The rules and regulations on what you can and can't put in your hold luggage are often complicated and subject to change. However, by following some simple guidelines when packing, you'll be able to make your flight a hassle-free process and pass through security as quickly as possible. Before you travel, make sure you take out travel insurance that covers you for lost luggage.

Are there any items not allowed on a plane?

There is an extensive list of items which are prohibited to carry on to the plane. These include sharp objects such as pen knives and scissors that are longer than 4 mm, which can potentially be harmful.

Sporting equipment such as golf clubs and tennis rackets also need to be stored in checked luggage. You should also store alcohol in checked luggage or buy it when you arrive - although you can take 5 litres of alcohol as long as the alcohol percentage does not exceed 70%.

Some of the more obscure prohibited items include snow globes, which should be stored in checked luggage at all times, and gel shoe inserts, which should be taken out of your shoes before going through security if you choose to wear them at all.

Are liquids allowed in hold luggage?

Liquids are only allowed to be kept in hold luggage if they don't exceed 1 litre or 20 by 20cm in size. If you do choose to take liquids on board, these should be in containers no larger than 100 mm each. When going through security, you should put these in a separate, clear packet before you get to the scanners.

Following the rules will prevent you from having any of your luggage disposed of before you even get to your destination. Additionally, this will allow you to pass through security at a much more relaxing pace and to arrive at the plane on time.