What You Can Carry in Hand Luggage: 2025 Travel Guide

Claimbeacon
May 25
2 min read

Flying soon and unsure what’s allowed in your hand luggage? Whether you're heading across Europe or internationally, understanding what you can and can't bring in your carry-on saves time and stress.

Here’s a no-nonsense guide covering airline rules, security restrictions, and packing tips to help you breeze through the airport.

Hand Luggage Rules: The Basics

Airlines each set their own cabin baggage size and weight limits. Generally, your bag should fit in the overhead bin or under the seat ahead of you. Check these limits directly on your airline’s website before you pack—otherwise, your bag could be checked (and you might be charged).

What’s Allowed in Your Hand Luggage

Toiletries & Liquids

Liquids must be in containers no larger than 100 ml.
All containers must fit into one clear resealable bag (max 1L).
Wet wipes and solid items like bar soap or solid deodorant are not restricted.

Electronics

Laptops, tablets, e-readers, and straighteners are fine.
Have them easily accessible for security screening.

Medication

Bring prescription and OTC medications.
Liquid medicine can exceed 100 ml but may need approval at security.

Food & Snacks

Solid snacks (like sandwiches or fruit) are allowed.
Semi-liquids (yogurt, soup, jam) must follow the 100 ml rule.

Grooming Items

Disposable razors, tweezers, nail clippers, and scissors with blades under 6 cm are allowed.

Miscellaneous

Travel pillows, headphones, books, and baby items are allowed.
One lighter is allowed on your person (not in your bag).

Items You Can’t Bring

Prohibited in hand or checked baggage:

Explosives and fireworks
Paints, fuel, or flammable materials
Bleach or corrosive chemicals
Sharp tools (like box cutters)
Sporting gear (golf clubs, bats, etc.)
Anything radioactive or toxic

Behaviour & Boarding: Follow the Rules

Comply with security and boarding procedures.
Follow crew instructions onboard.

Flight Disruptions: Know Your Rights

Delays

If your flight is over 3 hours late and you're flying from the UK or with an EU airline, you could be owed up to €600 under EU regulation EC 261/2004—unless the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances.

Cancellations

Cancelled less than 14 days in advance? You're likely due compensation and should be offered an alternative flight or a full refund.

Overbooking

If you're denied boarding against your will, you're entitled to compensation and assistance.

Luggage Woes: Lost or Damaged Bags

Report issues before leaving the airport. Airlines are liable under the Montreal Convention, up to around €1,300.

Keep receipts for emergency purchases. Airlines often reimburse you for reasonable expenses due to bag delays.

Tips to Protect Your Luggage

Label your bag clearly.
Snap a photo of your bag and contents.
Pack valuables and essentials in your carry-on.