Indian airports enforce strict hand luggage rules: sharp objects, liquids over 100ml, lighters, large power banks, tools, sports gear, e-cigarettes, and large sprays are banned. Essentials, electronics, documents, and small toiletries under 100ml are allowed.
Imagine this: you are on the other side of the security check, waiting for your bag to get scanned. Multiple people are standing around you doing the same, and then they suddenly start receiving their bags. However, you suddenly notice the airport authority singling your bag out. Embarrassing, right? It also becomes stressful because you start questioning what went wrong in the first place. Many people lose valuable time, and sometimes even expensive belongings, simply because they are not aware of the rules of hand luggage. Indian airports, like other international airports, follow strict cabin rules. While some are common sense, others might surprise you. To make your next trip smoother, here are 10 things you should never pack in your hand luggage.
Also Read: 7 Things You Should Never Say At The Immigration And Why
What Is Cabin Baggage On A Flight | Meaning Of Hand Luggage
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Before understanding what not to pack, it helps to clarify what cabin baggage or hand luggage means. Hand luggage, or a carry-on, refers to the bag you are allowed to take with you on the aircraft. It keeps essentials close, saves you from waiting at baggage claim, and ensures your travel begins on a more convenient note.
10 Things You Should Never Pack In Hand Luggage At Indian Airports
1. Sharp Objects Of Any Kind
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Knives, scissors, razor blades, and even nail cutters fall under the category of “sharp objects” and are banned in cabin baggage. Airport security treats anything that can cause harm to others as a weapon, even if you only meant to use it for grooming. If you are carrying a personal grooming kit, always make sure that there is nothing sharp inside. Pack these items in your checked luggage instead.
2. Liquids Over 100ml
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When it comes to carrying liquids in hand luggage, Indian airports follow international standards. Any bottle or container larger than 100ml, be it water, shampoo, sauce, pickle, or even perfume, will be flagged by the airport security. Even if you argue that it is sealed or unopened, security will not allow it through. The safest option is to carry travel-sized bottles under the 100ml limit and place them in a transparent pouch.
3. Lighters And Matchboxes
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Even a single lighter or matchbox in your handbag can get detained at security. These items are treated as fire hazards and are not permitted in hand luggage on domestic or international flights. This mistake is often made by smokers as they toss a lighter in their pocket or carry-on. It is better to leave them behind or buy one after you land.
4. Power Banks Over 160Wh
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Power banks are allowed only in cabin bags and never in checked-in luggage. However, there is a limit. Any battery over 160 watt-hours is strictly prohibited. Airlines in India are very particular about this, and carrying an oversized power bank could mean losing it at the gate. Before you pack, check the label on your device to make sure it complies with airline guidelines.
5. Tools And Equipment
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Hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, or even small wrenches are all off-limits in your hand luggage. Tools are considered weapons and are restricted by airport authorities. While you may have packed them for practical reasons, security staff will not allow them through. If absolutely necessary, put them in your checked-in baggage.
6. Sporting And Fitness Gear
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Items like cricket bats, hockey sticks, tennis rackets, dumbbells, or even skipping ropes can get you stopped at security. They may appear harmless as sports or fitness gear, but they are treated as potential safety risks on board. If you are travelling for a match or workout trip, make sure to pack this equipment in your main luggage.
7. Electronic Cigarettes And Vapes
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E-cigarettes and vapes are banned at Indian airports, both in cabin and checked baggage. Authorities treat them as restricted items under the law, and these will be confiscated at the security checkpoint. In some cases, carrying them could even lead to fines. If you are a vape user, it is best not to carry them to the airport.
8. Sprays
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Pressurised containers such as large deodorant cans, hair sprays, or insect sprays are not allowed in hand luggage. They are seen as risky items due to the pressurisation inside the cabin. Small travel-size sprays of 100 ml may be allowed, but larger cans will be removed at security. To avoid losing your toiletries, make sure to pack them, like other liquid items, in your checked-in bag.
What Items Are Allowed In Cabin Baggage | Approved Hand Luggage Items
While there are restrictions, passengers are permitted to carry several items in their hand baggage. Knowing what is allowed can save time and stress at the airport.
Essentials
Clothing – You are allowed to wear clothing and bring a reasonable number of clothing items in your carry-on luggage.
Medications – Prescription medications, essential medical equipment, and contact lenses or solutions are permitted in reasonable quantities.
Personal Care Items – Toiletries like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and deodorant are allowed in containers of 100 ml or less, packed in a clear, resealable bag.
Electronics
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Cell Phones – You can carry your mobile phone and its accessories, such as chargers and headphones.
Laptops And Tablets – These are allowed in carry-on luggage, but you may need to remove them from your bag for separate screening.
Cameras – Cameras and other portable electronic devices are permitted in your hand luggage.
Documents And Valuables
Important Documents – Passports, visas, ID cards, and travel papers should be kept in your carry-on luggage for easy access.
Cash And Valuables – Keep your cash, jewellery, and other valuable items in your hand luggage to ensure their safety.
Food And Drinks
Small Snacks – You can bring items like energy bars, nuts, or dried fruits.
Beverages – Drinks purchased after security checkpoints are generally allowed on board.
Baby Food And Milk – These are usually permitted, but may be subject to additional screening.
Other Items
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Ladies' Handbags And Small Purses – These are allowed in carry-on luggage, though they may be screened separately.
Overcoats And Umbrellas – You can wear your overcoat and bring a folding umbrella on board.
Reading Material – Books, magazines, and novels are allowed in hand baggage.
Duty-Free Items – A small amount of duty-free goods, where permitted, is generally allowed.
Also Read: How To Book The Best Train Seats Without Any Agents
Other Things Travellers Must Know:
1. Can You Carry Perfume In Hand Luggage?
Yes, you can carry perfume in your hand baggage, but with restrictions. Perfume bottles must be 100ml or less and placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag to get through security smoothly.
2. Can You Carry Baby Food Or Milk On A Flight?
Yes, baby food, formula, and milk are allowed in reasonable quantities, even if they exceed the 100ml liquid rule. Inform security officers, and they will guide you through the process.
3. Can You Carry Food From Home In Hand Luggage?
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Yes, you can carry food from home in your hand luggage, but with certain conditions. Dry food items like sandwiches, parathas, biscuits, and snacks are generally permitted. However, liquids, gravies, curries, or pickles over 100ml will not be allowed through security. If you plan to carry homemade food, stick to dry options to avoid losing it at the checkpoint.
4. Can You Carry Medicines In Cabin Baggage?
Medicines are permitted in hand luggage, but it is advisable to keep a doctor's prescription handy, especially for liquid medicines or injections. Essential medical devices like inhalers, insulin pens, and syringes are allowed, but they may be subject to additional screening. Always carry medicines in their original packaging to avoid confusion at security.
5. Can You Carry Jewellery In Hand Luggage?
Yes, you can carry jewellery in your hand luggage, and it is often safer than placing it in checked baggage. However, if you are travelling internationally with large quantities of gold or expensive jewellery, you may need to declare it at customs. Keeping it in your cabin bag ensures it stays with you throughout the journey.
Power Banks And Electronics: Checked Baggage Vs Hand Baggage
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Power banks, trimmers, and most lithium battery-powered devices are allowed only in cabin baggage, never in checked baggage. Laptops, cameras, and tablets are also best kept in your carry-on for safety. Chargers and cables can be carried in either bag, but keeping them in hand luggage is more practical if you need them during your journey.
Prohibited Items List By Indian Airports
For complete clarity, passengers can always refer to the official Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) website or their airline's website. Both maintain updated lists of prohibited items in hand and checked baggage, ensuring travellers avoid confusion before reaching the airport.
International Travel Vs Domestic Travel: Is There A Difference?
Most hand luggage rules remain the same for both domestic and international flights from Indian airports. The main difference comes in the case of duty-free shopping and liquid allowances for international travellers. While the 100ml rule applies at security, passengers can buy duty-free alcohol or perfumes after clearing immigration, which are sealed and allowed on board. For domestic flights, duty-free purchases do not apply.
Also Read: Why Coconuts Are Banned On Flights And What Foods You Can Carry Instead
6 Quick Tips To Pack Your Cabin Baggage | Carry-On Packing Guide
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Check Airline Restrictions – Verify size and weight limits for cabin luggage. This ensures you comply with airline regulations and helps avoid gate-checking or extra fees.
Pack Essentials – Include travel documents, medications, and electronics. Chargers and adapters are must-haves. Keep valuables like jewellery and cash safe.
Use A Clear Liquids Bag – Follow the 100 ml rule for liquids, gels, and sprays. Containers must be 100 ml or less, placed in a clear, ziplock bag.
Wear Bulky Items – Wear your heaviest items like coats and boots to save space in your cabin baggage.
Organise Belongings – Use pockets and compartments to keep items accessible. This helps you find what you need quickly. Keep frequently used items handy.
Leave Space For Souvenirs – Avoid overpacking. Leave room for items you might purchase. This reduces stress on your return journey.
So, follow this simple guide and avoid carrying these items in your cabin luggage.
