There is nothing more annoying than arriving at the airport with your carefully packed baggage only to find that you can't take it onboard, or that you have to discard valuable cosmetics or other items because they don't meet airline regulations. This can be a costly exercise. Regulations differ for international and domestic flights and it is wise to be sure you have the latest information before you leave home.

Luggage restrictions change more frequently these days than ever before. Some airlines allow more luggage than others, however not by much, as there is not a huge amount of space for carry-on bags.

What to take on board in cabin luggage.

• Fragile and valuable items
• Electronic equipment - laptops, mobile phones, cameras
• Cash
• Keys
• Jewellery
• Liquids, aerosols and gels in containers no greater than 100ml and ina transparent resealable plastic bag. This bag must be no larger than 1 litre in capacity and you are allowed one per person. Larger containers, even if only partially full will not be allowed
• Medicine is allowed if you have a letter from your doctor indicating that you need it.
• Baby products such as milk and baby food may be taken on board though it will be subject to additional security checks.

What you are not allowed to take on board in cabin luggage.

Dangerous goods is a broad classification and anything that falls into this category may not be taken onboard an aeroplane either as cabin or checked-in luggage. You need to check the website for a full list, or ask your travel agent. Here are a few examples of things that are not allowed or are restricted.

• Torch cigarette lighters to and from the USA and its territories. If you are smoker you are allowed one small packet of safety matches, however you are not allowed to smoke onboard or in many terminals.
  
• Security type attache cases, cash boxes or cash bags that ''incorporate dangerous goods".
  
• Camping stoves that have held flammable material - check the website for more information,
• Wheelchairs need to meet certain criteria.
  
• Thermometers containing mercury must have a protective case.
• Hair curlers containing hydrocarbon gas - are only allowed if they have a safety cover securely fitted over the heating element

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Different countries, different rules

Not all countries are the same and it is important that you are up to date with regulations. The Qantas website has information online including details on what you are allowed and able to take to specific locations. It is quite complicated as every country and airline has their own rules - there are no general rules.

If you are worried about any of these things please contact us. We can be phoned 2 9968 1600 during office hours (9 to 5 - Monday to Friday, 10-2, Saturday - or by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at any time.