In the wake of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, airline regulations regarding luggage (both carry-on and checked) has changed dramatically. In addition to maintaining passenger safety from potential acts of terrorism, baggage regulations can prevent accidents that could occur due to a plane being too heavy.
In order to maintain comfort and passenger safety, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires airlines to place rules and size limits on the baggage that each traveler can carry on the plane (see Resources below). For carry-on luggage, the primary rule is that bags carried onboard must be small enough to store underneath your seat or in the overhead compartment. Currently, carry-on bags must be no bigger than 22 inches in height, 14 inches in width, and 9 inches in depth.
In addition to the physical size of luggage, there are also restrictions on weight for checked bags. While some airlines had a 70 pounds per item limit, many airlines have recently reduced the maximum item weight to 50 pounds. Airline limits on baggage weight and size vary, so avoid penalties for excess weight by checking with the airline you are using.
New regulations state that travelers may have one carry-on bag and one personal item (i.e. a purse or laptop bag). Liquids and gels are allowed in carry-on luggage only if they are inside of a container of three ounces or less and are confined in a clear, quart-size or smaller Ziploc bag. Passengers are only permitted to have one Ziploc bag. While lighters, explosive materials, and other flammable materials are strictly prohibited in carry-on bags and in checked luggage, many other items (firearms, sports equipment, and sharp objects) are allowed in checked luggage (see Resources below).
With the strict regulations regarding outside liquids on planes, there is a common belief that any liquid over a certain size, even medication, is prohibited. In actuality, eye drops, saline solutions, and medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) are allowed in carry-on bags on the plane (see Resources below).
Shampoo, lotion, toothpaste and other large bottles of liquids and gels purchased prior to reaching airport security, are allowed on the plane, but must be inside of checked baggage. If these items are found in purses or other carry-on luggage, they will be confiscated and are often thrown away.
