Carry-on Luggage Dos and Don’ts: Here’s What You Can’t Take on a Plane

Traveling with just a carry-on has its perks. It’s convenient; you can skip the wait at baggage claim, and there’s no risk of losing your luggage. But the freedom of carrying your essentials in a compact bag comes with some strict guidelines. When you’re packing your carry-on, you want to make sure everything is as seamless as possible. There’s nothing worse than getting held up at security because you’ve packed something you shouldn’t have. We’ve all been there—standing in line, watching as someone’s bag gets pulled aside for extra screening. It’s frustrating, it delays your journey, and it’s entirely avoidable. Let’s go through some key things you need to know to ensure your carry-on is packed smartly and safely.

 

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The 3-1-1 Rule for Liquids

One of the most common mistakes travelers make when packing their carry-on is not adhering to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids. It’s a simple guideline, but it’s also easy to overlook. Especially when you’re trying to squeeze in that last-minute addition to your bag. The rule is straightforward: each liquid item must be in a container that holds no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). All these containers must fit into a single, quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag. And here’s the catch—you’re only allowed one such bag per traveler.

Related: How to Pack a Men’s Dopp Kit When Traveling

This might seem like a tight limit, but it’s crucial to follow it. If you’re wondering whether the rule applies to a container that’s mostly empty but originally held more than 3.4 ounces, the answer is yes, it does. TSA goes by the container’s labeled capacity, not how much liquid is actually inside. So, if your shampoo bottle says 5 ounces, even if it’s nearly empty, it’s not going through security in your carry-on. Save yourself the hassle by repackaging your liquids into smaller containers that meet the requirement.

What Counts as a Liquid?

Liquids aren’t just confined to water or drinks. The category includes gels, creams, pastes, and aerosols. This means items like toothpaste, hair gel, lotion, and even some types of makeup fall under the 3-1-1 rule. Foods like peanut butter and yogurt are also considered liquids in this context, so don’t think you can sneak them through without consequences.

A good rule of thumb is if it can be poured, spread, squeezed, or sprayed, it’s a liquid. And just like other liquids, these items need to be in containers that fit the 3.4-ounce limit and placed in your clear plastic bag. If you’re packing a carry-on, it’s better to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure whether something counts as a liquid, pack it in your checked bag or leave it at home.

Leave Dangerous Items at Home (Obviously)

This might seem like common sense, but it’s worth reiterating: weapons are not allowed in your carry-on. This includes not only firearms and knives but also items that could be used as weapons, like baseball bats, golf clubs, or even some types of tools. If you’re planning a camping trip and need to bring a knife, make sure it goes in your checked luggage, not your carry-on.

What’s surprising is how often travelers forget about these items. Maybe you’ve got a pocket knife at the bottom of your bag or you’ve packed a multi-tool that includes a small blade. These might seem harmless, but they’ll get flagged at security. If you’re carrying anything that could be considered a weapon, double-check where it’s packed before you head to the airport.

Electronics and Battery Restrictions

Electronics are a bit of a gray area when it comes to carry-on luggage, especially when you start dealing with batteries. You can bring most electronics, like laptops, tablets, and smartphones, in your carry-on without any issues. But there are some restrictions on batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries, which are common in electronics.

The general rule is that you can bring devices with lithium-ion batteries that have a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours. If you have spare batteries, they must be packed in your carry-on, not your checked luggage, but there’s a limit to how many you can bring. Devices or batteries that exceed these limits might need special approval, so it’s always good to check the airline’s policy before you pack.

Also, keep in mind that larger electronics, like laptops, will need to be taken out of your bag and placed in a bin for separate screening at security. Pack these items in a way that makes them easy to access when you’re going through the checkpoint.

What About Powders?

Powders in your carry-on can lead to extra screening, especially if you’re carrying more than 12 ounces. While powders are allowed, they can be a bit of a hassle at security. If you’re traveling with something like protein powder, baby powder, or even powdered supplements, be prepared for the possibility of extra screening.

If you can, pack powders in your checked luggage to avoid delays at security. And if you must bring them in your carry-on, make sure they’re in clearly labeled containers. This helps security officers identify them quickly and reduces the chances of your bag being pulled aside for additional checks.

Household Items and Tools

You might not think of tools and household items as problematic, but they can cause issues at airport security. Things like hammers, wrenches, screwdrivers or electric screwdriver sets are not allowed in your carry-on. These items might not seem dangerous to you, but they can be flagged as potential weapons.

The same goes for some household items, like scissors larger than than 4 inches from pivot point. Items like blenders might be fine in your kitchen, but they’re not welcome in the cabin of a plane. If you need to bring any tools or larger household items, make sure they’re packed in your checked luggage.

Sports Equipment

Sports equipment is another category where travelers often get tripped up. While you might want to bring your favorite tennis racket or set of golf clubs on your trip, they’re not allowed in your carry-on. Larger items like these need to be checked, and they often require special handling by the airline.

If you’re planning on bringing any sports equipment, it’s a good idea to check with your airline beforehand. Some equipment, like skis or surfboards, might even require you to pay an extra fee, so it’s best to be prepared. Smaller items, like a baseball glove or a yoga mat, are usually fine in your carry-on, but anything that could be used as a weapon or is too large to fit in the overhead bin should be checked.

Flammable Items Are a Definite No

Flammables are strictly prohibited in carry-on luggage. This includes lighters, matches, and anything with an aerosol, like certain types of deodorant or hairspray. The risk of fire is too great, so these items are best left at home or packed in your checked luggage.

If you’re unsure whether something counts as flammable, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Even items that you might not think of as dangerous, like some types of batteries or certain household cleaners, can be considered flammable. Double-check your bag before you leave for the airport to make sure you’re not carrying anything that could cause problems at security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take a lighter on a plane?

Yes, you can take a lighter on a plane, but there are restrictions. You’re allowed to carry one lighter in your carry-on bag. But it must be a disposable lighter or a Zippo-type lighter without fuel. Lighters containing fuel are not permitted in checked luggage. Torch lighters, which are often used for cigars, are not allowed on the plane at all.

Can you take electronic cigarettes on a plane?

Yes, you can take electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, on a plane, but they must be packed in your carry-on luggage. The batteries in these devices are considered a fire hazard, so they are not allowed in checked luggage. You cannot use your e-cigarette on the plane, as smoking of any kind is prohibited.

Can you take snacks on a plane?

Yes, you can take snacks on a plane. Solid foods like sandwiches, fruits, and chips are perfectly fine to bring in your carry-on bag. However, be cautious with foods that might be considered liquid or gel, like yogurt or dips. These items must comply with the 3-1-1 rule. This means they need to be in containers of 3.4 ounces.

Can you take alcohol on a plane?

Yes, you can take alcohol on a plane, but with some restrictions. You’re allowed to bring alcohol in your carry-on as long as it is in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, fitting within your quart-sized bag. You can also bring alcohol purchased after security in duty-free shops. However, consuming your own alcohol on the plane is against the rules. You’re only allowed to drink alcohol served by the airline.

Can you take toothpaste on a plane?

Yes, you can take toothpaste on a plane, but it must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule. This means the toothpaste should be in a container that holds 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and must fit within your quart-sized clear plastic bag with your other liquids, gels, and creams.

Can you take a razor on a plane?

Yes, you can take a razor on a plane, but the type of razor matters. Disposable razors and electric razors are allowed in your carry-on luggage. However, safety razors with removable blades or straight razors are not permitted in your carry-on due to the blade, but you can pack them in your checked luggage.

Can you take cologne on a plane?

Yes, you can take cologne on a plane, but it needs to follow the 3-1-1 rule. The cologne must be in a container of 3.4 ounces or less and fit into your quart-sized plastic bag along with your other liquids. If you have a larger bottle of cologne, it will need to go in your checked luggage.

Can you take nail clippers on a plane?

Yes, you can take nail clippers on a plane. Nail clippers are allowed in both your carry-on and checked luggage without any restrictions, as they are not considered a security risk.

Can you take non prescription medication on a plane?

Yes, you can take non-prescription medication on a plane. You’re allowed to carry over-the-counter medications like pain relievers, cold medicine, or allergy pills in both your carry-on and checked luggage. It’s a good idea to keep these in their original packaging, especially if you need to take them during your flight.

Can you take pepper spray on a plane?

No, you cannot take pepper spray on a plane. Pepper spray is considered a weapon and is prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage. If you need pepper spray for personal safety, you’ll need to leave it at home or purchase it at your destination.

Can you take scissors on a plane?

Yes, you can take scissors on a plane, but there are size restrictions. Scissors with blades that are 4 inches or shorter are allowed in your carry-on luggage. If the blades are longer than 4 inches, the scissors must be packed in your checked luggage.

Can you take aerosols on a plane?

Yes, you can take aerosols on a plane, but they must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids if they’re in your carry-on. This means the aerosol can must be 3.4 ounces or less. Larger aerosol cans, like those for hairspray or deodorant, need to go in your checked luggage. Additionally, aerosol items that are considered flammable are not allowed in carry-on bags.

Can you take a water bottle on a plane?

Yes, you can take a water bottle on a plane, but it must be empty when you pass through security. You can bring an empty bottle and fill it up once you’re past the security checkpoint, which is a great way to stay hydrated during your flight without purchasing overpriced bottled water at the airport.

Can you take makeup on a plane?

Yes, you can take makeup on a plane, but liquid makeup items like foundation, mascara, or lip gloss need to comply with the 3-1-1 rule. Each item must be in a container of 3.4 ounces or less and fit within your quart-sized plastic bag. Solid makeup items, like powder, lipstick, or eyeshadow, do not have to follow the liquid restrictions and can be packed freely in your carry-on.