Carry-on baggage is the luggage that travels with you in the aircraft cabin and is not handed over at the airline counter at check-in.
The size and weight of carry-on baggage are set by each airline, but the most common allowance is up to 8 kg with maximum dimensions of 115 cm (length + width + height combined).
In addition to your carry-on bag, you can also bring the following into the cabin free of charge:
• A small handbag
• A small men’s bag or briefcase
• A coat, scarf or jacket
• A duty-free shopping bag
• A small camera or laptop
• A collapsible stroller or baby carrier, plus any food and drinks your baby needs during the flight.
• A walking stick…
Sharp metal objects such as scissors, bottle openers, Swiss Army knives and weapons (unless declared in advance and in line with regulations) are not allowed in carry-on baggage. Carry-on bags must be stowed in the overhead bins above the seats.
Liquids in carry-on baggage:
You can bring liquids and gels in your carry-on, but only in containers of up to 100ml each. You may carry several containers, but their combined volume must not exceed 1 liter.
There are some exceptions that allow you to bring containers with more than 100 ml of liquid on board:
• Baby food and milk, in the quantity your baby needs during the flight.
• Liquids, pastes, gels and aerosols bought at duty-free shops in the airport’s security-restricted area, packed in a transparent sealed plastic bag that must not be opened until you reach your final destination. The bag must contain the receipt for the purchased goods, dated on the day of travel.
• Medicines in liquid, gel or aerosol form, together with a medical certificate issued by a competent healthcare institution or a licensed medical practice.
• Medical products such as insulin or blood plasma, with a certificate issued by a competent healthcare institution or a licensed medical practice.
Tips for packing your carry-on:
Today almost every airline offers fares that let you travel with carry-on baggage only, saving you time at check-in as well as money, since carry-on-only tickets are cheaper than those that include checked baggage.
To make the most of the space in your carry-on, we suggest the following:
• Choose a lighter suitcase or, even better, a backpack, since it is more flexible and fits more.
• Make a list of the things you really need and absolutely can’t travel without.
• Use the space in your suitcase as efficiently as possible – try smart folding techniques (the internet is full of tutorials).
• Buy travel-size bottles for liquids (shampoo, body wash) of up to 100 ml – you’ll find them in any drugstore. They take up little space and keep everything within the rules.
• Check what your accommodation offers – whether there is a hair dryer, towels… so you don’t pack those items and can use the space in your suitcase for something more important.
All that’s left is to zip up your well-packed suitcase, and you’re ready for your trip!
