Getting ready to travel can be a stressful process if you are uncertain about what is allowed on a flight and what not to bring on a plane. Keeping up to date on TSA rules can be confusing and it can be stressful to pack your luggage if you aren't certain that certain items are going to make it onto the plane with you.
That's why we've pulled together this quick and clear guide to what you can bring on a flight in 2023 and what you are not allowed to bring on a plane the next time you travel.
Below we will answer all of your questions about what not to bring on a plane, including:
- Can you bring cigarettes on a plane?
- Can you bring deodorant on a plane?
- What electronics can I bring on a plane?
Read through the guide below before you get started packing your carry on or checked luggage and you'll enjoy a much less stressful time when it comes to checking in for your next flight!
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Can You Bring Cigarettes on a Plane?
If you are a smoker, this may be one of the main concerns you have when preparing for your flight. Well, the good news is that you are allowed to bring cigarettes with you in your carry-on, checked bags, or pockets. The bad news is you will not be able to smoke them during the flight.
If you are a vaper, you can also bring e liquids with you in your checked bags or carry on (as long as it is 100ml/3.4 oz or below.) In terms of vaping devices and electronic cigarettes, you can bring these in your carry on bags, but not your checked bags.
You are also expected to take measures to ensure that the heating elements in the device are not activated during the flight (the simplest solution is to remove the battery from the device). Device batteries cannot exceed a rating of 100 Wh for lithium ion batteries and a lithium content of 2 grams for lithium material batteries.
Can You Bring Deodorant on a Plane?
Another common practical worry, (particularly if you are facing a long-haul flight or flying internationally), is whether you can bring deodorant on a plane. Well, luckily you can battle the sweaty effects of travel by including deodorant in your carry on and checked bags.
However, there are some restrictions according to the type of deodorant you have and how many toiletries you are permitted to have in your checked bags. You should not have more than 2L or 2 kg of toiletries or medicinal items in your checked baggage.
Aerosol, solid, stick, and roll on deodorants are permitted in both your carry on and checked baggage as long as they are 100ml/3.4oz or below and fit within the overall checked baggage toiletries regulations. The spray on/aerosol deodorant needs to include a protective cap to make sure it doesn't activate and spray during travel.
Whether you have spray or solid deodorants, the container capacity should not be larger than 500ml or 0.5kg.
What Electronics Can I Bring on a Plane?
In terms of electronics, you can relax safe in the knowledge that cell phones and other devices are permitted in both your carry-on and checked baggage! However, all items larger than a smartphone must be removed from your baggage and subjected to separate x ray screening.
Laptops, DVD players, and other electronic devices can be packed in your carry on or checked baggage. But if you want to carry them to use inflight, you should check the measurement of the overhead or under the front seat to make sure they'll fit.
Can I Bring My Own Food Onto a Plane?
If you want to avoid airplane food when you travel, then you may be considering packing a few of your favorite snacks to keep yourself fed on the flight. Thankfully, the only limit to how much food you can bring onto a plane is the size limit of your carry-on luggage.
For domestic flights, you can also pack food in your suitcase. However, you will need to remove powders that are larger than 12oz when you go through security checks.
If you are flying internationally, you should always remember to always check the customs rules and regulations of your destination to make sure that you don't run into trouble when you arrive.
What Am I Not Allowed to Bring on a Plane?
In terms of what is absolutely not allowed in your luggage. Here is a list of some items you should definitely not pack the next time you are heading to the airport:
- Power tools, saws, and hammers.
- Hand tools that are over 7 inches long.
- Alcoholic beverages which are over 140 proof.
- Guns and ammunition
- Blades and knives (pocket knives are permissible on your checked baggage but not your carry on.)
- Brass knuckles or other weapons.
- Swords, axes, bows, arrows, bludgeons, and hatchets.
- Scissors with blades that are longer than 4 inches, box cutters, and other sharp objects.
- Baseball bats, hockey sticks, ski poles, golf clubs, hiking poles, and other items which can be used as makeshift items.
- Kayak or canoe paddles, tent poles, and tent spikes.
- Replica or toy weapons and squirt guns.
- Flare guns, tactical pens, and tactical flashlights.
- Pepper spray, tear gas, and bear spray.
- Fire extinguishers.
- Sticks or crowbars.
What is the TSA 3-1-1 Liquid Rule?
When packing your toiletries, gels, and creams you are allowed to bring a quart sized sealable bag which is limited to 100ml or 3.4 ounces for each item. This regulation is known as the TSA 3-1-1 Liquid rule. This can be contained in your carry on bag and go through checkpoint security.
Toiletry containers that are larger than 3.4 ounces should be packed in your checked luggage.
Items that must comply with these rules include stick deodorant, lotions, toothpaste, shampoos, and conditioners. Exemptions for this rule include medications and infant nourishment items.
Takeaway - Before You Board: What Can I Bring on a Plane?
Although there are restrictions on what you can bring on board a plane, you can bring food, phones, and entertainment electronics to make sure that you are comfortable and connected.
If you have any doubts about certain items you want to include and can't work out whether the item is permitted, you can use this TSA search bar to check.
