From gadgets to snacks, what you perceive as a harmless addition to your carry-on could actually cause inconvenience, delays, or even additional inspections. As  holidaymakers gear up for their summer escapes, experts at Fulton Umbrellas have compiled a list of typical items that should be avoided in hand luggage.

While hand luggage is often the go-to spot for valuables or items needed during the flight, the firm recommends careful consideration when deciding what to take on board. The first crucial advice from the experts concerns packing electronic devices with lithium-ion batteries. Although rules may differ among airlines, passengers are generally advised to only pack electronics with batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh in their hand luggage, reports the Express.

It’s also vital to ensure all devices are fully charged and switched off before packing, as this can help avoid any hiccups at security checks. The company also emphasised the need to be aware of the kind of  food items you choose to stash in your hand luggage.

While it’s usual for travellers to pack nibbles or souvenirs, foods like jams, soft cheeses, and chutneys fall under the 100ml liquid limit and could be seized.

Different countries enforce their own specific rules regarding food, and some might impose extra restrictions on certain items.

Hence, it’s strongly advised to research what’s permitted and what’s not beforehand to prevent any disappointment or issues with airport security.

Fulton Umbrellas also points out that while umbrellas generally don’t pose a problem in hand luggage, larger styles — such as golf umbrellas — could cause difficulties.

These bigger umbrellas might be better placed in checked luggage, as they could pose a safety risk if mishandled in the confined space of your carry-on bag.

Moreover, stowing a large umbrella in your hold luggage allows more room in your carry-on for other essential items, making your packing process more efficient.

Finally, the company warned fitness enthusiasts about the potential drawbacks of carrying protein powders in their carry-on bags.

Although these powders are usually not banned by airlines, they can obscure the view on X-ray machines, potentially causing delays during security checks.

Consequently, those who pack protein powders in their hand luggage may find themselves subjected to more thorough inspections, as security staff will likely need to manually examine the contents of their bags.

Given the multitude of rules, it’s always worthwhile to double-check each airline’s luggage guidelines, as well as the specific restrictions of each country, before setting off on a journey.