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 
Kay Minahan
May 21, 2023 @ 9:23 pm
I have been in pain for over a year and with experimenting have found that CBD and a few mg of THC let me sleep better at night. Will I be able to put this in my carry on going to Costa Rica? If I have a prescription with it does that help? I always take my drugs on my carry on so as to be sure they arrive with me but this different. They are gummies.
Ali Garland
May 25, 2023 @ 9:32 am
Hi Kay! I don’t know the rules for CBD around the world, so you’d have to research Costa Rica’s rules to see if it’s legal there or not. If it’s not legal, it won’t matter if you have a prescription. This is a good place to start for the CBD info, but THC can get even trickier: https://foxnomad.com/2019/09/12/how-to-travel-with-cbd/. If it is legal to bring it into Costa Rica, then yes, definitely pack it in your carry on bag.
Judy young
April 30, 2023 @ 3:51 pm
I’m bringing a 10 inch toy car for my grandsons birthday that’s made of cast iron. Is it okay to carry on or should I pack with my checked luggage . I wasn’t sure if it would set an alarm off seeing it’s made of metal.
Ali Garland
May 5, 2023 @ 2:57 pm
Hi Judy! As long as it’s not, in fact, a weapon or something that looks like a weapon replica, it should be fine. It’s going through an xray, not a metal detector, and even if they decide it looks weird on the xray and take it out for a closer look, they’ll see it’s a toy. Also, make sure you don’t gift wrap it until afterwards because security could potentially unwrap it to inspect it.
Bonjoebee Bello
March 9, 2023 @ 4:54 am
Hello. Are different cameras allowed in carry-on bag?
Ali Garland
March 10, 2023 @ 6:24 pm
Do you mean bringing multiple cameras? Sure, that’s allowed. You just have to stay within the size and weight restrictions for carry on for your airline.
Fred A Cappaert
December 6, 2022 @ 8:27 pm
Correction, can I carry a 6 foot extension cord in my personal bag?
Ali Garland
December 9, 2022 @ 2:25 pm
Hi Fred! Yes, an extension cord should be fine in either your carry on bag or your personal item, as long as it doesn’t cause you to go over your airline’s weight and size restrictions.
Fred Cappaert
December 6, 2022 @ 8:25 pm
Can I carry a 6 foot extension cord in my carry on bag?
mary verdel
September 28, 2022 @ 12:52 pm
i recently flew with in canada and had take my sons hockey skates in my carryon… there were no issues
Ali Garland
September 28, 2022 @ 9:19 pm
Thanks Mary, good to know! The TSA website also says ice skates are allowed in carry on luggage, but it always seems odd to me. Happy to hear about your experience!
DB
August 9, 2022 @ 9:36 pm
Thanks so much for this useful information! I wear my long hair up and secure with a wooden U-shape hair pick. The ends are pointed. Will they allow this? Thank you.
Ali Garland
August 10, 2022 @ 4:03 pm
Hi, yes that should be fine. As long as the pointed ends are skin-piercing sharp, you shouldn’t have a problem. And if they were that sharp, I imagine you’d injure yourself often enough to not want to use it!
richard
July 19, 2022 @ 10:59 am
Hi
Can you take on broad in carry on.
thin wire rope for locking up luggage
750mm long
Ali Garland
July 20, 2022 @ 1:49 pm
Hi Richard! I can’t find anything specifically, but I can’t think of any problem with a wire luggage lock. It’s not too different from a long electrical cord.
Linda
July 16, 2022 @ 9:37 pm
May I put plastic stars- the kind that you put on top of Ceramic Christmas trees- in my carry on bag or are the points considered sharp objects?
Ali Garland
July 20, 2022 @ 1:46 pm
Hi Linda! No guarantees, but plastic should be fine. TSA even allows scissors below a certain length, so I wouldn’t think plastic stars should be a problem.
Mark
February 16, 2022 @ 4:31 pm
I’m a diabetic. Can I bring my insulin pens and needles in my carry on bag?
Ali Garland
February 18, 2022 @ 2:00 pm
Hi Mark! Yes, you can bring your insulin and supplies in your carry on bag. You definitely don’t want to pack important things like that in your checked luggage. TSA has some rules about how you handle certain things and notifying them before they screen you and your bag. Go to this page and type insulin into the search box, and you’ll see several different entries relating to diabetes supplies, and then this page has info about procedures for traveling with medical devices and medically required liquids.
paul
October 28, 2021 @ 11:56 pm
are laptops allowed?
Ali Garland
November 1, 2021 @ 10:18 am
Hi Paul! Yes, laptops are allowed, and it’s recommended that you pack your laptop in your carry on to avoid damage or theft if you were to pack it in checked baggage.
Theresa Jerome
October 3, 2021 @ 12:57 am
Can I bring a hair dyer & a curling brush in my carry on bag?
Ali Garland
October 5, 2021 @ 10:31 am
Hi Theresa, I have a whole post about taking a hair dryer and other hair appliances on a plane. Usually they’re fine, but there are a few types with extra info you should read about in the article.
Jay Bou
September 29, 2021 @ 12:35 am
Hi, can you bring semi-permanent (no peroxide) hair dye in the carry on? I can’t seem to find any info.
Ali Garland
October 1, 2021 @ 2:32 pm
Hi Jay! If any of the ingredients are flammable, you won’t be allowed to take it on the plane in either carry on or checked luggage. Another issue is the size. Many hair dyes are over the 3.4 ounce/100ml limit for carry on liquids. Is there a way you could just buy the stuff you need when you arrive at your destination? That might be the safest way to go if you don’t want it confiscated.
Karina Nunez
September 21, 2021 @ 9:50 pm
Hello, May I bring house plant clippings in my carry on bag ? Thank you for this service. I have checked the Alaska airline website. However I want to make sure it’s ok. Karina
Ali Garland
September 24, 2021 @ 2:11 pm
Hi Karina! If you’re flying within the US, that shouldn’t be a problem. Plants are usually tricky when dealing with customs officials for international flights, but not domestic. The exception would be for certain places like Hawaii or Puerto Rico that have stricter rules about bringing in plants.
Ralph
September 6, 2021 @ 9:25 pm
Hi
Can I bring a Leatherman multi tool on board?
Ali Garland
September 10, 2021 @ 1:34 pm
Hi Ralph! Leatherman makes so many different types, it’s hard to say. But if your tool has anything sharp, like scissors or a knife or a cork screw, it will most likely be confiscated from your carry on bag. If you’re checking luggage, that’s where you should pack it.
June Bailey
September 2, 2021 @ 1:20 pm
Can I take a sealed 23ml tube of weedkiller in my carry on bag,also in a plastic bag.? Cant seem to buy weedkiller in Spain and after lockdown my villa has some heavy duty weeds to get rid off!
Ali Garland
September 10, 2021 @ 1:33 pm
Hi June! I can’t find anything about weed killer specifically on the TSA website. The size is fine since it’s under 100ml, but I worry about the ingredients, mostly because I don’t know much about weed killers. You might want to ask TSA (or the authority for whichever country your flight leaves from) if it’s allowed. The other thing to consider is Spain’s customs rules. There are some strict rules about some of the ingredients in gardening products, and things like Roundup are banned in a lot of Europe, so you should check about that too.
Hector, S
July 23, 2021 @ 1:41 am
Hey, I was wondering if I could bring my portable Analog TV with me on a flight?
Ali Garland
July 26, 2021 @ 11:04 am
Hi Hector! As long as it fits within the carry on limits (for size and weight) of the airline you’re flying, that should be fine. TSA might want to screen it separately but TVs are allowed in carry on.
Holley Tondre Barnhart
May 19, 2022 @ 12:41 am
If I have brand new in the box electronics(like an Iphone) that are a gift for my hostess when I arrive in my destination country can I just carry these items in my carry on? I don’t want to risk them in my luggage. Do i have to take them out like you do a computer? Turn them on…
Ali Garland
May 23, 2022 @ 3:59 pm
Hi Holley! Yes, definitely pack that in your carry on, otherwise you risk the items getting damaged or stolen. Most airports in the US don’t make you take out ALL electronics, mainly laptops, tablets, sometimes Kindles. But I don’t think I’ve ever been asked to take my phone out.
BUT!! It sounds like you’re taking these things to another country, and that could mean customs charges. Many countries require you to declare expensive items like electronics, and then they charge you customs fees on them, if they are new items, not just your normal iPhone. This would actually be a potential reason to NOT have them still in the boxes. It depends on where you’re going though since some countries are more strict than others. Many European countries are pretty lax about verifying if you have anything to declare. Probably worth doing some research on where you’re going and at least be aware of the rules.
Bottom line: Definitely pack electronics, valuables, breakable things, anything with sentimental value, medicine, money, keys, etc. in your carry on bag.
ileanna
June 26, 2021 @ 9:59 pm
Hi, am i able to tale my mini uv nail lamp with me on the plane/in my carry on?
Ali Garland
June 29, 2021 @ 10:34 am
Hi Ileanna, I can’t find anything about those one way or the other. Your best bet is probably to contact TSA directly. They’re FB and Twitter accounts are pretty responsive.
Abel
July 19, 2021 @ 7:15 am
Odd question, but I’m traveling to another state for a job and will be required a drug test. So my question is can I pack a 3.4 oz container of urine in my bag
Ali Garland
July 19, 2021 @ 10:59 am
Hi, I can’t find anything about TSA’s stance on that, but don’t most places require you to do the drug test there? I don’t think they let you show up with your sample since they’re trying to prevent people from bringing someone else’s sample and frauding the system.
Moe
June 19, 2021 @ 3:08 pm
Can you pack a steamer?
Ali Garland
June 20, 2021 @ 6:12 pm
Yes, just make sure there isn’t any water in it when you pack it.
I mean, I’m assuming you’re talking about a small hand held thing, not a big one? I feel like I’ve seen ones that are vacuum cleaner sized, and that’s not going to fit in your carry on.
Sophia
August 16, 2021 @ 10:11 pm
Hey I’ve looked all over and I can’t find if you are allowed to bring pens and pencils in your carry on.
Ali Garland
August 17, 2021 @ 8:50 pm
Hi Sophia, yes pens and pencils are allowed in your carry on bag.
Shannel
June 17, 2021 @ 1:43 pm
hey! I was wondering if I could bring my food scale on my carry on bag?
Ali Garland
June 18, 2021 @ 10:13 am
Hi Shannel! I can’t find any reason why that would be a problem.
GILLY
May 12, 2021 @ 1:59 am
can you carry on a fire stick with your carry on luggage?
Ali Garland
May 12, 2021 @ 9:57 am
Hi Gilly! I’m going to assume you mean the Amazon Fire Stick, not anything with actual fire 🙂 Yes, you can bring your Amazon fire stick in your carry on bag, it’s basically like any other electronic device.
kiki
January 20, 2021 @ 10:14 pm
can you bring a life-sized teddy bear as a carry-on?
Ali Garland
January 26, 2021 @ 3:40 pm
Hi Kiki! Stuffed animals are allowed, but you’ll have to check with the airline if it’s excessively big. Each airline has size restrictions for carry on luggage (which you can check here) and that is to ensure that the bags will fit in the overhead compartment. If your teddy bear is the size of a human, it’s unlikely to fit up there, and it would definitely be too big to hold on your lap. So my recommendation is to contact your airline for clarification on how to bring it with you.
Jill
December 23, 2020 @ 10:45 pm
Thank you!?
April
December 11, 2020 @ 4:38 am
Hi there!
Is there a weight limit in my carry on suitcase and backpack and is there any pre-measured 45 linear inch luggage line that you know of that can be purchased? This can make life much easier for me. Thank you !
Ali Garland
December 17, 2020 @ 4:14 pm
Hi April! The weight limit for your carry on luggage depends on the airline. Some airlines have a weight limit, while others don’t. Some have a weight limit that includes your carry on item AND your personal item, some have a separate limit for the personal item, and some only weigh your carry on item. I recommend going to my carry on luggage chart here and clicking on your airline for more information. I also have a post here with recommended carry on luggage depending on the type your looking for, like soft sided vs hard sided, etc.
Donnie White
November 6, 2020 @ 4:29 am
I haven’t read anything about how to pack blood control measuring devices. They do have 4 AA batteries.
Ali Garland
November 11, 2020 @ 11:01 am
Hi Donnie! Medical devices are generally allowed in your carry on bag, and AA batteries aren’t a problem either. I recommend looking at TSA’s “special procedures” section here and look through the drop-down menu to see if something more closely fits with your device. It usually defaults to “medications” which has an accessories section, but one of the other choices might be more related. Often medical devices have to be screened separately, like how you have to take our your laptop to be screened separately. Also, you can read more about traveling with batteries here.
Hayley Christians
October 26, 2020 @ 11:16 am
good day, i would like to send my daughter a care package to Holland, but i have no idea what i can put in the package can you help please, i would like to send potato crisps, maybe chocolates is that allowed?
Ali Garland
October 27, 2020 @ 10:00 am
Hi Hayley, are you asking about flying with these things in carry on luggage or mailing them? Prepackaged snacks like that are generally allowed in carry on baggage, and you can read more about taking food on a plane here. I imagine they’d be fine in the mail too, but you’ll have to look up customs rules for the Netherlands.
Connie Martinez
October 25, 2020 @ 4:44 pm
Can I take my mini boss Bluetooth speaker on my carryon
Ali Garland
October 26, 2020 @ 10:47 am
Hi Connie, yes that is allowed in your carry on bag.
anita
September 18, 2020 @ 5:12 pm
how about hand held steam inhaler
Ali Garland
September 22, 2020 @ 12:40 pm
Hi Anita! I’m not really familiar with those, but a small device is usually fine to bring in your carry on bag. However, if this is something you have to put liquid into in order for it to work, make sure it’s completely empty before you back it and take it through security.
Roz
August 28, 2020 @ 1:39 am
Can I take a cd/ ipod stereo unit in my carry on? Taking it to ireland for parents as no longer use it?
Ali Garland
August 31, 2020 @ 11:41 am
Yes, electronics are generally fine to bring in your carry on bag. Sometimes security wants you to take them out to be screened separately, like they do with your laptop and liquids. The only other thing is the size and weight, so as long as your carry on bag fits within the size and weight restrictions of your airline, you should be fine.
Kathy
August 11, 2020 @ 10:25 pm
Great blog! Unfortunately your idea of packing “solid” sunblock and perfume won’t fly (pardon the pun). Recently a German airport screener forced me to discard my solid deodorant and solid sunblock because he says they’re considered liquids even tho it clearly states on the packaging that they’re “solid.” Since my liquids bag was full, I had to discard them.
Maybe in most places they’d be fine, but if the airport screener wants to be a stickler for the rules, you’ll lose your stuff.
Ali Garland
August 15, 2020 @ 8:57 am
Kathy, I’m so sorry this happened to you! I think you got a screener who was having a bad day and wanted to be mean to someone, unfortunately. I travel a LOT (it is my job, after all) and I’ve been flying with solid shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen, bug repellent, perfume, deodorant, etc. for 5+ years, and I live in Germany, so I’m always flying in and out of German airports, and I’ve never had anyone question my solid toiletries. I don’t know how you handle the situation when a security screener wants to be like this though…I would be furious since they are clearly not liquids.
Lisa
August 1, 2020 @ 1:06 pm
Odd question but can I wear my western spurs on a plane or pack them in my carry on? The ends are rounded spurs ? I train and ride horses and are essential to have? Flying to Texas
Ali Garland
August 2, 2020 @ 6:26 pm
Hi Lisa! That’s a tricky one! If they’re rounded, not sharp, my guess is that they would be allowed. But I’m having trouble finding anything definite, so I can’t make you any guarantees unfortunately. You might want to check with TSA directly on that one, and their Twitter or Facebook is usually pretty responsive. My gut says yes, they’re allowed, but I’d hate to be wrong and for you to have them confiscated.
Jan
July 26, 2020 @ 6:30 pm
hello can i travel with my collectibles like coins, stamps, gold and if so where is the best place to store
Ali Garland
July 28, 2020 @ 10:48 am
Hi Jan! Yes you can travel with those, but pack them in your carry on bag. You should never put valuables in checked luggage because most airlines won’t take any responsibility for loss of the items. And if for some reason the airline needs to gate check your carry on bag, make sure you take those items out and keep them with you.
Eve
July 5, 2020 @ 12:09 am
Are you allowed to bring opened vitamins and other dietary supplements? And how are they stored if so?
Ali Garland
July 5, 2020 @ 11:30 am
Hi Eve! Yes, those are allowed, and you can pack them however you want. TSA isn’t really concerned with pills you’re traveling with, as long as they aren’t illegal drugs.
If you’re traveling to another country, you need to make sure the vitamins or supplements are legal there since some countries have stricter rules than others. If they aren’t legal in the country you’re going to, don’t bring them at all.
Haley Scruggs
June 19, 2020 @ 4:10 pm
Can you take tobacco like cigarettes and chewing tobacco
Ali Garland
June 20, 2020 @ 11:07 am
Hi Haley! Yes, cigarettes and tobacco are allowed in your carry on bag, but you’re not allowed to smoke on board. Please read more about bringing cigarettes and lighters on a plane here, and if you vape, read about taking a vape on a plane here.
LAXMAN
June 1, 2020 @ 12:39 am
please help me
can i bring CPU, ring light and ring light stands packing with cardboard boxes.
Ali Garland
June 4, 2020 @ 6:48 pm
As long as they all fit in your carry on luggage and fit within the airline’s size and weight restrictions, you should be fine. Sometimes security wants to inspect electronics more closely, so be aware of that.
ANGELA
May 13, 2020 @ 11:58 pm
CAN I TAKE AN ADULT TOY ON THE PLANE IN MY CARRY ON?
Ali Garland
May 14, 2020 @ 3:29 pm
Hi Angela! Yes, that’s allowed, but take the batteries out before you pack it. If it looks suspicious to security agents when they view it on the xray, they might ask you to take it out of your bag, so I hope you don’t embarrass easily!
Brooke
May 11, 2020 @ 4:42 am
Can you tell me how luggage works for the one under the plane/the one you pay for. This is my first time flying alone and I don’t remember how it works. Where does it go and how do I get it once I arrive at my destination? I’m taking one carry on and one with other things I can’t bring onto the plane. Thank you
Ali Garland
May 14, 2020 @ 3:13 pm
Hi Brooke! When you get to the airport, look for your airline’s counters. If you’re checking in at the airport, they’ll take your checked luggage at the same time. If you’re checking in online, they’ll often have a separate line for people who only need to check bags. Not all airlines have a separate line, but you’ll see signs if yours does. Then when you arrive at your destination, follow the signs that say “baggage claim” and look for the carousel for your flight. Usually there’s a screen listing all arriving flights and the number of the carousel for that flight. Then just look for your bag. You should have received a luggage claim ticket that can be matched to the one attached to your bag, that way if you have a generic black bag like most people, you can look at your ticket and make sure you’re picking up your bag, not someone else’s. And that’s it!
Robert Estrada
June 2, 2020 @ 8:07 am
What about Prescribe medication for pain can you take that on the plane in your carry-on bag
Ali Garland
June 4, 2020 @ 6:49 pm
Hi Robert! Yes, DEFINITELY pack your prescription medication in your carry on luggage. It’s too risky to pack something that important in checked bags since your luggage can get lost.
Gary
April 30, 2020 @ 1:56 am
can I carry on a small bottle of hand sanitizer
Ali Garland
April 30, 2020 @ 1:18 pm
Hi Gary! Yes, hand sanitizer is allowed in your carry on bag. Normally it would need to be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller and fit in your liquids bag, but currently TSA is allowing bottles of up to 12 ounces, one per passenger, which will need to be screened separately.
Lana Jackman
March 19, 2020 @ 7:48 pm
Can I bring a can of pasta sauce, canned chicken on the plane?
Ali Garland
March 20, 2020 @ 10:21 am
Hi Lana! Unless that can of pasta sauce is 3.4 ounces or smaller, it will be confiscated at security. Sauce is a liquid, so it must comply with the liquids rules. As for the chicken, does that can have liquid in it? I imagine it does, which means it will also be above the limit unless it’s a very small can. You are allowed to pack these in your CHECKED luggage though. You can also read more about taking food on a plane here.