We are all aware that there are strict rules in place governing what you can and cannot carry in hand luggage, but how often does anyone actually bother to read the rules to find out exactly what is allowed?
Judging by the containers at security filled with items and liquids, I guess there are still lots of travellers who haven’t bothered or have simply forgotten the rules since their last holiday.
For those of you about to fly out on holiday here is a breakdown of what you can and can’t take in your hand luggage:
Hand luggage sizes
Passengers are permitted to carry ONE item of hand baggage each, no larger than 56 x 45 x 25cm (22 x 17.7 x 10 inches) including wheels, handles and outside pockets - these dimensions are the maximum size allowed.
Be aware that some airlines specify smaller hand luggage sizes so it is always advisable to check with your airline’s website prior to departure.
Other bags, such as a handbag (purse), may be carried but must fit within the single item of cabin baggage.
A laptop, if carried, must fit within the one item of hand baggage, or if carried separately will be regarded as the one piece of cabin baggage.
Any gifts carried in hand luggage must not be wrapped and must fit within your one bag entitlement.
Although the restriction of one item of hand luggage has been lifted at all the UK airports, many airlines still only permit one item. Often it is passengers travelling on a ticket other than economy that will be allowed more than one item, but do check individual restrictions for your airline.
Watch weight restrictions too, as these vary from airline to airline too.
Restrictions on liquids
Liquids, gels and aerosols can only be carried in individual 100ml containers (larger containers, even if only partially full, will be confiscated) and should fit comfortably within a transparent, re-sealable bag measuring a maximum of 20cm by 20cm, with a capacity of no more than a litre.
Where possible, it is advisable to put all liquids, such as water, drinks, creams, sprays, pastes and gels, in check-in luggage. Don’t forget liquids include all perfumes, sprays and pressurised containers including shaving foam and spray deodorants, mascara, soups, liquid foundation, toothpaste, hair and shower gel and sun cream.
If you have any questions connected with cabin baggage they should be directed to your airline, before you travel.
Liquids can be purchased beyond airport security, in the departures area, as these liquids are subject to a separate screening process.
Recently, there has been speculation that the liquids in hand luggage rules were going to be relaxed, however, the UK has rejected the idea because it doesn’t have enough scanning equipment in place.
Baby Food
Liquid baby food, water and milk, sufficient for the flight, can be taken through security, however, the accompanying parent will be required to verify the liquids by tasting them.
Essential Liquid Dietary Foodstuffs
Essential liquid dietary foodstuffs can be taken through airport security but will be subject to verification by the passenger.
Medicines required during the flight
Any essential medicines for the period of the trip may be permitted in larger quantities than 100ml but will require authentication – passengers must have obtained agreement with the airline and airport prior to departure and must bring supporting documentation with them from a relevant qualified medical professional.
Syringes required for diabetics or for other medical reasons will only be permitted in hand luggage if medical necessity can be proven. Check with the airline in advance to check what proof is required.
Cigarette lighters
One lighter per person may be carried through security. Lighters form part of the liquid allowance and must fit within the liquids bag, however, they may be screened separately. Passengers must carry their lighter on their person for the duration of the flight – they must not be placed in hand luggage.
Pushchairs, walking aids and wheelchairs
These are permitted but will be security screened.
Musical instruments
Large musical instruments that do not fit into the hand luggage bag are allowed as a second item of cabin baggage but will be screened separately. Passengers must check with their airlines as to whether special arrangements are required, such as purchasing an extra seat for the instrument.
The above security restrictions have been in place for some time now and it should be noted that if you pack banned substances that are confiscated at the airport, you will not be compensated and items are rarely returned.
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