What Can You Carry On a Plane?

While down here in Mexico, I recently met up with some friends from home -- this was their first trip out of the country since the whole ongoing debacle of liquids and gels aboard planes started: one friend ended up having to check her toiletry bag because she'd brought more toiletries, albeit all in three ounce containers, than would fit in the one Ziploc-style baggie allowed. Her tale reminded me to remind you of what you can bring aboard a US, UK or EU plane in a carry-on bag these days, from toiletries to sharp objects. (I won't start ranting about the almost unconscionable waste of having to, before I board the homeward bound plane, throw away the toothpaste and deodorant I had to buy here.)

And, since it's a frequently asked question for practically every traveler, what size is a carry on bag? I divide bag dimensions by sevens to simplify the equation and can thus feel confident that a bag around 21"x14"x7" will meet most airlines' carry on bag size limits, which are often a maximum of 45" (like 22"x14"x9").

Learn more about what you can bring on a plane, and why (or why not):

• Airport Security Rules
• Packing for Airport Security
• Laptops and Airport Screening
• About.com's Budget Travel Guide: Baggage Fees for Major Airlines

Related Reading: TSA Blog | Services Mail Banned Airline Items Home | Air Travel Escalating Into Hassle Travel | How to Avoid Lost Luggage | How to Pack Light

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