What NOT to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag ❌
When flying, you’ll have two types of luggage
Checked luggage – These are the bags you register at the airline counter. A tag is attached, and they are transported separately, only to be picked up at your final destination. For example, if you’re flying to London with Qatar Airways, you’ll check in your bags in Lagos, have a stopover in Doha, and the next time you see your bags will be in London.
Hand luggage (carry-on) – These are smaller bags (usually 7kg–10kg, depending on the airline) that you take with you on the plane.
Packing wisely can save you time at security and help you avoid unnecessary travel stress. Here are some items **NOT** to pack in your carry-on bag:
🚫 Liquids above 100ml – Any liquid (perfume, lotion, drinks) exceeding 100ml must go in your checked luggage. If you need to carry liquids, use travel-size bottles (max 100ml each) and place them in a transparent, resealable bag before putting them in your hand luggage.
🚫 Sharp Objects (Scissors, Nail Cutters, Pocket Knives, etc.) – These are prohibited in carry-on bags. If you need them for your trip, pack them in your checked luggage to avoid confiscation at security.
🚫 Power Banks & Lithium Batteries in Checked Luggage – Power banks and lithium batteries are *not allowed* in checked luggage due to fire hazards. Always keep them in your hand luggage.
🚫 Large Cameras & Tripods – Small cameras are generally fine, but large professional cameras and tripods may face extra scrutiny. Some airlines require you to check them in if they exceed size restrictions. I learned this the hard way on my trip to Morocco—my friend had her tripod seized at security, while I was lucky they didn’t notice mine in my carry-on. After that experience, I now always check in my tripod to avoid any issues.
Important Note:
After checking in your luggage, you may be called to identify and open your checked bags for extra screening. This happened to me once when I packed some wine in my checked bag. I had already completed check-in and was at the waiting area when I was called to return and open my bag for inspection. The officers checked the wine and perfume, then allowed me to proceed.
So, if you ever get called, don’t panic—especially if you’re not carrying anything illegal. Just cooperate, and you’ll be fine! 😊✈️
