What Can You Take in Carry-On Baggage on a Plane?

Packing carry-on baggage for the plane may seem simple, but in practice it's one of the most common reasons for stress at the airport. The rules regarding what you can take on board are strictly defined, and not knowing them often ends with the need to throw away cosmetics, food or other items even before the security check. That's why it's worth preparing well for the journey and knowing which items are permitted and which may cause a problem.

An additional challenge is the fact that the regulations regarding carry-on baggage aren't identical all over the world. Although certain universal rules exist, many countries and airlines introduce their own restrictions – especially in the matter of liquids, electronics, medicines or food. What passes the check in one country without a problem may be stopped in another. Knowledge of these differences lets you avoid unnecessary complications and makes the journey go more calmly.

In this article we'll focus on the practical rules for packing carry-on baggage for the plane, discuss the most important universal rules and draw attention to the differences in the regulations applying in individual countries. There will also be specific tips on how to pack sensibly, limit the amount of liquids and choose things that are better bought on the spot.

Universal rules for carry-on baggage

Regardless of the travel destination and the chosen airline, carry-on baggage is governed by a few basic rules that apply at most airports in the world. It's precisely these rules that are the foundation of a safe and smooth passage through the security check. Knowing them lets you not only avoid stress, but also better plan the contents of your bag or cabin suitcase.

It's worth remembering that the universal rules are a starting point – additional restrictions can always appear, resulting from local regulations or the policy of a specific carrier. So let's treat them as a base that we then adjust to the specific journey.

Dimensions and weight of carry-on baggage

The most commonly encountered carry-on baggage dimension limit is around 55 × 40 × 20 cm. It's a size that allows the suitcase to be placed in the overhead locker in most planes. However, not all airlines apply exactly the same values – some are more restrictive, others allow slightly larger sizes.

Equally important is the weight of the carry-on baggage. Standardly it falls in the range of 7 to 10 kg, but in practice it can be either 5 kg or 12 kg – it all depends on the carrier and the fare. Unlike the dimensions, the weight tends to be checked randomly, however at many airports there are checks before boarding.

The baggage dimensions always include:

• wheels,
• handles and grips,
• any protruding structural elements.

Even a slight exceeding of the limits may result in the need to check the baggage into the hold and additional costs. That's why it's worth choosing suitcases and bags designed especially with carry-on baggage in mind and not overloading them "to the brim."

Number of pieces of carry-on baggage

The number of permitted pieces of carry-on baggage depends mainly on the ticket fare. In the simplest variant the passenger has the right to take one piece of baggage on board, whereas in more expensive fares or higher travel classes two pieces are often permitted.

The most commonly encountered division is:

• the main carry-on baggage (a cabin suitcase or larger backpack),
• a smaller personal bag (handbag, city backpack, laptop bag).

The personal bag usually has to fit under the seat in front of the passenger, which means considerably smaller dimension limits. Airlines increasingly often check this aspect very scrupulously, especially at boarding.

It's worth being aware that attempts to "get around" the rules, e.g. by carrying several bags at once, may end with the need to pay extra. A decidedly better solution is good planning of the baggage contents and a conscious choice of fare.

Preparation for the security check

The security check is the stage at which delays and tense situations most often appear. Appropriate preparation of the carry-on baggage even before reaching the belt significantly eases the whole process – both for us and for other passengers.

Taking out electronics

Larger electronic devices should be easily accessible in the carry-on baggage. Laptops, tablets, cameras or game consoles usually have to be taken out and placed separately in a container for the check. This results from the need for a more thorough X-ray of these items.

Mobile phones, headphones or small power banks can often stay in the bag, however you should reckon with the possibility that the check staff may ask for them to be taken out in case of doubt.

Taking out liquids

Liquids must be packed in a transparent, resealable bag of a capacity of up to 1 litre. Each individual container may not exceed 100 ml – even if it's only partly filled. Before the security check the bag with liquids should be taken out of the baggage and placed separately on the belt.

A good practice is placing liquids in an easily accessible spot, so you don't have to dig through the whole bag at the last moment.

Personal check of the passenger

During the security check the passenger passes through a metal-detecting gate or a body scanner. Before entering the check you have to take off:

• belt,
• watch,
• metal jewellery,
• jacket, coat or thick hoodie.

In many countries it's also required to take off footwear, especially if it has a thick sole. It's worth bearing this in mind when choosing your travel outfit and going for comfortable, easy-to-remove items of clothing.

Complying with the universal rules of carry-on baggage makes the journey more predictable and comfortable. It's a solid foundation on which you can build further preparations – now taking into account the differences between countries and specific airlines.

Liquids in carry-on baggage – rules and workarounds

Liquids are one of the most problematic categories of items in carry-on baggage. It's precisely they that are most often confiscated during the security check, mainly because of exceeding the permitted limits or incorrect packing. Understanding the rules regarding the transport of liquids and learning practical ways to limit them lets you avoid unnecessary losses and stress at the airport.

General rules regarding liquids in carry-on baggage

At most airports in the world the so-called 100 ml rule applies. This means that every liquid transported in carry-on baggage must be in a container of a maximum capacity of 100 ml. It doesn't matter how much liquid is actually in the package – what counts is the capacity of the container itself.

All containers with liquids must be placed in one transparent, resealable bag of a maximum capacity of 1 litre. This bag should be easily accessible, because before the security check it has to be taken out of the baggage and placed separately on the belt.

The category of liquids includes not only drinks, but also:

• cosmetics in liquid and semi-liquid form,
• gels, pastes and creams,
• aerosols,
• perfumes,
• food products of a liquid or creamy consistency.

How to minimise the amount of liquids in carry-on baggage

One of the best ways to avoid problems with liquids is consciously limiting them already at the packing stage. In practice this means replacing full-size products with their smaller or alternative versions.

Cosmetic samples and miniature packages

Cosmetic samples and miniature versions of products are an ideal solution for short journeys. They take up little space, easily fit within the 100 ml limit and let you take exactly as much product as you actually need. More and more brands offer cosmetics in travel versions, which significantly eases packing.

Travel cups and containers

An alternative to ready-made miniatures are travel cups, into which you can decant your favourite cosmetics. It's worth choosing tight containers marked with the capacity and additionally securing them with a resealable bag. This solution lets you better control the amount of liquids you take and avoid transporting unnecessary packaging.

Filling up after the security check

Many liquids, such as water or drinks, can be bought or filled up without a problem after passing the security check. A good solution is taking an empty bottle or flask, which can be topped up at the airport. Thanks to this we save space in the baggage and avoid breaking the rules regarding liquids.

Medical liquids and special exceptions

Liquids essential for medical reasons are subject to different rules than standard cosmetics or drinks. In many countries it's possible to transport medical liquids in amounts exceeding 100 ml, provided they're necessary during the journey.

This category includes, among others:

• medicines in liquid form,
• syrups,
• insulin,
• contact lens solutions.

In such cases it's often required to declare these items during the security check, and sometimes also to show medical documentation or a prescription. Medical liquids don't always have to fit into the 1-litre bag, however the decision belongs to the check staff.

Creams and aerosols – how they're classified

Many travellers are surprised by the fact that creams, pastes and aerosols are also treated as liquids. This means they're subject to exactly the same rules as water or perfume. This concerns, among others:

• face and body creams,
• toothpastes,
• shower gels and shampoos,
• spray and gel deodorants.

Even cosmetics of a thick consistency must fit into containers of up to 100 ml and go into the transparent bag. The exception is products in solid form, such as bar soaps or stick deodorants.

Liquids bought in the duty-free zone

Liquids bought in the duty-free zone after passing the security check are subject to different rules. They may exceed the 100 ml limit, provided they're packed in a special, sealed protective bag, the so-called STEB.

It's worth remembering that:

• the bag shouldn't be opened before the end of the journey,
• the receipt must stay inside the bag,
• during transfers in other countries the bag may be checked again.

On flights with transfers it's particularly important to make sure that the purchased liquids will be honoured at the subsequent airports. Otherwise they may be confiscated during the next security check.

Knowledge of the rules regarding liquids in carry-on baggage and applying simple workarounds makes packing considerably easier, and the risk of losing cosmetics or other products – minimal.

Electronics in carry-on baggage

Electronics is one of the most important elements of carry-on baggage, and at the same time a category subject to particular safety rules. Electronic devices are thoroughly checked during the inspection, which is why the way they're packed is of enormous importance both for the comfort of the journey and for a smooth passage through the airport.

In most cases electronics should be in the carry-on baggage, and not the checked baggage. This results both from safety regulations and from the concern to protect valuable devices against damage or theft.

What should be taken out during the security check

At the security-check stage the airport staff may ask for larger electronic devices to be taken out of the carry-on baggage. This concerns above all equipment that contains large batteries or screens.

Most often taken out are:

• laptops,
• tablets,
• e-book readers,
• cameras,
• game consoles.

These devices usually have to be placed separately in a container or on a separate tray, so they can be thoroughly X-rayed. Mobile phones, headphones or small power banks can often stay in the bag, however everything depends on the procedures applying at the given airport.

Best practices for packing electronics

A well-planned arrangement of electronics in carry-on baggage significantly eases both the security check and the use of the devices during the flight. It's worth ensuring the equipment is easily accessible and at the same time appropriately secured.

Power banks and capacity limits

Power banks are permitted exclusively in carry-on baggage. There are, however, limits regarding their capacity, expressed in mAh or Wh. Most often power banks of up to 100 Wh are permitted, which corresponds to around 27,000 mAh. In some cases it's possible to transport devices of a larger capacity, but this requires the airline's consent.

Power banks should be secured against accidental switching on and packed in a way that makes a short circuit of the contacts impossible. It's best to transport them in a separate pocket or case.

Laptops, tablets and readers

Laptops, tablets and e-book readers are best packed in dedicated, softly padded compartments or cases. During the security check these devices usually have to be taken out and placed separately on a tray, which is why it's worth placing them in an easily accessible spot.

Such an arrangement of the equipment not only speeds up the check, but also reduces the risk of damage from frequently taking the devices out of and putting them back into the bag.

Headphones and small electronics

Wired and wireless headphones usually don't require taking out during the security check. It's worth keeping them in a case, though, to avoid tangling the cables or damaging the delicate elements.

Small electronics, such as smartwatches, trackers or small sports cameras, should also be appropriately secured and tidied in the baggage.

Devices with lithium batteries

Lithium batteries are covered by special regulations for safety reasons. This concerns both batteries built into devices and spare batteries. Spare lithium batteries should be transported exclusively in carry-on baggage and secured against a short circuit, e.g. by placing them in their original packaging or in special cases.

Cables and accessories – order in the bag

Cables, chargers and adapters often constitute the most chaotic element of carry-on baggage. To avoid a tangle of cables and a long search for the needed accessories, it's worth applying simple organisational solutions.

A good idea is:

• using organisers for electronics,
• rolling up cables and fastening them with ties,
• keeping chargers in one, fixed pocket.

Thanks to this all the accessories are easily accessible, and the security check goes faster and more smoothly.

Safety tips and protecting electronics

Electronics in carry-on baggage should be protected not only from the security check, but also from mechanical damage. It's worth avoiding placing heavy objects directly on the electronic equipment and securing screens with soft compartments or cases.

Additionally, you should remember to:

• switch off the devices or switch them to flight mode,
• secure the data (passwords, backups),
• avoid leaving electronics unattended.

Conscious and thoughtful packing of electronics in carry-on baggage increases the comfort of the journey, minimises the risk of damage and lets you pass through security checks at various airports without a problem.

Medicines and medical items

Medicines and medical accessories are a special category of carry-on baggage that requires not only knowledge of the airport regulations, but also a sensible approach to organisation. In many cases these are items essential during the journey, which is why they should always be in the carry-on baggage, and not the checked baggage. Thanks to this we have constant access to them and don't risk losing them in case of delays or lost baggage.

Prescription and over-the-counter medicines

Both prescription medicines and over-the-counter medicines can be transported in carry-on baggage. This concerns tablets, capsules, ointments, drops and syrups. In the case of medicines in solid form (tablets, capsules) there are usually no quantity limits, as long as they're intended for personal use.

Medicines in liquid form are subject to the standard rules regarding liquids, unless they're essential for health reasons. It's worth remembering that even popular products, such as nose drops, cough syrups or liquid dietary supplements, may be considered liquids and subject to inspection.

The safest solution is transporting medicines in their original packaging, with the visible name of the preparation and dosage. This eases any explanations during the security check or customs check.

Medical documentation for medicines and liquids over 100 ml

If it's necessary to transport medicines in amounts exceeding the standard 100 ml limit, you have to reckon with additional inspection procedures. In such cases it's often required to declare the medicines to the security-check staff before the scanning of the baggage begins.

It's worth having with you:

• a prescription or its copy,
• a certificate from a doctor (preferably in English),
• a document confirming the necessity of using the given medicine.

Although documentation isn't absolutely required at all airports, having it considerably eases passing the check and reduces the risk of medicines being stopped. This especially concerns international flights and travel to countries with more restrictive regulations.

Inhalers, insulin and specialist medical equipment

Inhalers, insulin, glucometers, insulin pumps and other medical devices are permitted in carry-on baggage and usually treated as essential items. This equipment shouldn't be packed into checked baggage because of the risk of damage or the effect of the low temperature in the baggage hold.

In the case of insulin and other medicines requiring storage at a specific temperature, it's worth using special cooling cases, which are accepted by most airlines. During the security check such items should be declared to the staff.

The medical equipment that often undergoes additional inspection includes, among others:

• inhalers and nebulisers,
• syringes and needles,
• health-monitoring devices.

In such situations calmly informing the staff about the nature of the transported items significantly streamlines the procedure.

How to organise medicines and medical items in carry-on baggage

Good organisation of medicines in carry-on baggage is the key to convenience and safety during the journey. It's best to allocate a separate, easily accessible pocket or a small toiletry bag to them.

Practical solutions include:

• dividing medicines into daily portions,
• separating solid medicines from liquid ones,
• keeping the medical documentation together with the medicines.

It's also worth having a small supply of medicines with you in case of delays or unforeseen situations. At the same time you should avoid transporting excessive amounts, which could raise doubts during the check.

A conscious approach to packing medicines and medical items makes the journey safer and more comfortable, and any checks go smoothly and without a problem.

Travel documents and valuable items

Travel documents and valuable items are the absolute basis of carry-on baggage. These are things that should always remain under our control, regardless of the length of the flight or the travel destination. Their appropriate storage affects not only comfort, but also the safety of the whole journey.

Passport and ID card

A passport or ID card is the most important document during air travel. Depending on the flight destination, one of these documents is required, and in the case of travel outside the European Union – usually a passport with an appropriate validity date.

The identity document should be easily accessible, because it's shown multiple times: during check-in, the security check, the border check and at boarding. It's best to keep it in a separate, closable pocket of the carry-on baggage or in a dedicated travel case.

A good practice is also having copies of the documents – both in paper and electronic form – in case of their loss or theft.

Boarding passes and travel confirmations

The boarding pass is another key element, without which we won't board the plane. It can be in paper or electronic form, saved in the airline's app or on the phone. It's worth ensuring it's always at hand and easy to show.

Besides the boarding pass, the following are also useful:

• flight booking confirmations,
• accommodation confirmations,
• documents connected with transfers or additional services.

Although many of these documents are now available in a digital version, it's worth having offline access to them or having copies of them in case of technical problems.

Cash, payment cards and jewellery

Cash and payment cards should always be transported in carry-on baggage. This concerns both local currency and foreign currencies. It's worth remembering that in some countries there are limits regarding the transport of cash, which may require declaring it when crossing the border.

Payment cards are best split up – not keeping them all in one place. Thanks to this, in case of losing or having one of them stolen, the rest will remain safe. It's worth doing the same with cash.

Jewellery, watches or other small, valuable items should also be in the carry-on baggage. It's best to keep them in a closable case or pocket, to avoid losing them during the security check or during the flight.

Original medical documents and special services

People using prescription medicines, medical equipment or special amenities during the journey should have with them original documents confirming these needs. This concerns, among others, medical certificates, prescriptions, information cards or documents connected with transporting medical equipment.

These documents may be required during the security check or when requesting special services, such as:

• assistance at the airport,
• transport of medical equipment,
• special meals on board.

It's best to keep them together with the travel documents, in one, orderly place. This eases showing them quickly at the staff's request and reduces the risk of loss.

Conscious and thoughtful storage of documents and valuable items in carry-on baggage is one of the key elements of a trouble-free air journey.

Food in carry-on baggage

Food in carry-on baggage is a topic that raises many doubts, especially on international flights. Although at first glance it may seem that transporting food isn't problematic, in practice a range of rules applies, which depend both on the form of the product and on the destination country. Knowledge of these rules lets you avoid confiscation of food during the security check or border check.

General rules regarding food in carry-on baggage

As a rule, most food products in solid form can be transported in carry-on baggage. Restrictions appear mainly in the case of products of a liquid, semi-liquid or creamy consistency, which are treated like liquids and subject to the 100 ml limit.

Food transported in carry-on baggage should be intended for personal use. Large amounts of food or products requiring special storage conditions may arouse the interest of border services, especially when entering countries with restrictive regulations.

Liquid products vs. solid products

The form of the food is of key importance. Solid products usually don't pose a problem during the security check, whereas liquid and semi-liquid products are subject to the same rules as cosmetics.

Products considered liquid or semi-liquid include, among others:

• yogurts and milk desserts,
• sandwich spreads and pâtés,
• honey, jams and chocolate spreads,
• sauces, soups and dips.

Such products must fit into containers of up to 100 ml and go into the transparent liquids bag. Otherwise they may be stopped during the check.

Snacks for the flight

The safest choice for carry-on baggage is snacks in solid form, which don't cause problems during the check and are convenient to eat on board.

The most commonly chosen snacks include:

• biscuits and cookies,
• cereal and protein bars,
• nuts and dried fruit,
• crackers and breadsticks.

It's worth choosing well-packed products that don't crumble excessively and don't have an intense smell. Airlines may have their own rules regarding eating food on board, especially in the case of long-haul flights.

Fruit and vegetables – differences between countries

Fruit and vegetables are often a source of problems when crossing borders. Although within the European Union their transport in carry-on baggage usually doesn't pose a problem, the situation looks different in the case of flights to countries outside the EU.

In countries such as:

• the United States,
• Canada,
• Australia,
• New Zealand,

very restrictive regulations apply regarding the import of fresh plant products. Fruit and vegetables may be confiscated during the border check, and in some cases not declaring them may result in a penalty.

The safest solution is consuming such products before landing or giving up on transporting them to the destination country.

Food for children

Food for children, including formula milk, jars and drinks, is subject to special rules. In most countries it can be transported in amounts exceeding the standard 100 ml limit, provided it's necessary to feed the child during the journey. Such products should be easily accessible and declared to the staff during the security check, so that appropriate procedures can be applied.

Alcohol and drinks in carry-on baggage

Alcohol and drinks in carry-on baggage are subject to particularly restrictive rules, because they're classified as liquids. It's one of those categories that most often causes problems during the security check, especially when the passenger isn't aware of the applicable limits or exceptions. Knowledge of the rules regarding the transport of alcohol and drinks lets you avoid confiscation of purchased products and unpleasant situations at the airport.

Limits regarding alcohol and drinks in carry-on baggage

The basic rule applying at most airports is the 100 ml limit on an individual container with liquid. This concerns water, non-alcoholic drinks and alcohol alike. All bottles and containers must fit into one transparent bag of a capacity of up to 1 litre.

This means that:

• bottles of wine, beer or stronger alcohol bought before the security check can't be brought on board,
• even a partly emptied bottle exceeding 100 ml will be stopped,
• miniature bottles of alcohol of up to 100 ml are permitted if they fit within the limit of the liquids bag.

In practice transporting alcohol in carry-on baggage before the security check makes sense only in the case of very small amounts.

Duty-free purchases – how to transport alcohol

The situation looks different in the case of alcohol and drinks bought in the duty-free zone after passing the security check. Such products may exceed the 100 ml limit, provided they're packed in a special, sealed protective bag.

When shopping in duty-free it's worth paying attention to a few key matters:

• the alcohol should be packed in the original, sealed bag,
• the receipt must stay inside the packaging,
• the bag shouldn't be opened before the end of the journey.

This is especially important in the case of flights with transfers. At the subsequent airports a repeat security check may apply, during which an open duty-free bag may result in confiscation of the alcohol.

It's also worth remembering that some countries introduce additional quantity restrictions regarding the import of alcohol, regardless of whether it's in carry-on or checked baggage.

Opening alcohol on board the plane

Buying alcohol in duty-free doesn't automatically mean it can be consumed on board the plane. Most airlines forbid opening and consuming your own alcohol during the flight.

These rules result from safety regulations and the airline's responsibility for the passengers. Even if the alcohol was legally brought on board, its consumption may be permitted only with the crew's consent, and in practice it's most often forbidden.

On board the plane passengers may consume alcohol served by the airline. This concerns both alcoholic drinks offered free of charge in some travel classes and those available for purchase.

Failure to observe the rules regarding consuming alcohol on board may result in a reprimand, and in extreme cases legal consequences or refusal of further carriage.

Awareness of the restrictions regarding alcohol and drinks in carry-on baggage lets you avoid unnecessary problems and makes the journey go calmly and in line with the applicable regulations.

Regulations specific to selected countries and regions

Even though the basic rules regarding carry-on baggage are similar all over the world, in practice each country or region may introduce its own interpretations and additional restrictions. These differences most often concern liquids, food, electronics and security-check procedures. On international journeys it's worth knowing the most important local rules, to avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport.

The United States (TSA)

In the United States aviation safety is the responsibility of the TSA agency (Transportation Security Administration), which applies its own, very detailed procedures.

The most important rules applying in the USA:

• strict enforcement of the 100 ml rule for liquids,
• thorough inspection of electronics, including laptops and tablets,
• particular attention paid to food in carry-on baggage.

Food products, especially fresh fruit, vegetables and products of animal origin, may be stopped during the border check. The TSA permits the transport of food on board, but the American border services have the right to confiscate products not permitted when entering the country.

The European Union

Within the European Union common security-check rules apply, which considerably eases travelling between member states. They include, among others, uniform limits regarding liquids and similar personal-check procedures.

The most important features of the check in the EU:

• a 100 ml limit on a container with liquid,
• one liquids bag of a capacity of up to 1 litre,
• similar rules regarding electronics and personal items.

Despite the common regulations, individual airports may apply modern scanners that sometimes allow electronics or liquids to be left in the baggage. These rules may differ, though, even within one country.

The United Kingdom after Brexit

After Brexit the United Kingdom retained many of the rules known from the European Union, however it also introduced its own regulations and procedures.

In practice this means:

• maintaining the 100 ml limit for liquids,
• very thorough security checks,
• the possibility of additional questions regarding the transported items.

In the United Kingdom particular attention is paid to electronics and the contents of carry-on baggage on international flights. It's worth reckoning with a longer check time.

Canada

Canada is famous for its restrictive regulations regarding the import of food. Although bringing food on board the plane itself usually isn't a problem, its entry into the country is subject to strict rules.

Most often checked are:

• fresh fruit and vegetables,
• meat and dairy products,
• home-made food.

Some products may be confiscated during the border check, even if they were legally brought on board the plane.

Australia and New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand are among the countries with the most restrictive regulations regarding biosecurity. Food checks there are exceptionally detailed.

In practice this means:

• very strict restrictions regarding fruit, vegetables and plant products,
• a ban on importing many food products,
• high penalties for not declaring food.

Even small amounts of food may be stopped, which is why it's best to avoid transporting food products to these countries.

The Middle East (e.g. Dubai)

Airports in the Middle East, including in Dubai, are famous for very high safety standards and modern inspection procedures.

The most important features:

• thorough checks of carry-on baggage,
• particular attention paid to electronics,
• a restrictive approach to alcohol.

In Muslim countries local cultural regulations also apply, which may affect the transport and possession of alcohol.

Asia (e.g. Japan)

In many Asian countries security checks are very thorough, but at the same time well organised. Japan is an example of a country in which the procedures are rigorous but predictable.

Characteristic features:

• scrupulous inspection of electronics,
• thorough checking of the baggage contents,
• high personal culture and clear instructions during the check.

It's worth paying attention to the local regulations regarding medicines, because some substances permitted in Europe may be restricted in Asia.

Africa – regional differences

In Africa the regulations regarding carry-on baggage may differ considerably depending on the country and the airport. In some regions the checks are very scrupulous, in others more simplified.

The most common differences concern:

• personal-check procedures,
• rules for transporting electronics,
• the interpretation of the regulations regarding liquids.

It's worth staying flexible and preparing for additional questions or checks.

Where to check the current regulations

The regulations regarding carry-on baggage may change, which is why before every journey it's worth checking the current information from official sources.

The best places to verify the rules are:

• the websites of the airlines,
• the official websites of the airports,
• the websites of institutions responsible for aviation safety (e.g. the TSA),
• announcements from embassies and customs offices.

Awareness of regional differences and the current regulations is one of the most important elements of a trouble-free journey with carry-on baggage.

Tips on packing

Optimal packing of carry-on baggage is the key to a comfortable journey and a trouble-free passage through the security check. Well-organised baggage lets you quickly find the items you need, minimises stress and eases observing the airlines' limits.

Checklists

One of the simplest ways to pack efficiently is preparing a checklist before every journey. The list should include all categories of items, such as:

• travel documents and valuable items,
• medicines and medical accessories,
• electronics and accessories,
• liquids and cosmetics,
• snacks and drinks.

Thanks to such a list it's easier to control whether we haven't forgotten any important item, and to make sure we're not exceeding the carry-on baggage limits.

Organisers and compression bags

In carry-on baggage it's worth using various kinds of organisers, toiletry bags and compression bags. They let you:

• keep order in the bag,
• separate different categories of items,
• reduce the volume of clothes and save space.

Compression bags are particularly useful when packing clothing – they let you reduce the volume of clothes by even half, which gives more space for electronics, cosmetics or food.

Separating baggage by category

A good solution is packing items by category, which considerably eases the security check and organisation during the flight. For example:

• all liquids in one transparent bag,
• electronics in a separate organiser,
• medicines and documents in an easily accessible spot,
• snacks in a separate, closable container.

Such a division lets you quickly take out the items you need before the check and minimises the risk of chaos in the bag.

Minimalism and priorities

The basic rule of packing carry-on baggage is minimalism. It's worth taking only the essential things and being guided by priorities:

• the most important documents and medicines,
• valuable electronics,
• basic cosmetics and liquids,
• snacks and drinks for the flight.

Limiting the number of items lets you fit more easily within the weight and dimension limits, and also speeds up the packing process and passing through the security check.

Packing in line with the airlines' limits

Every airline sets its own limits regarding the dimensions and weight of carry-on baggage. Before packing it's worth:

• checking the official limits on the carrier's website,
• weighing the bag after packing,
• adjusting the baggage contents to the chosen fare.

It's also worth remembering that some lines allow additional small bags or carry-on backpacks, which can be used to transport additional items without violating the limits of the main bag.

Packing before the check – what to take out first

Before the security check it's good to have prepared the items that are most often checked separately. Most often it's required to:

• take out electronics, such as a laptop, tablet or reader,
• take out liquids in the transparent bag,
• prepare travel documents and boarding passes to show.

It's worth arranging the baggage in such a way that these items are on top of the bag or in separate, easily accessible pockets. Thanks to this the check goes smoothly, and we save time and nerves.

Conscious and thoughtful packing of carry-on baggage increases the comfort of the journey, lets you avoid problems at the airport and gives a sense of control over all the essential items.

Summary – the most important rules

Travelling with carry-on baggage requires above all good organisation and knowledge of the applicable regulations. Although the detailed rules may differ depending on the country or airline, there are a few universal points worth always bearing in mind. Above all you should know the weight and dimension limits of your baggage, as well as the number of permitted pieces. Liquids and cosmetics should be packed in line with the rule of 100 ml per container and one bag of a capacity of 1 litre, taking into account the exceptions for medicines and products bought in the duty-free zone.

Electronics require a separate place in the bag, so that it can be easily taken out at the security check, and power banks and devices with lithium batteries are worth securing against damage. Medicines and medical items should always be in the carry-on baggage in their original packaging together with medical documentation if needed. Food and drinks should be packed consciously, remembering the restrictions for liquid products and the regulations regarding fruit, vegetables or products for children in the destination countries. Travel documents, cash and valuable items should be easily accessible and safely stored, preferably in one, orderly pocket of the bag.

It's worth approaching packing with minimalism and priorities, using organisers, compression bags and checklists. Well-planned baggage lets you not only fit all the essential items in line with the airlines' limits, but also eases a smooth passage through the security check. Conscious preparation and planning is the best way to make the journey go comfortably, without stress and unpleasant surprises.