Hand luggage restrictions can vary widely between specific airlines, airports and countries. The following guide provides sample information, but you should always check for specific restrictions with the airline you use, any airports where you stop and any countries you visit. Hand luggage is also called hand baggage or carry-on baggage.
Hand luggage must be able to fit in the airline's overhead compartments or under the seat in front of you. American Airlines allows one carry-on bag with a combined length, width and height of 45 inches and one personal item with a combined length, width and height of 36 inches. Personal items include backpacks, purses, briefcases, laptops and similar items. Not all airlines and airports allow personal items in addition to hand luggage. The size restrictions used by British Airways, 56-by-45-by-25 cm (22-by-18-by-10 inches), are typical for other airlines.
Weight allowances for hand luggage in the United States are usually more generous than other countries. American Airlines allows hand luggage to weigh up to 40 lbs (18 kg) on flights within the U.S. Budget airlines or international airlines tend to have lower weight allowances, usually between 15 and 22 lbs (7 to 10 kg).
Most airlines will only allow you to carry small amounts of liquids. Each liquid must be less than 3.4 ounces (100 ml). All liquids must be placed in an 8-by-8 inch (20-by-20 cm) zip-top plastic bag. The bag must be completely closed and all items must fit comfortably in the bag. When you go through airport security you will be asked to remove the bag so that it can be screened separately.
The list of banned and restricted items is similar for most countries and airlines. You cannot carry alcohol that is more than 70 percent per volume, cutting instruments, defense sprays, fireworks, firearms, flammables, household cleaners, pressure containers, certain types of scissors, most tools or strike anywhere matches. Many countries also ban meat, cheese, sausages and lard from hand luggage. Certain items, such as digital cameras and laptops, are limited to one per passenger. Call your airline ahead of time to check if you have any questions regarding banned or restricted items.
Before packing for your journey make sure you know what the specific restrictions are for the airline you are using. Call your airline to ask what the weight limit is for hand luggage. Some airlines vary the weight allowance by route or by type of aircraft. Before packing your liquids in a neat zip-top bag, make sure that the airports you are using do not have additional restrictions on liquids.
Always weigh your hand luggage before leaving for the airport. Make sure it is not too heavy. Place liquids and electronic items at the top of the bag so they are easily accessible for screening. Expect your bags to be open and searched several times during your trip, so if you have any personal articles that you don't want perused by airport security, pack them in your checked baggage.
