What you can take on a plane

Introduction — Why knowing the rules is essential

Traveling with peace of mind starts with good preparation. Knowing the rules of airlines and authorities (IATA, EASA, national authorities) avoids unpleasant surprises at security and extra check-in fees. This guide covers in detail: cabin and hold baggage, rules on liquids up to 100 ml , electronics and lithium batteries , as well as practical tips for packing your suitcase with suitcase organizers and toiletry bags .

Regulatory framework: who sets the rules?

The main safety guidelines are defined by international and European organizations, then implemented and sometimes reinforced by each airline:

• IATA (International Air Transport Association) — guidelines on dangerous goods and batteries. ( iata.org )
• EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) — European standards and recommendations. ( easa.europa.eu )
• Airlines (examples: Air France , easyJet , Transavia ) — specific rules on cabin dimensions, allowances and permitted items.

These organizations guarantee safety, while company policies define the practical limits (cabin baggage dimensions, checked baggage fees, authorizations for powerful batteries, etc.).

Cabin baggage: dimensions, contents and best practices

Dimensions and exceptions by company

The most common standard size for cabin baggage is 55 × 35 × 25 cm , but some low-cost airlines have stricter dimensions (for example , 45 × 36 × 20 cm or 40 × 30 × 20 cm for the small free bag). Always check your airline's official website before departure.

What it is recommended to have in the cabin

For convenient and comfortable travel, pack the following in your carry-on luggage or personal accessory:

• Travel documents, passport, boarding pass
• Electronics (laptop, tablet, phone)
• A toiletry bag containing products ≤ 100 ml
• An external battery ≤ 100 Wh (if necessary)
• Clothing and a light change of clothes
• Valuables and medications

Organization tip — optimize your space

Use a suitcase organizer , clear liquid pouches, and a compartmentalized toiletry bag . Travel accessories such as packing cubes, document holders, and compressible bags improve volume management and comply with security regulations.

Liquid regulations: the 100ml rule explained

Basic principle

In the cabin, liquids are limited to containers of 100 ml maximum, all placed in a transparent, resealable bag of no more than 1 liter. This rule applies to perfumes, gels, shampoos, creams, toothpastes, and liquid drinks.

Exceptions

The main exceptions include liquid medications (accompanied by a prescription or receipt) and baby food. If in doubt, keep these items in your carry-on and present them at security.

Practical organization

Invest in 100ml travel bottles and a transparent pouch. Keep all your liquids together to speed up your passage through security.

Prohibited items and restrictions — airport security

Sharp and blunt objects

Knives, box cutters, large blades, and certain scissors are prohibited in the cabin. Blunt objects (bats, bars, tools) are also excluded from cabin baggage and, if permitted, must be transported in the hold properly packaged.

Hazardous substances and products

Flammable products, gases, solvents, or corrosive substances are strictly prohibited. Dangerous goods transport regulations follow IATA rules.

Concrete examples and checks

During security checks, agents are authorized to refuse dangerous items or request that they be checked into the hold. Plan ahead by checking your airline's list of prohibited items before departure.

Electronics & lithium batteries: essential rules

Batteries permitted in the cabin

Lithium batteries installed in devices (smartphones, computers, tablets) are generally permitted in the cabin. External batteries (power banks) are permitted only in the cabin and must comply with power limits ( 100 Wh without authorization, 100–160 Wh with approval).

Batteries are prohibited in the hold.

Spare lithium batteries are generally prohibited in checked baggage to limit the risk of fire. Pack them in your carry-on baggage, protected and insulated.

Practical recommendations

Label your equipment and keep batteries easily accessible for inspection. If you are transporting a drone or camera with high-powered batteries, contact the company for prior authorization.

Food, medicines and medical supplies

Food in the cabin and in the hold

Solid foods (sandwiches, fruit, energy bars) are generally permitted in the cabin. Liquid foods (yogurt, soup, compote) are subject to a 100ml limit. For exporting or importing food, please check the customs regulations of your destination country.

Medicines and medical equipment

Essential medications must remain in the cabin. Medical devices (inhalers, syringes, diabetic supplies) are permitted upon presentation of a medical certificate.

Sports equipment and bulky luggage

What should I put in the hold?

Skis, snowboards, bicycles, surfboards, and diving equipment are usually transported in the hold, often with additional charges and subject to packaging requirements. Check your airline's regulations for size and weight restrictions.

Packaging instructions

Protect your equipment with reinforced covers and cases. For bicycles, remove fragile components and inflate the tires before setting off.

Optimizing organization: accessories and best practices

Recommended travel accessories

• Packing cubes for organizing clothes and accessories
• Suitcase organizers to separate shoes and dirty laundry
• Transparent pouches for liquids
• Compact toiletry bag with sizes ≤ 100 ml
• Anti-theft bag or security pouch for documents and cards

Example of cabin organization (checklist)

1. Liquid pouch (100 ml max) + toiletry bag
2. Electronics and chargers in an easily accessible pocket
3. Medications and health documents as personal accessories
4. A light change of clothes and a jacket in the cabin baggage
5. Organizers to compartmentalize and reduce wrinkling

To make preparation easier, discover suitable solutions on our dedicated accessories page: Travel Storage Solutions .

Practical scenarios and quick FAQs

Can I put a power bank in my checked luggage?

No. External batteries and power banks must remain in the cabin to reduce risks during flight. Check the capacity in Wh and keep them in protective packaging.

What should I do if I have a bottle larger than 100 ml that is essential (medicine, infant formula)?

Present the product at the checkpoint with the prescription or justification. Security officers will apply the medical exception if necessary.

Can I take perfume in the cabin?

Yes, if the bottle is 100 ml or less and placed in the transparent sleeve. Larger perfumes must be in checked baggage or left for purchase at duty-free after security.

Conclusion — Travel better through preparation and proper travel packing

By adhering to the 100ml liquid limit, placing lithium batteries in the cabin, avoiding prohibited items, and using appropriate storage accessories , you can maximize your comfort and reduce pre-boarding stress. This guide is designed to be a practical reference for your preparations.

For tested airport organization solutions that meet security requirements, see our selection: Travel Storage Solutions .