The Forbidden Luggage List: 14 Items to Leave at Home
Below is a comprehensive guide to items flight attendants advise against bringing on board. We'll explain why, and offer smarter alternatives.
Item You Should Avoid Why It's a Bad Idea What to Pack Instead Strong-Smelling Foods Think overpowering garlic, durian, or that pungent tuna salad. The enclosed space amplifies odors, and what smells delicious to you might be nauseating to your seatmates. It's disrespectful and can ruin the flight for everyone nearby. Consider pre-packaged, lightly scented snacks like nuts, crackers, or a sealed sandwich. If you're craving something specific, grab it at the airport after security. Overly Large Carry-Ons Exceeding the airline's size restrictions slows down the boarding process and creates overhead bin chaos. Trying to cram an oversized bag into a too-small space can damage your belongings and injure fellow passengers. Strictly adhere to the airline's carry-on size guidelines. If you're a notorious over-packer, consider checking a bag or investing in a smaller, more practical carry-on suitcase. Excessive Jewelry Navigating airport security with tons of metal jewelry can be a nightmare. Plus, bulky necklaces and bracelets can be uncomfortable during long flights. Opt for simple, understated jewelry, or better yet, pack your valuables in your checked luggage (or leave them at home!). This will make the security process faster and your journey more comfortable. Brand New Shoes Blisters are no one's friend, especially when you're stuck in a metal tube at 30,000 feet. Breaking in shoes on a flight is a recipe for discomfort and regret. Wear comfortable, well-worn shoes that you know you can walk in for extended periods. Think sneakers, loafers, or supportive sandals. Cologne/Perfume (Heavily Applied) Similar to strong-smelling food, excessive fragrance can irritate allergies and sensitivities. A little goes a long way in a confined space. Apply a light spritz of fragrance before leaving home, or pack a travel-sized roll-on if you need a refresh. Be mindful of others! Expensive or Irreplaceable Items Luggage gets lost, damaged, or stolen. Don't risk losing sentimental or valuable possessions. Keep irreplaceable items like family heirlooms and essential medications on your person or in your carry-on. Insure expensive electronics and jewelry. Anything Illegal This should be a no-brainer, but attempting to transport illegal substances or items through airport security or across borders is a serious offense with severe consequences. Leave anything illegal at home. Period. Weapons (Without Proper Authorization) Even seemingly harmless items like pocketknives or pepper spray are restricted. Failure to comply with regulations can result in confiscation, fines, or even arrest. Check airline and TSA regulations regarding weapons. If you need to transport a firearm, declare it properly and follow all guidelines. Flammable Liquids Aerosols, lighter fluid, and certain nail polish removers are considered hazardous materials and are prohibited on most flights. Use solid toiletries or travel-sized, TSA-approved alternatives. Consider packing nail polish remover wipes instead of liquid. Oversized Electronics (Without Proper Cases) Laptops and tablets are essential for many travelers, but throwing them unprotected into a carry-on is asking for damage. Invest in padded sleeves or cases to protect your electronics from bumps and scratches. Gifts That Aren't Wrapped Security may need to inspect wrapped gifts, forcing you to unwrap them and potentially ruining the presentation. Wrap gifts after you arrive at your destination, or use gift bags that are easy to open and re-close. Items That Make Excessive Noise Loud toys, musical instruments, or devices without headphones can be disruptive and irritating to other passengers. Pack quiet entertainment options like books, e-readers, or tablets with headphones. Be considerate of those around you. Anything That Could Leak Unsealed liquids, creams, or gels can create a messy situation in your bag and potentially damage your belongings. Double-check that all containers are tightly sealed. Consider using travel-sized containers with secure lids or wrapping them in plastic bags. Prohibited Foods (Depending on Destination) Many countries have strict regulations regarding the import of food items, particularly fruits, vegetables, and meats. Violating these rules can result in fines or confiscation. Research the destination country's customs regulations before packing any food. If in doubt, leave it at home.
