Latest news with #carryonluggage
Yahoo
20-07-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
U.S. may change or get rid of liquid limit for carry-ons, U.S. Homeland Security secretary says
The days of cramming travel-sized shampoo bottles into plastic bags could soon be over. U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem hinted that the longstanding liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage could be lifted. During a conference hosted by The Hill in Washington, Noem said on July 16 that she was 'questioning everything TSA (Transportation Security Administration) does' and hinted at potential revisions to the rules governing liquids in carry-on bags. 'The liquids, I'm questioning. So that may be the next big announcement, is what size your liquids need to be,' Noem said at the conference. Her comments come about a week after she announced that passengers are no longer required to remove their shoes during regular TSA security checks, a change that went into effect immediately. Here's what you need to know about Noem's comments about liquid restrictions in carry-on luggage and why the rule was implemented in the first place. When did airlines start restricting liquids in carry-ons? In 2006, authorities foiled a plan to use liquid explosives smuggled aboard carry-on luggage to blow up planes. After the incident, the TSA banned all liquids in carry-on luggage. However, this ban was lifted after six weeks as it strained airline baggage systems, as more people were checking bags. The FBI, along with other laboratories, found that a tiny amount of substances, those being small enough to fit into a quart-sized bag, could not blow up a plane. After that, the 3.4-ounce limit — or 3-1-1 rule — came into effect. The rule stated that each container of liquid, gel or aerosol — whether it's water, shampoo or hairspray — must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, all containers must fit into one quart-sized (one-litre) clear zip-top bag, and only one bag is allowed per passenger. Since then, TSA checkpoints have borne the familiar rituals of chugging water and tossing oversized containers, and fights over what's considered a liquid or not. After the restrictions were introduced in the U.S., other countries quickly followed suit with similar rules. What does this mean for U.S. travellers? For now, it is unclear how or when any changes to the liquid restrictions might take effect. Noem has not provided details on what a new policy could look like, whether that means lifting the size limit entirely, or just expanding it. Until then, passengers should expect to keep following the existing 3-1-1 rule. Why is the U.S. considering changing this policy? The TSA has been exploring changes to its liquid rules for years, but with recent advancements in technology, it seems more possible than ever. Advanced computed tomography (CT) scanners are now being installed at security checkpoints across U.S. airports. These scanners generate detailed 3D images of the contents of carry-on bags and can automatically detect potential security threats, making it possible to carry bigger sized liquids through security. Currently, U.S. travellers will still need to abide by existing TSA liquid restrictions, but with these advancements in technology, and the U.S. willing to change their approach, travellers may soon find themselves packing a little more freely. 'Hopefully, the future of an airport, where I'm looking to go is that you walk in the door with your carry-on suitcase, you walk through a scanner and go right to your plane,' Noem said at the conference. 'It takes you one minute.' What could this mean for Canada? If the U.S. moves ahead with easing or eliminating its liquid restrictions, Canada may not be far behind. While Canadian travellers have not been required to remove their shoes for domestic or non-U.S. flights, those flying to the United States through pre-clearance areas have followed TSA protocols, including removing their shoes. Earlier this month, however, Canada aligned with the U.S. and dropped that requirement. This quick alignment suggests Canadian authorities could follow suit if the U.S. were to ease up on liquid restrictions. So far, there has been no official word from Canadian authorities on whether such changes are being considered. What are other countries doing? In the United Kingdom, several regional airports, including London City and Edinburgh, have begun lifting liquid restrictions, thanks to the rollout of advanced CT scanners. The new technology allows passengers to keep liquids and electronics in their bags during screening and permits containers of up to two litres. Similar changes are underway elsewhere. At Qatar's Hamad International Airport, select security lanes now let travellers leave liquids and laptops in their bags. This has also been made possible by upgraded CT scanning systems. In South Korea, major airports, such as Incheon and Jeju, are piloting the same technology on domestic routes, with plans to expand it more broadly in the future. Reddit X Share on Linkedin Open more share options Who is Richard Reid, the 'shoe bomber' who likely influenced the 'shoes-off' policy at U.S. airports? 'Keep your shoes on': Canada says it will align with U.S. on ending unpopular airport security measure Our website is the place for the latest breaking news, exclusive scoops, longreads and provocative commentary. Please bookmark and sign up for our daily newsletter, Posted, here.
National Post
19-07-2025
- Politics
- National Post
U.S. may change or get rid of liquid limit for carry-ons, U.S. Homeland Security secretary says
The days of cramming travel-sized shampoo bottles into plastic bags could soon be over. U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem hinted that the longstanding liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage could be lifted. Article content During a conference hosted by The Hill in Washington, Noem said on July 16 that she was 'questioning everything TSA (Transportation Security Administration) does' and hinted at potential revisions to the rules governing liquids in carry-on bags. Article content 'The liquids, I'm questioning. So that may be the next big announcement, is what size your liquids need to be,' Noem said at the conference. Article content Her comments come about a week after she announced that passengers are no longer required to remove their shoes during regular TSA security checks, a change that went into effect immediately. Article content Here's what you need to know about Noem's comments about liquid restrictions in carry-on luggage and why the rule was implemented in the first place. Article content Article content Article content In 2006, authorities foiled a plan to use liquid explosives smuggled aboard carry-on luggage to blow up planes. Article content After the incident, the TSA banned all liquids in carry-on luggage. However, this ban was lifted after six weeks as it strained airline baggage systems, as more people were checking bags. Article content The FBI, along with other laboratories, found that a tiny amount of substances, those being small enough to fit into a quart-sized bag, could not blow up a plane. After that, the 3.4-ounce limit — or 3-1-1 rule — came into effect. Article content The rule stated that each container of liquid, gel or aerosol — whether it's water, shampoo or hairspray — must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, all containers must fit into one quart-sized (one-litre) clear zip-top bag, and only one bag is allowed per passenger. Since then, TSA checkpoints have borne the familiar rituals of chugging water and tossing oversized containers, and fights over what's considered a liquid or not. Article content Article content After the restrictions were introduced in the U.S., other countries quickly followed suit with similar rules. Article content Article content What does this mean for U.S. travellers? Article content For now, it is unclear how or when any changes to the liquid restrictions might take effect. Noem has not provided details on what a new policy could look like, whether that means lifting the size limit entirely, or just expanding it. Until then, passengers should expect to keep following the existing 3-1-1 rule. Article content The TSA has been exploring changes to its liquid rules for years, but with recent advancements in technology, it seems more possible than ever. Article content Advanced computed tomography (CT) scanners are now being installed at security checkpoints across U.S. airports. These scanners generate detailed 3D images of the contents of carry-on bags and can automatically detect potential security threats, making it possible to carry bigger sized liquids through security.
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Travel + Leisure
14-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
Amazon Shoppers Say This Carry-on Set Is the Secret to Traveling for 3 Weeks Without Checking a Bag—From $65
Packing light pays off in spades, from saving on checked luggage fees to the time otherwise spent waiting at baggage claim. There's a misconception that packing light means having to go without, but that's not always the case. Some carry-on luggage has a higher volume of packing space than other options, despite their similar dimensions. Amazon reviewers say that's certainly the case for this organizational Bagsmart carry-on that they can reportedly squeeze several weeks' worth of stuff into. It even comes with a companion—a matching duffel bag that offers even more fee-free packing room—and the two-piece set is surprisingly affordable at $65, on sale for 13 percent off. The highlight of this two-piece Bagsmart luggage set is the 20-inch hardside spinner. The shell is made of ultra-durable and scratch-resistant polycarbonate that keeps the suitcase light (just over six pounds) despite providing a tough shield for your belongings. It has a TSA-approved combination lock and can hold 35 liters of gear, thanks to an interior system of compression pockets and straps. 'We took this suitcase on a three-week (carry-on-only) trip to Italy,' wrote one reviewer. ''It's lightweight even when stuffed full.' This happy shopper also noted that the zippers were 'strong and smooth to pull' and that the multi-direction wheels 'held up on cobblestone roads and sidewalks as well as carpet, tile, [and] hardwood.' A handful of other five-star reviews say they had no problem packing a whole week's worth of belongings into the suitcase of this matching set—and that's not including the extra packing space that comes with the duffel. This travel bag measures slightly over the personal item size restrictions of most airlines, but the soft exterior gives it lots of flexibility, so you may still be able to jam it underneath the seat in front of you. For the extra 11 liters of packing space, it's definitely worth a try. 'These two cases are outstanding for quality, durability, and style,' one shopper wrote about this 'gorgeous' two-piece carry-on set. The hardside spinner has a fashionable wave-like exterior, and the matching duffel makes for a smart, compact gym bag or overnight bag. Another reviewer said the spinner is smaller and lighter than a higher-end suitcase they own, making it a better carry-on for international travel, due to varying size restrictions between airlines. Inspired to pack lighter for your next flight? Snag the Bagsmart set now while it's 10 percent off the original $75 price tag, or keep scrolling for more luggage sets on sale at Amazon. At the time of publishing, the price started at $62. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Times
05-07-2025
- Business
- Times
Hand luggage: Ryanair, easyJet and British Airways policies explained
One of the easiest ways to save on your airfare always used to be opting to go hand-luggage only — but now, depending on who you're flying with, allowances can vary enormously. British Airways, for example, has one of the most generous hand luggage allowances around, allowing you to easily squeeze a week's worth of clothes into your carry-on bag and take advantage of their cheaper hand-luggage-only fares. Meanwhile, on Ryanair, size restrictions mean you're unlikely to fit in much more than one outfit and some toiletries — unless you pay an additional fee. Possible changes are afoot, however, as the EU wants to bring in reforms to guarantee passengers the right to travel with a 7kg carry-on bag with maximum dimensions of 100cm (sum of length, width and height) — plus a smaller under-seat bag — free of charge across airlines. The vote in Brussels saw a 38-2 split with two abstentions, and the EU parliament now has three months to hash out, adopt, reject or amend the new laws. The benefits here would be consistency across airlines, practicality and making it easier for customers to compare fares. You'd hope it might lead to consumer savings too, but some critics warn it may potentially drive up the price of tickets as airlines try to recoup costs. But for those travelling soon, here are the current carry-on luggage restrictions for the most popular airlines, as it stands today, to help you compare. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue The airline will allow everyone to take a small bag on board. The maximum size is 45 x 36 x 20cm, and the bag must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. There's also a weight limit of 15kg, and you'll need to be able to lift and carry this yourself. You can also take a larger cabin bag on board for free if you're an easyJet Plus cardholder; have booked the Inclusive Plus fare; or paid for a large cabin bag (which also allows you access to speedy boarding). EasyJet notes that it is cheaper to pre-book large cabin bags online, rather than at the airport, where they also risk being placed in the hold if space doesn't allow at the last minute. This larger bag can be up to 56 x 45 x 25cm, and weigh up to 15kg. All large cabin bags are subject to space, but should they need to be put in the hold after purchase, or as part of a benefit, this will be done so for free. Luggage allowance for those travelling with children depends on whether they have a booked seat. Children with paid-for seats have the same allowance as adults, plus a changing bag measuring up to 45 x 36 x 20cm. For babies travelling on an adult's lap, only a changing bag measuring up to 45 x 36 x 20cm is allowed, and this must be placed under the seat in front of you. You can also take two pieces of baby equipment for free, including travel cot, pushchair, car seat, booster seat and baby back carrier. • Compensation for cancelled and delayed flights: everything you need to know• European visa waiver: when does the EU's Etias scheme start? All passengers travelling with Ryanair can take a small bag onboard for free, with maximum dimensions of 40 x 25 x 20cm. The bag must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. There are also a limited number of 'Priority & 2 Cabin Bags' spaces on each flight, which allow you to board the plane via the Priority Queue and take two bags onboard. One of your two-bag allowances is your personal bag, which has the same dimensions as above. The second bag can weigh up to 10kg, with a maximum dimension of 55 x 40 x 20cm. For children, baggage allowance depends on whether they have their own seat. If you've booked a separate seat for your child, you can take a cabin bag measuring up to 40 x 25 x 20cm for placing under the seat in front. If your child (from eight days to 23 months old) is sitting on your lap — you have to book an extra comfort seat for this — they don't have a baggage allowance. However, you can take a baby bag weighing up to 5kg, with dimensions of up to 45 x 35 x 20cm, in addition to your own cabin bag allowance. You can also take up to two pieces of baby equipment. British Airways will allow all passengers to take two pieces of hand luggage on board, regardless of fare type. The smaller one can't be bigger than 40 x 30 x 15cm and must fit under the seat; the larger one a maximum of 56 x 45 x 25cm including wheels and handles. The bags can weigh up to 23kg each, making it one of the most generous cabin baggage allowances around. Babies under 24 months without their own seats have a checked luggage allowance of up to 23kg but no additional carry-on allowance. Children with their own seats have the same allowance as adults. The Virgin Atlantic allowance varies according to the cabin class. Upper Class passengers can take two cabin bags on board, weighing 12kg each or a combined weight of 16kg, while all other classes are permitted only one weighing a maximum of 10kg. The maximum size allowed for any bag is 56 x 36 x 23cm. In addition, you're allowed to take a smaller bag, such as a handbag, small backpack or purse. While Virgin does not specify dimensions for these, it does say that it cannot be 'used to contain items that would otherwise be regarded as baggage'. It must also be able to fit under the space in front of you. Children over two have the same cabin baggage allowance as adults. If your child is under two, you can take a bag weighing up to 6kg per child; Virgin doesn't specify dimensions for this. Car seats can be taken on board for free but foldable buggies (GB Pockit, Britax Holiday, Silver Cross Jet, Babyzen Yoyo) are in place of your cabin bag — or you can check this into the hold at the gate. Everyone gets to take a personal bag measuring no bigger than 40 x 30 x 20cm onto Wizz Air flights; it must be put under the seat in front of you, and weigh no more than 10kg. Wizz Priority customers can also take a bigger bag measuring up to 55 x 40 x 23cm, that is stowed in the overhead locker. The weight restriction for this is also 10kg. Adults travelling with an infant can bring an extra free carry-on bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm), plus food for the journey, but if you're taking a foldable baby pushchair, pram, foldable travel cot, or a car seat then these must be put in the hold before you board the aircraft. Aside from children under two, Tui allows all passengers to take one piece of luggage onboard. It must be no bigger than 55 x 40 x 20cm and no heavier than 10kg. You can also bring a personal item such as a laptop or handbag to be stowed under the seat in front of you; the maximum dimension for this is 40 x 30 x 20cm. Children under two have a 10kg checked-in luggage allowance but no carry on allowance. Jet2's cabin bag allowance includes a small personal bag (up to 40 x 30 x 15cm) that can be put under the seat in front of you, as well as a larger case measuring up to 56 x 45 x 25cm (including wheels and handles) and weighing no more than 10kg. Those with children under two can take a collapsible pushchair, car seat and/or travel cot but this must be placed in the hold before boarding and weigh no more than 10kg. • How to get over jet lag: 8 top tips and suggestions• 100ml liquids rule: which UK airports have changed restrictions? Vueling allows everyone to take a small underseat bag measuring up to 40 x 30 x 20cm on board for free. If you do any shopping at the airport, this must fit under the seat in front of you as well. Passengers travelling on premium fares are allowed to take a second piece of hand luggage with them. It has a weight limit of 10kg, must be placed in the overhead locker and can't be bigger than 55 x 40 x 20cm. This also applies to passengers travelling with an infant under two and can be booked for those using special assistance at the airport. Any cabin baggage must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead lockers on Loganair flights. If you have a Fly Flex + ticket, you're entitled to take one bag of up to 6kg plus a small handbag and a slimline laptop bag. While the airline does not specify dimensions for the handbag or the laptop bag, your main bag can't be bigger than 40 x 35 x 18cm. If you have a Fly or Fly Flex ticket, you can only carry a cabin bag of up to 6kg (with the same dimensions as above), plus a small handbag. If you're travelling with a child under two, you can also take a pram/pushchair and a car seat — but these must be foldable and go into the hold. Aer Lingus will allow all passengers to take a small personal bag on board with them, which can measure up to 33 x 25 x 20cm and must be stowed under the seat in front. You may also be able to take a cabin bag weighing up to either 7kg or 10kg, depending on your fare class and destination — this must go in the overhead locker. The 10kg bag can be up to 55 x 40 x 24cm; the 7kg bag can't be bigger than 48 x 33 x 20cm. Within Europe, you can take a 10kg cabin bag with you if your fare includes it. This applies to all Plus, Advantage, AerSpace and Economy fares purchased via British Airways; Silver, Platinum and Concierge AerClub members; AerClub or Aer Credit Card reward flights; those travelling with an infant; and those with a connecting flight with either Aer Lingus (transatlantic only) or a partner airline. On all other fares, you can either pay to take a 10kg bag on board with you (from €9.99/£9.99), or check it in for free before your flight. On regional flights, which are within Ireland and the UK and are operated by Emerald Airlines, you can take a 7kg cabin bag in addition to your personal bag. If you're connecting to/from an Aer Lingus transatlantic flight, the 7kg cabin bag limit applies to both legs of the journey. On Aer Lingus transatlantic flights, the 10kg cabin bag allowance applies regardless of fare class or frequent flyer status — unless you're joining from a regional flight. Prohibited items can vary between airlines and destinations so it's best to check before you travel. In general, anything that is illegal, considered dangerous, could be mistaken for something dangerous, or is otherwise hazardous is prohibited. This might include sharp objects and weapons like knives, corrosive and flammable substances such as bleach or fireworks, drugs and trafficked animals, and even sports equipment and toy guns. There are also restrictions on the size of some items. Liquid is the most obvious example and is generally limited to 100ml per container — up to one 20 x 20cm clear plastic bag's worth — but it can depend on the airport you're flying limit doesn't apply to sealed drinks bought in duty-free shops, breast milk or essential medication, although in the case of the latter you may need to show proof such as a doctor's note. But there could also be limits on the size of battery packs (varies from airline to airline) and types of cigarette lighters. Occasionally certain electronics items and gadgets are banned from flights in cases where their batteries are known to spontaneously combust, or for other security reasons. For example, in 2019 several airlines banned a model of Apple's MacBook Pro over safety concerns. This varies from airline to airline, so it's best to check with your carrier. Usually, flagship airlines will allow laptops as a personal item — it's comparable to a handbag — while budget airlines may require it to go inside your main cabin bag. • How to pack a suitcase• The best cabin bags and suitcases
Daily Mail
26-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Passengers travelling to Europe could take cabin bag on board for FREE - as new rules will ban airlines from charging extra
Holidaymakers may soon avoid the frustration of paying extra fees for carry-on luggage at the boarding gate - thanks to proposed changes in EU airline rules. The EU Parliament transport committee has approved new regulations that would grant all passengers the right to carry a handbag or small suitcase weighing up to 7kg at no extra cost. Under the amendment, passengers would be allowed one cabin bag with dimensions measuring up to 100cm, in addition to a smaller personal item that fits under the seat. This proposal could significantly impact budget airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air, which currently charge extra for larger cabin baggage. If implemented, the rule would apply not only to domestic EU flights but also to international flights connecting the EU with non-member countries, including the UK. For the proposal to become law, it still requires approval from at least 55 per cent of EU member states, representing 65 cent of the total EU population. However, this process could take time and prompt pushback from national governments and airline lobbies. Spain has already expressed its approval for the proposed changes - but not everyone is on board. Airlines for Europe, representing major carriers, warn that the new rules could disrupt operations and ultimately lead to increased ticket prices for passengers - even for those not carrying extra luggage. Managing director Ourania Georgoutsakou told Politico that the European Parliament should 'let travellers decide what services they want, what services they pay for and, importantly, what services they don't.' Ahead of Tuesday's vote, the group contacted EU transport committee members, stressing practical and logistical challenges airlines would face. They pointed out that although many aircraft carry up to 180 passengers, the overhead compartments can only accommodate about 90 trolley-sized bags. The industry body argues that requiring free carry-on luggage could cause boarding delays and overcrowding, and that travellers should retain the flexibility to select and pay for only the services they require.
