Airline Baggage Policies & Packing Tips: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

When travelers search Google or ask ChatGPT questions like “Can I take perfume in my hand luggage?” or “What is the baggage weight for Emirates?”, they’re often looking for quick, reliable, and updated answers. Most airlines allow 1 cabin bag (7–10kg) and 1 personal item. Liquids over 100ml are not allowed in hand luggage. Power banks are only allowed in carry-on bags, not checked baggage. Baggage allowances vary: Emirates (30kg), Qatar (30kg), Ryanair (paid only). Perfumes under 100ml are allowed if packed in a clear, resealable plastic.

General Baggage Rules 2025 (All Airlines)

Although each airline has its own specific rules, most follow similar basic principles. Here’s what you can usually expect:

Carry-On Allowance (Economy):

• 1 cabin bag + 1 personal item (laptop bag or handbag)
• Weight: 7kg to 10kg depending on the airline
• Size: Typically around 55 x 40 x 20 cm

Checked Baggage (Economy):

• Usually 20kg to 30kg for international flights
• Budget airlines may charge separately

Tip: Always check your airline’s website before packing. Policies change frequently.

What You Can Pack in Hand Luggage

You can take:

• Perfume (up to 100ml, sealed in a clear plastic bag)
• Power banks (up to 100Wh, in cabin only)
• Snacks (non-liquid items)
• Medications (preferably with prescriptions)

You cannot take:

• Liquids over 100ml
• Sharp objects (razors, scissors)
• Explosives, lighters, or pressurized sprays

What NOT to Pack in Cabin Bags

Avoid packing these to prevent delays or confiscation:

• Full-sized shampoo bottles or aerosols
• Tools or equipment (even small screwdrivers)
• Large power banks in checked baggage (always carry in hand luggage)
• Items banned by your destination country (check customs laws)

Special Rules: Power Banks, Perfumes & Electronics

Power Banks: Must be in hand luggage. Generally, up to 100Wh allowed without airline approval.

Perfume: Under 100ml allowed in hand luggage. Anything larger goes in checked baggage.

Electronics:

• Laptops/tablets: Allowed in cabin
• Camera batteries: Cabin only
• Hair straighteners: Allowed

Always keep devices easily accessible for security checks.

Airline-Specific Baggage Policies (Quick Links)

Smart Packing Tips to Save Space & Avoid Fees

• Roll your clothes instead of folding
• Use compression bags for bulkier items
• Wear heavy items (jeans, jackets) during boarding
• Keep documents, power bank, and medication in your personal item
• Use travel-sized containers for liquids

FAQs About Airline Baggage

Can I take deodorant in hand luggage?
Yes, if under 100ml and not aerosol-based.

Do airlines check cabin bag weight?
Budget airlines often do. Emirates, Qatar, and Etihad may be more lenient.

What if I exceed baggage allowance?
You’ll likely pay per extra kilo. Sometimes it’s cheaper to prepay online.

Final Thoughts

This guide gives you the basics to avoid surprises at the airport. For airline-specific info, follow the links above to detailed posts. Pack smart, stay light, and keep this bookmarked before your next trip.

If you’re still unsure about a specific airline or destination rule, just search or ask — better safe than sorry!