Before traveling, it is essential to distinguish two things:
- Air transport rules, which are the responsibility of airlines and security authorities.
- The customs rules, which apply to your arrival on French territory (or when you leave for a country outside the European Union).
What you can take on the plane: airline rules
Permitted or prohibited items depend on:
- the type of luggage you bring for your flight (cabin or hold)
- aviation security instructions (not allowed on any aircraft)
- and sometimes company-specific policy
Items generally allowed in the cabin
- Phones, laptops, tablets.
- Medications (with prescription if possible).
- Baby food.
- Liquids in vials of less than 100 ml (in a transparent plastic bag of up to one liter).
- Helmets, books, small electronic accessories.
Contraband in the cabin
- Liquids in large quantities (more than 100 ml).
- Scissors, knives, sharp objects.
- Tools (hammers, screwdrivers, etc.)
- Aerosols not allowed.
- Non-compliant lithium batteries (check standards).
Items allowed in the hold but not in the cabin
- Large cosmetic or alcohol bottles.
- Sports facilities (ski poles, golf clubs).
- DIY tools and equipment.
- Flammable or corrosive liquids (under very strict conditions).
Warning: each company can have its own restrictions. Check their website before packing!
What customs controls on your arrival in France
Once on French soil, customs agents can check your luggage (cabin or hold). Their role is to protect safety, public health, the environment and the economy.
Customs shall ensure that:
Prohibited Products
- Drugs and narcotics
- Counterfeits (bags, clothing, cosmetics, etc.)
- Unauthorized animal products (cold cuts, meat, cheese, etc.)
- Protected animal or plant species (corals, ivory, certain plants, etc.)
Objects subject to authorization
- Weapons and ammunition
- Drugs in large quantities
- Works of art or heritage objects
- Radio equipment
Exceedances of quantities authorized without declaration
- Tobacco, alcohol, coffee, perfumes...
- Electronic devices or products purchased outside the EU
Even if an object is authorized by the company in the cabin or in the hold, it may be prohibited entry into France.
What to do to travel well by plane?
Before you go
- Check your airline's website for items allowed or prohibited on board.
- Find out about the customs allowances and items subject to declaration.
In case of doubt
- Do not hesitate to ask the customs services or the company.
- Prefer to declare a suspicious object rather than risk it with seizure (or a fine).