Hand luggage or hold? Where to pack everything
If you're unsure of whether you should be putting items in your hand or hold luggage, consult this official list before you even think about packing
Many everyday items now appear on the potentially hazardous list. Here's a guide, based on official government advice, but do bear in mind that rules change so it's wise to check before travelling. For specific queries and more information, visit www.gov.uk.
Personal items
Corkscrew Hold
Knife (with a sharp or pointed and/or blade longer than 6cm) Hold - check with your airline)
Small scissors (blades no longer than 6cm) Hand or hold
Large scissors (blades longer than 6cm) Hold - check with your airline
Fixed-cartridge razor blades (disposable razor) Hand or hold
Nail clippers/nail file Hand or hold
Tweezers Hand or hold
Knitting and sewing needles Hand or hold
Walking stick/cane, walking aid Hand or hold
Pushchair Hand or hold
Wheelchair Hand or hold
Safety matches Hand
Cigarette lighter Neither but you can put a lighter in a plastic liquids bag and keep it on your person
Essential medicines and medical equipment
You’re allowed to carry essential medicines of more than 100ml in your hand luggage, but you need supporting documentation from a relevant medical professional (eg a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescription). The same applies for gel packs. Airport staff might need to open the containers to screen the liquids at the security point.
You can take medical equipment with you if it’s essential for your journey. The equipment is screened separately and you must show documentation from a qualified medical professional.
Tablets and capsules Hand or hold
Essential liquid medicines Hand (over 100ml if screened successfully) or hold
Inhalers Hand or hold
Medical equipment Hand or hold
Oxygen cylinders Contact your airline
Electronic devices and electrical items
Hairdryer or straighteners Hand or hold
Camera and camera equipment Hand or hold
Travel iron Hand or hold
Electric shaver Hand or hold
There are restrictions on lithium cells and batteries for items such as laptops, cameras and mobile phones. Check with your airline before you travel.
Sports equipment
Golf clubs Hold
Walking/hiking poles Hold
Diving equipment Check with your airline before you travel
Baby food and baby milk
When travelling with a baby you’re allowed to take enough baby food, baby milk and sterilised water for the journey. In some cases this will be over 100ml.
Airport staff might need to open the containers to screen the liquids at the security point.
Breast milk, formula milk, cow’s milk Hand or hold
Sterilised water for babies Hand (must be in a baby bottle) or hold
Soya milk for babies Hand or hold
Baby food Hand or hold
Work tools
Tool with blade or shaft longer than 6cm Hold
Stanley knife Hold
Screwdriver Hold
Hammer Hold
Pliers Hold
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