From how much liquid to dimensions of hand luggage and electronic gadgets – expert advice on packing

Packing can be one of the most stressful things about going on vacation, especially if you’re not sure what to pack.

Many airlines limit hand luggage to one bag per passenger with strict dimensions and guidelines about what you can and can’t pack.

Some of these requirements are about to change and passengers may be able to fit more in their hand luggage.

In the midst of all these rules, you still have to decide what to bring. But don’t worry, these travel experts have advised what to pack and what not to pack when traveling by plane.

What is the maximum hand luggage size?

The maximum size of hand luggage depends on the airline you are flying with. It’s a good idea to check the carry-on requirements of each airline and airport before you travel.

On Ryanair flights, for example, each passenger is allowed to bring a personal bag measuring 40x20x25cm.

While easyjet allows hand luggage dimensions of 25x36x20cm and a maximum weight limit of 15kg.

As a general rule, all bags should fit under the seat in front of you.

If your hand luggage exceeds the amount, your luggage may be refused at the boarding gate or you may be fined by the airline.

How much liquid can I take in my hand luggage?

One of the top questions passengers have before they go on vacation is how much liquid they should take with them.

Fortunately, many UK airports are scrapping the 100ml liquid rule and adding new 3D security scanners that allow passengers to take up to two liters of liquid.

The Department of Transport has set a deadline of 2024 for airports to ensure the CT scanners are installed, but until then, jetsetters will have to adhere to the limits.

Monica Stott, travel blogger for Travel Hack, advised checking that your accommodation provides essentials such as shampoo, conditioner and shower gel.

She suggested avoiding heavy liquids is one way to travel light. “I use small 10ml sample jars and face care because you don’t really need much,” she said.

Which electronic gadgets can I bring?

According to the UK government website, you are only allowed to bring certain electronic and electrical devices on flights to the UK.

These include: phones, laptops, tablets, hairdryers/straighteners, travel irons, electric razors and e-cigarettes.

You can also bring camera equipment, but there may be some restrictions on certain equipment.

Some airlines may have certain restrictions so it’s always best to check their website before flying.

This way you maximize the space in your hand luggage

Travel writer for Spaghetti travelTom Bourlet said keeping your liquids at the top of your carry-on is a good way to maximize your travel space.

“I tend to carry them in a clear bag so I don’t have to fish around my bag at the airport, I just take it out,” he said.

Packing light is also the best way to travel and if you have heavy items, Mr. Bourlet suggested putting them in the bottom of your hand luggage.

Shoes can take up most of the space, so Ms. Stott suggested finding a comfortable everyday shoe to pack.

Mr Bourlet added: ‘If I’m taking more than one pair of shoes, I’ll be wearing the biggest one for the trip. You should also make sure to slip your pair of socks into the spare shoes to get the most out of the room.”

Ms Stott said passion compression cubes can be a good way to organize your hand luggage, but they don’t really save you much space.

She suggested keeping your essentials easily accessible and at the top of your carry-on.

“If you’re running out of space, it’s best not to pack any cubes and accept that your luggage feels a little chaotic,” she said.

To avoid chaos, Mr Bourlet said you should make sure there is no ‘dead space’ in your hand luggage.

He suggested being “tactical” when packing by rolling up clothes and stuffing every last bit of space.

If you don’t have enough room in your carry-on, Darryl Newby, seasoned traveler and co-founder of Welcome to Travel, suggested buying something tax-free to fit in the carry-on plastic carry-on bag.

“You can make a small purchase at the airport, like chewing gum or a pack of mints, ask for a carry-on bag, and put in any excess that won’t fit in the bag.”

Mr Bourlet agreed: ‘Some have room for a second bag, such as a handbag or tote bag, so if you’re struggling with space you can move a few items around, especially if the problem is around the weight of your luggage. ‘

Both experts said backpacks or suitcases can be used, Ms Stott noted: “I really like hybrid suitcase backpacks that you can easily convert from suitcases depending on the situation.”