Luggage Regulations for Air Transit

There are several restrictions on what you can pack for a trip requiring air travel.

With airport security reaching ever-greater heights, the restrictions on what you can take on a plane are growing. Trying to carry on or check luggage that is against regulation can cost you valuable time and may even make you miss your flight.

Luggage Rules

Any bag that cannot fit easily into an overhead compartment must be checked.

You may carry on one small bag that fits in an overhead compartment and a purse or other small bag. All other luggage must be checked. Many airlines are charging for checked luggage, as of 2010. While some airlines allow one free checked bag, be prepared to pay a fee for any checked luggage. The fee varies depending on bag weight and airline.

Prohibited Items

Small bottles of liquid are allowed.

You cannot carry on any sharp objects, guns or any fire-making device, with the exception of personal use lighters. Liquids can be carried on in small amounts, the general rule being each passenger is allowed one quart-sized zip-locked bag containing 3.4 oz. containers of liquid.

Exceptions

Baby bottles are allowed on the plane so long as they are declared ahead of time.

Baby food, formula, breast milk and liquid medications are allowed in your carry-on bags so long as you declare them at the check point. These items do not need to be in a zip-locked, clear bag.

References

• Thokalath.com: Airline Baggage Rules
• Transportation Security Administration: Make Your Trip Better Using 3-1-1
• Transportation Security Administration: Prohibited Items

Resources

• Transportation Security Administration: Prohibited Items