Packing for a flight in India requires savvy awareness of security regulations. To ensure a seamless journey through security checks, always stow these items in your checked baggage.
1. Sporting Goods That Double As Weapons
Leave all sporting equipment that could be considered a potential weapon in your checked luggage. This specifically includes cricket bats, baseball bats, golf clubs, and hockey sticks. Security personnel will undoubtedly confiscate these items at the checkpoint.
2. All Types of Tools
You might plan to fix something at your destination, however, security agencies prohibit most tools in cabin baggage. This ban includes hammers, drills, screwdrivers, wrenches, and crowbars. Essentially, if it’s a tool you’d find in a toolbox, then you must pack it in your checked hold luggage.
3. Realistic Replica or Toy Weapons
Without a doubt, never pack toy guns, replica firearms, or any item that mimics a weapon. Security scanners cannot distinguish these from real threats, which will lead to significant delays, potential fines, and the item’s immediate confiscation.
4. Sharp Scissors and Blades
While small, blunt-ended scissors with blades under 6cm are sometimes permitted, it’s crucial to remember that larger scissors, razor blades, box cutters, and craft knives are strictly forbidden. Therefore, to avoid any hassle, pack all sharp objects in your checked bag.
5. Liquids Over 100ml
This is a universal rule, but it bears repeating: you cannot carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers larger than 100ml in your hand luggage. Furthermore, you must present all these containers in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag at the security screening point.
6. Most Lighters and Matches
The rules on these can be nuanced, so the safest approach is to not carry them at all. While one small lighter might be allowed on your person, you cannot store any lighters or matches in your hand luggage. Airlines typically prohibit them entirely, so check your carrier’s policy beforehand.
7. Power Banks and E-Cigarettes in Checked Bags
Conversely, you must carry power banks and lithium-ion batteries in your hand luggage. The rules explicitly forbid packing them in checked baggage due to their fire risk. The same rule applies to e-cigarettes and vaping devices.
8. Corrosive and Flammable Substances
This includes items like drain cleaners, bleach, spray paints, and lighter fluid. Obviously, these hazardous materials pose a severe safety risk in the aircraft cabin. Consequently, authorities will not only confiscate them but may also levy serious penalties.
9. Fireworks and Other Explosives
This should go without saying, yet it must be stated: fireworks, flare guns, grenades (even replicas), and any explosive material are completely banned from both hand and checked luggage. Possessing these can lead to arrest.
10. Excessive Cash (Requires Declaration)
Finally, while not a security item, carrying over ₹50,000 in Indian currency or over $5,000 (or its equivalent in foreign currency) requires a legal declaration at customs. Failing to declare can result in seizure of the funds and legal action. For a stress-free experience, use cards or digital payment methods instead.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, check the latest guidelines on the website of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which handles airport security in India, or with your specific airline. A quick check ultimately saves you time and prevents the heartache of surrendering a prized possession at the screening line.
