Ryanair has strict rules when it comes to packing suitcases. The airline has urged all travellers to stop placing a certain item in their checked baggage at once
Katie-Ann Gupwell Content Editor
12:01, 24 Mar 2026
Ryanair has urged travellers to stop packing the item (stock image)(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Many people fly with Ryanair, but there are certain regulations you must observe when doing so, such as understanding which items you can and cannot pack in particular bags. However, what you may not be aware of is there’s a common item you should never pack in your suitcase, and it’s essential guidance to follow if you want your travel experience to proceed without issues.
Ryanair actually prohibits certain items from being transported in suitcases, and there’s sound reasoning behind this. Some can present hazards when packed in checked luggage, so it’s crucial you adhere to the strict regulations when travelling if you want to prevent some potentially significant problems at the airport.
This isn’t the only travel advice you need to heed either. Transporting certain toiletries in your luggage can also prove quite troublesome.
The subject recently arose on Reddit when a social media user enquired: “Perfume in checked baggage with Ryanair. Does it pass?
“Want to buy a 125ml bottle of perfume and fly with it soon if possible (Ryanair). Firstly, I know that 100ml is the max for on board, and so it would need to go in the hold. Fine.
“I tried to look for any size restrictions on it being in the checked baggage but didn’t see anything. However, Ryanair’s policy says no to flammable liquids.
“A quick Google says that perfume is considered a flammable liquid. Basically, can I take a 125ml bottle and put it in the checked baggage and how does this align with Ryanair’s (and presumably other airlines’) Terms and Conditions?
“Whilst I’m here, what if something was in your bag that wasn’t meant to be and it was padlocked? Would they just leave your bag in your departure city?”
The query rapidly generated considerable discussion, with people offering varying perspectives. It appears they’ve encountered all sorts of situations.
One stated: “It won’t be an issue for a random bottle of perfume in your checked bag. Might depend on the country but, if you lock your bag and it’s not allowed to be locked, they will just cut the lock off.
“But locking a zipper does literally nothing, you can open it in a couple of seconds with a pen or whatever anyway.” Another also noted: “Small quantities of perfume for personal use are allowed in passenger baggage.”
However, what you may not be aware of is there are certain regulations you must observe when travelling with flammable substances, and Ryanair provides guidance on its website. You should pay attention to the information.
What you need to know
The Ryanair website cautions: “The following items are strictly prohibited on board and in checked baggage. Explosives and incendiary substances and devices capable, or appearing capable, of being used to cause serious injury or to pose a threat to the safety of aircraft, including flammable liquids, flammable solids and substances that cause a chemical reaction.”
Whilst it details numerous other banned items, this is one that many travellers may not have considered much. When it comes to something like perfume, there are regulations you must follow.
You are permitted to bring flammable perfume on an aircraft, but it must comply with stringent liquid and safety rules. In hand luggage, it should not exceed 100ml (3.4 oz) and must fit into a 1L clear bag.
Conversely, in checked luggage, bottles should not surpass 500ml or 16 oz, typically with an overall limit of 2L per passenger. It also needs to be packed securely to avoid leaks, so ensure you adhere to the regulations.
Generally, however, you should refrain from packing flammable items in your luggage as this is prohibited. If you require advice regarding a specific product, get in touch with your airline for additional guidance, as airlines’ rules can vary slightly.