What cannot be packed in checked luggage

Immediate rule: keep spare lithium batteries, power banks and loose cells in your carry-on and never place them in the aircraft hold. Protect terminals with tape or individual plastic covers and carry each spare in original retail packaging or separate plastic pouches.

Lithium-ion limits: cells and batteries up to 100 Wh are generally allowed in the cabin without airline approval; units between 100 Wh and 160 Wh require airline approval; anything over 160 Wh is normally forbidden from passenger transport. To calculate watt-hours use Wh = V × Ah (example: a 3.7 V, 5 Ah pack = 18.5 Wh).

Do not place explosive, highly flammable or reactive materials in the hold: this includes fireworks, ammunition that is not properly declared and packaged, gasoline, lighter fluid, paint thinner, camping fuel and aerosols with flammable propellants. Small toiletry aerosols that are non-flammable and meet quantity limits may be allowed but check carrier rules before stowing.

Keep valuables and irreplaceable items with you: passports, cash, banking cards, jewelry, irreplaceable documents and unbacked digital media should travel in the cabin. Prescription medicines and temperature-sensitive treatments (insulin, refrigerated biologics) belong in carry-on with a doctor’s note and temperature-protective packaging where needed.

If you need to transport firearms, compressed gases or medical oxygen, contact the airline in advance. Firearms must be declared, unloaded and secured in a locked hard-sided case; ammunition rules vary by jurisdiction and airline. Medical oxygen cylinders and full gas cartridges are typically restricted and require formal approval and special handling.

Final practical checklist before departure: verify battery Wh ratings and tape terminals; list and declare restricted items to the airline at booking; keep keys, combination codes and documentation with you; when in doubt, move the item into your cabin bag or arrange regulated cargo shipment.

Items Prohibited in Hold Baggage

Keep spare lithium batteries and power banks in the cabin; do not stow them in hold baggage. Tape exposed terminals or use original packaging. Batteries up to 100 Wh are normally allowed in carry-on without airline approval; batteries between 100 Wh and 160 Wh require airline approval (typically limited to two per passenger); batteries above 160 Wh are not permitted on passenger aircraft. To calculate watt-hours: Wh = V × Ah (example: a 3.7 V, 2 Ah cell = 7.4 Wh).

• E-cigarettes and vaping devices: must be carried in the cabin with devices switched off and protected; spare cartridges and spare batteries also belong in the cabin.
• Self-balancing scooters, hoverboards and similar devices with non-serviceable lithium batteries: banned from both cabin and hold on most carriers; arrange freight shipment if transport is required.
• Flammable liquids and fuels (gasoline, lighter refill canisters, camping fuel): prohibited in passenger baggage; purchase at destination or ship via approved hazardous-cargo services.
• Compressed gas cylinders containing fuel or oxygen (full or pressurized scuba tanks, camping gas cartridges): not accepted unless rendered safe and carrier-approved; empty tanks still often require certification.
• Explosives, fireworks, flares, detonators and gunpowder: universally prohibited for passenger carriage.
• Corrosives, strong acids, alkalis, pool chemicals and bleach: not permitted for transport in passenger baggage.
• Radioactive materials, oxidizers and organic peroxides: acceptance requires special permits; passenger carriage is generally forbidden.
• Biological agents and infectious substances: can only travel under strict approvals and packaging; routine transport in passenger bags is not allowed.

How to handle banned items

1. Move any spare batteries, power banks and vaping equipment into carry-on before check-in.
2. Label batteries with manufacturer markings and keep device battery ratings visible; if Wh or lithium content is not printed, calculate Wh from voltage and amp-hour.
3. Contact the airline cargo desk for items needed at destination that are prohibited in passenger carriage (hoverboards, large batteries, hazardous chemicals); use dedicated dangerous-goods shippers when required.
4. For sporting explosives or ammunition: consult the airline’s specific policy well before travel; some carriers accept limited quantities when properly declared and packaged, others refuse.
5. If uncertain, take a photograph of the item’s rating/label and call the airline or check the national aviation authority/DGR guidance rather than assuming acceptance at the counter.

When an item is not permitted in hold baggage, the fastest solutions are moving it to carry-on (if allowed), buying a compliant replacement at destination, or arranging a specialist freight shipment with full dangerous-goods documentation.

Lithium Batteries and Power Banks: Rules for Hold Baggage vs. Carry‑On

Carry spare lithium‑ion cells and portable chargers in your carry‑on only; do not store spares in hold baggage because flight crews can respond to a cabin battery fire but not to one in the hold.

Regulatory limits (IATA/ICAO/FAA): batteries up to 100 Wh are allowed in the cabin without airline approval; 100–160 Wh require airline approval and are normally limited to two spare units per passenger; >160 Wh are not permitted on passenger aircraft except as cargo under special dangerous‑goods procedures. Non‑rechargeable lithium metal cells with >2 g lithium content are forbidden in passenger areas.

How to check capacity: Wh = V × Ah (convert mAh to Ah by dividing by 1000). Examples: typical smartphone ~10 Wh; typical laptop 45–99 Wh; a 20,000 mAh power bank at 3.7 V = 74 Wh (3.7 × 20 = 74 Wh).

Preparation checklist: verify Wh printed on the cell or power bank; tape or cover terminals; leave batteries installed in devices when reasonable; store spares in original packaging or individual plastic bags; turn devices fully off and disable auto‑on features; keep power banks in an external pocket or top compartment of your carry‑on for easy inspection.

Airline actions: contact the carrier before travel if you have batteries rated 100–160 Wh or multiple high‑capacity units. Obtain written approval when required and carry that confirmation with the device. Crew and ground staff may remove items that look damaged or exceed limits.

Special items: e‑cigarettes and vape tanks must be in the cabin and powered off; batteries for mobility aids are treated differently – get airline approval and check the airline’s guidelines for terminal protection and weight limits.

Practical travel tip: keep a small, well‑organised carry bag with a power bank, phone and cables – a model with a dedicated sleeve makes security checks faster: best travel backpack with luggage sleeve. For compact rain protection that fits the same pocket, consider the best smallest travel umbrella.

Firearms, Ammunition, and Replicas: Declaration, Secure Stowage, and Airline Policies

Declare every firearm or realistic replica to the airline at check-in; keep the weapon unloaded, remove magazines and loose rounds, and present permits or licences at the counter.

Stowage and locking requirements

Store firearms in a rigid, hard-sided case designed for weapons; use robust padlocks or integrated locks and retain keys/combination personally. The case must be inaccessible to anyone else during transport in the aircraft hold. Firearms with internal ammunition, chamber flags, or visible cartridges are not acceptable; empty the chamber, clear the magazine well, and verify the weapon is inert before sealing the case.

Ammunition, replicas, and hazardous components

Ammunition should be in its original manufacturer packaging or a purpose-built ammo container and kept separate from the firearm; many jurisdictions and major carriers limit quantities to approximately 5 kg (11 lb) per passenger–confirm the exact allowance with the airline prior to travel. Replicas, non-firing props, airsoft and BB guns are treated like firearms by many carriers: declare them, store them in a locked hard case, and remove all batteries and pressurized gas/CO2 cartridges (these may be classified as hazardous goods and could be prohibited or require special handling). Electronic firing modules, primers and loose propellants are strictly restricted from transport.

Before departure, verify: the airline’s firearms declaration form and any fees; destination and transit country import/export permits and temporary-transport authorisations; local laws on transport and possession. Failure to comply can result in firearm seizure, fines or arrest.

Flammable Liquids and Aerosols Over Allowable Limits: Quantity Limits and Packing Options

Ship aerosols or flammable liquids that exceed passenger limits as air cargo with a dangerous-goods consignment; do not place over‑limit containers in cabin baggage or the aircraft hold without prior DG acceptance.

Typical thresholds (examples used by many airlines and IATA guidance)

Approved packing and documentation

Use UN‑marked, performance‑tested packaging (e.g., Pxxxx or UN specification) sized for the liquid and compatible with the chemical. Inner receptacles must be leakproof; surround with absorbent material; close with a tight outer, rigid box; secure closures to prevent movement. For aerosols, use original cans when possible and protect valves from accidental discharge with caps and cushioning.

Label each package with the proper shipping name and UN number (examples: UN1950 – Aerosols; UN1993 – Flammable liquid, n.o.s.; UN1203 – Gasoline). Apply the Class 3 orange diamond label or Limited Quantity mark if the consignment qualifies. Include a completed Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods when required by the airline/forwarder, plus an emergency contact number and the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

Operational checklist before tendering to cargo:

– Verify carrier DG acceptance and book as dangerous goods.

– Confirm quantity thresholds and whether Limited Quantity packing provisions apply.

– Use certified DG packaging and secure internal cushioning and absorbents.

– Affix labels, UN number, orientation arrows and any required handling marks.

– Prepare Shipper’s Declaration, SDS and emergency contact information.

– Weigh and declare gross package mass; ensure stackability and stability.

If unsure, remove liquids from travel plans: purchase at destination, ship via a specialist hazardous‑goods courier, or replace with non‑flammable alternatives. For guidance on protective measures for hard‑to‑seal openings at home or transit, see how to dog proof a chain link fence gate.

Compressed Gas Cylinders and Scuba Tanks: Certification, Emptying, and Transport Restrictions

Do not transport pressurized gas cylinders, including scuba tanks, in passenger baggage; arrange movement through airline cargo or a certified freight forwarder experienced with dangerous goods.

Certification and inspection

• Cylinder must display a regulatory stamp (examples: DOT, TC, EN/ISO) showing serial number, manufacturer, and service/test pressure; carriers inspect these markings before acceptance.
• Inspection schedule: visual inspection typically required annually; hydrostatic (pressure) test intervals commonly range from 3–5 years depending on cylinder material and gas service–confirm the specific interval printed on the cylinder and with the applicable national regulator.
• Valves, pressure-relief devices and valve threads must be unmodified and fully operational; any corrosion, dents or valve damage will cause rejection by the carrier.
• Tanks used with enriched oxygen mixes require oxygen-clean servicing and may have shorter test intervals and additional paperwork; retain oxygen-service certificates when applicable.

Emptying, marking and acceptance procedure

1. Depressurize completely: bleed cylinder to atmospheric pressure and confirm 0 psi on the gauge. Some carriers require the valve to be removed or left open; always follow the specific airline or cargo agent instruction.
2. Protect the valve: install a threaded valve protection cap and secure with a non-metallic tie or tape to prevent unintentional opening during handling.
3. Label clearly: attach a durable tag stating “EMPTY” with date and preparer initials; include inspection/hydrostatic test dates on the tag or paperwork.
4. Crating and restraint: use a rigid case or wooden crate, pad to prevent movement, and immobilize the cylinder to avoid rolling or impact to the valve during transport.
5. Documentation: present original test certificates, maintenance logs, and the shipper’s declaration when requested; cargo agents require DG-trained staff to accept non-empty cylinders.
6. Full cylinders: carriage of charged cylinders is accepted only as cargo under dangerous-goods rules and requires declaration, UN identification, permitted packing group and carrier approval; do not assume acceptance without prior written confirmation.

• Confirm acceptance with the carrier at least 72 hours before drop-off; airlines and ground handlers vary in policy and may refuse on-site.
• Non-compliance consequences: refusal of shipment, forced return, fines, and possible destruction or disposal at owner’s expense.
• When in doubt, use a specialist freight forwarder experienced with IATA/ICAO dangerous-goods regulations to prepare and submit required documentation and packaging.

Cash, Jewelry, and Irreplaceable Documents: Why to Keep Them in the Cabin and How to Protect Them

Keep all cash, high‑value jewelry and original identity or legal papers in your cabin bag or on your person; never leave them in the aircraft hold. Airlines’ liability for items stowed in the hold is limited (international rules set passenger baggage liability around 1,131 SDR, roughly USD 1,500) and many carriers explicitly exclude money, precious stones and original documents from compensation.

Currency declaration thresholds (common examples): US: USD 10,000; EU (entering from non‑EU): EUR 10,000; UK: GBP 10,000; Australia: AUD 10,000; Canada: CAD 10,000. Carry declarations and receipts when transporting sums at or above these levels; failure to declare triggers seizure and fines.

Cash handling – practical rules: split funds across at least two secure locations (e.g., money belt + locked hotel safe), keep a small daily cash float in an inner pocket, and avoid carrying all emergency funds in one place. Prefer card payments for large expenses; notify card issuers of travel dates and set travel alerts. Use ATMs inside bank branches where possible; record withdrawal receipts and bank contact numbers.

Jewelry – prevention and documentation: carry expensive pieces in a locked, soft‑lined case stowed under the seat or inside a zipped inner pocket; avoid leaving jewelry in hotel rooms unless the safe has a documented inventory procedure. Photograph each item against a ruler, capture serial numbers and hallmark stamps, keep original purchase receipts and written appraisals. Verify your travel insurance single‑item limit and obtain a floater policy for pieces exceeding that amount.

Original documents – handling and redundancy: keep passports, visas, birth certificates, adoption records, wills, powers of attorney and medical records on your person or in the cabin bag. Produce at least two paper copies stored separately and two encrypted digital copies (one in a reputable cloud service with 2‑factor authentication, one on an encrypted USB kept with you). Use an RFID‑blocking passport sleeve if concerned about skimming.

Secure carriage methods: wear a concealed money belt or neck pouch for passports and emergency cash; use an inner zipped compartment or a small lockable hard case under the seat for jewelry and paperwork. Do not store valuables in the overhead bin if you will not be seated nearby; overhead accessibility increases theft risk during boarding/deplaning.

If loss or theft occurs: immediately report to airport/airline staff and local police and obtain a written report – insurers and consulates require that document. For stolen cards, contact issuers via the emergency numbers stored separately; for lost passports contact the nearest embassy/consulate and follow their emergency passport procedures. Retain police and airline reports for insurance claims and customs formalities.

Checklist before departure: 1) Photograph valuables and upload encrypted copies; 2) Split cash; 3) Verify insurance single‑item limits; 4) Store originals in a concealed on‑body or under‑seat location; 5) Note embassy and bank emergency contacts in a separate place.

Live Animals, Perishables, and Biological Samples: Permit, Packaging, and Carrier Requirements

Obtain written carrier approval and all export/import permits at least 72 hours before travel for live animals, perishable foodstuffs, or diagnostic/clinical specimens.

Live animals: use rigid, escape-proof containers that meet IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) – ventilation on at least three sides, leakproof floor with absorbent bedding, separate feeding/watering compartments, and internal dimensions that allow the animal to stand and turn. Include a visible label with species, name, telephone number, and “Live Animal” plus orientation arrows. Present a current veterinary health certificate, proof of required vaccinations (rabies, others as required by destination), and any quarantine or CITES permits at airline check-in. Many carriers ban brachycephalic breeds from the hold or impose seasonal embargoes when ambient temps exceed ~32–35°C or fall below ~−15°C; verify the carrier’s temperature limits and embargo dates before booking.

Perishables (fresh produce, seafood, dairy, prepared meals): use passive insulated boxes rated for the estimated transit time or active conditioned containers for long hauls. For frozen shipments, dry ice (solid CO2) is commonly used – label outer packaging “Dry Ice (Carbon Dioxide), UN1845,” state net weight of dry ice per package, and follow carrier limits; passenger aircraft typically restrict dry ice to small packages (commonly 2.5 kg / 5.5 lb per package), while freighter service allows larger quantities with a Dangerous Goods Declaration. Frozen gel/phase-change packs are acceptable when fully solid; avoid free liquids unless the carrier authorizes them and any applicable dangerous-goods controls are observed. Add a temperature indicator or data logger and mark handling instructions such as “Keep Refrigerated 2–8°C” or “Keep Frozen.”

Biological samples: classify shipments as Category A (infectious substances capable of causing permanent disability or fatal disease; UN 2814/2900) or Category B (clinical/diagnostic specimens; UN 3373). Category B shipments require triple packaging: a leakproof primary receptacle, a leakproof secondary container with sufficient absorbent material to absorb the entire contents, and a rigid outer packaging that can withstand a 95 kPa pressure differential and normal transport stresses. Mark Category B with “UN3373 Biological Substance, Category B” and the shipper’s contact details. Category A shipments require a full Dangerous Goods Declaration, advanced carrier acceptance, and trained dangerous-goods personnel – arrange carriage only via approved cargo channels.

Carrier and documentation requirements: reserve space as a special handling shipment with the airline or freight forwarder; obtain a written acceptance confirmation. Provide complete paperwork at handover: airway bill with nature of goods and handling codes, veterinary certificates or phytosanitary permits, import permits, CITES where applicable, DG paperwork for dry ice or infectious substances, and contact information for consignee and shipper. Some airlines require a shipper’s declaration for dangerous goods for dry ice or Category A specimens; others will refuse acceptance without advance notification.

Operational controls and risks: use validated packaging for declared transit duration, include temperature monitoring, and train any staff who will handle the items on spill response and animal welfare protocols. Expect carrier-imposed fines, quarantine, seizure, or euthanasia for undeclared regulated animals or infectious materials. For international transport, confirm destination-specific restrictions (species bans, prohibited food items, specimen import approvals) with destination authorities and the consignee prior to shipment.

Quick checklist before handover: written carrier approval and booking confirmation; veterinary/phytosanitary/CITES/export permits; Class and UN numbers for infectious materials or dry ice; triple-packaging or crate meeting IATA criteria; temperature-control system and data logger; labeling and markings (Live Animal, UN3373, Dry Ice UN1845 as applicable); contact phone numbers and consignee clearance arrangements.

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