Security checks are strict, but the rules are straightforward once you know the common traps.
❌ Forbidden in Carry-On (must go into checked baggage or stay home)
- Liquids over 100 ml: Containers > 100 ml (shampoo, drinks, perfume). Rule: the container size counts, not the remaining liquid.
- Spreads & soft foods: Nutella, peanut butter, jam, hummus, soft cheese over 100 ml — these count as liquids.
- Sharp & pointed objects: Knives, scissors with blades > 6 cm, loose razor blades, multi-tools with blades.
- Tools: Hammers, screwdrivers, saws, drills.
- Self-balancing boards: Hoverboards / e-skateboards with lithium batteries — banned entirely on most airlines.
- High-proof alcohol (> 70% ABV / 140 proof): Prohibited on the entire aircraft (carry-on & checked).
✅ Allowed in Carry-On (with conditions)
- Liquids under 100 ml: All containers max 100 ml, fitted into one transparent, resealable 1-liter bag (1 per person). Includes aerosols (deodorants/sprays).
- Duty-free liquids & alcohol: Bottles > 100 ml bought after airport security, sealed in a transparent tamper-evident bag (STEB) with the receipt inside.
- Solid food: Sandwiches, snacks, fruit, chocolate, hard cheese.
- Electronics: Laptops, tablets, cameras, headphones.
- Power banks & spare batteries: MUST be in carry-on (never checked). Max 100 Wh, up to 160 Wh with airline approval.
- Vapes & e-cigarettes: Carry-on ONLY (strictly banned in checked luggage). E-liquids count toward the 100 ml rule.
- Lighters: Exactly 1 small lighter (carry it in your pocket on your person, not inside the bag).
- Cigarettes & tobacco: Allowed in carry-on (check destination customs allowances).
- Shavers & grooming: Disposable cartridge razors (Gillette style), electric shavers, nail clippers, scissors with blades < 6 cm.
🟢 Exempt from the 100 ml Rule
- Baby supplies: Baby milk, sterilized water, and baby food needed for the flight.
- Essential medication: Liquid medicine and insulin needed during the trip (carry the prescription / doctor's note).
Important: These rules apply almost everywhere — but every airline and country has its own details. Check the exact baggage rules for your airline in our database.