Airport questions answered
The short answer
These are the questions travellers ask most often at check-in, security and the border. Where an official source gives a clear rule, we link to our page that reads it. Where the answer depends on the airline, the airport or the country, we say so and do not guess.
At check-in and security
What is the baggage weight limit for my flight?
There is no single limit. Each airline sets its own cabin and checked bag sizes and weights, and they can depend on the fare. We list what each airline publishes on its own page. Check your airline or the size chart.
What are the liquid rules for hand luggage?
In the US, TSA's 3-1-1 rule applies. UK and European airports have their own rules, and some airports allow larger containers with newer scanners, so check the airport you fly from. TSA 3-1-1, UK airports, European airports, liquids explained.
Do laptops and tablets come out at security?
TSA publishes its own rules on screening laptops and tablets, and they can differ with TSA PreCheck. Laptops and tablets at TSA and TSA PreCheck.
Do I need a REAL ID to fly in the US?
TSA says you need a REAL ID compliant licence or another acceptable form of ID for domestic flights. Our pages set out what is accepted and what happens without ID. REAL ID, acceptable ID list, flying without ID.
What can I not take in hand luggage?
The rules differ for lighters, power banks, aerosols, tools and other items, and between the US and Europe. What is allowed in hand luggage and dangerous goods in luggage.
When things go wrong
What if my flight is bumped, delayed on the tarmac or my bag is lost?
The US Department of Transportation publishes passenger rights for these cases. Our pages summarise them and link the official source. Denied boarding, tarmac delays, lost or delayed bags.
What time does boarding start and when does the gate close?
These times are set by each airline and airport, not by a single rule, so we do not give a general figure. Your boarding pass and the airline app show the times for your flight.
What are excess baggage fees and can I choose a seat?
Fees and seat selection are set by each airline and change by fare. We show bag allowances on each airline page, and fees where the airline publishes them. Check your booking for seat options. All airlines.
At the border and customs
What do officers ask when I arrive in the US?
CBP says all persons arriving at a US port of entry are subject to inspection by CBP officers, covering immigration, customs and agriculture. CBP does not publish a fixed list of questions. An older DHS page written for students says the officer may ask about the purpose of your visit, how long you will stay, where you will live and whether you can support yourself. That page is dated 2014 and says it may be outdated. See ESTA and the Visa Waiver Program.
Does an approved ESTA guarantee entry?
No. CBP says ESTA authorisation does not determine whether a traveller is admissible. A CBP officer makes that decision on arrival. ESTA requirements and fee.
What should I have ready for the officer?
Keep your passport and travel documents in your hand luggage, not your checked bag. A DHS page for international students says the same about its own documents. Other documents depend on your visa or status, so check the official instructions for your case.
What happens at secondary inspection?
The DHS page describes it as a more detailed inspection when the officer cannot verify your information or you lack required documents.
Do I have to declare cash?
In the US you must report more than $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments, in total for a family or group, when entering or leaving. In the EU the reporting threshold is 10,000 euro. Reporting is not the same as an offence, but failing to report can lead to seizure. US cash rule and Europe cash rule.
Do I have anything to declare?
CBP says you must declare certain agricultural items such as meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds and soil. Duty-free limits apply when returning. Food, fruit and plants, US duty-free allowance, UK allowances.
Do I need a return ticket or a place to stay?
Rules depend on the country and your visa or travel authorisation. We have not confirmed a general rule for every country, so check the official entry page for the country you are visiting.
Sources: CBP: For International Visitors, CBP: Admission into the United States, DHS Study in the States: What to expect when entering the United States (2014, may be outdated). Read 8 November 2026. Rules change, so check the official page before you travel. CBP says it cannot provide legal advice.