What can you bring on a plane? And what can’t you? A practical guide for travelers.

September 28, 2024

Ako planiraš putovanje avionom i muči te večita dilema: „Da li ovo sme u ručni prtljag?“, nisi jedini. Pakujući se, često se zapitamo šta će proći kroz bezbednosnu kontrolu, a šta će nam hladnokrvno oduzeti. Zato smo pripremili ovaj praktičan vodič koji će ti pomoći da se spakuješ bez stresa (i suza na aerodromu).

Carry-on Luggage vs. Checked Luggage – The Stars of Airline Packing

Before we dive into the details, let's clarify the difference between the two main players in airline luggage:

Carry-on luggage is everything you take with you into the airplane cabin. A bag, backpack, or small suitcase – your personal comfort zone during the flight. It’s limited in size and weight, so be careful not to overload it (or the staff will tell you, "Put that in the hold!").

Checked luggage goes straight into the belly of the plane. These are the large suitcases you hand over at the check-in counter. Here, you can pack everything you won’t need during the flight – from clothes and shoes to that extra bottle of wine you’re bringing for your friends.

What can you bring in your carry-on luggage?

Packing a carry-on is like playing Tetris – everything has to fit perfectly! Your mission: maximize space and stay within the rules. Ready? Let’s see what can go inside!

Liquids – Anything over 100 ml per bottle should stay at home. So, mini perfume, toothpaste, and even your favorite cream – but in travel-size versions. For example, if you’re bringing your favorite shampoo, transferring it to a small travel bottle solves the problem and saves your precious items.
Electronics – Laptops, tablets, chargers, and all your gadgets must be in your carry-on. Don’t even think about putting your phone in checked luggage!
Snacks – Yes, you can bring a bag of chips, crackers, or candy. But beware, all liquid or semi-liquid treats are subject to the 100 ml rule. So, honey or spreads? Only in mini packages! (Yes, we know, we feel your pain too.)
Medications – Medications are allowed, but it’s smart to have a prescription with you just in case.
Personal hygiene – Toothbrush, stick deodorant, and mini soap are your allies. But watch out for the 100 ml rule for gels and liquids! Wet wipes are your best friend for freshening up during long flights, and they take up minimal space.
Cigarettes and lighters – You can bring a pack of cigarettes and a lighter.

What can’t you bring in your carry-on luggage?

When packing your carry-on, there are rules we must follow to avoid issues at security.

Knives and blades longer than 6 cm – Unless you're the in-flight chef, forget about bringing a kitchen knife. This rule also applies to scissors, axes, swords, and sabers.
Razors, syringes, and needles
Blunt objects like bats and sticks – Whether you're heading to a baseball tournament or martial arts training, bats and sticks are not welcome in the cabin.
Strollers, wheelchairs, bicycles, and rollerblades – A bicycle in the airplane aisle? Hardly.
All types of tools
All types of weapons, including replicas – No firearms, bladed weapons, or those cool replicas from movies. An airplane is no place for a duel!
Explosives and their replicas – No, you can’t bring fireworks. Do we really need to explain why?
Batteries with hazardous contents
Devices powered by lithium-ion batteries between 100 and 160 Wh
Toxic and corrosive substances
Gases and oxidizing materials
Radioactive and magnetized materials

What can go in checked luggage?

When packing, think like this: "Would this cause chaos in the cabin?" If the answer is yes, then it goes straight into checked luggage! Checked luggage is where you can pack everything you don’t need during the flight, but beware – there are rules here too!

Medications – whether it’s pills, capsules, or liquid medications, all are allowed. However, if you use special devices like CPAP machines or inhalers with lithium batteries, be sure to consult the airline before your trip.
Knives, scissors, small axes – anything that might look like a prop from an action movie.
Tools like drills, drill bits, and screwdrivers
Weapons, replicas, and ammunition – with prior approval from the airline, proper packaging, and only if intended for hunting or sports.
Food and drinks – Alcohol, cakes, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, packaged meats, hams, sausages, spices, or ground coffee – you can pack all of this and enjoy it at your destination! Just make sure you’re familiar with local rules about bringing in food and drinks.
Electronics – mobile phones, calculators, watches, laptops, cameras, video cameras

What can’t go on a plane, even in checked luggage?

There are certain things that simply cannot go on a plane, whether in carry-on or checked luggage. Here’s a list of items that will definitely trigger a "red light" at security:

Batteries with leak-prone contents – If your gadget is powered by such a battery, it’s better left at home.
Foldable mobility aids with lithium-ion batteries – Electric scooters and similar gadgets are not welcome.
Gases and oxidizing materials – Spray paint for walls? No way!
Toxic and corrosive substances – Anything that sounds like lab equipment stays off the plane.
Radioactive and magnetized materials – Unless you’re a superhero, you have no excuse to carry this with you.
Lithium batteries – Too powerful? Too dangerous? Definitely not on a plane.
Grenades, dynamite, liquid fuels, and other flammable liquids – Pretty obvious, right?

Tips for smart and fun packing

Suitcase covers are a must-have – Not only do they protect your luggage from dirt, scratches, and impacts, but they also give it a unique look. In a sea of boring black suitcases, your personalized one will stand out on the conveyor belt.
Keep documents handy – Passport, ticket, wallet – all of these must be in your carry-on. Imagine the scene of searching for your passport in a suitcase that’s already been checked in… Nothing scarier for a traveler than that disaster. The solution? Keep everything essential within reach.
Airline rules – We know, reading rules isn’t the most exciting thing in the world, but every airline has its own specific luggage policies. Check them before you start packing – because no one likes surprises at the airport (unless it’s an upgrade to first class!).
Packing list – Organization is key! Make a list and check off items as you pack them. This way, you’ll avoid the famous dilemma: "Did I pack the charger?" Plan ahead and enjoy your trip completely relaxed!

Conclusion

Packing can be fun if you know the rules of the game! With the right guidelines and a few good tips, you can avoid unpleasant situations and save time. And let’s not forget – suitcase covers from the website obucikofer.rs will not only protect your luggage but also make it easily recognizable and completely unique. Let your journey begin the moment you open your suitcase! Pack with love, leave the stress at home, and dive into the excitement of a new adventure.