Liquids: the 100 ml rule
At most airports, liquids are allowed in your carry-on as long as each container holds 100 ml or less and they all fit in one resealable clear plastic bag of about one litre. Liquids include water, perfume, creams, toothpaste, gels and liquid deodorant.
Some airports have new scanners that allow bigger containers, but not every airport, or even every checkpoint, has them. If your trip has a connection, follow the stricter rule: your return or transit airport may still apply 100 ml.
- Liquid medicines, baby milk and baby food: allowed in larger amounts as needed for the journey, but take them out and declare them at security.
- Duty-free purchases: keep them in the sealed bag with the receipt. On a connecting flight, they can be confiscated at transit security if the bag has been opened.
Power banks and batteries
Power banks and spare lithium batteries go in your carry-on only. They're banned from checked luggage. The general rule by capacity:
- Up to 100 Wh: normally allowed. Most ordinary power banks (up to about 20,000 mAh) are within this, and the capacity is printed on the device.
- 100 to 160 Wh: needs the airline's approval in advance.
- Over 160 Wh: not allowed on passenger aircraft.
Since 2025 and 2026, many airlines have tightened the rules: a number of them ban using or charging power banks during the flight, and many limit you to two per passenger. Rules differ between airlines, so check your airline's page before you fly.
Sharp items and more
- Knives, large scissors and tools: checked luggage. Very small scissors are allowed at some airports and not at others.
- Razors: ordinary safety razors are usually fine; loose blades go in checked luggage.
- E-cigarettes: carry-on only, and never used on board. Note that some countries ban e-cigarettes entirely, even bringing them in.
- Lighters: one small lighter on you is usually allowed, never in checked luggage.
Size and weight
Each airline sets its own size and weight limits. In economy, the carry-on allowance is often between 7 and 10 kg, plus a small personal item like a handbag or laptop bag. Some low-cost fares include only a small bag that fits under the seat. Read your ticket, and measure and weigh your bag at home.
What should always stay with you
- Passport, visa and boarding pass.
- Any medicines you need, with the prescription.
- Phone, charger and power bank.
- Money and bank cards.
- Jewellery and valuable electronics.
- A day's clothes, in case your checked bag is delayed.
Our advice: before you close your carry-on, ask yourself: if my checked bag were two days late, would I have what I need? If the answer is yes, you're ready.