What can I take in my hand luggage?

A well-packed hand luggage can make the difference between a relaxed trip and a stressful flight experience. It is not only practical to have the most important things to hand on the plane, but also necessary to comply with the current safety regulations. In this text, you will learn everything you need to know about hand luggage - from the permitted and prohibited items to the must-haves that should definitely not be missing.

The Basics of Hand Luggage

Hand luggage is the part of the luggage that you take with you into the cabin of the aircraft. The size and weight of hand luggage can vary depending on the airline. As a rule, the maximum size is around 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm and the weight between 7 and 10 kg. However, it is always worth checking the exact regulations of your airline, as these may differ from the general regulations. Travel bags, backpacks, handbags and small suitcases are suitable to take with you.

Permitted items on the plane

There are many things you can take with you in your hand luggage. Here is an overview of the most common and important items:

Electronic devices

Laptop, tablet, smartphone: These devices are permitted, but must be switched off or in flight mode during take-off and landing. At security checks, you must remove them from your hand luggage and have them scanned separately.

Camera: Cameras and associated equipment (such as lenses) may be taken along.

Power bank: Power banks are allowed as long as they do not exceed the specified capacity (usually a maximum of 100 Wh for safety reasons).

clothing and accessories

Clothing: You can take a change of clothes with you. Light jackets or sweaters are always a good idea, as it is often cool on airplanes.

Scarves and shawls: These are ideal for keeping yourself comfortable during the flight.

Sunglasses or glasses: Of course, your visual aids are allowed in your hand luggage.

toiletries

Toiletries are subject to strict regulations. Liquids, creams and gels may only be taken onto the plane in containers with a maximum capacity of 100 ml. These must be packed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag (maximum volume of 1 liter).

Toothpaste, shampoo, shower gel: Only in small quantities, observe the 100 ml limit.

Deodorant: Roll-on or spray in small formats is also allowed.

Cosmetics: Mascara, lipstick and foundation are permitted in small containers.

Groceries

You can carry snacks, sandwiches or fruit in your hand luggage. However, liquid foods such as soups or sauces are subject to the 100 ml restrictions.

medications

Prescription medication: These can be carried in hand luggage. It is advisable to have a doctor's certificate or prescription with you to avoid any questions at the security check.

Liquid medication: Liquid medication may be taken in quantities larger than 100 ml if it is necessary for the flight. A medical certificate is also advisable here.

baby food

If you are travelling with a baby, you are allowed to take the required amount of baby food with you on the plane. This includes both liquid food and milk powder.

valuables

Important personal documents such as your passport, flight ticket and cash should always be carried in your hand luggage. Jewellery, watches or other valuable items should also be carried in your hand luggage, as they could get lost in your checked luggage.

What is not allowed in hand luggage?

Not all things that you use in everyday life are allowed in your hand luggage. Here is a list of items that you are not allowed to take with you under any circumstances:

Sharp or pointed objects

Knives, scissors and razor blades: These items are strictly prohibited in hand luggage if the blades are longer than 6 cm. Small nail scissors or tweezers are usually allowed, but it is advisable to store them in checked luggage.

Tools: Hammers, screwdrivers, pliers or similar tools are not permitted in hand luggage.

sports equipment

Rackets, ski poles or hiking sticks: such items are considered potentially dangerous and may not be taken into the cabin. It is best to hand in your luggage with your sports equipment at the airport - at the so-called bulky baggage counter.

Ice skates: These are also not allowed in hand luggage.

lighters and matches

Lighters: As a rule, you are only allowed to carry one lighter, and it must be on you, i.e. in your jacket pocket. It may not be stored in your hand luggage.

Matches: Some airlines allow a pack of safety matches, but you should check beforehand.

liquids over 100 ml

Any liquids in containers larger than 100 ml are prohibited, even if only part of the liquid has been used and the rest is less than 100 ml. The only exceptions are medicines and baby food.

Dangerous substances

Chemicals and gases: Flammable substances, paints, sprays or flammable gases are not permitted. This also includes camping stoves or fireworks.

What should definitely be in your hand luggage?

In addition to the basic things, there are some must-haves that you should definitely pack in your hand luggage:

Important Documents

Your passport, visa, boarding pass and other travel documents should always be within reach. A separate document holder or small bag for them can be very practical.

Technical devices and chargers

Electronic devices such as your smartphone or laptop provide entertainment and are useful companions when traveling. But don't forget to take the corresponding chargers with you. Power banks are generally not allowed in checked luggage and must therefore be carried in hand luggage.

headphones

Long flights can quickly become boring, so a good pair of headphones is worth its weight in gold – especially noise-canceling models to reduce aircraft noise.

neck support and sleep mask

For comfort on long-haul flights, neck supports and sleep masks are a must. They help you relax better during the flight and maybe even sleep.

Small snacks and water

Although many flights offer food, it never hurts to have a small snack with you. However, remember that for security reasons you are only allowed to take liquids in 100 ml containers. It is best to buy a bottle of water after the airport security check in the duty free shop, as you will not be able to get large quantities of liquids through the security check. Another option is an empty bottle with a larger capacity that you can take with you after the

disinfectants and masks

In times of pandemics and increased hygiene awareness, disinfectants and respiratory masks are indispensable. Many airports and airlines require the wearing of a mask, especially during boarding and disembarking. Clarify all special regulations before you start your journey.