While air travelers are allowed to carry certain liquids, gels and aerosols on and airplane, there are very strict regulations. All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in a 3.4-oz or smaller container. No exceptions are granted on this policy, except for prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines, baby formula, breast milk and other essential liquids, gels and aerosols. All liquids, gels and aerosols much be placed inside one quart-size plastic bag. The bag must be clear and must zip at the top. Each traveler is only allowed one of these bags in their carry-on luggage. Travelers must remove the quart-sized bag from carry-on when going through airport security. The bag must also go through the X-ray screening machine.
There are an abundance of items not allowed to be taken on an airline in carry-on luggage. These specifications are important to know so that you do not get pulled aside when going through airport security. Sharp items, such as box cutters, swords, sabers and meat cleavers are not allowed. Sporting good items are not allowed, such as baseball bats, golf clubs, hockey sticks and ski poles are not allowed. No guns and firearms are allowed in carry-on luggage. Tools, such as axes, crowbars, hammers, drills and saws are also not allowed in carry-on luggage. Other various items not allowed in carry-on luggage include snow globes, flammable liquid and gel shoe inserts.
Airlines are very strict when it comes to the size of carry-on luggage. The reasons include the limited amount of storage space on the airplane and the limited space under the seats. Typically, airlines allow one carry-on bag per passenger, as well as one personal item per passenger. The average weight allowed per piece of carry-on luggage is 40 pounds, but may vary by airline. The average maximum size allowed per piece of carry-on luggage is 55 total inches. A personal item may carry something, such as a purse or laptop computer. Personal items must fit underneath the seat in front of you.
Carry-on personal items for special needs passengers may include wheelchairs, portable oxygen, needles, canes and other special machines, but must meet certain restrictions and be passed through security. These items may also incur extra charges if they exceed the airline allowances.
