Understanding Hand Luggage Restrictions

 
What is Hand Luggage? 

Hand luggage called a cabin or carry-on baggage, is a type of luggage that can be carried inside the airplane by the passenger. While the check-in baggage goes into the plane’s cargo, this luggage stays with the travelers throughout the journey. Usually, the airlines carry one bag of luggage with your handbag or a laptop bag, as a part of your personal belongings. 

Carry-on baggage restrictions depend upon one airline to another. It is therefore wise to check your airline for specific baggage requirements. 
 
General Guidelines for Hand Luggage 

Weight and Size Limits: Typically, there are certain weight restrictions on hand luggage. So you can’t carry more than 7 kg on the flight.
 
Number of Bags: Normally, a handbag or a small personal bag is allowed along with the hand luggage.

 
Security Screening: There is a thorough security screening of all hand luggage at the airports. 

Restricted Items in Hand Luggage 
 

The passengers are required to adhere to the security procedures and luggage protocols while boarding their flights. Here are the details of all the restrictions on hand luggage

The travelers are advised to be careful about not carrying the above items so there are no hiccups during their security check at the airport. 

In-Flight Hand Luggage Restrictions 
 

When you are on a flight, some guidelines should be followed such as-

Stowage: Remember to fit in your hand luggage in the overhead cabinets or under your seat, whichever is comfortable.

Accessibility: You should be able to easily reach for the important stuff like your essentials, documents, and medicines. 
 
Dangerous Goods: Remember not to carry anything hazardous with you on your flight.

 
Liquids, Gels, and Aerosols: What You Need to Know 

There is a specific policy of carrying any liquid on the flight. The easiest way to remember this is by following the 100 ml rule. This states that a maximum of 100 ml of liquids should be carried in spill-proof bottles or containers. Also, the container should be thoroughly packed in a see-through bottle and transparent pack, if it is purchased from the Duty-Free store. 

 
 
Exceptions: Baby food and formula, as well as prescribed medications, are usually allowed but should be declared at security checkpoints. 
 
Electronic Devices in Hand Luggage 

Since we can’t do away with electronic items like power banks, mobile phones, laptops, etc. You need to be aware of the screening process at the airport 

Laptops and Tablets: Take them out of your bags and place them in separate trays provided at the security for screening.

Smartphones and E-readers: It is recommended to keep their power on, so remember to charge them. 
 
Portable Chargers and Power Banks: You may not be required to take them out of your hand luggage, but ensure that their battery size falls into the bracket of the hand luggage policy

 
Medication and Medical Equipment 

Any medicine or medical equipment can be carried on the flight with hand luggage so they are easily accessible to travellers who need them on the journey. However, some of these devices should be declared with their purpose to the airlines well in advance. 

 
Food and Beverages 

Did you think you could carry food in your hand luggage? Yes, you can. However, there are certain restrictions on food items too which should be taken into account. These rules are generally for liquid food items, remember the 100 ml rule before you decide on the food. It is better to check once with your airline to avoid any inconvenience.
 
Can I bring food from home? 

You can bring solid food items like sandwiches, fruit, or chips on the flight. 
 
There are restrictions on liquid food items like Soups, and sauces, which could be brought according to the airline policy.
 
 
Special Items: Duty-Free Purchases and Souvenirs 
 
Love buying stuff from the duty free store? Then you should be aware of a few guidelines for carrying these items in your hand luggage. 
 
Liquids purchased in Duty-Free: Remember the 100 ml rule and get your liquor/perfumes and all the liquid purchases under 100 ml duly sealed in a tamper-evident bag. Also, don’t forget to carry the invoice for your purchase and declare it at the time of screening. 
 
 
Tips for Packing Your Hand Luggage 
 
It is a great idea to pack your hand luggage smartly to avoid any stress. Follow these tips to stay mindful of the guidelines for your baggage 
 
Follow Airline-Specific Rules: Refer to the concerned airline website to check the list of items that you can carry, and stuff you need to declare beforehand so you don’t miss out on any important information.

 
Use a Packing List: Make a list of all the essential items that you will include in your hand luggage. 
 
Separate Essentials: Remember to keep all the items that you will require regularly in a handbag that will be the most accessible to you during your journey. These items can be your passport, ticket, medicines, food, etc.

Summary of Key Hand Luggage Restrictions

To summarize, here are some key takeaways regarding hand luggage restrictions: 
 

 
Keep in mind that while there are general rules, each airline may have specific guidelines, so it's always a good idea to double-check before your trip. Safe travels!