The backpack is an ideal companion for long and short trips, and we always want to have it with us, either as a single piece of luggage or as a valuable complement to the travel suitcase.
Of course, it is expected that there are doubts about the possibility of transporting a backpack with a carry-on bag since it is a comfortable item to carry on the shoulders, and nobody wants to have a significant part of the belongings rejected just before boarding the plane.
Yes, most airlines allow you to have a small backpack apart from hand luggage, which must be at most the weight established for cabin luggage. However, each airline regulates individually whether or not both pieces can be carried within the franchise, and you should consult for your particular case.
Requirements to transport hand luggage and backpack
Most airlines will allow you to transport one cabin bag and one personal accessory (or personal item); as long as both do not exceed the weight requirements established by the airline for cabin baggage.
Another condition that may be required is that the backpack fits in the overhead compartment or under your front seat.
You can carry a personal Baggage accessory such as a small backpack, a handbag, a briefcase, a small purse, a baby bag or an object such as a laptop. However, as we mentioned, you should inform yourself very well about your airline’s rules regarding hand luggage when planning your trip.
Can food be carried in hand luggage?
The food on the plane can be small in some cases, and, to avoid going hungry on the way, it is advisable to bring some snacks to eat during the flight. But is it possible to take food in a carry-on bag?
Yes, food can be carried in hand luggage; only the food has to be in good condition and properly sealed. However, you should know the limitations of transporting liquid or semi-liquid food in cabin suitcases.
It is always a good idea to check if the country of destination has special rules for the transport of food, especially for sausages, meats and dairy products, which are the most prohibited.
Food can you have in the cabin suitcase
Although it is allowed to carry food in the cabin suitcase or hand luggage, you must consider that the groceries must be in excellent condition, sealed and adequately packaged. Airport security will check its quality and quantity and order that any prohibited product is thrown away or placed in the bag of liquids.
In summary, you can take on board the plane the following provisions:
- Dry and sealed foods, such as cereal bars, nuts, chips or chocolates.
- Sandwiches brought from home or sandwiches bought at the airport.
- Liquid or creamy foods, such as yoghurt, cheese or jam, in jars of less than 100 ml each and bags allowed for beverages (less than 1 litre in total).
- Choose dry groceries for your carry-on.
Airlines allow passengers to bring food on board as hand luggage as long as the security guidelines of the airport and country of destination are met.
Generally, dry edibles deposited in closed containers are accepted without limitations; however, fluid or soft foods often have quantity restrictions. The latter can be carried only in small portions. Therefore, it is advisable to have more dry and solid foodstuffs if the trip is long.
Rules for transporting food on the plane
There are the following rules to keep in mind before placing your food in cabin bags and checked bags:
Restriction of liquids in hand luggage: Liquid, creamy and dense foods are considered liquids in hand luggage. Thus, you can only carry these groceries in a maximum of 100 ml per unit and inside a single transparent and hermetic bag; with a maximum capacity of one litre.
Regulations for food in the checked bag: When travelling within the EU, only the amount of alcohol, tobacco and coffee (among others) must be declared, although the limits established for these products do not usually generate compliance problems. Outside the European Union, you must inform yourself in advance about the customs regulations of the country of destination. For example, there are places where cheeses and hams are not allowed. Therefore, you should investigate your particular case if you have doubts about an edible product.
Carrying food in hand luggage outside the EU: When travelling by plane within the European Union, there are few restrictions, for member countries, on the transport of food for personal use (in the cabin and checked luggage). But while many sites have similar rules, there are significant limitations you should be aware of, depending on each country.
Are airlines still serving food and drink?
Flying in these times can have different things than in previous years. However, most airlines still serve food and drink on planes. However, only a few companies have suspended the catering service on board to reduce contact between passengers and cabin crew.
At the moment, drinks are not served from large bottles but are delivered in individual containers or closed cans (the same applies to alcoholic beverages).
