So, Why Are Some Items Banned from Checked Luggage Anyway?
These rules aren't just airline policies—they're backed by international law. According to IATA (International Air Transport Association) and ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization), certain items are banned because they can cause fires, explosions, or pose a threat to flight safety. In Indonesia, this is reinforced by the Minister of Transportation Regulation (Permenhub) No. PM 185 of 2015, covering passenger baggage for both domestic and international flights.
Items You Can't Bring in Checked Luggage (Registered Baggage)
This is where things often go wrong during the Eid homecoming—many people don't even realize their suitcase contains prohibited items!
Powerbanks and Spare Lithium Batteries
This is the most common mistake, especially during the Eid holiday rush.
- Powerbanks and spare lithium batteries are strictly banned from checked luggage—they must be carried in the cabin
- Maximum capacity allowed in cabin: 100 Wh without approval, up to 160 Wh with airline permission
- Powerbanks over 160 Wh (around 43,000 mAh) are not allowed at all
- Each passenger may carry a maximum of two powerbanks
- Charging devices from a powerbank during the flight is not permitted
Flammable and Explosive Materials
All flammable or explosive materials are banned without exception, both in checked luggage and cabin:
- Fuel, gasoline, thinner, spray paint, and lighter fluid
- Fireworks, firecrackers, flares, grenades, and detonators
- Pressurized gases like propane, butane, and irritant aerosols
- Bleach, peroxide, and other oxidizing agents
Corrosive and Hazardous Materials
- Mercury, including that found in glass thermometers
- Sulfuric acid, strong alkalis, and vehicle batteries
- Radioactive materials in any form
- Corrosive materials that can damage the aircraft body
E-Cigarettes and Vapes
E-cigarettes and vapes cannot be placed in checked luggage because they contain lithium batteries. Both must be carried in cabin baggage, and using them on the plane is obviously prohibited.
Small Battery-Powered Vehicles
- Hoverboards, mini-segways, balance wheels, and similar devices are banned from both checked and cabin baggage by most airlines, including Garuda Indonesia
- Policies vary by airline, so always confirm before you travel
Eid Souvenirs to Watch Out for When Packing Your Suitcase
Planning to bring souvenirs or snacks in your suitcase for Eid 2026? Better check the rules first!
Eid Cookies and Dry Snacks
These are allowed in checked luggage as long as they're tightly packed and not easily crushed. It's best to wrap them in airtight plastic and cushion them with clothes so they survive the flight.
Soups, Sambal, and Packaged Sauces
Allowed in checked luggage as long as they're in airtight, sealed containers. Wrap them again in a ziplock bag as a second layer to prevent spills if cabin pressure changes.
Large Perfumes and Skincare Products
Full-sized perfumes, lotions, and skincare products are allowed in checked luggage with no 100 ml limit—that rule only applies to cabin baggage. Just make sure the caps are tight and wrap them in plastic to prevent leaks.
Lighters
Lighters are not allowed in checked luggage under any circumstances. If you want to bring one, it can only go in the cabin—and the fuel must be emptied first.
Suitcase Packing Tips to Breeze Through Security This Eid
To make sure your suitcase passes inspection and your Eid trip goes smoothly:
- Remove all powerbanks from your checked luggage before heading to the airport, this is the number one reason bags get held up
- Keep sharp objects like scissors and razors in your checked bag, wrapped in cloth or clothing for safety
- Pack liquids in airtight containers and add a ziplock layer—cabin pressure can pop bottle caps open
- Never put lighters, e-cigarettes, or vapes in your checked luggage
- Double-check your suitcase at least one night before departure—don't pack at the last minute
- Confirm your airline's rules since some specific policies may vary between carriers
Consequences of Bringing Prohibited Items
Don't underestimate the risks—the consequences go way beyond just having your stuff confiscated!
- Prohibited items will be seized immediately by airport security with no compensation
- For dangerous goods, passengers may face penalties under applicable aviation regulations
- In certain cases, passengers can be banned from flying that day
- Re-inspection delays could make you miss your flight during the always-packed Eid travel season
Safe Luggage, Stress-Free Eid Homecoming
Your Eid 2026 homecoming should be a joyful moment, not one that starts with your suitcase being ripped open at check-in. Sure, there are a lot of luggage rules, but it all boils down to this: keep all dangerous items, lithium batteries, and flammables out of your checked bag. Double-check your suitcase the night before, and your journey home will be smooth from your front door all the way to your hometown.
