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Check it or chuck it: What can you take in a carry-on bag on domestic flights in Australia?

Alex Keshen

14 Nov 2025 - 4 min read

A woman packing toiletries that fit in a carry-on bag

From liquids and snacks to batteries and vapes, the rules of what you can and can’t bring on the plane with you are constantly changing. Sometimes, you’re able to pack things in checked-luggage only, and other times, it needs to be with your person.

Of course, each airline has its own regulations, too, so keep in mind that this information is general. But, we’ll also dive into what some airlines, or routes, also ban on board.

Can’t keep up? We get it.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller, or it’s your first time on a plane, here’s what you need to be aware of before boarding.

Liquid restrictions on domestic flights in Australia

Unlike international flights, the restrictions on liquids for domestic flights in Australia are less stringent... as long as they fit within your airline's carry-onweight limits. Here’s what you need to know:

Liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) can be carried in your hand luggage without size or volume limits.

Items such as water bottles, perfumes, shampoos, and lotions are allowed in your carry-on.

There is no need to pack liquids in clear plastic bags, unlike international flights.

So, feel free to bring back a bottle of wine from that South Australian vineyard, or a nice whisky from Tasmania… Just don’t open it in-flight!

Keep in mind that if you’re connecting in another Australian city to an international flight, you won’t be able to bring items more than 100ml onto your international leg. So, it’s probably best to pack those in your checked luggage.

Can you take food on domestic flights in Australia?

Good news for foodies! You are welcome to bring some food on domestic flights in Australia. Snacks, sandwiches, or even a meal can be packed in your carry-on luggage. However, some state regulations may impose restrictions on fresh produce, meats, and dairy products when flying across state lines.

For example:

Western Australia has strict quarantine laws that prohibit fresh fruit, vegetables, and honey entering the state.

Tasmania requires you to declare fresh items on arrival or dispose of restricted items in a provided quarantine bin.

New South Wales prohibits you from bringing in fresh fruit and some vegetables, including tomatoes, capsicum, eggplant, chilli and unwashed potatoes

Northern Territory also enforces rules on carrying fresh items like fruit and plants.

To avoid unexpected surprises, check state-specific quarantine requirements before packing, or just leave any fresh, un-packaged foods at home.

Can you take alcohol on domestic flights in Australia?

Whether you're travelling to some of the country's best wine regions or are bringing a special bottle to share with friends you're visiting, you're in luck. You can bring alcohol on domestic flights, but there are some rules to keep in mind:

You are allowed to carry alcohol in your checked luggage with no specific volume restrictions, within reason.

Alcohol in your carry-on is allowed but only in unopened containers. You cannot consume personal alcohol during the flight; only drinks purchased from the airline's onboard menu are permitted.

If you’ve purchased duty-free alcohol on a connecting international flight, make sure the bottles are in sealed tamper-evident bags with the purchase receipt.

Always check with your airline for additional guidelines concerning alcohol transport.

Can you take metal water bottles on domestic flights in Australia?

Yes, metal water bottles are allowed in both your carry-on and checked luggage. If the bottle contains liquid, ensure the lid is securely sealed. While there are no restrictions specific to metal water bottles, your bottle will need to go through X-ray screening at the security checkpoint.

Travelling with prescription drugs on domestic flights Australia

Carrying medicines on domestic flights is straightforward as long as you follow these guidelines:

Prescription medications should be in their original packaging and accompanied by a copy of your doctor's prescription.

Over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers or antacids, can be carried freely.

If you're carrying liquid medicine, keep it in a tightly sealed container to avoid leaks. There’s no need to place it in a clear plastic bag.

Items like inhalers and insulin pumps may require a medical certificate if requested by security personnel.

Check with your airline if you're travelling with medications that require refrigeration, or consider bringing a cool bag with you.

Always double-check the airline’s policy for carrying unique medical equipment.

Travelling with vapes on domestic flights

If you’re a vape user, here’s what you need to know about travelling with vaping devices on domestic flights in Australia:

Vaping devices, like e-cigarettes, are permitted in hand luggage but are not allowed in checked luggage due to battery safety concerns.

Vape liquids are allowed in your carry-on without volume restrictions, provided they’re securely sealed.

Charging your vape devices onboard the aircraft is prohibited.

Be mindful that vaping onboard or in the airport terminal is strictly against Australian law.

Dogs and pets on domestic flights

Travelling with your furry friends? Domestic flights in Australia generally allow pets, but each airline has its own rules. Virgin Australia, for example, recently updated its pet travel regulations:

Pets must travel in the cargo hold unless they are registered service animals.

Approved pet carriers are required, and these must meet airline size and safety standards.

For pets flying in cargo, you’ll need to book well in advance as space is limited.

Some airlines may restrict pet travel during extreme weather conditions for safety reasons.

Check with your airline and ensure all necessary paperwork, such as vaccination records, is prepared to avoid delays.

Bringing power banks and batteries on board

One of the latest items to be limited includes lithium batteries, including the power banks that use them, as the danger of in-flight fires have become greater.

Power banks need to be less than 100Wh to be allowed onboard without approval from the airline. If yours is 100-160Wh, you may still be able to bring it; you’ll just need to check with your airline. Anything larger than 160Wh won’t be allowed on the plane.

Because each airline’s rules change a bit, we recommend contacting them in advance in case you need to leave it at home altogether. You can ask at the time of check-in when there’s still time to put your power bank into checked luggage (if it’s allowed in there), but if you can’t check it you risk losing it.

Travel confidently with the right packing knowledge

Whether you’re packing your snacks, prepping your playlist, or planning a trip with your pet, knowing what’s allowed on domestic flights in Australia will help you travel stress-free. Stick to the rules outlined here, stay informed with state-specific regulations, and you’ll be well-prepared for your next adventure.

Got more questions about domestic Australian travel? Stay tuned to Traveloka for tips and tricks on how to make your next trip seamless and exciting.

Written by: Alex Keshen

Alex Keshen is the content strategist and SEO lead for Traveloka Australia, managing the blog and other pages across the site. An avid traveller, digital content creator and writer, she’s contributed to publications such as Australian Women's Weekly, Marie Claire, Elle, Gourmet Traveller, Finder and Explore Travel… and has found the time to visit 50+ countries while doing it. She loves good flight sale and will share some of the best ones she can find right here on our Explore blog.