While most prohibited items may seem obvious, there are some that you’ll be stunned make the list of things you shouldn’t be taking with you.
While UK airports have gone back and forth on their 100 millilitre liquid rule, there are some baggage restrictions that have remained steadfast. Including some that are continually surprising and seemingly nonsensical.
The fear of holding up the line at security will probably ensure most travellers double check the list of restricted and prohibited items for hand baggage. And while some prohibited items may seem obvious, there are many that are likely to surprise you.
According to KLM , the Dutch airline, these are the items you should double check before you zip up your luggage.
Electronics and lithium batteries
While you’re allowed to bring up to 15 electronic devices with a lithium battery in your hand baggage, you’ll need to request permission to carry any lithium battery up to 160 Wh. This likely won’t apply to you. Though, it’s important to note that for flights from or via Dubai, passengers are forbidden from bringing pagers and walkie talkies. These items will be confiscated at Dubai airport without exceptions.
Some electronic items, while permissible for your hand baggage, are prohibited to use once you board an airplane including: remote control toys and televisions. The reason being that these devices may interfere with the plane’s navigation systems. E-cigarettes are not permissible in your hand baggage, though this rule may vary depending on the country to which you are travelling.
All of the following self-balancing devices are also prohibited in your hand baggage, whether or not their batteries have been removed:
The only exception to the above is if you require a self-balancing device for mobility assistance. You’ll need to request permission for this at least 48 hours before your flight departure, however.
Weapons
Unsurprisingly, firearms are banned on airplanes. This includes everything from pistols, revolvers, rifles and shotguns to toy guns, pellet guns, and air pistols. Slingshots, stun guns and BB guns are also not allowed on.
Some more common items that are prohibited include:
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Razor blades (with the exception of disposable razors blades)
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Scissors
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Box cutters
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Needles and crochet hooks
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Baseball and softball bats
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Fishing rods
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Golf clubs
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Hockey and lacrosse sticks
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Skateboards and longboards
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Printer and toner cartridges
Small cigarette lighters and matches can be carried on your person, but not packed in your hand baggage.
Liquids
While liquids are still prohibited (which includes yoghurt, unfortunately), baby food and liquid medications are acceptable. As well as any foods required as part of a special diet. 100ml liquids must be put into clear bags at most airports, so they can be screened properly.
Cash
Finally, there is no limit on the amount of cash you can bring aboard an airplane. However you may need to declare how much cash you are carrying, in some cases. You can double check if this applies to you on the customs website.
Razor blades
Loose razor blades are forbidden in your hand luggage, Gilette says, but they can be packed in checked-in baggage. Disposable and electronic razors are allowed in a hand luggage bag.
Sharp-edged items
Anything with a pointed edge could be questioned at security. Some examples of what not to pack includes:
- Arrows and darts
- Axes, hatchets, cleavers, machetes and other items designed for chopping
- Ice axes and ice picks
- Razor blades (except for of disposable razor blades)
- Scissors, box cutters, jack knives, flick knives, scalpels
- Box cutters
- Ice skates, climbing irons
- Sabres, swords, and sword sticks
- Needles and crochet hooks
