6 June 2025

What Can You Bring in Your Hand Luggage?

Flying from Schiphol soon? Then it’s smart to check in advance what exactly is allowed in your hand luggage. After this you know the answer to the question: ‘What Can You Bring in Your Hand Luggage?’. This way, you avoid surprises at the security checkpoint and can start your trip stress-free. In this blog, we list the key rules for hand luggage, including the change that takes effect from 1 September 2024.

What Is Allowed in Your Hand Luggage?

You can bring more than you might expect – as long as you follow a few clear rules:

Liquids, gels and creams:

Only in containers of 100 ml max per item
All items together in one clear resealable 1-liter plastic bag
One bag per person
Refillable containers must clearly show the maximum volume

Medications and baby food:

Allowed, preferably with a medical certificate

Liquids bought after security:

Allowed, if sealed and with a valid receipt

Sharp objects like nail files or scissors:

Allowed only if the sharp part is 6 cm or shorter

Electronics such as cameras, tablets, laptops, and power banks:

Allowed in your hand luggage – usually needs to be placed separately during screening

Food such as cheese or snacks:

Note: spreadable or soft cheese counts as a liquid and follows the liquids rule

Drink bottles:

Allowed, but must be empty during security screening

What Is Not Allowed?

Some items are strictly prohibited in your hand luggage, such as:

(Toy) guns or objects that resemble firearms
Stun devices or explosives
Blunt or sharp weapons that can cause injury

If you’re unsure, always follow the instructions of airport security staff. They may still deny certain items for safety reasons.

Hand Luggage Rules by Airline

In addition to Schiphol’s general rules, each airline has its own specific policies. Here’s a quick overview:

Transavia:

One item up to 45 x 40 x 25 cm if you don’t have priority boarding (must fit under the seat)
With priority: an extra trolley of 55 x 35 x 25 cm allowed in the overhead bin

KLM:

One bag up to 55 x 35 x 25 cm + one small accessory (e.g. handbag or laptop bag)
Combined max weight: 12 kg in Economy Class

Ryanair:

One small personal item (max 40 x 20 x 25 cm)
With Priority & 2 Cabin Bags: an additional trolley of 55 x 40 x 20 cm (max 10 kg)
Without priority: large hand luggage must be booked separately

easyJet:

One item up to 45 x 36 x 20 cm (under the seat)
With extra legroom or Speedy Boarding: larger bag up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm allowed

Important Change from 1 September 2024

From 1 September 2024, the liquid rule will be strictly enforced:

All liquids must be in containers of max 100 ml, with no exceptions.
Even items like medicine that were previously allowed in larger containers will require a new arrangement.

Travel Tip: Book Your Airport Transfer in Advance

Sorted your luggage? Now plan your ride to Schiphol. With Staxi, you book a taxi at a fixed price in advance — no surprises, no meter, and no hassle with public transport or parking.