You can bring a variety of items on a plane, but there are specific rules and restrictions, especially for carry-on luggage. Here is a summary of what you can and cannot bring:
What You Can Bring on a Plane
- Liquids, gels, and aerosols : Allowed in carry-on bags if each container is 100 ml (3.4 ounces) or less, and all containers fit into one transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter. Exceptions are made for medicines and baby food
- Food and drinks : Nonflammable liquids and food items are allowed, but liquids must follow the size restrictions unless purchased as duty-free items sealed in security bags
- Personal care items : Hair spray, hair gel, makeup, perfume, electric toothbrushes, electric razors, nail clippers, and similar items are allowed within the liquid size limits
- Medical items : Prescription medications, needles with injectable medication, pill bottles, and heating pads (without flammable liquids) are permitted and recommended to be carried on for immediate use
- Small tools and sharp objects : Some small tools like scissors with blades less than 4 inches, screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers up to 7 inches are allowed in carry-on luggage with restrictions. Safety razors and straight razors are generally not allowed
- Electronic devices : Laptops, tablets, e-cigarettes (in carry-on only), and other electronics are allowed but must comply with specific airline and country regulations
- Powders : Organic powders (e.g., from plants or animals) have no limits; inorganic powders (e.g., salt, sand) are limited to a total of 350 ml in carry-on
What You Cannot Bring on a Plane
- Weapons and sharp objects : Firearms, ammunition, knives (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives), brass knuckles, and other weapons are prohibited in carry-on luggage. Some may be allowed in checked baggage under strict conditions
- Explosives and flammable items : Fireworks, gunpowder, flares, aerosol spray paint, and other inflammable or toxic substances are banned from both carry-on and checked baggage
- Large tools and sporting equipment : Crowbars, drills, hammers, saws, and similar items are not allowed in carry-on bags but may be permitted in checked luggage
Additional Notes
- Duty-free liquids purchased at the airport can be carried on if sealed in the provided security bag with the receipt, and the bag remains sealed until your final destination
- Always check with your airline for specific baggage size and item restrictions, as these can vary
- All items are subject to security screening and may be confiscated if deemed a threat
For a detailed and updated list, you can consult the TSA "What Can I Bring?" page or your airline's guidelines before traveling
. In summary, you can bring most personal items, small tools, medical supplies, and limited liquids on a plane, but weapons, explosives, large tools, and oversized liquids are prohibited or restricted.