Nobody wants their vacation to start with a problem at the airport, and nothing better than knowing the rules on advance to avoid any misunderstanding during baggage check. The Directgov UK government website offers detailed information about travel and transport and specially air travel, including hand baggage rules, things need to know about airport security and items you cannot take on board a flight.

Let’s make a quick review about hand baggage rules:

- Maximum size, as determined by the Department of Transport, is 56×45x25cm including wheels, handles and pockets, but some airlines may have a different maximum size allowed, so it is a good idea to check with your airline in advance (the same applies to the number of items you are allowed to check-in). Oversized items will be checked-in as hold baggage and will not be allowed in the cabin.

- Laptops and other electrical items are allowed but they have to be screened separately.

- If you need to bring medical equipment that is essential for you, you need to have supporting documentation from a medical professional (prescription, letter, etc.)

- Musical instruments may be allowed as hand baggage, but it is essential that you contact the airline in advance, since you may have to make special arrangements.

- It is best to pack liquids in your hold baggage, because there are several restrictions to the volumes allowed in hand baggage items.

- Surprisingly, one lighter is allowed per person, and you must keep it with you through the whole flight. It is not allowed to have a lighter in your hold baggage and you cannot place it on the hand baggage.

- You may bring enough food, milk or sterilised water for a baby to cover their need during the flight.

- Liquids bought after passing through security are allowed in the cabin.

The Foreign Office website offers travel advice by country, so you can check the regulations in your destination as well, to avoid problems after landing.

We will continue next time with more airport checks advice, in the meantime find your home exchange destination and prepare to travel.