As of June 30, 2018, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration is changing the rules about taking powders on planes. After this date, any powder-like substances bigger than 350ml/12oz – about the size of a soda can – should be put in checked baggage and not in hand luggage.

We worked with skyscanner.ae, an online booking portal for flights and holidays, to bring you this guide on what you should avoid packing in your cabin or hand luggage.

Powders

As of June 30, 2018, the US Transportation Security Administration is changing the rules about taking powders on planes. After this date, any powder-like substances bigger than 350ml/12oz – about the size of a soda can – should be put in checked baggage and not in hand luggage.

Common powders on planes might include cosmetics, flour, powdered milk, spices, and coffee. The rules aren’t set in stone though, and powders in hand luggage that are bigger than 350ml might require 'secondary screening' and if officials can’t clear it, you won’t be allowed to take them onboard.

Baby formula powder, human ashes and essential medical powders are exempt from the new rules.

Smart luggage

In January 2018 the rules governing smart luggage in the Unites States changed, making it even more important to check the rules with an individual airline before you fly anywhere.

Smart bags use lithium batteries to run GPS tracking systems, phone chargers and electronic locks, which have been to linked to fires on planes. But recently a number of airlines (especially in America) have banned the bags from the hold unless the lithium battery can be removed, essentially removing anything smart about the case!

If the bag is small enough to be taken into the cabin, you’re usually fine, as long as you can switch the battery off. Check with your airline before you fly otherwise you could be trouble.

Baby foods

You need to be careful with baby foods and check with the governing authority at your destination and departure airports before you travel, or you could get yourself into trouble.

The UK government, for example, will allow you to carry formula and cow’s milk in your hand luggage but your baby must be present. The same applies to a baby’s sterilized water, soya milk and baby food.

So if you’re travelling to meet your baby or travelling separately, you won’t be allowed to take the milk or other foods in your hand luggage. You can, however, carry breast milk in your hand luggage (but not frozen) even if you’re not with your baby; helpful if you’re a travelling pumping mother.