What NOT to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag: What is Not Allowed on a Plane (2024)
Are you confused about what is not allowed on a plane in carry on? I get questions about what you can and can’t bring on a plane all the time, and I get it, it can be really confusing. So I’ve put together a comprehensive list of what items are not allowed on a plane in hand luggage, and a few surprising things that are allowed.
This article will help you pack a better carry on bag so you don’t end up getting things confiscated at security. You’ll find answers to questions about what items are not allowed on an airplane, how much liquid can you take on a plane, and more.
What can’t you take on a plane in carry on bags?
I’m a big advocate of traveling with only carry-on luggage. It means you have less stuff to lug around, you avoid having to pay baggage fees, and the airline can’t lose your luggage if it’s not checked.
But you should know what not to pack in your carry-on bag. If you were thinking of bringing any of these, you’ll either need to leave it at home, find an alternative, or deal with checking luggage.
The short answer is anything that could be used as a weapon is not allowed in your carry on bag. But I know that air travel constantly gets more confusing, so keep reading for more details about specific items.
Note: This post is written referencing TSA rules for travel from airports in the USA. Some countries may have different rules, so if you’re flying from an airport in another country, please look up the rules for the authority in that country.
What is not allowed on a plane in carry on baggage: the short version
There’s no way to compile a list of every single thing that is not allowed in your carry on bag. Restrictions vary from country to country, and unfortunately some things are in a gray area and up to the whims of the security agents.
I have tons of info about what you can and cannot bring on a plane in carry on bags, including info about liquids rules, things you are allowed to have that you might not realize, and much more, after this quick list.
Here’s a short list of things that are not allowed on the plane in cabin bags:
- Liquids over 3.4 ounces (100ml) or liquids that do not fit in your one permitted liquids bag
- Sharp objects
- Flammable liquids or other flammable items
- Guns
- Weapons
- Self defense items
- Safety razors or straight razors
- Swords
- Toys that look like weapons
- Sporting equipment that could be used as a weapon, such as bats
- Tools over 7 inches long or tools that could be used as a weapon, such as saws or hammers
What liquids are not allowed on planes?
You are allowed to bring most liquids on a plane in your carry on, but they must comply with certain rules and limitations. In case you need a refresher about liquids restrictions, this is the TSA liquid limit:
If you want to bring liquids on a plane in your carry on, all of your liquids must be in containers that are no bigger than 3.4 ounces or 100ml. Plus all containers must fit in a clear, one quart sized zip top plastic bag, and each passenger is only allowed to have one liquids bag. But however many bottles fit in that one bag is the amount you’re allowed to bring in cabin baggage.
You are not allowed to use a bigger bag for your liquids. Containers that are bigger than 3.4 ounces (100ml) are not allowed even if they aren’t full. So you are not allowed to bring a full size bottle of shampoo, no matter how close to empty it might be.
Read more about how much liquid can you bring on a plane and what toiletries you can take on a plane.
Please note that some posts contain links that earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Buy travel sized containers and fill them with shampoo, shower gel, and any other products you want to bring on your trip.
Buy things like toothpaste in travel sizes. Try these really small ones if your trip is short, or these bigger ones that come in just under the limit if your trip is a little longer.
Or try these solid toothpaste tabs so you don’t have to worry about the liquids issue.
There are special rules for liquid medications, but these vary by country. Check with the country you will be flying out of for their rules, but in most cases you will need to let the screening agents know that you have liquid medication in addition to one quart bag you are allowed.
Take note of these items passengers often forget about which are considered liquids: peanut butter, mascara, snow globes, aerosols.
Can I have liquids in my personal item AND carry on?
The quick answer to this is no. You can keep it in your personal item or your carry-on bag, but you can’t have one in each bag. TSA (and pretty much all other airport security agencies around the world) only allows one liquids bag per passenger. Technically this makes it impossible to have liquids in both your personal item and your carry on item.
But this really just applies when you’re going through the security checkpoint. Once you’ve cleared security, if you want to take a few items out of your liquids bag and put them somewhere else, you can do that.
For example, I like to have my hand lotion in my purse, which is usually my personal item when I fly. So once I clear security, I take my lotion out of the liquids bag and put it in my purse for easy access while I’m on the plane. Then the liquids bag goes back in my carry on bag.
So at that point in the process – after the security check – you can technically have liquids in your personal item and your carry on bag.
Just remember, if you have to go through security again during a layover, you’ll need to put everything back into the liquids bag before your stuff goes through the x-ray.
My favorite solid toiletries for travel
Solid toiletries are great for travel when you’re concerned about the amount of liquid allowed in hand carry bags, since they won’t count against your liquids limit. Here are what I consider the best solid toiletries for travel. They’ll save you space in your quart sized liquids bag, and they work just as well – or sometimes better! – than their liquid counterparts.
- Ethique Eco-Friendly Solid Shampoo Bar: Wonderful solid shampoo that comes in lots of different variations for different hair types. I use this and the conditioner bar (next) at home as well as when I travel because I love them so much.
- Solid Conditioner Bar: I love this conditioner bar more than any liquid conditioner I’ve ever used.
- Hello toothpaste tabs: These are solid toothpaste tabs that come in an environmentally friendly tin and are made with natural peppermint.
- Neutrogena solid sunscreen: A great alternative to liquid sunscreen, and I’ve been using it for years.
- Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Repellent Balm Stick: This solid bug repellent is a life saver, so much better than the horrible smell of the spray variety.
- Travelon Laundry Soap Sheets: A friend bought me these non-liquid laundry detergent sheets years ago, and I’ve been traveling with them ever since.
You can also read my full post about solid toiletries for travel.
Can you bring shampoo on a plane?
Yes, shampoo is allowed on a plane in both carry on baggage and checked baggage. The difference for your carry on bag is that your shampoo must comply with the TSA carry on restrictions for liquids.
This means your bottle of shampoo must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller, and it must fit in your liquids bag. Full sized shampoo bottles (and conditioner bottles) are not allowed because they are too big.
A great way to avoid the problem of too many liquids is to replace your normal liquid shampoo with solid shampoo. I switched years ago, and now I love my solid shampoo and solid conditioner so much, I use them even when I’m not traveling.
What’s the deal with the TSA powder rule?
As if the liquids rule wasn’t enough of a hassle, now we have to wrap our heads around this new TSA powder rule. The first thing to know is that powdered substances are still allowed in both carry on baggage and checked baggage.
The TSA powder rule states: “Powder-like substances greater than 12 oz. / 350 mL must be placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening. They may require additional screening and containers may need to be opened.”
If you have powders in quantities larger than 12 ounces (350 ml) you are encouraged to pack them in your checked luggage. TSA isn’t requiring you to pack them in you checked bag, only encouraging it. So that’s your call.
My experience with the TSA powder rule
I once flew with store bought salt and pepper shakers, clearly smaller than 12 ounces, and the security screener still pulled my bag aside. He took out the salt and pepper shakers, and tested the salt and pepper for whatever it is they look for with those tests.
It was all fine, and I was allowed to take my salt and pepper with me. But it’s worth knowing they could inspect your powders more closely even if they’re smaller than 12 ounces.
Also, I’ve seen quite a few airline websites that state that powders larger than 12 ounces (350 ml) are NOT permitted in carry on bags. This contradicts what is stated on the TSA website.
I tend to go by TSA rules since they are the security authority and they are the ones inspecting my bags, and there really isn’t a point at which the airline would even know if I had large amounts of powder. But this is a judgement call you’ll have to make.
Can you bring sharp objects on a plane?
This one should be self-explanatory, but sharp objects are prohibited in carry-on luggage because they could be used as a weapon. If you simply must bring a knife, box cutter, or sword on your trip, it must be packed in your checked luggage.
Scissors in cabin bags
Scissors that are less than 4 inches long, like nail scissors, are generally allowed by TSA. But since the final decision rests with the agent, just be aware that they could confiscate it.
Rules in other countries can be different from those in the US, so check it out before you fly from somewhere else. I’ve had my nail scissors confiscated in other countries, so it does happen.
For example, many countries state that scissors are only permitted if they are shorter than 6 centimeters from the pivot point. That’s only 2.36 inches, which is shorter than what TSA allows in the US. I’ve definitely had my nail scissors confiscated in a couple of other countries, so I don’t travel with them anymore.
What about knives in hand luggage?
Knives are not allowed in cabin bags, although TSA does say that plastic or round-bladed butter knives are permitted in carry-on baggage. But metal knives, pocket knives, and Swiss army knives are not allowed.
If you want to bring one of these, pack it safely in your checked baggage. It should have a sheath on it so that it can’t accidentally cut through your bag and injure a baggage handler or baggage screener.
Can you bring glass on a plane?
I get a lot of questions about bringing glass on a plane in carry on luggage, and I can see the concern. Glass can be rather sharp and potentially dangerous when it’s broken.
However, according to the TSA website, you can take glass on a plane in hand luggage. They specifically mention that glass picture frames and glass vases are permitted in both carry on and checked baggage. So as long as the glass item fits in your bag, and your bag fits within the size and weight restrictions for your airline, you’re good to go.
Always wrap glass and other fragile items to prevent them from breaking during the journey. Whenever possible, pack glass items in your carry on bag since checked baggage can get banged around quite a lot.
Can you take knitting needles on a plane?
For those of you who like to knit, especially as a way to pass the time, the answer is yes, you can bring knitting needles on a plane in your carry on bag. TSA also allows crochet hooks in your hand baggage.
I’ve read that plastic or wooden knitting needles are preferred over metal ones, and circular knitting needles are preferred over straight ones, however the TSA website doesn’t mention this. As always, the TSA agent on duty has the final say, and other countries may have different rules.
Can you bring a razor on a plane?
Taking razors on an airplane can be a little confusing. Straight razors and blades for safety razors are not allowed in your carry-on luggage.
However, you can take a razor through security if it’s a disposable razor. That means the actual blade is attached to a handle, like the kind most of us use to shave. Electric razors are also allowed in your carry-on.
Sporting equipment
Baseball bats, ski poles, pool cues, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, golf clubs, and pretty much any other sporting equipment containing the words stick, pole, bat or club cannot be brought on the plane as carry-on. That’s because they could be used as a weapon. If playing sports will be part of your travels, consider renting equipment at your destination.
For those of you who are quite attached to using your own sports equipment, you’ll probably need to check it.
Roller skates and roller blades are allowed in carry on baggage. Oddly enough, the TSA website states that it’s ok to bring ice skates in your carry-on. I’m not sure I want to test this one though.
Guns on planes
Obviously a gun is a weapon, and they don’t want you bringing it on an airplane in your carry-on bag. Most guns are permitted in checked luggage as long as they are empty, and they must be in a locked, hard-sided container.
Check with your airline about other restrictions and/or fees they might have. Some items, such as flares and gun powder, are not even permitted in checked luggage.
Before you travel, research the gun laws in the state or country you’re going to. Different states throughout the US have different laws, and many other countries heavily restrict or prohibit personal gun use and ownership.
Anything else that is considered to be a weapon is not allowed on a plane in carry on luggage.
Can you take self-defense items on a plane?
Self-defense items, like pepper spray or mace, are not allowed in carry-on luggage. These could be considered a weapon by TSA, so leave them at home.
If you really want to bring it along for your trip, the TSA website says you are allowed to have one 4 ounce container of mace or pepper spray in your checked luggage “provided it is equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge.”
But always check with your airline since they might have stricter regulations on this.
Are tools allowed on a plane in carry on bags?
Most, but not all, tools are prohibited in carry-on luggage. If you’re planning on bringing your tools with you, you will most likely need to put them in checked luggage. You might not think of a hammer or drill bits as weapons, but TSA’s opinion differs.
Tools that are 7 inches or less in length are permitted, but not sharp tools. I think you’ll find that most tools are unfortunately longer than 7 inches, sharp, or something that could be considered useful as a weapon. It’s best to pack tools in checked baggage or simply leave them at home.
What about bringing flammable items on a plane?
I think we can all agree that starting a fire on the airplane is not a good idea.
Please leave all flammable chemicals and items at home. This includes fireworks, bleach, chlorine, paint thinner and anything else that is flammable or explosive. These are things you can’t take on a plane in either carry on or checked baggage.
Camp stoves
Camping gear used for fires and cooking, such as a camping stove, is considered flammable as well. TSA does say camp stoves “are allowed in carry-on or checked bags only if they are empty of all fuel and cleaned so that no fuel vapors or residue remain.”
Remember that their standards for “cleaned” might be stricter than yours, so if they detect even the tiniest amount, your camp stove could be confiscated. Check with TSA and the airline for rules and restrictions. If possible, get the equipment you need once you arrive to avoid the hassle.
What not to bring when traveling internationally
When traveling internationally, most countries prohibit you from bringing in meats, fruit, vegetables, plants, and other agricultural products.
If you want to bring an apple as a snack, just make sure you eat it on the plane. Otherwise it will be confiscated on arrival, and you could find yourself facing an angry border agent.
Certain countries, like Australia and New Zealand, are even more strict and won’t allow things like wooden souvenirs you may have picked up somewhere else.
Then there are rules that could be different in other countries. For example, vapes are illegal in certain countries. Drones can also be on the prohibited list for some countries around the world. Always check regulations before traveling to a foreign country.
What items should you not carry on a plane even if they’re allowed?
These are some items that are allowed on an airplane in carry on luggage, but out of respect for other passengers, you probably shouldn’t pack these in your carry-on. Or simply refrain from using some of these items while in flight. And a few items will simply make it harder to travel carry on only.
Stinky food
I know airline food is notoriously bad, or often not even offered, so it makes sense to bring your own occasionally. But please be respectful of your neighbors and leave the fish and other stinky food at home.
But in general, can you bring food on a plane? Yes, normally it is allowed, but some airlines might be more strict than others.
Also remember that any food that can be considered a liquid is not allowed if it is more than 3.4 ounces (100ml). So leave your peanut butter at home, it counts as a liquid.
Can you bring nail polish on a plane?
Ok, bring the nail polish (in your liquids bag) if you want, it is allowed in your carry on bag. But please don’t paint your nails in flight. This falls under the disrespectful smell category. Plus can you just imagine what happens if you hit unexpected turbulence while painting your nails? Yikes!
Perfume on a plane
We’re all glad you care about how you smell, but perfume can be unpleasant and bothersome to many people. Some are even allergic.
So even though perfume and cologne are allowed in carry-on baggage, as long as they comply with the liquids rules, please wait until you reach your destination to spray on the perfume. That way your seatmates can breathe easy during the flight.
Guidebooks
Guidebooks can be really helpful, but chances are you don’t need to bring that heavy book with you on the trip. Either rip out the pages you think you’ll need, photocopy them, or take pictures with your phone of the pages you need. Better yet, buy digital copies for your Kindle or other e-reader.
FAQs about prohibited items in carry on luggage
Some topics about what is not allowed on a plane in carry on luggage are quite detailed. Here are some frequently asked questions about which items are and are not allowed on a plane, including links to full articles I’ve written with more details to help you avoid problems at the airport.
Can you bring shampoo on a plane? Can you bring conditioner on a plane? Can you bring lotion on a plane? Can you bring perfume on a plane? Can you bring nail polish on a plane? The answer to all of these questions is yes, and if you’re packing them in carry on luggage, they must comply with the liquids limits.
- Can you take hair straighteners in hand luggage?
- Can you bring a hair dryer on a plane?
- Can you bring a curling iron on a plane?
- Can you bring makeup on a plane?
- Can you bring a razor on a plane?
- Can you bring toothpaste on a plane?
- Can you take a vape on a plane?
- Can you bring matches on a plane?
- Can you bring a lighter on a plane?
- Can You Bring a Mobility Scooter on a Plane? Plus Flying With a Wheelchair
- taking a drone on a plane
- Can you take batteries and power banks on a plane?
- Can You Pack Sports Equipment in Your Carry-On?
- Can you take deodorant on a plane?
- Can you bring hairspray on a plane?
- Can you take aerosols on a plane?
- Can you bring hand sanitizer on a plane?
- Can you take disinfectant wipes on a plane? Plus how to disinfect your airplane seat!
- Can you bring alcohol on a plane?
- Can you bring food on a plane?
- How Much Liquid Can You Bring on a Plane?
This list of what not to pack in your carry-on bag is not all inclusive. Regulations change often, so please check the TSA (or other countries) and the airline websites before you fly so you know what you can’t bring on a plane.
Despite the long list above, it’s still pretty easy to travel with only carry on size luggage. Be realistic about what you need to take on your vacation, buy restricted items you need once you arrive, and enjoy your trip!
Read more about packing:
- What to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag
- How to Pick the Best Carry-On Luggage
- What to Pack for a Day Trip
- Packing Light With Liquids
- Or check out all of our luggage and packing tips posts here
Ali Garland is a travel packing expert who loves to explore the world. She has 20 years of experience traveling with only carry on bags. On Travel Made Simple, she shares her best tips for packing less, dealing with layovers, and more tips that will help you have the best vacation. Originally from the US, she now lives in Berlin with her husband and their Yorkie. Read more 
Roberta
February 9, 2017 @ 5:31 am
I have charger for my cell phone that is about the size of a small flashlight or a tube of lipstick. Any idea if that would be a problem in a carry on?
Ali Garland
February 10, 2017 @ 12:07 am
Hi Roberta, I think that should be no problem at all.
Brittany C.
January 24, 2017 @ 7:43 pm
this is my first time flying alone and with just a carry-on flying with in Canada can I have a change of shoes and my flatiron in my carry-on?
Ali Garland
January 24, 2017 @ 8:31 pm
Hi Brittany, yes, those are acceptable. I’d recommend bringing something like a hand towel to wrap around your flatiron if you think you’ll need to pack it immediately after using it, since it will be hot and you don’t want to accidentally burn anything in your bag.
Mariam
January 24, 2017 @ 2:41 pm
I had my nail clippers taken by US customs in Vancouver on our way to Yukon
Ali Garland
January 24, 2017 @ 3:16 pm
Really?! That’s excessive! And really, nail clippers are allowed. I can maybe understand those little nail scissors, though even the US allows scissors below a certain length. I’m so sorry they confiscated your clippers!
Judy Gibspm
January 21, 2017 @ 2:32 pm
Can a mascara be taken in zip lock quart size bag?
Ali Garland
January 22, 2017 @ 3:16 am
Hi Judy! Yes, mascara is considered a liquid, so you should pack it in your liquids bag.
HurricaneKat
January 10, 2017 @ 10:48 pm
To save space, I’ve been thinking about packing cotton make-up remover pads soaked in baby oil (for removing water-proof mascara) in a Ziploc baggie. Is there any reason why I can’t pack this in my carry-on? And I assume it would need to fit in the liquids bag?
Ali Garland
January 11, 2017 @ 10:05 am
You should be able to pack that in your carry-on no problem. And yes, it should probably go in your liquids bag. But you might want to consider finding a small toiletry bottle, like one ounce maybe, and put the baby oil in there, and just bring a few dry make-up pads. Might be less messy.
Wolfgang
December 19, 2016 @ 12:22 pm
Thank You so much
Wolfgang
December 18, 2016 @ 2:01 pm
Can you bring your ps4 is is it allowed?
Ali Garland
December 19, 2016 @ 9:52 am
I’m not sure how big a ps4 is, but as long as it fits in your carry-on bag (or I guess if you’re carrying it in a box or something) it should be fine. You need to follow any applicable rules about electronics on airplanes, but I don’t see any reason why this would be different from traveling with a laptop or other electronic device.
Shelia
October 23, 2016 @ 7:19 pm
I had a lumpectomy done a year ago and I wear an insert in my bra to make me look more symmetrical. I think it is gel filled. Should I be able to wear that through security or should I pack that in my carry on or checked in luggage. I am flying from VT to Las Vegas on United. Then flying back on Jet Blue to JFK to Burlington VT
Ali Garland
October 24, 2016 @ 11:07 am
Hi Shelia! I would hope that your insert is permitted since it’s a medical item, but you should probably check the TSA website. I did see that gel inserts for shoes are permitted, so that’s promising. At the very least, you should get a letter from your doctor and let the TSA agents know ahead of time. Your insert is almost like a prosthetic, and they wouldn’t make someone take off their prosthetic leg, so my hope is that you should be allowed through while wearing your insert. If you do take it out to get through security, definitely pack it in your carry-on. Liquids and gels that are medically necessary (like prescriptions, and TSA even considers contact solution medically necessary) are exempt from the liquids restriction, and I’d hate for it to be in your checked luggage if the airline loses your bags. I’m sorry I don’t know the answer to this one for sure, but definitely check the TSA website.
Mark
September 7, 2016 @ 3:48 pm
I take a daily medication can i bring carry on.
From Ontario California to new York
Ali Garland
September 7, 2016 @ 7:37 pm
Hi Mark! Yes, I always pack my medication in my carry-on bag. If the airline were to lose your checked luggage, it would be really bad to not have your medicine. If your medicine is liquid (or requires needles), bring a note from your doctor to get it through TSA without having to comply with the liquids restrictions.
Hoopa
September 6, 2016 @ 1:14 am
Would 2 lbs of coffee bean be ok in checked luggage to Canada?
Ali Garland
September 7, 2016 @ 7:38 pm
I think that would be fine. Many countries have restrictions about bringing in food, but it usually has to do with fruits, vegetables, meat, things like that. I think coffee beans should be fine.
Windy
September 1, 2016 @ 4:47 pm
Can you bring curling iron an blow dryer in carry on bags
Ali Garland
September 3, 2016 @ 4:49 pm
Hi Windy! Yes you can. Just make sure you wrap the curling iron in something like a wash cloth if it’s still hot when you pack it up, that way it doesn’t burn other things in your bag.
Dina
August 21, 2016 @ 12:38 pm
Are you allowed nail polish as hand luggage please write back asap as I am flying tonight
Ali Garland
August 21, 2016 @ 1:04 pm
Yes, you can pack nail polish in your carry-on, but it must go in your liquids bag. My note about it in this post is to suggest that people don’t actually use the nail polish during flight because of the strong smell which would most likely irritate other passengers.
Dina
August 21, 2016 @ 12:35 pm
Hi are you allowed batteries in a closed packet as hand luggage or cabin luggage please write back asap as I am flying tonight
Ali Garland
August 21, 2016 @ 1:02 pm
Hi Dina! Most batteries are allowed in your carry-on luggage, but check out the TSA guidelines here for more details.
Andrea
August 6, 2016 @ 5:53 am
Can i wear fake nails
Ali Garland
August 6, 2016 @ 10:51 am
Sure, I don’t see why not.
VINU
July 18, 2016 @ 1:28 pm
I have a question. I am having a connected flight from the same airline which start from a domestic terminal to an international terminal with in the same country. And then to an another country which will take off from the same terminal that I arrived. That is
Trivandrum ( India)- domestic terminal 1 TO
Mumbai (India)- international terminal 2
Then after 4 hrs
Mumbai ( India)- international terminal 2 TO
Kuwait.
My questions
Is it required to check in the baggage again in the connected terminal or it will go directly to the final destination ?
Where I have to clear my immigration from the first airport ( domestic) or the second (international)?
Is it possible to transit with in the airport without getting out?
What are the procedures to be done at the connected terminal?
Ali Garland
July 21, 2016 @ 1:08 pm
Hi Vinu! Typically how it works is you will fly from Trivandrum to Mumbai with nothing extra to do. When you get to Mumbai, you’ll have to go through passport control to be stamped out of India. You might have to go through security again depending on how the airport is set up. Then when you arrive in Kuwait, you’ll have to go through immigration and customs to enter the country. Your luggage should get transferred from your first flight to your second flight (though I always recommend verifying this when you check in for your first flight) so you just pick it up when you arrive in Kuwait. I hope this helps!
Cathy
June 22, 2016 @ 4:37 pm
I have a question about carry on personal items. My daughter wants to bring her backpack. They show a backpack for reference on the TSA sight but the dimensions they show are not eve close to a regular size backpack. More like a toddler one. But the pic shows a full size one. Hate to take it and have them not allow us on as it’s not a cheap one. We are doing a lot of walking and want to have the necessities and such. Thoughts? Flying United to DC.
Thanks
Ali Garland
June 22, 2016 @ 5:04 pm
Hi Cathy! Personal items are generally pretty small, but they are in addition to your carry-on. So for example, you can bring a rolling suitcase that fits within the carry-on limits, plus a purse or briefcase or something along those lines. And while TSA regulates the types of things you’re allowed to bring on the plane, they do not regulate the exact size of your carry-on luggage, the airlines do that. According to United’s site here, they allow 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches for your carry-on bag, so the suitcase or a bigger backpack, plus 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches for the personal item, so a purse or small backpack. What I imagine as a backpack you’d want for sightseeing days is usually small enough to pass as the personal item. And if that’s the only piece of luggage she’s bringing as carry-on, it can be as big as the larger dimensions listed. I hope that makes sense! If you have any other questions, let me know!
Joseph Wysowaty
October 28, 2018 @ 8:25 pm
Can I patch a bottle of wine in my checked baggage leaving italy going tousa
Ali Garland
October 29, 2018 @ 11:30 am
Hi Joseph! Yes, you can bring wine back to the US in your checked luggage, but be aware of potential customs fees. It looks like you can bring back up to 1 liter without having to pay duties on it, but read more here.
Isabella Nguyen
May 19, 2016 @ 1:16 pm
Is this your opinion or is it actually a rule?
Ali Garland
May 19, 2016 @ 1:54 pm
The top section are rules, though the one about food depends on where you’re going. When traveling internationally, most countries do not allow you to bring in meat, fruit, vegetables, plants, etc. (Though something like a granola bar or candy should be fine.) Always check with TSA and/or the airline for more specific rules about what is and is not allowed in your carry-on or your checked luggage. The bottom section are not rules, but opinion for reasons relating to etiquette or the weight of your bag.
Greg
May 16, 2016 @ 8:42 pm
Can i take medicine on carry on luggage and also what is weight for check in luggage ?
Ali Garland
May 16, 2016 @ 8:58 pm
Hi Greg! Yes, definitely pack your medicine in your carry-on bag. If you pack it in checked luggage and the airline loses your luggage, that could be really bad for you depending on what the medicine is. If your medicine is liquid, it is exempt from the liquids restriction, but make sure it’s in the original packaging. If you have time to get a note from your doctor, even better, especially if you’re flying internationally. Same if your medicine requires needles. I hope this helps!
What NOT to Pack: 21 Carry-On Travellers Share their Packing Mistakes
April 7, 2016 @ 2:00 pm
[…] Ali, Travel Made Simple. Read Ali’s advice about what not to pack in your carry-on. […]
Amy H.
March 3, 2016 @ 8:04 pm
Hello I have a few questions. Can hairspray be put in your checked luggage? Also I take several medications (6) pill bottles. Should I put them in 3 quart size bags or can I put them all in a larger zip bag and put them in my carry on? Thank you!
Ali Garland
March 4, 2016 @ 11:02 am
Hi Amy! according to the TSA website http://blog.tsa.gov/2013/08/tsa-travel-tips-tuesday-aerosols.html hairspray in 3.4 ounce (100ml) or smaller containers can be packed in your carry-on luggage. If it’s bigger than that, you must pack it in your checked luggage. For your medication, if it’s all pills, not liquids, you can pack it however you want, and I *definitely* recommend packing it in your carry-on luggage in case your checked bag goes missing. If you have liquid medication, it is usually exempt from the liquids restriction, but you should still pack it in a clear bag and let TSA know you have it when you go through security. It should still be in the original container. But again, if you’re just talking about pills, there’s no issue, TSA isn’t concerned with things like that. I hope this helps, but let me know if you have any other questions!
Ryan
August 23, 2019 @ 2:47 am
Is it okay to bring 50 bars of medicated soap in my checked luggage?
Ali Garland
August 24, 2019 @ 11:46 am
I don’t see why that would be a problem, but you can read more about TSA’s special procedures for medical items: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures. But I can’t imagine bars of soap being a problem at all.
Brooke Kozozenski
February 5, 2016 @ 12:34 am
hi debbie! It will be my first time flying and i wandering if i can get a better seat really if i purchase the early bird deal on southwest?? can i bring my glass perfume on the plane if it is in my luggage and not my carry on and can i wrap it in socks to protect it??? I am wondering how early i need to get at the airport?? How can i tell how much my suit case weighs before i go to the airport and have to get rid of items?? do i need to purchase luggage tags because my suit cases didnt come with them??? sorry so many questions but really concerned and dont want security to be mean to me lol!! thats another thing…is security as scary as it looks???
Ali Garland
February 7, 2016 @ 11:32 am
Hi Brooke, I’m not sure who Debbie is, but I’ll try to answer 🙂 I can’t help you with the Southwest Airlines question as I have only flown them once or twice and it’s been years. You’ll have to check their website or call their customer service to find out more about that.
If you want to bring perfume, you can. If it is 3.4 ounces/100ml or LESS, you can bring it as carry-on. If it is bigger than that, you’ll have to pack it in your checked luggage. If you pack it in checked luggage, put it in a sealed plastic bag in case it breaks, and definitely cushion it with socks or a towel or whatever you can to try to prevent it from breaking. Just keep in mind that baggage handlers are not gentle with luggage, so if there’s any way for you to leave it at home or pack a smaller portion in your carry-on, you’ll be better off.
For a domestic flight, you should get to the airport an hour or hour and a half ahead of your flight. It depends on the airport though since bigger airports can have longer lines at security. For an international flight, you should aim for about 2 hours ahead of your flight.
If you’re concerned about the weight of your luggage, get a luggage scale like this one: http://amzn.to/1TM8E1u
You will need luggage tags for any checked luggage. If you don’t have any, you can either purchase some or get a paper one from the airline when you check in.
Security isn’t so bad. It’s annoying, but as long as you follow the rules, you should be fine. Check out more info on getting through security here, and have a great trip!
Debbie
January 24, 2016 @ 3:49 am
We have a mini bose speaker Bluetooth can we pack it on our carry on. Using it at our vacation rental cabin.
Ali Garland
January 24, 2016 @ 5:48 pm
Hi Debbie! I can’t see why that would be a problem, it’s always recommended to pack your electronics in your carry-on so they don’t break in transit.
MM Wright
January 23, 2016 @ 10:25 pm
I am an artist and will be traveling internationally. Can I pack gel pens in a carry on? I have multiple sets of expensive pens. These pens have cost me a few hundred dollars and I would not want them confiscated by the TSA.
Ali Garland
January 24, 2016 @ 5:45 pm
I don’t see why pen would be a problem. I always travel with at least a few pens and I’ve never had a problem. I’ve never thought much about it until you asked! They’re not sharp enough to be considered a weapon, and I have to assume they ignore the fact that pens technically have liquid in them because I have never heard of anyone having a problem with it. If you’re still concerned, you might want to check with TSA directly.
Rohut
January 11, 2016 @ 1:50 pm
Can I carry some medicine as I needed?
Ali Garland
January 14, 2016 @ 3:38 am
Yes, pack your medicine in your carry-on bag. (If you pack it in checked luggage and the airline loses your bag, you wouldn’t want your important medication going missing too.) If your medicine is liquid, most countries do not count it towards your total amount of liquids allowed, but you do still have to take it out of your bag at the security checkpoint.
julia
December 19, 2015 @ 9:07 am
Hello! Is it okey to bring hair color and eyebrow color into australia?
Ali Garland
December 20, 2015 @ 10:00 pm
Ok you’ve stumped me, Julia! I’m sorry, but I have no idea. Australia is pretty picky about what they let into the country, but usually it has to do with food, animal products, wood, and things like that. Try the Australia embassy website and see what they list as prohibited items. Also, keep in mind that Australia has just about everything you would find at home, just might be different brands, so you can probably buy hair dye once you get there.
Janice
November 2, 2015 @ 12:42 am
I am flying to Orlando on my own next week and have found your advice about carrying liquids very usefull, i am just a bit nervous because I have a 1hr 25mins stopover at JFK and dont really no what i have to do and where i go . I am flying in and out of same terminal but worried in case its not long enough to get sorted . I am flying with British Airways so any advice would be good
Ali Garland
November 2, 2015 @ 3:33 pm
Thanks Janice! I’m guessing you’re flying from the UK. You will have to go through customs and immigration/passport check at JFK. You will also have to claim and re-check your luggage and go through security again. 1 hour 25 minutes is a bit tight, but not impossible. Check out my tips for dealing with a short layover here, and let me know if you have any other questions!
Toni
October 24, 2015 @ 5:32 am
going from LAX to Bali, through Singapore.
Can I bring a quart bag in my purse. And one quart bag in my carry on rolling backpack?
Thanks!
Ali Garland
October 25, 2015 @ 10:28 am
Hi Toni! No, you are only allowed to have ONE quart-sized bag of liquids to carry onto the plane. Whether it’s in your purse or your suitcase doesn’t matter. Any liquids you want to travel with that don’t fit in the quart-sized bag or that are in bottles bigger than 100ml/3.4 ounces will have to go in your checked luggage.
Meia
August 22, 2018 @ 7:17 pm
Can I pack make up such as face powder an so in my hand luggage
?
Ali Garland
August 22, 2018 @ 8:35 pm
Yes, make up is fine to pack in your hand luggage. The only exception is if it’s liquid, it needs to be in a 3.4 ounce (100ml) or smaller container, and the container must be packed in a 1 quart (1 liter) clear zip top bag. So technically mascara and liquid foundation would need to go in your liquids bag, but powder would not need to be in the liquids bag.
D Burks
October 19, 2015 @ 10:23 pm
Can I pack a flat iron in my carry on?
Ali Garland
October 20, 2015 @ 9:42 am
Yes, just don’t pack it while it’s still hot. If you have to, wrap it in a small towel so it doesn’t burn your clothes.
Alix
October 20, 2015 @ 4:38 pm
I think hold luggage should not have electrical items as they show up in the scan and they could be suspect and something nasty. Take electrical stuff in carry on, I.e, chargers, toothbrushes, hairdryers. Laptops, tablets and phones are carry on stuff too.
DENNIS LINDSAY
July 30, 2018 @ 1:47 am
CAN I TAKE ONBOARD IN MY CARRY ON SUITCASE A PORTABLE CLOTHES STEAMER
Ali Garland
August 1, 2018 @ 10:49 am
That should be fine, as long as it’s small enough to fit in your suitcase. Make sure to empty out the water before you pack it, too.
Leo
October 16, 2015 @ 4:26 pm
Hi Ali,
Im travelling on Hongkong next week, and I care a lot about myself thats why im bringing with me 1 box of 80gram bath soap, 1 box of 90 gram soap for my face, 90ml shampoo,
50ml lotion, 50 ml body spray, 100ml perfume, 40ml deodorant, my vitamins, 60ml disenfectant alcohol, 25ml toothpaste, and a 25g baby powder. All in a check in luggage. But im not sure if its ok to bring an alcohol and the baby powder, coz i dont know if the airport thought that its a powder drug. Lol but it was sealed and not yet used. Coz i bought this special for my 2weeks travel.
Thank you.
Ali Garland
October 17, 2015 @ 10:48 am
Hi Leo! I don’t think any of that will be a problem in your checked luggage. People often take wine or other alcohol that you drink, so I think the disinfectant alcohol is fine, though you might want to verify with the airline. The powder shouldn’t be a problem either. Even if it looks a little suspicious to them, they have ways of determining if something is actually a drug, and I think it would be pretty easy to determine that you’re not trying to smuggle drugs. And always remember, you can buy what you need where you’re going, so if you really don’t feel comfortable trying to travel with the alcohol or the powder or any other toiletries, you can find them, or something similar, once you arrive in Hong Kong. Enjoy your trip!
Alix
October 17, 2015 @ 4:25 pm
I always take tiny versions of my face stuff in carry on just in case my hold suitcase goes missing. Soaps should not be a problem with carry on but keep larger liquids for the hold. Always wrap well in plastic, or place in a sandwich box, if leaks occur your clothes are safe. Anything electrical, like hairdryers, electric toothbrush etc has to be carry on. If it goes in hold luggage it causes worry as the X ray picks up on it. It could be trouble! I think they have the right to open your suitcase and check.
Ali Garland
October 19, 2015 @ 12:55 pm
Thanks Alix! You’re right, they do have the right to open your luggage. I’ve had that happen a couple of times, and they’ve left a note, some generic thing stating TSA checked it. Always good to have anything you wouldn’t want lost in your carry-on bag!
Red HatBear
May 12, 2018 @ 8:21 pm
I found that favorite brands of bath soap in particular are not readily available in Singapore or Hong Kong (when British). I live two years in Singapore and always imported bath soap and Tampons from the US! I had trouble with Colgate toothpaste breaking my mouth out with gums bleeding and so imported my favorite Sensodyne from the U S too. It was easy to get such packages brought in before 9/11, I can’t imagine having too much trouble now as checked luggage hasn’t changed much!
Ali Garland
May 13, 2018 @ 8:17 pm
I don’t think anyone would have a problem with you bringing that kind of stuff in your luggage unless it’s sooooo much that they think you’re bringing it in for commercial/resale purposes. But yes, it’s tough to get used to not having the brands you’re used to when you move to another country!
Mrs A Bullock
September 23, 2015 @ 1:51 pm
All I want to know is if I’m allowed to take a can of hairspray (400ml) when I’m travelling to Medagascar.
Ali Garland
September 23, 2015 @ 2:18 pm
You definitely can’t take a 400ml bottle of hairspray in your carry-on luggage. Any liquids you pack in your carry-on must be 100ml or smaller. According to the TSA website http://blog.tsa.gov/2013/08/tsa-travel-tips-tuesday-aerosols.html you can pack your aerosol hairspray in your checked luggage. Rules in other countries are usually similar, but you should check with the aviation security organizations of whichever countries you have to fly through in order to get to Madagascar. Another option is to bring hairspray that’s not an aerosol one. Enjoy your trip!
Carrie
July 22, 2015 @ 7:43 pm
Do the 100mL liquids in the 1L bag have to be transferred into clear bottles, or can the bottle it came in be used to (i.e. blue opaque 100mL Herbal Essences shampoo bottle)
Thanks!
Carrie
Ali Garland
July 23, 2015 @ 10:21 am
They don’t have to be in clear bottles, just bottles that are 100ml or less.
Barb
July 21, 2015 @ 11:34 pm
Can I pack a shower puff (one with a handle) in my check bag?
Thanks for your help.
Ali Garland
July 23, 2015 @ 10:21 am
Yes, that should be fine.
Iman
July 4, 2015 @ 8:43 pm
Hi Ali, I was wondering if I could take 3-4 nailpolish bottles under 100 ml in my carry-on and can I use them on the plane because the plane I am going on has no tv so I will get bored I will bring a book to read and a notebook to doodle but that’s not at entertaining as doing Ur nails
Please reply as soon as possible I’m travelling in a few days and need to start packing
Lovely tips keep up the gd work
Ali Garland
July 6, 2015 @ 6:03 pm
Painting your nails on a flight is technically not against any rules that I know of, but it’s kind of rude. Nail polish has a really strong smell, and you will be sitting really close to several other people in a space with no ventilation. I would highly recommend finding something else to do to keep yourself entertained. Read a book, watch a movie on your laptop or tablet, listen to music.
Ryan
June 24, 2015 @ 9:53 am
Hi! I plane flying to over sear this summer, can I bring 5 bottles perfume which not open and still in seal box, each measure from 50 ml to 100 ml. If 1 litter clear zip lock not fit for 5 bottles, can i use two 1 liter zip lock?. Thanks
Ali Garland
June 25, 2015 @ 12:07 am
Hi Ryan! Your liquids must all be in containers of 100ml or less and they must all fit into ONE 1 liter zip lock bag. If you can’t fit them all in one bag, security won’t let you through. Doesn’t matter if the bottles are still sealed. They won’t let you bring two zip lock bags in carry-on. Sorry!
Ryan
July 8, 2015 @ 12:34 am
Since there are 3 other people coming along with me on the trip. Can each person bring one zip lock bags in carry-on?
Thanks
Ali Garland
July 8, 2015 @ 9:17 am
Yes, each person is allowed one quart-sized ziplock bag, so if your friends have some extra room in their bags, maybe they can take some of your stuff.
Alix
June 25, 2015 @ 12:29 am
You can only take larger liquid items if you actually purchase them air side, that’s after security, shopping in the duty free area. I saw a woman who had a packaged perfume bottle ( expensive!) taken from her carry on bag and confiscated in the security area.
I also saw a mother have a new, boxed baby cream confiscated !
If you have to take these liquids ( perhaps gifts ?) I would put them in my hold luggage , wrapped in bubble wrap, and put into sturdy, sealable sandwich type boxes. If they do break, they will be in a container. I take plug in mosquito liquid that way.
Hope it helps. The lady who lost her perfume lost £80 !
Some airports now have a service where they will look after your liquids ( for a fee) until you return. But not much use if you are returning to another airport !
Ryan
July 6, 2015 @ 7:08 pm
Woow! Now you guys make me confusing. Ali Garland said its OK, Alix said better put in luggage. I always scare my stubs will be lost at my country Airport. I start flying from LAX. Could you guys please confirm should i carry on or not. Thanks
Ali Garland
July 7, 2015 @ 10:36 am
Ryan, Alix is saying the same thing. If you have any liquids larger than 100ml or more bottles than you can fit into a quart-sized ziplock bag, you must put them in your checked luggage, and make sure they are packed in sealed bags in case they break. Although if you can fit the perfume bottles without your shampoo or whatever else, I’d probably pack the shampoo in the checked bag and keep the perfume with you. If you purchase liquids AFTER you go through security, they can (in most cases) be more than 100ml. I hope this helps!
Debbie
June 16, 2015 @ 1:28 pm
Hi..just to clarify can you take Hair Dye in checked bag to the US ?
Even though it states no hydrogen peroxide in liquids?
Thanks
Deb
Ali Garland
June 16, 2015 @ 11:16 pm
Hi Debbie, if there’s a chemical in the hair dye that is not allowed in checked luggage, then I would say no. But I’m not an expert on traveling with hair dye, so your best option is to check with the airline. If you’re worried about it, maybe try to buy an equivalent color at a store in the US? You can buy those do-it-yourself hair dye boxes in any grocery store or drug store. Sorry I couldn’t give you a more definitive answer!
Julie
May 24, 2015 @ 6:21 pm
thank you for the tips these were not only helpful but I was able to prove my mom wrong which is always a plus so thank you for that and these will work for almost any of my travels so thank you for that
Ali Garland
May 25, 2015 @ 9:48 am
Glad to help, Julie!
sue
February 15, 2015 @ 4:09 pm
Can you take hair straighteners on the plane as hand luggage?
Ali Garland
February 15, 2015 @ 9:19 pm
Hi Sue, you sure can! I also pack a small hand towel to wrap around the hair straightener in case I have to pack right after using it. That way you don’t have to worry about putting it into your bag while it’s still hot.
millie moore
January 31, 2018 @ 5:17 pm
Can go to the dollar tree and get one of those glove type pot holders for a buck. Makes a great place to put your hot curling irons.
Ali Garland
February 2, 2018 @ 7:01 am
Great tip, Millie!
christine
January 16, 2015 @ 5:32 pm
Hi going out to Australia can i put shoes in my hand luggage and do you have to disinfect them xxx
Ali Garland
January 17, 2015 @ 3:38 pm
Yes, you can put your shoes in your hand luggage. You shouldn’t have to disinfect them unless you were on a farm or something like that right before flying to Australia. Australia is really protective of their environment, and they will ask you a question about that (I think it’s on the entry form) but otherwise it’s not a problem.
Jen Zheng
January 4, 2015 @ 2:30 am
Hi,
Thank you for this great article, answered a lot of my parents’ questions. My parents travel to China to see their sisters and brothers each year. My mom would like to know if she can bring a few box of haircolor kit (checked in luggage) with her? My seventy-year-old parents care so much about how their hair look. Thanks again!
Ali Garland
January 5, 2015 @ 6:59 pm
Hi Jen! I don’t think that would be a problem. It’s just a few bottles of liquid, so unless the dye is in a pressurized container, it should be fine. Your mom should probably put the box in a sealed plastic bag (like a ziplock) just in case it leaks during the flight.
Alix
December 31, 2014 @ 4:22 pm
Another tip, I always take,( carry on,) clothes washing tablets. The dry powder ones. Ideal for a bit of hand washing,and saves going to a local store who usually sell washing detergent in huge boxes !
Also now have taken to using tooth powder. They can’t take that off me !
Never sure about aerosols so the travel hold.
Ali Garland
January 1, 2015 @ 3:46 pm
I’ve never used tooth powder, but I do travel with small tubes of toothpaste to stay under the 100ml limit. The laundry tablets are a good idea too. I have small laundry detergent sheets that are about an inch or so long, so they don’t take up much room, and they’re not liquid. They’re not great for doing a full load of laundry, but if I need to wash a couple things in the sink, they work well.
Alix
January 1, 2015 @ 5:53 pm
Thank you, never heard of detergent sheets. Will look out for them ! I also use dental floss as a washing line !
Ali Garland
January 1, 2015 @ 6:01 pm
These are the ones I have: http://amzn.to/1AjZOhN
Alix
January 2, 2015 @ 12:58 pm
Thank you for that info ! Fantastic site, so much handy stuff ! Certainly will be ordering quite a bit !
Nadine wells
December 27, 2014 @ 5:05 pm
Can I bring my make up kit with my nail polish and perform and lotion and eyeshadow and blush and lip gloss?
Ali Garland
December 28, 2014 @ 11:16 am
Hi Nadine! You can bring your make-up kit as long as each individual item (the liquids anyway) is 3.4 ounces/100ml or smaller, and they all have to fit into a quart sized zip top bag. Anything that is not liquid (like your powder-based make-ups) can be any size and should not be packed in your liquids bag because it’ll take up precious liquids space. But your nail polish, perfume, lotion, and anything else that’s liquid needs to be 100ml or smaller and in the quart sized liquid bag. I hope this helps!
Kamran Farooq
October 23, 2014 @ 11:36 am
Can i bring hair color kit and toothpaste brush in my bag ?
Ali Garland
October 23, 2014 @ 1:13 pm
Hair coloring stuff should be fine as long as each bottle is 100ml or less. Same with toothpaste. Your toothbrush is fine to pack in your carry-on too. Happy travels!
Alix
October 23, 2014 @ 2:01 pm
How many 100 ml bottles can I take in a carry on bag ?
I normally put everything in suitcase and hope it doesn’t get lost !
Thanks.
Ali Garland
October 25, 2014 @ 9:28 pm
Hi Alix, you can take as many 100ml bottles as you can fit into a one quart (just under one liter) zip-top bag.
Alix
December 29, 2014 @ 1:30 am
I like to take with me tiny amounts of face stuff in my carry on bag, just in case my hold suitcase is lost !
But ! No scissors, even small nail ones. No pen knives.
Also, if you are travelling with a companion, swap around your hold luggage possessions, so if one suitcase goes missing you both will have some items to help out ! Not all the eggs in one basket !!
Ali Garland
December 31, 2014 @ 2:08 pm
Very good ideas, Alix! I had nail scissors with me in Cambodia and they confiscated them. And definitely a good plan to put have of your stuff in your travel buddy’s checked luggage, if you’re both checking bags! Even on the rare occasions I end up checking bags, I always pack toiletries, my medicine and a change of clothes in my carry-on in case my checked bag gets lost.
Nicole Welder
May 20, 2019 @ 6:49 am
I bought a bunch of little bottles of body mist mini shampoo etc but some of the items dont fit in the plastic bag and i dont want to throw them out again they are expensive and its all in my purse and carryon
Ali Garland
May 20, 2019 @ 7:22 am
Hi Nicole! You are only permitted one quart-sized zip top bag for your liquids, and each bottle in that bag must be 3.4 ounces or smaller. If you have too many to fit in your liquids bag, you’ll have to pack them in checked luggage or mail them home or see if there are any other liquids you are willing to throw out. If you have more than the limit, security will confiscate them.
Lilly
August 11, 2014 @ 12:53 am
Can I bring tweezers in my carry on bag?
Ali Garland
August 11, 2014 @ 10:10 am
Hi Lilly! Tweezers should be fine. You never know what TSA will decide is forbidden on any given day, but tweezers are not on the list of prohibited items. Happy travels!
Tammy
June 14, 2014 @ 7:51 pm
This is our first time flying (family of 5) We have no electronics to keep children entertained. So what would be good things to help with that?? ages 8, 6, and 2. Can you use a fanny pack on the airlines? Or is that considered carry on?? Also any other advice would be very much appreciated!! We are flying southwest. Very much nervous about this whole experience but excited too!!! Thank you!
Ali Garland
June 15, 2014 @ 11:13 am
Hi Tammy! You can bring a fanny pack on board with you, but it will probably count as your personal item, like a purse. So you could have your carry-on size suitcase plus the fanny pack, but if you have a larger purse or something of similar size that you can fit the fanny pack into, that would work. Check out Southwest’s carry-on policy here http://www.southwest.com/html/customer-service/baggage/carryon-bags-pol.html for more details, including info about traveling with strollers. (With a 2 year old, I’m guessing you might be bringing a stroller.)
I don’t have kids, so I don’t know much about traveling with them. However, I think you’ll be fine without electronics for them. After all, we didn’t have loads of gadgets when we were kids, and we kept ourselves entertained just fine! Think about what kinds of indoor activities they normally like to do that don’t require tons of stuff – coloring, reading, small games, cards, etc. Probably also a good idea to bring some snacks, like granola bars or fruit, something that doesn’t need to be refrigerated, isn’t liquid and isn’t too messy. I also happened to see this in Southwest’s flying with children section, might have some good suggestions: http://www.southwest.com/html/customer-service/family/taking-the-kids.html Hopefully your kids will keep themselves occupied enough that you can read too, so don’t forget to bring a book (or whatever you like to do) as well.
You mentioned this is your first time flying, so just in case you weren’t aware, Southwest doesn’t do assigned seats. So 24 hours before your flight time, get online and check in. You should also be able to print your boarding passes, but if you don’t have a printer, you can print them at the airport. But you should still check in online 24 hours ahead. The website says families with children under age 5 will automatically board in group A, so it shouldn’t be a big deal, but I think it’s better to just make sure. When you board, you pick your own seats, and getting to board in group A means you’ll pretty much have your choice of wherever, though you can’t sit in the emergency rows with kids. For more info, see here: http://www.southwest.com/html/customer-service/airport-experience/index.html
Remember, you’ll be fine. Flying can be overwhelming, but the airline employees know what they’re doing, and they’re usually very helpful, so if you have any questions while you’re at the airport or on the flight, just ask. And have a great trip! If you have any other questions for me, feel free to email me!
CrifJohnson
November 28, 2013 @ 8:34 am
Thanks alot Ali! Your suggestions are indeed very useful. Personally, when I travel I never carry food items in my Carry One luggage bag. Food items should be avoided.
Ali Garland
November 28, 2013 @ 11:18 am
Thanks! I think it depends on personal preference. I often bring snacks like granola bars, something that won’t spoil, smell bad or get squished too easily.
Tom Hill
July 28, 2013 @ 3:24 pm
Useful article, but I would add that when flying European budget airlines with severe weight restriction, and if the weather is warm enough, wear flip-flops, pack boots; that way if you’re a bit over the weight allowance you can always swap footwear and reduce your checked luggage weight in a matter of seconds.
Also, wearing the flip-flops obviates the need to remove them for the airside security screening.
and the last intriguing question, why would anyone ever want to carry a gun or pornography on an aircraft (or anywhere else for that matter!?)
Ali Garland
July 28, 2013 @ 9:16 pm
Thanks Tom, great point! Wearing heavier shoes, and even putting any small but heavy items in your pockets will reduce the weight of your carry-on bag when you’re at the check-in counter.
I agree, hopefully people wouldn’t think to bring a gun or porn on an airplane, but it happens. TSA does catch people every once in a while who say they forgot they had a gun in their bag. And I’ve known a couple people who have looked over at their airplane neighbor to see them looking at porn on their laptop or a magazine. Crazy!
Victor Melendez
June 25, 2018 @ 6:53 am
Hi Ali
I’m going on a work site to fix some stuff and I need to take my tools Drill and tape measurement is that around on a carry on
Ali Garland
June 25, 2018 @ 7:13 pm
Hi Victor! I’d say most of that won’t be allowed in carry-on luggage since it could be considered something you could use as a weapon. Drill bits are sharp, hammers can do a lot of damage, that kind of thing. The tape measure would be fine, but I can’t think of too many tools that security would let you through with. You’re better off packing those in checked luggage to avoid having them confiscated.
OCDemon
July 23, 2013 @ 10:38 pm
I’m a big fan of the “hack the guidebook into pieces” strategy. If you buy a regional guidebook, you can cut each country chapter into its own pamphlet, and it’ll probably fit into a back pocket. If you put packing tape around the edges, they’ll last forever. I gave them away when I left the countries, and it was a fun Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants type of thing. I mean, I’m assuming, since I haven’t seen it…
Ali Garland
July 24, 2013 @ 5:41 pm
No, of course not, I’m sure you’ve never seen that movie 😉 I rip pages out of my guidebooks all the time. Why carry the whole thing around if you only need a few pages of it!
Nidhi
November 20, 2018 @ 12:16 am
Hi Aly… I have a flight for Dubai, the day after tomorrow… I am confused about how to carry hair dryer or hair straightener in flight? Should I carry this in checked in luggage or in my carry on luggage….?
Please reply ASAP… I am very nervous and confuse about this… ???????
Ali Garland
November 20, 2018 @ 5:37 pm
Hi Nidhi! Yes, you can pack a hair dryer and hair straightener in your carry-on luggage. The only exception is hair straighteners (or curling irons) that have a gas cartridge – those must be packed in your checked luggage.
Dimple Singh
January 7, 2019 @ 5:42 am
Hi can I pack my hair irons in my cabin bag?
And can I pack my all makeup products in cabin bag? Please reply
Ali Garland
January 7, 2019 @ 11:55 am
Most hair straighteners are allowed in your cabin bag, and most makeup items are as well. Read more about hair straighteners in cabin bags here and makeup in cabin bags here.
Rhonda Bienes
February 24, 2018 @ 6:02 am
When I travel to visit my parents in Florida I only use my back pack as a carry on as to the fact that I do have clothes at my parents house but when I get on the plane /aircraft I feel much better putting my back pack under the seat but I am instructed to put it in the over head carrier but here’s the flip side I cannot get to it because of my height limitation should that be fair or unfair ?
Ali Garland
February 24, 2018 @ 4:35 pm
I don’t know about “fair” but if the backpack is small enough to fit completely under the seat in front of you, you can certainly put it there. But if it’s too big to fit completely under the seat, it does have to go in the overhead. If there are things you want to use during the flight, take them out before you store your bag so you don’t have to get into it during the flight. That might mean bringing along a purse for those things, or a small tote bag or something, if that makes it easier to have a few things with you for during the flight. And if you can’t reach the overhead to get your bag up there, ask someone for help. In general flight attendants are instructed not to lift passengers’ bags due to the possibility of getting injured from constantly handling heavy bags, but they are there to help and they often have to shift bags around to make sure things fit more efficiently, so if you’re too short to reach up there to stow your bag, just ask a flight attendant, or even a nearby passenger, to help you stick your bag up there.
Rhonda Bienes
February 24, 2018 @ 5:45 pm
Thanks very much Ali this makes my mid day complete but all in lieu the back back that I travel with is not very large at all ans should not be so much of a hassle to me at all I believe you hit the nail on the head on this one ?,
Jennifer
July 23, 2013 @ 7:12 pm
I like the size of a carry on bag because it is easy to travel around with, but more and more I am checking it. The airlines are just getting too restrictive with carry on. Anymore you can only have the one bag and even your purse must fit inside, which is just ridiculous! no way is that bag fitting under the seat in front of you, so what does it matter if you also have a purse that you do put under the seat in front of you? It’s too much of a hassle.
Ali Garland
July 24, 2013 @ 5:40 pm
It is getting harder and harder to go carry-on only, and I totally agree with you about the 1 bag, no personal item rule. It doesn’t reduce the amount of stuff in the overhead, it just means you have nothing on the floor. It’s all a personal preference. It’s a hassle to meet the requirements to go carry-on only, but it’s also a hassle to wait around for your luggage, and even more of a hassle if it gets lost.
Alix
January 23, 2014 @ 10:07 pm
Hi Ali, I have had the problem of the one-carry-on bag but recently I used Ryanair and they allow the usual size carry on bag ( 10 kilos) PLUS a hand bag/purse! Very useful. Lets hope other airlines follow suit!
Ali Garland
January 24, 2014 @ 3:31 pm
It still surprises me that Ryanair allows one carry-on bag plus a personal item when so many other airlines don’t. They’re usually more restrictive than anyone else. I hope other airlines do follow this, but I typically see airlines going the other direction with carry-on allowance unfortunately.
Jay
October 4, 2018 @ 8:12 am
RyanAir allow 10k bag that is carry on however you will get this taken of you at gate to get put in the hold as overhead is very limited. You are best to ask at deck on check in,to save time to put in the hold at that point and Iv never had a problem, also allowed to take on the flight 7kg bag too, fab 17kg total without any fees,
Ali Garland
October 17, 2018 @ 3:04 pm
Thanks Jay, this is an old comment (though I regularly update the post, by the way) but you can find up-to-date carry-on luggage size info for 170+ airlines on my chart here.
Cathy
October 12, 2018 @ 5:57 am
Quick question I am going on a business trip and need to carry a big box of fountain pens to hand out to clients can I put them in my carry on?
Ali Garland
October 17, 2018 @ 3:29 pm
Hi Cathy! I can’t say with 100% certainty, but I did find this fountain pen forum (I guess there’s a forum for everything) where most people are saying they haven’t had problems with theirs. I’ve never been questioned about normal pens, but I know fountain pens are a little different. Technically the ink is liquid, so I guess TSA could, in theory, object to the pens not being in your liquids bag. If the pens don’t have ink in them, I wouldn’t worry at all. If they will have ink in them (I assume they will if you’re giving them out to people) could you consider shipping the box to your hotel a few days ahead of time? If that’s not an option, you have to decide if you’re willing to take the risk. I doubt TSA would confiscate them, but like I said, I can’t answer with 100% certainty on that.
Matthew Cheyne
July 23, 2013 @ 2:12 pm
This is a very good article that is quite comprehensive in listing the ins and outs of what not to pack on your carry on.
I have a couple of questions though. One is; is there a website or luggage supplier out there who offers an all in one solution for carry on luggage or better still, luggage period, that is fully TSA compliant? It seems as though to me that the United States has the harshest restrictions by and large and that if you comply with what the TSA requires plus what is required for you origin, transit and destination countries, you can’t really go wrong from a luggage compliance standpoint.
Another question would be this: how much carry on luggage is too much? or a better way to put the question could be when is carry on only not a good option?
And my third and final question relates to my own Fibromyalgia and Osteoarthritis. When it comes to walking sticks, of which I own and use one whenever I am outside my own home, can you take them on the plane with you and are they considered carry on luggage or just as what it is – a walking stick and do you have to stow them away in the locker room above your head when you’re on the plane? I’ve never actually flown with one yet but I expect that I will in the future some day whether that’s domestically or internationally. Hopefully the latter 🙂
Ali Garland
July 24, 2013 @ 5:38 pm
Thanks Matthew! I’ll try to answer your questions briefly, but I do have posts in the works that address some of these issues, so hopefully there will be more detail on the site about these issues in the future.
1- I think it’s difficult for luggage companies to make a bag/suitcase that will always be carry-on compliant because every airline has their own maximum size allowed. Many luggage companies will sell bags/suitcases that will work for *most* airlines though. The other problem is if you end up on a regional jet, they have smaller overhead storage, so the size of the luggage you bring would have to be even smaller. Though usually in those cases they will gate check your bag and give it back to you as you get off the plane, still able to avoid baggage claim. As for TSA compliant, they don’t really look at the size of your carry-on (as long as it fits through the x-ray machine) but for checked luggage, if you want to lock your luggage, you have to get TSA locks so if they feel the need to open your bag, they can.
2- I try to do carry-on only every time I fly, but it’s not always easy. Winter clothes take up more room, so if you’re traveling to colder places, it’s harder to bring enough, though doable. If you need hiking boots and other gear like that for outdoorsy stuff, you might not be able to fit it all in a carry-on. If you just have to bring some type of liquid that’s over 100ml. There’s also a weight issue. Each airline has a different weight restriction on carry-on luggage, and some are really low. If the limit is 5 or 7 kg, it might be too difficult for you to reduce your stuff down to just that small weight. For the most part it comes down to your personal preference.
3- Most, if not all, airlines will let you take your walking stick on the plane as long as it’s not pointy. It won’t count towards your carry-on allowance. They will probably want you to store it in the overhead since it won’t really fit in the seat in front of you, and they want to keep the aisles and the space where your feet sit clear.
I hope this helps!
Matthew Cheyne
July 24, 2013 @ 6:36 pm
Thank you so much for the answers Ali 🙂
The reason why I asked them is that I have a Nanna who lives in Perth, Western Australia, on the other side of the country to me, the city in which I was born. When it comes to travel I always have her in the back of my mind because she recently turned 87 and had a cancer scare earlier this year that fortunately turned out to be nothing in the end. So I asked those questions just in case she falls really ill or the worst possible thing happens and I get the call that everybody dreads and need to quickly hop on a plane to Perth.
Knowing my circumstances I think it may be wise for me to call up all the airlines I may be flying with in advance and them questions similar to what I’ve just asked you so I have a plan in my head at all times as to what to do and how to do it.
I’m not sure whether you’ve covered this in an article already but could you do an article sometime on how to structure your finances for traveling in terms of saving for a trip i.e. do you guys have a separate bank account you put your travel money into apart from the rest of the money you have and whether you use your normal credit/debit cards when you travel or do you special travel debit cards that are around now in order to lock in favorable exchange rates and so forth. Or do you even use travelers check’s still and a bit of foreign currency buying before you leave for a destination. Stuff like that would be really helpful for an analytical guy like me who always wants to know how to do stuff before actually doing it.
Ali Garland
July 24, 2013 @ 7:26 pm
No problem, glad to help! You can find a lot of info on the airline’s website, but finding their customer service number and calling to ask some questions is a good way to make sure you know how to handle everything.
Thanks for letting me know what you’d like to read about! I’ll put those into my drafts and work on those topics. I think I’ve mentioned in a post about travel and money, NO travelers checks! They are almost useless now, so incredibly hard to find a bank that will take them.
Ali Garland
July 24, 2013 @ 7:36 pm
I should’ve looked before I submitted that reply, but I have started 2 drafts to write about the rest later! Thanks!
Eureaka
April 27, 2019 @ 12:12 am
Hi can u take a bottle of wine on the plane
Ali Garland
April 27, 2019 @ 6:59 pm
Wine bottles are bigger than 3.4 ounces (100ml) so you will not be allowed to take that in your carry-on luggage. If you buy it at the airport after passing through security, you can take it on board with you, but make sure you know for sure if you’ll have to go through security again during a layover somewhere, because it’ll end up being confiscated then. For example, if you’re flying back to the US from Italy, if your flight is Rome-NYC-Denver, you will have to go through security in NYC and any liquids you have that are bigger than 3.4 ounces (100ml) will be confiscated. Also, you are not allowed to drink your own alcohol in flight. If you buy wine while traveling and you want to take it home with you, it will need to go in your checked luggage, and you really need to make sure it is well protected so it doesn’t break while in transit. You might want to consider some kind of wine bottle protector like these.
CAROLINE
January 13, 2018 @ 8:32 pm
I use “trekker poles” when I travel because my knees can really slow me down when they are having a “bad” day. The trekker poles I use are fabulous because they fold up. I place them into my carry on just to go thru security and then can use them to walk around in the airport and onto the plane. The company that makes these can easily be found online, it’s Black Diamond. I have used their folding trekker poles for trips in Iran and Egypt and they are a godsend.
Ali Garland
January 13, 2018 @ 9:26 pm
Thanks for the suggestion, Caroline!
Rhonda Bienes
February 24, 2018 @ 5:54 am
I have just one question in mind .when I bring my cell phone with me when I travel does it still have to be checked any way including my charger as well ? Rhonda Bienes
Ali Garland
February 24, 2018 @ 4:31 pm
Hi Rhonda! No, your cell phone and charger should be in your carry-on bag. Anything valuable should stay with you, NOT in your checked luggage.
Rhonda Bienes
February 24, 2018 @ 5:50 pm
But what I meant to say is when I put both my cell phone &Amy iPad in my carry on/back pack it would still have to be checked through security check point any way ?rhonda Bienes
Ali Garland
February 25, 2018 @ 11:22 am
I’m not sure I understand your question exactly, but when you go to the security checkpoint, you have to take out your liquids bag and laptop. Sometimes they want you to take out tablets/iPads, sometimes they don’t, so to just make things easier on yourself, take your iPad out. You don’t have to take your phone out. I hope this helps!
Mel
August 13, 2018 @ 4:18 pm
Can you bring your birth control pills and if yes how much?
Ali Garland
August 13, 2018 @ 6:35 pm
Hi Mel! Yes, you can pack your birth control pills in your carry-on. TSA doesn’t have any limits on how much you can bring, but if you’re flying internationally, make sure you research the customs rules about bring prescription medications into whatever country you’re going to. Birth control isn’t usually a probably but it’s always worth checking.
MAE MAE
June 2, 2019 @ 5:53 pm
Can I bring the juice of my vape since it’s just 30 ml?
Ali Garland
June 3, 2019 @ 2:26 am
Yes, please read more about taking a vape on a plane here.
Kyi
July 23, 2013 @ 10:38 am
Hi Ali, Great travel tips as always!! I always keep sharp objects like nail clipper in checked-in luggage since I haven’t been traveled with carry-on only.
That’s what I am always in doubt whether I could pack it in carry-on bag.
Ali Garland
July 23, 2013 @ 11:10 am
Thanks Kyi! Nail clippers are ok in your carry-on but in some places nail scissors are not. According to the TSA website, scissors shorter than 4 inches are allowed, but in some countries scissors aren’t allowed at all. So generally I will take my clippers but leave the nail scissors at home.
Gee
August 20, 2017 @ 4:23 pm
I had my nail clippers confiscated once, so now I cut m nails before I go and bring a nail file incase I get a snag on my nail to file it down.
Ali Garland
August 21, 2017 @ 10:18 am
That’s so frustrating! Nail *clippers* should be totally fine (at least according to TSA) and even nail scissors are supposedly allowed as long at they’re under a certain length. But TSA is not always consistent unfortunately. I’m so sorry your clippers were confiscated.
Cristal
September 6, 2017 @ 9:35 pm
Hi do you know if in your carry on bag like a backpack I can take my 3 year old sons shoes?
Ali Garland
September 7, 2017 @ 6:12 pm
Hi Cristal, shoes are fine to go in carry-on luggage.
W. Hinkel
November 5, 2017 @ 1:33 am
When I taught in a prison, nail clippers were fine to bring in as long as they lacked the foldout nail file that could be used as a weapon. Maybe some TSA officials have the same concern.
Ali Garland
November 5, 2017 @ 11:31 am
Could be. I just wish TSA would follow their own rules consistently.
Paul Sharma
December 12, 2017 @ 5:07 am
Air Port Security is strange. Your nail clipper confiscated. I travelled from New Delhi to London Gatwick to Calgary and finally landed in Fort McMurray. Checking at first three airports, Was Shocked to find a pair of four inch long Scissors, in my bag, when I reached home, without being detected.
Ali Garland
December 12, 2017 @ 11:17 am
Definitely strange, and annoying, that they can be so inconsistent!
Kendra Austin
February 27, 2019 @ 7:20 pm
I’m a diabetic and I take 5 shots a day with 2 different kinds of insulin. My insulin is in flex pins and I needed to know can I bring that on the plane?
What about my purse can it go on the plane or do I need to pack it in my suitcase?
Ali Garland
February 28, 2019 @ 12:36 pm
Hi Kendra! Your insulin supplies are allowed in your carry-on bag, but you should let the security agent know you have it before your bags go through the x-ray. Make sure everything is properly labeled. Go to this page on the TSA website and type “diabetic” into the search box. You’ll see a bunch of different related items, and you can click on each one for more details. There’s also a link to more info about traveling with medications. As for your purse, usually it’s fine to have that in addition to your carry-on bag, but it depends on how many carry-on items the airline allows you to have. Check out our carry-on luggage size chart here and click on your airline for more details about the size and weight they allow and how many items they allow.
Robin
April 1, 2019 @ 2:49 am
You allowed to bring scissors on a flight as long as they are four or less
Ali Garland
April 1, 2019 @ 4:09 pm
TSA allows scissors that are 4 inches or shorter, but other countries have different rules. Many European countries only allow scissors that are 6cm or shorter, which is only 2.36 inches. And I’ve had nail scissors that were shorter than 6cm confiscated in Cambodia. Now I don’t even travel with them.
Maya
July 27, 2018 @ 8:06 pm
Can you bring multiple liquids in separate 3oz containers or is the maximum amount you can bring in total 3oz
Ali Garland
August 1, 2018 @ 10:46 am
Hi Maya! Yes, you can bring multiple. Your liquids containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller, and all containers must fit inside a 1 quart (1 liter) clear zip-top bag.
LottyN
October 9, 2018 @ 7:33 pm
Is it ok to pack 2oz hand sanitizer either in carry on or in the luggage?
Ali Garland
October 10, 2018 @ 6:03 pm
Yes, that’s fine. If you pack it in your carry on, it needs to go in your liquids bag.
Greg Schubert
June 11, 2019 @ 5:58 pm
Is this just for carry-on? For example, can I pack all liquids In a 1 gallon Ziploc in my checked luggage or does that need to be a 1qt bag?
Ali Garland
June 11, 2019 @ 6:13 pm
Hi Greg! Yes, you can pack bigger containers of liquid in your checked luggage, so a 1 gallon bag is fine, a 12 ounce bottle is fine. But I definitely recommend packing liquids in a bag of some sort (the 1 gallon Ziplock, a toiletry bag, whatever) in case the bottles leak while in flight due to pressure changes.
mike
May 29, 2019 @ 2:20 pm
are you talking about the cutting part of the scissors or the entire scissors?
Ali Garland
May 31, 2019 @ 10:40 am
Hi Mike! It’s the length from the pivot point, so basically the blade part, not including the handle.
Marsha
August 12, 2018 @ 2:03 am
Can you bring on the plane picture frames that have a glass cover in a backpack?
Ali Garland
August 13, 2018 @ 6:32 pm
Hi Marsha! Yes, that should be fine. Just make sure you wrap it well (in paper or a shirt or something) so it doesn’t break.
Ashley
January 2, 2019 @ 2:41 am
What about vitamins?? How should one pack vitamins n such?? My very first time flying I’m a bit nervous
Ali Garland
January 3, 2019 @ 10:45 am
Vitamins are fine to pack in your carry on. It’s best to keep them in their original container, but I often pack a few into something smaller when I don’t want to bring the big bottle, and no one has ever said anything about it. Vitamins are not something TSA is concerned with.
Kim
June 1, 2019 @ 3:25 pm
Hi, can a ceramic paw print be carried in my purse? I’m taking it back East to put in my father’s Memorial vault?
I also have a small photo that has a very small amount of glass in the frame?
Ali Garland
June 2, 2019 @ 2:45 am
Hi Kim! Yes, that is all fine. You should probably wrap a shirt or something around each of those to make sure they don’t break, but they are fine to go in your carry-on bag.
Eugene
September 20, 2018 @ 12:57 am
What is the best way to travel with tools, yes there are some scissors, tweezers. 99% alcohol small bottle for cleaning fiber optic cables, too many to list.
Thank you very much.
Eugene
Ali Garland
October 2, 2018 @ 5:13 am
Hi Eugene! Anything sharp could be considered a weapon, so you should pack those things in checked luggage. Tweezers are technically allowed in carry-on, but I know of so many people who have had them confiscated, so I don’t think it’s worth trying. The cleaning alcohol is probably fine in your carry-on as long as the bottle is 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller. I’ve seen people try to get through security with tools before, and unfortunately any that were sharp or potentially dangerous (like a hammer, as an example) was confiscated. Don’t risk it.
Nadia
December 8, 2018 @ 10:42 pm
Thanks!The information was very usefull!But can you bring pencils and pens?I kinda scared to risk my fav pancils ?
Ali Garland
December 9, 2018 @ 5:45 pm
Hi Nadia, yes, pens and pencils are fine to bring in your carry-on.
Jose
December 14, 2018 @ 1:28 am
Hi, I am thinking of traveling with carry on and am thinking of taking caned crab meat with me. Are cans allowed?
Ali Garland
December 14, 2018 @ 12:33 pm
Hi Jose! Cans should be fine, my only concern would be if there’s any liquid in there, like if the crab meat is in water or oil. If it is, it might be confiscated. Also, if you’re traveling internationally, I wouldn’t take it because most countries don’t want you taking that kind of food across international borders. I hope this helps!
Anna Pampanella
June 15, 2019 @ 12:32 pm
Hi I was wondering if I take hand luggage to travel international flight can I pack more than 7 kg and put it under the aircraft like Check in the luggage so it goes under the aircraft instead of having it as hand luggage thank you
Ali Garland
June 18, 2019 @ 11:22 am
Hi Anna! I’m not sure I understand the question. If you want to bring more than the airline allows for carry-on, bring your luggage to the check-in counter and have them check your luggage. Checked bags can be heavier, just be sure to look at the airline’s allowances for checked baggage, and make sure anything valuable, fragile, or irreplaceable to you stays with you in your carry-on. I also recommend packing any electronics (laptop, camera, Kindle, etc.) and prescription medications in your carry-on.
Joel
August 7, 2019 @ 5:12 pm
Hi, I’m traveling to NW Territories for a fishing trip. Can I carry on fishing lures in my back pack or do I need to pack them in a tackle box and check them?
Joel
Ali Garland
August 8, 2019 @ 11:20 am
Hi Joel! It seems to depend on the type of fishing lures.
Here’s what TSA says about fishing lure:
“Sharp fishing tackle that may be considered dangerous, such as large fish hooks, should be sheathed, securely wrapped, and packed in your checked luggage. Like other high-value objects, you may wish to pack expensive reels or fragile tackle that does not pose a security threat (small flies) in your carry-on baggage.”
Since you’re going to Canada, the Canadian version of TSA is this site: https://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/en