Checked baggage rules

Lithium batteries

The prohibition exists because lithium batteries can enter thermal runaway — a self-sustaining exothermic reaction that produces fire and toxic gases. In the cabin, crew can respond immediately. In the hold, access is not available during flight. Airlines are not permitted to waive this restriction. See the lithium battery guide for Wh ratings, e-bike battery rules, and power bank policies.

Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages in checked baggage are regulated by IATA DGR based on alcohol by volume (ABV):

Destination import allowances are separate from these aviation security rules. Countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India have alcohol import restrictions that apply on arrival regardless of whether the items survived the security checkpoint.

Aerosols

Toiletry aerosols — deodorant sprays, hairspray, shaving foam — are permitted in checked baggage under IATA DGR with two limits:

• Each individual container must not exceed 500 ml (or 500 g).
• The total volume across all aerosol containers must not exceed 2 L (or 2 kg) per person.

These limits apply to toiletries and non-flammable aerosols. Flammable spray paints, lacquers, and adhesive sprays are prohibited regardless of quantity. The caps of aerosol cans must be secured to prevent accidental discharge.

Firearms and sporting weapons

Unloaded firearms are permitted in checked baggage on most airlines and under TSA regulations, subject to strict conditions. The firearm must be:

• Unloaded.
• In a hard-sided, locked container to which only the passenger has the key or combination.
• Declared to the airline at check-in; a declaration form is placed inside the case.
• Transported in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws (TSA guidance).

Ammunition may be transported in the same locked container as the firearm (TSA rules) or separately. The limit is 11 lbs (5 kg) of small arms ammunition per passenger. Ammunition must be in its original packaging or a purpose-designed case.

International rules vary substantially. Some countries prohibit private firearm transport entirely. Always verify with the airline and the destination country's customs and police authority before travel. Non-compliance can result in arrest at the destination.

Matches and lighters

One book of safety matches is permitted in carry-on baggage only, not in checked baggage, under IATA DGR. Strike-anywhere matches are prohibited on the aircraft entirely.

Lighters are prohibited from checked baggage on most airlines. One common lighter (butane or absorbed-liquid type) is permitted in carry-on or on the person under US DOT regulations; the exact policy varies by country and airline. Torch lighters — those producing a directed flame — are prohibited in both cabin and hold on most carriers.

Flammable and hazardous items

IATA DGR = IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. The DGR is updated annually. Airlines must apply these rules as a minimum; many apply stricter policies.

Weight limits

Checked bag weight limits are set by airlines and vary by route, fare class, and loyalty status. Typical allowances are:

• Economy class on most major carriers: 20–23 kg per bag.
• Business and first class: 30–32 kg per bag on many airlines.
• Hard maximum per bag: 32 kg. IATA manual handling guidelines set this as the absolute limit a single handler can be required to lift. Most airlines will not accept a bag exceeding 32 kg regardless of fare class.

Overweight fees are charged per kilogram on most carriers and can exceed the cost of additional baggage allowance purchased in advance. Bags above 32 kg may be refused at check-in regardless of whether an overweight fee is paid.