We’ve all been there. You get to airport security and they pull you up for that corkscrew you packed for the party. Or you’ve gone overboard on your liquids. But not anymore. With our helpful guide, you’ll know exactly what you can pack in your hand luggage.

Complete guide to hand luggage

What you can and can’t take on a plane

One of the last things you need to do before you travel is finalise your packing. Once you know all about cabin bag sizes, the next thing you need to check is the items you’re allowed to take on board. From sharp objects and electronics to fresh food and everyday items, you can find all the answers you need in this complete guide to what you can take on a plane in your hand luggage – and what’s not allowed.

Everyday items and hand luggage restrictions

Scissors, umbrellas and other everyday items

If you’re planning on doing arts and crafts on board, scissors with rounded edges or with blades less than 6cm are fine for the cabin. Other everyday objects such as umbrellas, canes and even knitting needles are allowed in your carry-on luggage too. However, knives and open razor blades are prohibited from hand luggage on UK flights.

Electronics and hand luggage restrictions

Can I take laptops, hairdryers and other electrical items on board?

In terms of electrical items, your laptop, hair straighteners and travel razor are, generally speaking, allowed in your hand luggage according to UK carry-on rules. Most UK airlines simply request that your electrical items have enough battery for the duration of the flight. In some cases, you’ll be required to show airport security that the item turns on before being allowed to take it on your flight.

Medicine and UK hand luggage restrictions

Can I take medicine on a plane in a cabin bag?

Generally, medicines and pills can packed in hand luggage. Medicines in liquid form must be in containers of 100ml or smaller, in original packaging. If you need more than 100ml, notify your airline in advance. You may be asked to provide a note from your doctor. For oxygen or air for medical use, the carry-on rules will depend on your airline.

Food items and UK hand luggage restrictions

Can I bring food (sandwiches, snacks, nuts) on a flight?

Make sure you check if your chosen food is allowed. For instance, soft cheese is not permitted on flights, whereas hard cheese usually is. Solid food is generally permitted on board and isn't a prohibited item, as long as no other passenger has severe allergies. Liquids over 100ml (including soups, caramel filled truffles, honeys and syrups) must adhere to liquid restrictions.

Flying with sports equipment to and from the UK

Can I bring sports equipment into the cabin?

If you have a match or a competition abroad and you need to fly with your sports equipment to get there, check the hand luggage restrictions of your chosen airline. As a general rule, most sports equipment will have to go in the hold, according to carry-on rules and security guidelines. However, some may be allowed in the cabin, like tennis racquets and snooker cues.

Flying with work tools and equipment

Can I take work tools and equipment in hand luggage?

Unlike other categories, no work tools or equipment can be packed in your hand luggage. They are prohibited items on UK flights, typically for safety and security reasons. If you happen to be a designer, painter or carpenter, the hammer, nails and paint spray will have to go in the hold.

What to pack in children's hand luggage

Not including entertainment!

If you’re travelling with children to and from the UK, there are items you can bring on board as part of their carry-on luggage allowance to make their flight more comfortable.

What other items aren’t allowed in hand luggage?

There are plenty of reasons to travel, and therefore plenty of items that one might want to take on board. If anything you're looking for hasn't been covered so far, hopefully it'll be included in the lists below!

Can you take camping tent on board?

Including poles and tent pegs

You will need to put your tent in the hold in line with airline security guidelines (those tent poles can be dangerous).

Are candles allowed on planes in hand luggage?

No, these have to go in the hold

Candles are counted as a liquid, so don’t try to take these overseas in your hand luggage.

What dangerous items will not be allowed?

All hazardous materials, pointed or sharp objects

Weapons (revolvers, firearms, pistols, rifles) are prohibited items on UK flights. This is also the case for tear gas, compressed gas, cleaning products, fire extinguishers and other ‘chemicals and toxic substances’. And that includes peroxide, so don’t bring your hair dye with you, either.

All forms of fire starting items

An obvious call out

Rockets and fireworks are banned in the cabin, in all forms. This includes bang snaps (the little, snapping gunpowder bags kids usually play with), and Christmas crackers – that sliver of gunpowder inside the festive wrapping makes them a no-no on board.

Always check before you pack

Save yourself time and hassle at security

Before you pack your carry-on bag and set off for the airport, we’d recommend always checking the latest information on hand luggage with your airline, as well as making sure you’ve checked out the most up-to-date government guidance.

Now you’re up to date on all you need to know about hang luggage, you can pack for your trip with confidence.

Information correct as of August 2024, obtained from https://www.gov.uk/hand-luggage-restrictions. Please always check the latest guidance before booking a trip.