2026 Luggage Guide: Carry-On Rules, Liquids and Airport Regulations

🧠 Quick Summary: What you must know before flying

• 🚨 Mistake #1: Confusing "Personal Item" (small backpack) with "Carry-on" (cabin bag). Many economy fares NO LONGER include the latter.
• 📏 Strict measurements: Wheels and handles count. If your suitcase measures 57 cm and the limit is 55 cm, you will pay a fine.
• 🧎 Liquids: Although there are new 3D scanners, the recommendation for 2026 remains to stick to 100 ml (3.4 oz) to avoid issues during layovers or connections.
• 🔋 Batteries: Power banks and e-cigarettes must ALWAYS be in the cabin (with you), NEVER in checked luggage.

🧳 Carry-on Luggage: Differences, sizes, and technology

🎒 Personal Item vs. Carry-on

In 2026, the distinction is more important than ever due to the rise of "Basic" or "Low Cost" fares:

• Personal Item (Free on 99% of flights): Must fit under the seat in front of you.
  Typical dimensions: 40 x 30 x 15 cm or 45 x 35 x 20 cm (small backpack, laptop bag).
• Carry-On (Paid on many Low Cost carriers): Goes in the overhead bins.
  IATA Standard dimensions: 56 x 45 x 25 cm.
  Low Cost Standard (stricter): 55 x 40 x 20 cm.

📸 AI in luggage controls

Modern airports are implementing automated measurement systems using cameras and lasers before you reach security.

• What do they do? They scan the volume of your suitcase as you walk.
• The risk: They cross-reference data with your boarding pass. If you didn't pay for a carry-on and the system detects one, an alert will trigger when you scan your pass.

🧎 Liquids and Electronics: 2026 Security Rules

🧪 The Liquid Situation (100ml / 3.4 oz)

There is confusion regarding C3 (CT) scanners that allow liquids and electronics to stay inside bags. However, due to technical inconsistencies in Europe and other destinations, the old rule has been temporarily reinstated in many "modern" airports.

The safe strategy for 2026:

• Always travel assuming the 100 ml (3.4 oz) per container rule applies.
• Use a transparent 1-liter (quart-sized) bag.
• If you get a new scanner, great (you don't take anything out). If you get an old one, you'll be prepared and won't lose your products.

💻 Electronics and Lithium Batteries

Unbreakable air safety rules:

• In CABIN (with you): Power banks, spare camera batteries, e-cigarettes (vapes), and laptops.
• CHECKED (hold): Devices with non-removable installed batteries (like electric toothbrushes) are usually allowed, but never loose batteries.

🏷️ Checked Luggage (Hold): Avoid losses

If you are checking large bags, follow these "best practices" to ensure they arrive with you:

• Remove old tags: Remove barcode tags from previous flights. They confuse automated scanners and are the #1 cause of lost luggage.
• Avoid long straps and ribbons: They can get stuck in conveyor belts.
• GPS Trackers: Using AirTags, SmartTags, or Tile is allowed and recommended in checked luggage to keep track of its location.
• Security photo: Photograph your suitcase open and closed before handing it over. It is vital for damage or theft claims.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I bring a razor or shaver in my carry-on?

Yes. Electric shavers and disposable razors (fixed blade) are allowed in carry-on luggage. Loose razor blades (safety razor type) must go in checked luggage.

Does aerosol deodorant count as a liquid?

Yes. Aerosols fall under the liquid rule. If it is in carry-on luggage, the container must not exceed 100 ml (3.4 oz). If it is larger, it must be checked.

What happens if my suitcase measures 1 cm more than allowed?

It depends on the airline. Traditional airlines might be flexible, but on Low Cost airlines (Ryanair, Spirit, Frontier, Vueling), if it doesn't fit inside the metal sizer, you will pay a gate fee usually ranging from 50 to 100 USD/EUR.

Can I bring food on the plane?

Yes. Sandwiches, fruits (watch out for international customs), cookies, and solid snacks pass without issue. Sauces, honey, cream cheese, or yogurt count as liquids (max 100ml).