To complete the information provided in our previous post, we couldn’t leave out the list of forbidden items. If you pack any of these items in your hand baggage you are going to be delayed in the security checks at the airport. Remember these regulations are to protect us all, so be patient, hopefully after you get through to the lounge you’ll be enjoying your home exchange vacation already.

The Directgov UK government website clearly states that “You cannot take any objects in your hand baggage that can cause injury to yourself and other passengers. These are considered ‘prohibited’ and you are only allowed to take these items in your hold baggage (bags you check in)” and a quite thorough list follows. We will not reproduce the full list, but here is the main groups with a few examples to help you get the idea:

- Pointed/edged weapons and sharp objects, like scissors with long blades, knives of any kind, corkscrews, darts, screwdrivers, drills, ice skates or darts.
- Blunt instruments. Many sports equipment items are included in this group, like hockey sticks, paddles, bats, fishing rods and billiards cues, among others.

Objects that cannot be taken on the plane at all:

- Guns, firearms and weapons. If you are thinking “ok, like anyone in their senses would bring a gun” well, keep in mind that even toy guns and ball bearing guns are included in this category, so don’t take it lightly.
- Explosives and flammable substances, leaving out the obvious let’s say that here we have aerosol spray paint, smoke generating canisters/cartridges, non-safety matches, pyrotechnics, party poppers and drinks with over 70% alcohol by volume.
- Chemical and toxic substances, like organic peroxides, acids, alkalis (here is where “wet” batteries are included), tear gas, pepper spray or any kind of poison.

Please keep in mind that these items are strictly prohibited on the plane and will not be allowed in the hold baggage either. If you have any doubts, contact your airline to request more information. For regulations applying in other countries, you may visit the Foreign Office website.

Pack your bags and get ready to fly to your home exchange destination with HomeForHome.