10 items travellers are not allowed to carry in hand baggage (number 5 might surprise you)

Air travel is one of the most interesting modes of transportation but it comes at a cost. Going through security checks and not knowing what things can go inside and what not is a list-to-remember. Be it busy hubs like Indira Gandhi International Airport or smaller regional airports, security personnel confiscate thousands of items from cabin bags every day which travellers carry most of the time unknowingly. As per rules issued by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and airline safety guidelines, there are myriad day-to-day items that are either restricted or completely banned in hand baggage on domestic and international flights from India.


Here are 10 items travellers should never carry in their cabin baggage.

1. Knives, screw-driver, scissors, and sharp objects

These items are a strict no. Sharp items like knives, cutters, shaving blades, screwdrivers, scissors or anything with sharp edges are not allowed in hand baggage.

2. Power Banks beyond airline limits

People often get confused when it comes to power banks. Most airlines in India allow them in cabin baggage not in checked luggage but there are strict battery capacity limits.


3. Flammable items

Petrol, lighter fluid, paint thinner, kerosene and any similar flammable substance is a complete no from hand baggage. Travellers going on trekking trips sometimes pack camping fuel or stove, which are not allowed onboard aircraft.

4. Sports equipment

Again, cricket bats, hockey sticks and golf clubs or any other sports equipment are not allowed inside the plane. Given India’s love for cricket, this rule surprises many passengers.


5. Coconut (most surprising item)

No coconut allowed in domestic or international flights! People returning from religious trips generally get caught into this situation but remember whole coconuts can create problems as many airlines restrict coconuts in hand baggage.


6. Toy guns or replica weapons

Plastic guns, imitation pistols, or any realistic-looking replicas are not allowed in hand baggage for security reasons. Parents unknowingly carry such toys but end up giving them away.

7. Liquids above 100 ml

Indian airports follow international liquid restrictions on most flights. Containers carrying liquids, gels, creams, lotions or perfumes above 100 ml are not allowed in cabin baggage.


You’ll often see water bottles, big cosmetic containers, pickles, chutney bottles, or sauces discarded during airport security checks in India.

8. Firecrackers


Fireworks, sparklers, crackers, and explosive materials are strictly prohibited. This becomes especially relevant around Diwali and wedding seasons, as passengers unknowingly attempt to carry fireworks.

9. Pepper spray and self-defense devices

Pepper spray, tasers and stun guns are not allowed in hand baggage. A number of women travellers carry pepper spray for safety reasons in their handbags, only to have it confiscated.

10. Strong chemicals and cleaning liquids


Another strict no are industrial cleaners, bleach or paint chemicals, among others. They possess fire hazards during flights. Even some nail polish removers and aerosol sprays are removed at airport screening.


With Indian airports witnessing record passenger traffic, it is important to understand hand baggage restrictions.