Hand luggage: Allowed and forbidden items (2026 Guide)

Apr 10 2026 MFR travel team

Traveling by air often requires strict packing guidelines, especially for your hand luggage. Understanding which items are allowed and which are forbidden is essential to ensure a smooth airport experience. Here's your 2025 guide on hand luggage regulations, including everything from liquids to personal care items.

Liquids & toiletries: Allowed items

Liquids and toiletries are subject to strict regulations when carried in hand luggage. The general rule is that all liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less and placed in a transparent, resealable bag.

• Deodorant (spray & roll-on) – In compliance with liquid regulations, as long as it fits the 100 ml rule.
• Hairspray – Must be under 100 ml.
• Perfume – Within the 100 ml liquid limit.
• Shampoo / shower gel – 100 ml or less in small travel-sized bottles.
• Sunscreen – Must follow the same 100 ml limit.
• Toothpaste – No more than 100 ml.
• Makeup (foundation, mascara, lip gloss) – Allowed in containers under 100 ml.
• Contact lens solution – Under 100 ml.
• Hand sanitizer – Approved if in the required quantity.

Liquids: Forbidden items

• Nail Polish – Typically banned in larger quantities.
• Nail Polish Remover (Acetone) – Forbidden due to its flammable nature.

Personal care tools: Allowed items

Some personal care items are allowed in your hand luggage, but others, especially sharp objects, are more restricted.

• Nail clippers – Allowed.
• Nail file (metal or glass) – Generally permitted.
• Tweezers – Allowed.
• Razor (manual, electric, disposable) – Typically allowed, though electric razors may have different rules.
• Hair straightener / curling iron – Permitted, but must be packed safely.
• Electric shaver – Allowed.

Personal care tools: Forbidden items

• Scissors – Blade length regulations vary, typically under 6 cm in many airports.

Bottles & drink containers: Allowed items

Carrying liquids is restricted, but there are exceptions for certain items, especially for babies and medical needs.

• Empty water bottle – Must be empty when going through security.
• Thermos / insulated bottle – Usually allowed when empty; filled ones are subject to liquid restrictions.
• Baby bottles & baby food – Exempt from the liquid restrictions in reasonable amounts.
• Powdered milk / Formula – Allowed in reasonable amounts for babies.

Bottles & drink containers: Forbidden items

• Liquids disguised as food (e.g., Hummus, Yogurt, Nutella) – These can cause confusion during screening and may be confiscated.

Medicine and health: Allowed items

When it comes to essential medications, airports provide flexibility, but you still need to follow certain guidelines.

• Prescription medication – Generally allowed with a prescription.
• Over-the-counter medicine (e.g., Ibuprofen) – Permitted within reasonable limits.
• Insulin & syringes – Allowed for medical necessity.
• Inhalers – Accepted if necessary for medical use.
• EpiPens – Allowed in hand luggage for emergencies.

Electronics: Allowed items

Powerful electronic devices are a must for many travelers, but they too are subject to certain regulations.

• Power bank – Permitted, though regulations on capacity apply.
• Laptop – Allowed, must be removed from the bag during security checks.
• Tablet – Permitted in hand luggage.
• Electric toothbrush – Generally allowed.
• Camera batteries – Allowed but may be restricted if they are lithium-ion.

Electronics: Forbidden items

• Drone – Usually allowed in carry-on, but this can depend on airline policy.

Food: Allowed items

Food in your hand luggage is often allowed, but specific restrictions are in place, especially for liquids or perishable items.

• Snacks / sandwiches – Approved as long as they don’t fall under liquid or paste restrictions.
• Baby food – Allowed in reasonable quantities.

Food: Forbidden items

• Liquids disguised as food (e.g., Hummus, Yogurt, Nutella) – Subject to the 100 ml limit.
• Cheese – soft cheese is more likely to be confiscated, while hard cheese may pass through security.

Miscellaneous allowed items:

Various other items may raise questions when packing your hand luggage.

• Lighter – Permitted in small quantities.
• E-cigarette / vape – Generally allowed, but restrictions may apply during flight.
• Knitting needles – Usually permitted in hand luggage.
• Umbrella – Allowed in most airports.

Forbidden/restricted items:

• Batteries (AA, AAA, Lithium-Ion) – Lithium-ion batteries are typically restricted in larger quantities.

Traveling with hand luggage in 2025 requires staying informed about the items you can and can’t carry. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared for your next flight. For more assistance with your air travel rights, MYFLYRIGHT is here to ensure your journey is smooth and hassle-free.