What Not to Bring in Your Carry-On: Complete Packing Guide

What Not to Bring in Your Carry-On: Complete Packing Guide
Andrey Briginets

Andrey Briginets

April 17, 2025

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6 minutes read

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Tips

If you’re heading out on a trip with just your carry-on — whether it’s a weekend getaway or a short business flight — it’s important to know what you’re allowed to bring into the cabin and what’s strictly off-limits. Ignoring the rules could lead to delays, stress, or even having to throw out your things at the security checkpoint.

Let’s walk through everything you can’t bring in your carry-on, why the rules exist, and how to pack smart to breeze through security.

Why Are There Restrictions on Carry-On Items?

The main reason is passenger safety. International aviation regulations — including IATA and ICAO standards, as well as airline-specific rules — ban items in the cabin that might be dangerous, flammable, or disruptive to others.

Some things are fine in checked baggage, but not in your carry-on. And some things you can’t bring at all.

❌ Absolutely Not Allowed in Carry-On Luggage

Here’s what you should never try to bring in your carry-on under any circumstances:

  • 🔪 Sharp or pointed objects: knives, scissors with blades over 6 cm, razors (except disposable ones in plastic cases), tools like screwdrivers or awls
  • 🔫 Weapons or items resembling weapons: even toy guns can cause problems
  • 💣 Explosives and flammable substances: fireworks, firecrackers, paint, lighter fluid, gasoline, etc.
  • 🧯 Pressurized containers and gas canisters: pepper spray, spray paint, or highly pressurized deodorants
  • 🔋 Certain batteries or power banks: high-capacity lithium batteries (usually over 100–160 Wh) may be banned unless approved by the airline

    • ✅ Allowed With Restrictions

    Some items can be carried, but only under specific conditions.

    💧 Liquids

    The standard liquid rule still applies:

  • Max 100 ml (3.4 oz) per container
  • All containers must fit in one 1-liter (quart-sized), transparent, resealable plastic bag

    • What counts as a liquid?

  • Water, soft drinks, juice
  • Creams, lotions, oils
  • Toothpaste, gels, aerosols
  • Mascara and liquid makeup

    • Exceptions: baby food and essential medicines may be allowed above the limit — but be prepared to show a prescription or explain their use.

    🔋 Electronics & Power Banks

    You can bring phones, tablets, laptops, and cameras, but:

  • Devices should be fully charged — sometimes security may ask you to turn them on
  • Power banks and loose lithium batteries are only allowed in carry-on, not in checked baggage
  • Most airlines limit battery capacity to 100 Wh (or 160 Wh with approval)

    • 🍱 What About Food?

    You’re allowed to bring food — especially useful for longer flights or if your ticket doesn’t include meals. But watch out:

  • Solid food like sandwiches, crackers, fruit — allowed
  • Liquid or semi-liquid food (like yogurt, jam, sauces, spreads) — limited to 100 ml per container
  • Alcohol — only allowed in bottles up to 100 ml in your carry-on. Larger bottles must be bought in Duty Free or packed in checked baggage.

    • Surprising Banned Items

    Some everyday things can also get you flagged. A few examples of what might be rejected at security:

  • Selfie sticks (in some countries)
  • Mercury thermometers
  • Knitting needles (varies by airport)
  • Strong-smelling foods like garlic or durian (especially in Asian airports)

    • How to Be Safe?

    The easiest way: check with your airline before packing. Each carrier might have slightly different rules, especially budget airlines, which often enforce them more strictly. If you’re unsure about an item, pack it in a way that’s easy to remove at security. And when in doubt — ask a staff member before the checkpoint.

    Traveling light with only a carry-on is fast and convenient — but it does require a little planning. Knowing what’s allowed in your bag helps avoid stress and keeps your journey smooth from the very first step. And if you’re not sure? It’s always better to double-check than to lose something at the gate. Safe travels!