Hold luggage

Do you fly frequently? We recommend using a sturdy suitcase to protect fragile items. Avoid rounded cases as they may roll off the conveyor belt. Damaged luggage may be refused by our crew. 

Straps, cords and elastic bands around your luggage are not recommended. They can interfere with the luggage system and may delay your luggage. Don't forget to remove old luggage tags to avoid confusion. 
 

Want to make your luggage recognizable? Try bright stickers. 

Wrapping means covering your luggage with a thin layer of transparent plastic film. It provides extra protection and reduces the risk of theft. Cardboard boxes must be wrapped. 

Brussels Airport only accepts approved wrapping material. Luggage with non-approved wrapping or tape will be refused at check-in. 

Find out more about luggage wrapping. 

Want a smooth security check? Check the list of prohibited items to avoid any surprises. 

• Weapons are only allowed under strict conditions. Always notify the check-in agent or contact your airline in advance. More info.  
• Explosive or flammable substances such as detonators, fireworks, turpentine, paint thinners, hazardous products, oxidisers and organic peroxides (e.g. bleach). 
• Toxic and infectious substances. 
• Radioactive or corrosive materials and gases, including CO² cartridges for items such as bicycle tyres. 
• Large quantities of aerosols. 
• Large quantities of lighters. 
• Each airline may have additional rules, particularly for battery-powered items such as e-bikes, segways, pedelecs, hoverboards, waveboards or electronic cigarettes. 

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Security staff may refuse an item for safety reasons. Unsure? Contact us or your airline.  

• Liquids in containers larger than 100 millilitres. Find out more about liquids and gels. 
• Replica or imitation firearms, toy guns, devices capable of firing projectiles (e.g. staple guns) and stun guns. Inform the check-in agent or your airline in advance. 
• Pointed or sharp objects such as scissors, knives, ski poles, walking sticks, darts, chisels, crowbars and drills. 
• Blunt instruments such as golf clubs, baseball bats, hockey sticks, pool cues and rackets. 

Are you bringing a bicycle, skis, golf bag, pushchair or large musical instrument? Travelling with a pet? These items must be checked in as oversized luggage. 

Weapons and ammunition are only allowed in checked luggage under strict ICAO, IATA and airline regulations. Travelling for sport or hunting? Follow these steps: 

• Check your airline's requirements for procedures and permits in advance. 
• Visit the Brussels Airport Security near the Sheraton Hotel (open 24/7). 

f possible, carry portable electronic devices with lithium batteries in your carry-on luggage. If they must go in the hold: 

• Turn them off completely. 
• Pack them securely with a case or cushioning, such as clothing. 

Carrying a delicate gift or fragile souvenirs such as glassware or a vase? Follow these tips to keep them safe: 

• Place bottles or other fragile items containing liquids in a sealed plastic bag to prevent leakage.  
• Fill empty spaces in your suitcase with small items to keep everything secure. 
• Inform the check-in desk of any fragile items. Some airlines may label your bag as fragile. 

Firearms and ammunition can be checked in as baggage, but only under strict ICAO, IATA and airline regulations. Whether you're travelling for sport or hunting, here's what you need to do: 

• First report to Brussels Airport Security, near the Sheraton Hotel. Open 24/7. 
• Check your airline’s conditions for procedures and permissions. 

All hold luggage is screened for prohibited items. If anything suspicious is found, your bag may be opened. Will you be there? Usually yes! You'll be informed immediately if additional screening is required. 

Sometimes we open bags without the owner present. In such cases, the Chief Security Inspector and a supervisor will open your luggage. On arrival, you'll find a note in your bag with a registration number.