can bring any stick deodorant onto the plane with you. However, if you use a liquid, spray, or gel deodorant, it will only be allowed if it’s under 3.4 ounces (100ml).
Can you take makeup in hand luggage?
All liquid makeup, such as foundation, lip gloss, and mascara, must be in 3.4 ounce (100ml) or smaller containers to make it on the plane. Most makeup comes in small sizes anyway, so this should not be a problem.
Can you take razors in hand luggage?
Whether you’ll be able to easily travel with your razor depends on the type you use. All disposable razors and electric razors are allowed. However, safety razors with the blade attached and old-fashioned straight razors are not.
If you love your safety razor and want to bring it in your carry-on bag, you’ll need to either detach the blade and store it in your checked bag or purchase blades when you arrive at your new destination. You are allowed to bring the razor itself without the blade.
Can you take hair straighteners in hand luggage?
It’s sometimes difficult to tell what constitutes a dangerous item. Can you take hair straighteners in hand luggage? Surprisingly, the answer is yes. Hair straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers are all permitted.
Can you take medication in hand luggage?
You can’t travel without your medication, so if you’re looking to skip a checked bag this trip, you’ll want to ensure your medication is allowed in your hand luggage.
Traveling with medication is a complex issue. Depending on the country you’re traveling to, certain medications could be illegal. Your first step will be looking into local laws to make sure that it’s safe for you to travel to the location with your medication.
In general, flying with medications in your hand luggage is allowed. However, there are certain limitations to consider. Pills and other solid forms of medication, such as patches, are allowed in unlimited amounts, but they must be screened by security alongside your other items.
Liquid medications are allowed, and they are not subject to the same security rules as toiletries and foods. You can bring your liquid medications in bottles larger than 0.09 kilograms, but be sure to let the security agents know your situation. Bring your prescription paperwork along with you to avoid any hassles.
Arriving at your final destination
Now you know what can you take in hand luggage, and you’re ready to head for the airport. Before you go, consider booking a Blacklane airport transfer to get you to your destination. Blacklane chauffeur service is your trusted taxi alternative providing ground transportation in more than 300 cities around the world.
