Lisbon Airport Baggage Guide

Hand Baggage

Hand baggage, also known as carry-on luggage, is essential for travelers wishing to keep their valuables, electronics, and travel necessities within arm’s reach during a flight. Lisbon Airport, adhering to international aviation standards, allows each passenger to carry one piece of hand luggage with size and weight limits typically restricted to 55cm x 40cm x 20cm and weighing up to 8kg, although these dimensions can vary by airline. Efficient packing of hand baggage not only ensures compliance with these limits but also facilitates a smoother security check process.

Travelers are advised to pack smartly, using space-saving techniques and considering the layering of items for easy access during security checks. Special items, such as laptops, cameras, and medications, are permitted in hand luggage but may need to be declared or shown at security checkpoints.

Hold Baggage

Hold baggage, or checked luggage, is transported in the aircraft’s cargo hold. This allows travelers to carry larger items and quantities of personal belongings, subject to the airline’s weight and size restrictions. The standard limit for hold baggage is usually around 23kg for economy passengers, but this can vary depending on the airline and the ticket type. To avoid any inconvenience at the airport, passengers should ensure their luggage complies with these guidelines.

Additionally, securing and identifying hold baggage with locks and name tags can prevent loss and facilitate easier recovery in case of misrouting. Airlines may impose additional charges for baggage that exceeds the standard allowance, so travelers should verify these details beforehand to manage their travel budget effectively.

Prohibited Items

For safety reasons, certain items are prohibited in both hand and hold baggage on flights departing from Lisbon Airport. These include explosives, flammable substances, and other dangerous goods that pose a risk to the aircraft and its occupants. Examples of prohibited items include fireworks, gas cylinders, and bleach.

Passengers must familiarize themselves with these regulations to avoid delays or confiscation of items at the airport. In some cases, items that are not typically allowed may be permitted with special authorization from the airline, such as sports equipment or musical instruments. Travelers are encouraged to contact their airline in advance to seek permission and understand the requirements for transporting such items.

Items such as the following are forbidden, among others:

– Metal or plastic toy guns/replicas, including water pistols.

– Pistols, firearms or any other devices that can shoot projectiles.

– Objects with sharp points or edges, such as razors, knives, scissors and other objects with sharp blades over 6cm in length, syringes (except with medical prescription).

– Slingshots, darts or sports clubs or bats.

– Work tools.

– Bleach, acids and poisons.

– Fireworks, flammable liquids or solids.

– Objects containing compressed air or gas.

For more information, refer to the list of forbidden items available at the Portuguese Civil Aviation Authority website or contact your airline.

Notice: Any electronic cigarettes or lighters being transported in hand baggage must be placed inside a designated clear plastic bag at the security checkpoint.

Kindly be advised that using electronic cigarettes on an aircraft is not permitted.

Travelling with Liquids

Navigating the regulations for carrying liquids in hand baggage is an essential aspect of preparing for air travel through Lisbon Airport. To ensure the security of all passengers, strict rules are in place regarding the quantity and packing of liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes that travelers can bring in their carry-on luggage.

Which items are considered liquids?

Liquids include all items containing liquids, aerosols and gels (LAG), that is, all the following products and those of similar consistency:

– water and other drinks,
– toothpaste,
– hair gel,
– lotions,
– perfumes,
– creams,
– pastes and pates,
– jams and soft cheeses,
– hair mousse and shaving foam,
– soups,
– syrups.

The 100ml Rule

One of the cornerstone rules for flying, not just from Lisbon but from airports worldwide, is the 100ml rule. This regulation stipulates that all liquids carried in your hand luggage must be contained in individual containers not exceeding 100ml (or equivalent in other measurements, such as 100g). These containers must fit comfortably within a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, with a total capacity of no more than one liter. The bag must be presented separately from other hand baggage for inspection at airport security checkpoints. Proper packing involves placing liquids in the plastic bag before arriving at the airport to save time and facilitate smoother security screening.

Exemptions for Medications and Baby Food

Recognizing the needs of travelers, there are exemptions to the 100ml rule for medications and baby food. Passengers requiring medication during the flight are allowed to carry quantities exceeding 100ml, provided they have supporting documentation, such as a prescription or a statement from a medical professional. Similarly, baby food necessary for the duration of the flight can also be brought in larger quantities. However, security officers may ask for proof of necessity or request that you taste the items to verify their authenticity.

Baggage Issues

Despite the best efforts of airlines and airport staff, baggage issues such as loss, damage, or delays can occasionally occur. Knowing how to address these situations can significantly reduce stress and inconvenience.

Lost, Damaged, or Delayed Baggage

If you arrive at your destination only to find that your baggage is lost, damaged, or delayed, it is important to report the issue immediately to the airline’s baggage claim office, typically located in the baggage reclaim area. Provide detailed information about your baggage and flight, and fill out any required forms. The airline will then initiate a search for your items or process claims for damage. Keep all travel documents and receipts, as these will be necessary for any compensation claims.

In the event that the baggage is undeliverable or arrives damaged, please contact your airline. 
The airline will then connect you with the handling agent responsible for the flight's ground operations.

Baggage Claims and Compensation

Airlines have policies in place for compensating passengers for baggage issues. Compensation may cover the cost of replacement items in case of delays, repairs for damage, or reimbursement for lost baggage. The specific terms and compensation limits are often outlined in the airline’s conditions of carriage. If you are not satisfied with the airline’s resolution, you may escalate your complaint to aviation consumer protection bodies or seek legal advice.

Lisbon Airport luggage Storage

Leave your luggage in capable hands when you don’t feel like dragging it around or when you need to ensure its safety. We provide a range of luggage storage options for your complete comfort, ensuring that your belongings are well-cared after and leaving you free to enjoy your leisure time.

Lockers

Don’t worry if you plan to visit Lisbon for a short while yet have a lot of luggage. You can choose from 234 lockers of various sizes. Make use of our lockers, which are outside terminal 1 on the departures floor. It’s easy!

Regulation on the use of Lockers (PDF)

Location: Before Security Outside Departures
Service Hours: H 24
Contact: (+351) 800 201 201

Baggage Cleaning and Disinfection Service

Safe Bag

Your luggage will be cleaned and disinfected before packaging when you use the 3-step Safe Bag service!
Throughout the entire journey, your luggage will be safeguarded, cleaned, and disinfected.

Location 1: Before Security – Terminal 1
Service Hours: 05:00 – 22:00
Location 2: Before Security – Terminal 2
Contact: shop@safe-bag.com

Conclusion

Successfully navigating baggage rules at Lisbon Airport requires awareness and preparation. Remember the key points on hand and hold baggage, the specifics of carrying liquids, and the protocol for dealing with baggage issues. For the most current information and any recent changes to baggage policies, it is crucial to consult the Lisbon Airport website before your travel. This proactive approach will ensure a smoother, more enjoyable journey and help start your trip on a positive note.