Items That Can Be Carried in Hand Luggage on Air Travel

Although air travel is a preferred method of transportation in terms of speed and comfort, the rules, especially hand luggage, can be confusing for many passengers. Knowing which items can be carried in hand luggage is the key to preventing problems that may arise during travel.

In this article, we provide tips to help you understand the rules of carry-on luggage and comprehensive information about the items that can be carried. If you want to plan your trip in accordance with the rules that apply to both domestic and international flights, continue reading. Organizing the items that can be carried in your carry-on luggage correctly will make your trip both safer and more comfortable.

What are the rules for hand luggage on planes?

Knowing the rules of hand luggage when planning a flight will both make your trip more comfortable and prevent any problems that may occur at the airport. The rules of hand luggage determined by airlines may vary significantly on both international and domestic flights. By following these rules, you can save both time and energy. Here are all the details you need to know about hand luggage on the plane:

1. General Policies of Airline Companies

Each airline has different hand luggage rules. However, the following principles are generally expected to be followed:

• One Baggage Rule : Most airlines allow passengers to carry only one carry-on bag and one small personal item (such as a purse or laptop sleeve).
• Security and Control : Items to be carried in hand luggage must comply with the standards determined in security checks. Special checks are carried out especially for liquids and electronic devices.

Learning about flight-specific rules from the airline's website will make your job easier before your trip.

2. Hand Luggage Size and Weight Limits

Each airline has specific limits for the size and weight of your carry-on luggage. If you exceed these limits, you may be charged an extra fee or your luggage will be directed to the cargo hold. The general standards are as follows:

• Size Limits : Hand luggage should generally not exceed the dimensions of 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm (height x width x depth).
• Weight Limits : Weight is generally limited to 7-10 kg. However, this limit may be lower on some airlines.
• Our advice : Check the dimensions and weight of your bag before going to the airport to avoid additional charges.

3. Differences Between International and Domestic Flights

Hand luggage rules may vary depending on the type of flight:

• International Flights : Stricter rules apply. Liquid carry-on limits, prohibited items lists and electronic device controls are more strictly enforced.
• Liquid products : Must comply with the 100 ml limit and be carried in a transparent, zip-lock bag.
• Items that can be transported : May vary by country. For example, some countries prohibit the transportation of agricultural products.
• Domestic Flights : More flexible rules apply. However, carry-on baggage size and weight limits do not change. Liquid carry-on rules are also generally less strict than on international flights.

Note: Keep in mind that airports may have additional rules based on your flight route. For example, the US and European countries may have additional security screenings for electronic devices.

Prepare Before Traveling!

When preparing your hand luggage, it is important to pay attention to both the rules of the airline company and the laws of the country you will be flying to. To make your trip easier and more enjoyable:

• Check the size and weight of your bag.
• Make sure the liquids and other items you carry are compliant.
• Organize your bag so that it is easily accessible at the security checkpoint.

If you prepare with all these details in mind, your flight experience will be more stress-free and enjoyable!

Essential Items to Carry in Hand Luggage

When preparing your hand luggage, following the rules set by the airline companies will both help you pass security checks quickly and have a smooth journey. Here are the items that can be carried in your hand luggage and the basic items that must be included:

1. Liquid Transport Rules

In air travel, the airline liquid carry-on limit is generally 100 ml. All of these products must be carried in a 1-liter transparent and zip-lock bag. For example:

• Products such as perfume, cream, toothpaste.
• Water and drinks (can be taken after the check-up).

2. Electronic Devices

Electronic devices allowed in carry-on luggage include:

• Phone and charger.
• Laptops and tablets.
• Accessories such as headphones.

Devices should be scanned by placing them in a separate tray at the security checkpoint.

3. Personal Care Products and Medicines

Essential items you may need on the plane should be in your hand luggage, such as:

• A toothbrush and mini toothpaste.
• Prescription medications and a doctor's note (to show if needed).
• Lens case and solution.

4. Documents

It is vital to have your travel documents in your hand luggage:

• Passport and ID card.
• Flight ticket or reservation information.
• Visa documents (if applicable).

By organizing your hand luggage according to these items, you can have a practical journey and save time at the airport.

Items Prohibited from Carrying in Hand Luggage

Due to airline security rules, there are certain items that are strictly prohibited to be carried in your hand luggage. Prohibited items can cause problems during your flight. You can avoid delays and potential problems at security checks by avoiding putting these items in your bag. Here are the basic items that are prohibited to be carried in your hand luggage:

1. Cutting and Drilling Tools

It is forbidden to carry any cutting or piercing tools in your hand luggage. Examples include:

• Knives, razors, scissors (with tips longer than 6 cm).
• Tools such as screwdrivers and pliers.

Such items may only be carried in cargo luggage.

2. Flammable Materials

Products that may pose a risk of explosion or fire are never taken into hand luggage. Prohibited items:

• Flammable liquids such as lighter fluid and spray paint.
• Fireworks, firecrackers or other pyrotechnic products.

3. Products That May Cause Problems in Security Control

Some items cannot be carried in hand luggage because they pose a risk at security checks:

• Large volume liquids (perfume, beverages, etc. exceeding the 100 ml limit).
• A toy gun or any object that looks like a real gun.
• Non-prescription drugs

Before you travel, preparing your luggage by reviewing your airline's and airport's prohibited items list is an important step to avoid potential mishaps.

Extra Items to Keep in Your Hand Luggage for Air Travel Comfort

Air travel can sometimes be a short journey of a few hours, and sometimes an experience that lasts for hours. Regardless of the duration of your journey, having a comfortable journey is completely in your hands!
Having the right items in your carry-on luggage will not only make you feel more comfortable during your trip but will also help you be prepared for unexpected situations. Here are some suggestions that will make your flight much more enjoyable:

1. Products That Will Increase Your Travel Comfort

Sometimes the seats in the airplane cabin may not be as comfortable as you expect. Especially on long flights, comfort products can be your savior:

• Neck Pillow : Classic U-shaped neck pillows provide head and neck support, making it easier to sleep in a sitting position. Inflatable models save space in your carry-on luggage.
• Eye Patch and Ear Plugs : Perfect for those who are disturbed by loud engine noises, passenger conversations or cabin lights during the flight. While the eye patch improves your sleep quality, ear plugs provide a peaceful rest.
• Shawl or Light Blanket : The temperature in the cabin is usually low. If airlines cannot provide blankets, taking a light and portable shawl with you will protect you from the cold.

2. Snacks and Drinks: Delicious Travel Companions

The refreshments offered by airlines may not always meet your needs. It is a good idea to bring your own snacks, especially on low-cost airlines, as refreshments are charged.

• Packaged Snacks : Products such as crackers, dried fruits, nuts, and energy bars will satisfy your hunger and can be easily consumed in the cabin.
• Baby Food : For families with children, baby food can be carried on the plane. These products usually do not cause any problems at security checks, but if you are buying ready-made food, it is important to choose unopened packages.
• Water and Collapsible Water Bottle : You can carry your water bottle empty before the flight to comply with the rules for carrying liquids, and fill it after security. It is very useful for not getting thirsty on long flights.

3. Life Saving Items for Families with Children

Traveling with kids can be tiring, especially on long flights. However, being prepared ahead of time can make things easier.

• Diapers and Wipes : This is the first thing families traveling with babies should check. Having enough diapers and cleaning supplies will make the plane ride smooth for you and your fellow passengers.
• Toys and Activity Books : Small toys or activity books that will distract and entertain your child can be a great savior. You can choose products that are silent or will not disturb the environment.
• Spare Clothes : Children may need a change of clothes frequently. Carrying a few spare clothes in a small bag will help you a lot.

4. Items That Meet Your Personal Needs

You can also keep personal items that are important to you and that you will use during the flight in your hand luggage:

• Phone and Charging Cable : There may not be an entertainment system in the cabin or you may want to use your devices. Make sure to have a charger or portable battery with you to listen to music, read a book or watch a movie using your phone.
• Hygiene Products : Products such as disinfectant, cologne or mini hand soap will help you stay hygienic during plane travel.

Hand Luggage Rules by Airline Companies

Each airline determines its carry-on baggage rules based on passenger needs and safety requirements. These rules can vary from the size and weight of the baggage to the items that can be carried and the amount of liquids allowed.

Below are some airlines' cabin baggage size information. For other rules, permissions, and prohibitions, be sure to check your airline's own policies on their website. Here are some of the world's most popular airlines' hand luggage rules:

1. Turkish Airlines (THY)

Turkish Airlines offers a flexible baggage policy on both international and domestic flights.

• Size : 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm.
• Weight : 8 kg in Economy class, 16 kg in Business class (2 pieces, in total).
• Extra Allowances : You may carry one small personal item (handbag, laptop bag, etc.).

Note : The liquids you will carry during the flight should not exceed 100 ml each and should not exceed 1 litre in total.

2. Pegasus Airlines

Pegasus, which is among the low-cost airlines, may be stricter regarding its baggage policies.

• Size : 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm.
• Weight : Limited to 8 kg.
• Extra Permissions : You are not allowed to carry a small personal item (bag, laptop) in addition to your hand luggage.

3. AnadoluJet

AnadoluJet, a subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, has relatively similar hand luggage rules.

• Size : 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm.
• Weight : 8 kg.

Note : Since economy class offers free baggage allowance on flights, hand luggage can be used by making it lighter.

4. Lufthansa

Lufthansa, one of Europe's leading airlines, adopts a flexible policy regarding hand luggage.

• Size : 55cm x 40cm x 23cm (foldable garment bag can be 57cm x 54cm x 15cm).
• Weight : 8kg for Economy Class, 2 pieces for Business and First Class, 8kg each.
• Extra Permits : A personal item such as a handbag or laptop bag may also be carried.

5.Ryan Air

Ryanair, one of Europe's low-cost airlines, has strict rules regarding hand luggage.

• Size : Only a small bag of 40cm x 20cm x 25cm can be carried for free.
• Weight : There is no weight limit for free baggage allowance.

Note : If you want to carry a larger size hand luggage, you need to purchase the “Priority” service (55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm, 10 kg).

6.Emirates

Known for its luxury services, Emirates offers its passengers a wide range of hand luggage rules.

• Size : 55 cm x 38 cm x 20 cm.
• Weight : 7 kg for Economy Class, 2 pieces for Business and First Class (7 kg each).
• Extra Permits : You are allowed to carry a separate handbag for duty-free shopping.

7.Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways, based in Qatar, offers a generous hand baggage allowance, especially on international flights.

• Size : 50 cm x 37 cm x 25 cm.
• Weight : 7 kg for Economy class, 2 pieces for Business and First Class (up to 15 kg each).
• Extra Permits : Additional rights are granted for personal items (bags, baby supplies).

8.EasyJet

EasyJet, another low-cost airline, has restrictive rules regarding hand luggage.

• Size : 45cm x 36cm x 20cm (for free shipping).
• Weight : There is no weight limit, but the bag must be able to fit on the overhead luggage rack.

• Note : You will need to pay extra for a larger piece of hand luggage.