Baggage: How do I know if an item is allowed in the cabin or in the hold?

Basic baggage regulations

The security checks carried out at airports before boarding are intended to ensure that no dangerous objects, products or materials are placed on board the aircraft.

The regulations governing the carriage of passengers by air govern both checked baggage and cabin baggage. The resulting prohibitions and limitations apply to all flights departing from France, the European Union, Switzerland, Norway or Iceland.

In general, flammable products are prohibited in the hold as well as in the cabin (pyrotechnic articles, compressed air cylinders for diving, camping gas accessories, etc.). In the same vein, tools and sharp or blunt objects are not accepted in the cabin. And large electronic devices that include lithium batteries are also denied.

Items allowed in the cabin under certain conditions

Some items allowed in the cabin are still subject to weight and quantity regulations. This is the case, for example, with liquid products. Beverages and toiletries, for example, are subject to compliance with certain packaging rules.

Containers should not exceed a capacity of 100 ml each. They must all be placed in a plastic bag of a maximum size of one litre, transparent and resealable. Only one bag of liquid products is allowed per passenger. Be careful when buying in a duty-free area.

The only exceptions are medicines and baby food. Liquid products for medical use that are necessary for travel should preferably be taken in their original packaging with the package leaflet and a prescription. For medication, as well as for baby food, it is advisable to plan an additional dose in order to anticipate a possible flight delay.

Good to know : some items will be accepted in the cabin, but not in the hold. This is the case, for example, with lithium power banks, electronic cigarettes (as long as they are turned off), small lighters and matches (with only one item per person).

Items allowed in the hold, but not in the cabin

In the hold, your traditional folding blade razor is allowed in your luggage, while it will be prohibited in the cabin. In the same way, knitting needles will not be able to accompany you to your seat for the journey. The same rules apply to ski or hiking poles, fishing rods, golf clubs, etc.

In terms of liquids, the drinks and toiletries accepted in the hold are larger, with containers of up to 500 ml, with a limit of 2 litres per passenger. It is also recommended to prefer transport in the compartments of the plane for food, especially if you are bringing regional products from your stay.

Airbag: the app that helps you pack your bags

Food, electrical appliances, beauty products, medical tools, everyday accessories... Do you have questions when packing your bags for a plane trip? The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) has developed the airbag app to help you know which items are prohibited or restricted in luggage.

Good to know : not all airlines have the same level of restrictions. Some will decide to go further than the regulations in force. It is therefore important to find out before departure whether the measures applied will be more restrictive or not.