Flying with carry-on luggage: airline rules around the world

Don't want to overpay for excess baggage, hastily check in valuable items with extra charges, or leave gifts for loved ones at the airport? Learn how to prepare your carry-on luggage for a comfortable flight.

Main Requirements of Airlines Worldwide

Flight safety on passenger flights is based on rules for the even distribution of weight in the aircraft and the protection of passengers during turbulence, takeoff, and landing.

The dimensions of carry-on luggage on a plane are calculated based on:

• available space under the passenger seat;

• the overhead compartment above the passenger rows.

The official website of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) (which includes 330 airlines worldwide) provides average carry-on luggage dimensions in centimeters: 56x45x25 (height/width/depth).

Important! The dimensions of carry-on luggage for flights include the height and width of the suitcase with wheels, handles, and side compartments.

Specific Requirements of Major Airlines

Airlines strictly control the total weight of items passengers carry and the dimensions of carry-on luggage based on their aircraft modifications. There are basic standards for economy class passengers, extended options for an additional fee, and premium conditions for carrying business class passengers' luggage.

Each airline interprets the concept of "carry-on luggage" in its own way:

• the total of all items that a passenger brings into the airplane cabin, including personal belongings (handbags, laptop bags, umbrellas) and duty-free purchases;

• all of the above, excluding duty-free purchases;

• separate requirements for carry-on luggage - a small suitcase (wheeled is allowed), backpack, or bag; separate for personal items.

Most airlines extend the carry-on luggage allowance for parents traveling with infants (+ one additional item, 5-8 kg) and for passengers with reduced mobility.

Important! Information is current as of August 2024. Check the latest requirements on the airline's official website.

Prohibited Items in Carry-On Luggage

At some airports, flight security services complement information stands about prohibited items with visual displays of confiscated manicure scissors, hammers, deodorants, wine, and preserves. To prevent a disruptive passenger from causing problems during the flight, there are strict flight safety requirements.

What passengers are not allowed to bring into the airplane cabin:

• explosive substances and items – grenades, firecrackers, flares, paint cans, alcohol, gasoline, aerosol cans (including deodorant, hairspray, shaving foam);

• firearms, crossbows, harpoon guns, starter pistols, slingshots; any items that could become weapons;

• toy guns that imitate real ones;

• items that can stun or paralyze;

• sharp objects – knives, scissors, box cutters, blades, hammers, swords, knitting needles;

• tools that can cause harm - saws, construction staplers, drills, blowtorches;

• potentially dangerous blunt objects – baseball bats, clubs, golf clubs, brass knuckles, oars;

• dangerous chemicals, poisons, biological agents, radioactive substances, printer cartridges;

• liquids in containers over 100 ml;

• lithium batteries over 160 Wh;

• self-balancing items (hoverboards, wakeboards, electric skates)

Carry-on luggage is checked before passengers enter the departure area. Water, perfumes, and alcohol purchased in duty-free shops are allowed by most airlines to be carried on board without restrictions.

Permissible Items in Carry-On Luggage for Air Passengers

Personal items, clothing, shoes, jewelry, watches, souvenirs, medications, perfumes, umbrellas.

Money, documents in paper and electronic format. Any type of gadgets and chargers considering the size and weight.

Power banks, electronic cigarettes, and lithium battery-powered devices are prohibited from being checked in as baggage. All these items must be carried in carry-on luggage only.

Snacks, confectionery, and food products without a strong smell. Baby food for a young passenger (conditions - check the airline's website).

Crutches, canes, walkers (foldable), wheelchairs, strollers.

Sports equipment, musical instruments, large toys, and works of art are transported free of charge in the airplane cabin within the airline's carry-on luggage standards. If the size exceeds the permissible limits, the passenger must purchase an additional seat to carry valuable items in the airplane cabin.

Important! If a passenger needs liquid medications or sprays for medical reasons, they should prepare a medical certificate in advance, signed by their doctor, stating the diagnosis and the medication. From personal experience – diabetics with a certificate are allowed to bring 0.5 liters of water into the airplane cabin.

Tips for a Convenient Journey

1. Traveling with only carry-on luggage is ideal for a weekend in Europe, a short business trip, or a summer trip with a low-cost airline:

• quick check-in for the flight and receiving the boarding pass before departure;

• no long wait after landing – wondering if the luggage arrived and in what condition;

• no worries about the safety of personal belongings, gadgets, and documents: everything is under control, with you.

2. Before departure, consider the volume and weight of your carry-on luggage on the return flight: souvenirs and delicacies can create excess weight. Experienced travelers choose one of the strategies:

• travel light from the start, leaving space for future purchases;

• buy a return ticket with baggage or one baggage allowance for two or three group members.

3. To avoid excess weight, distribute some items in the pockets of your jacket or coat. When flying with a low-cost airline, the principle of layering clothing can help minimize the volume and weight of carry-on luggage.

4. Frequent travelers should invest in a collection of suitcases, bags, and backpacks of different sizes. Designers of leading travel brands calculate the compatibility of suitcases and carry-on items down to the millimeter: a bag or case is securely attached to the telescopic handle and does not interfere with quick movement through the terminal.

Use these simple rules for preparing your carry-on luggage, and every flight will bring only positive emotions.