What can you bring in your carry-on luggage on a flight?

Packing right for your trip starts with knowing what you’re allowed to bring in your carry-on luggage. Airline regulations may vary, but here’s a guide to help you understand what’s permitted and how to pack your backpack or cabin bag for carry-on. Read our complete guide to carry-on luggage rules.

Size and weight for carry-on luggage and cabin bags

There are size and weight restrictions for your carry-on luggage that vary depending on the airline. Generally, the dimensions are 55 x 40 x 25 cm, and the bag is usually allowed to weigh between 7-10 kg. However, always double-check with your airline, as there may be slight variations. The carry-on should also be light enough for you to easily lift it into the overhead compartment. A backpack as carry-on luggage is often a smart choice because it is flexible and easy to carry.

Rules for liquids on flights

When it comes to liquids on flights, there are specific rules you must follow:

Containers with liquids must not exceed 100 ml each.

At most airports, all containers must fit into a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum volume of 1 liter.

At larger airports, you may not need to place liquid products in a bag; they can sometimes be stored freely in your hand luggage. However, remember that different rules may apply if you are transferring at another airport.

It's the size of the container, not the amount of liquid, that matters—so a half-full 200 ml bottle is not allowed.

Examples of liquids covered by these rules include drinks, lotions, toothpaste, perfume, and liquid makeup like foundation and mascara. Learn more about the rules for liquids on flights here.

Items you are allowed to bring in your carry-on luggage

There are many items you can bring, but some are limited or prohibited. Here's a list of common allowed items:

✅ Electronics such as mobile phones, tablets, and laptops (may need to be taken out at security, depending on the airport).
✅ Foods that are not liquid.
✅ Medications and baby food, even if they exceed 100 ml, but you may need to show them separately at security.
✅ Knitting and crochet needles.

What you can't bring in your carry-on luggage

Prohibited items include:

❌ Sharp objects like scissors and knives with blades longer than 6 cm.
❌ Flammable and explosive materials, as well as hazardous chemicals.
❌ Lighters and e-cigarettes.

Read more at the Swedish Transport Agency about what's allowed and what's not.

Packing tips for hand luggage

Use storage solutions like the Bottler travel kit for your liquids – perfect for keeping everything organized and following the liquid regulations for flights.

Pack heavier items at the bottom of your bag and those you need easy access to at the top.

Prepare before reaching security:

Place your 1-liter liquid bag in an easily accessible spot in your bag.

Remove electronics like your laptop and phone before the x-ray machine.

Follow the instructions from security staff for a smooth experience.

Airline rules for carry-on luggage

Below we have listed the carry-on luggage size rules for some of the most common airlines. Please note that the maximum weight may apply to the combined weight of the carry-ons, as most airlines allow two carry-ons on board: one smaller and one larger.

Air France

Size: 55 x 35 x 25 cm
Weight: 12 kg

British Airways

Size: 56 x 45 x 25 cm
Weight: 23 kg

Easy jet

Size: 56 x 45 x 25 cm
Weight: 15 kg

Emirates

Size: 55 x 38 x 22 cm
Weight: 7 kg*

*Differs between different travel classes

Finnair

Size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
Weight: 8 kg

KLM

Size: 55 x 35 x 25 cm
Weight: 12 kg

Lufthansa

Size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
Weight: 8 kg

Norwegian

Size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
Weight: 10 kg

Ryanair

Size: 55 x 40 x 20 cm
Weight: 10 kg

SAS

Size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
Weight: 8 kg

Turkish Airlines

Size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
Weight: 8 kg

Qatar Airways

Size: 50 x 37 x 25 cm
Weight: 7 kg*

Differs between different travel classes.

Wizz Air

Size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
Weight: 10 kg

Hand som håller i en 3-pack gammelrosa Bottler reseförpackning med pärlvit kork. I bakgrunden syns en pärlvit Bottler i 3-pack från Borgert Design.

Ready for departure

Now that you know the rules for carry-on luggage and cabin bags on flights, you can pack more efficiently and avoid issues at security checks. Remember to follow the liquid rules and choose the right bag for your trip. With Bottler travel kit, you can keep your liquids organized and ensure they fit within the allowed limits.

With the right preparations, your flight will go smoothly, and you can enjoy a comfortable journey! Visit the Swedish Transport Agency's website for more information on what you can pack in your carry-on, and check the respective airlines’ sites for the latest regulations regarding carry-on luggage.