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On board, every gram matters, and every item has its own story. The question of what can be taken in carry-on luggage on a plane has long ceased to be simple: airlines have tightened the rules, airports have increased control, and mistakes in packing now cost not only money but also time. Understanding the nuances is not a recommendation, but a necessity.

Requirements dictated by aviation realities

The air transportation market has tightened control. Rules have been tightened due to the growth of traffic and increased security measures. The question of what can be taken in carry-on luggage on a plane has become strategic. Choosing the wrong items is not only a risk of confiscation but also a delay during inspection.

Luggage on board the plane is subject to strict regulations. The priority is safety and saving time during inspection. Airlines set precise requirements for carry-on luggage: specific parameters, lists of exceptions, maximum weight. Any deviation may result in an additional fee, confiscation of items, or re-inspection.

Size and weight: precision mathematics

The allowable size and weight of carry-on luggage depend on the airline. European low-cost carriers (Ryanair, Wizz Air, easyJet) limit dimensions to 40×20×25 cm — the standard for free placement under the seat.

For regular carriers such as Lufthansa or Turkish Airlines, the frame is increased to 55×40×23 cm.

The typical allowable weight load is from 7 to 10 kg. Exceeding this limit will result in a discussion about an extra fee, which can reach €50–80 per piece of luggage. That’s why it’s important to check in advance what can be taken on board the plane to avoid extra costs.

What can be taken in carry-on luggage on a plane: specific examples

An updated list of items helps avoid misunderstandings during check-in and control. Each piece of luggage must comply with the airline’s rules regarding dimensions, contents, and purpose.

Permitted items include:

1. Laptop, tablet, smartphone — require separate presentation during inspection.
2. Chargers and Power Banks — up to 100 Wh, only in the cabin.
3. Medications — in original packaging, with a prescription.
4. Documents and money — must be carried on person.
5. Cosmetics — in tubes up to 100 ml, in a zippered bag.
6. Food — without liquids and pastes.
7. Clothing — without restrictions if it fits in a bag, backpack, or suitcase.

Most carriers allow a backpack as carry-on luggage as long as the dimensions are observed. The only difference between a backpack and a bag is the shape.

Liquids: packaging matters more than volume

The 100 ml rule has been in effect since 2006. All liquids in carry-on luggage — from shampoo to cream — must be in containers up to 100 ml and fit in a transparent bag up to 1 liter.

Even partially filled containers larger than 100 ml are prohibited. The exception is medications and baby food (with supporting documents). Violations will result in confiscation without the possibility of return.

Prohibitions: a list under strict control

When considering what cannot be carried in carry-on luggage, it is important to rely on the list approved by ICAO and IATA. Everything that could potentially affect flight safety is under special scrutiny.

The following items are prohibited:

1. Sharp and cutting objects: scissors, knives, files, even mini bottle openers.
2. Pressurized containers (e.g., gas for bicycles).
3. Sports equipment: clubs, bats, sticks.
4. Flammable substances and aerosols.
5. Powders over 350 ml (in the USA and Australia).

Violations are recorded during the airport inspection. Each passenger undergoes control, where the security service compares the contents of the luggage with the list of restrictions.

What can be taken in carry-on luggage on a plane: how to save

Mistakes in packing come at a high cost. Airlines charge for any deviation from the standards. For example, for exceeding the weight by 2–3 kg, low-cost carriers impose a fine of up to €40 on the spot. Regular carriers offer the option to purchase additional luggage during check-in, but the price is lower only when done online.

A smart choice of fare helps save money. Tickets with the “hand luggage only” option save up to 25% off the full price but require strict adherence to limits. The optimal approach is to check what can be taken in carry-on luggage on a plane in advance and assess the actual volume needed. Excess leads directly to expenses.

Specifics: sports, children, and technology

Special categories of items raise questions. Electronics, for example, require mandatory separate presentation during inspection. Every laptop, tablet, or camera is a potential source of delay during screening. Airports in Moscow, Vienna, and Singapore test devices for traces of explosives using chemical tests.

Children’s items are allowed, but strictly according to the list: diapers, bottles, formula — when accompanied by a child. Without a child — prohibited.

Medications require packaging with a readable label and a prescription. Without these, even nasal drops can end up on the list of restrictions.

Sports equipment (gloves, masks, goggles) is only allowed without metal parts. Skates, dumbbells, and fishing rods are prohibited. In this case, it is advisable to choose luggage in advance or arrange separate transportation.

Error scenarios: from passengers’ practice

In practice, many people violate the rules due to carelessness. For example, a passenger tried to carry 200 ml of coconut oil in a glass jar, considering it solid. During screening in Dubai, the product was classified as a liquid. The luggage was disposed of.

Another case: a guest from a flight from Paris packed manicure scissors in a cosmetics case. The result — re-inspection, confiscation of the item, and a missed flight.

Such situations confirm: it is important to clearly understand what can be taken in carry-on luggage on a plane to avoid risking time and money.

What can be taken in carry-on luggage on a plane

A verified list eliminates randomness and prevents spontaneous decisions at the airport. A systematic approach allows you to pass through control without unnecessary questions and delays. The list simplifies preparations and prevents conflicts during screening.

Checklist for carry-on luggage:

1. Electronics up to 2 devices, each not exceeding 100 Wh.
2. Medications with a prescription and in packaging.
3. Liquids up to 100 ml, total volume up to 1 liter.
4. Documents, tickets, bank cards.
5. Personal items, headwear, scarf, glasses.
6. Snacks without sauces and liquid components.
7. Chargers and cables.
8. Pen and notepad — useful for filling out immigration forms.
9. Mini set of cosmetics in a zippered bag.
10. One outerwear item folded neatly.

Anything that does not meet these parameters should be checked in advance to avoid disputes during boarding.

What can be taken in carry-on luggage on a plane: conclusions

It is impossible to spontaneously guess what can be taken in carry-on luggage on a plane. Only strict compliance with requirements and careful planning guarantee a comfortable flight.

Updating the list of items is part of smart preparation. The flight starts with the suitcase — and it is carry-on luggage that shapes the first impression of the journey.