Zagreb Airport adheres to the strict security regulations established by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Understanding these rules before you pack is essential for a smooth and quick passage through the security checkpoint. The regulations apply to all passengers departing from Zagreb, regardless of your destination or airline.
These standardized protocols are in place across all EU airports to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. This means the rules you follow in Zagreb are the same ones you'll encounter in Frankfurt, Paris, or Amsterdam.
Hand Luggage Allowances
It is crucial to remember that each airline sets its own specific limits for the size and weight of carry-on baggage. There is no single universal standard. Full-service carriers like Croatia Airlines or Lufthansa are typically more generous than low-cost carriers like Ryanair, who monetize anything beyond a small personal item.
Low-Cost Carrier Restrictions
Budget airlines, particularly Ryanair, are extremely strict. Their basic fares usually include only one small personal item (like a small backpack or purse) that must fit under the seat in front of you. If you wish to bring a larger, standard-sized cabin bag to place in the overhead bin, you must pay an extra fee. Always check your booking and purchase the correct baggage allowance online in advance, as gate fees are significantly higher.
For direct links to carrier websites where current regulations are outlined, please visit our Airlines at ZAG page.
Typical Hand Luggage Limits
Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs)
All airports in the European Union enforce strict rules regarding the transport of liquids, aerosols, and gels in hand luggage. These must be presented for screening in a specific way.
The 100ml Container Rule
All liquids must be in individual containers with a maximum capacity of 100 milliliters (3.4 ounces). All of these containers must fit comfortably into a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag of no more than 1-liter capacity (approximately 20cm x 20cm). This bag must be removed from your hand luggage and placed in a tray for separate screening at the security checkpoint.
What Counts as a Liquid?
The rule is broad and applies to any substance that is liquid, gel, paste, or aerosol. This includes:
- Beverages: Water, juice, soft drinks.
- Food items: Spreads (like ajvar or jam), yogurt, soups.
- Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, lotion, sunscreen.
- Cosmetics: Perfume, liquid foundation, mascara.
- Gels & Pastes: Toothpaste, hair gel.
- Aerosols: Deodorant, hairspray.
Purchasing After Security
You are free to purchase liquids of any size (like water, Croatian wine, or duty-free spirits) from the shops located in the departures area after you pass through security. If you have a connecting flight, ensure your duty-free purchases are sealed in a special tamper-evident bag.
Exemptions to Liquid Rules
Essential medications and baby food are exempt from the 100ml limit, but you must declare them to security staff for inspection.
- Medications: Liquid medicines, insulin, and contact lens solution are permitted in larger quantities if essential for your journey. A doctor's note or prescription is highly recommended.
- Baby Food and Formula: You may carry enough baby milk, sterilized water, and baby food for the duration of your journey. You may be asked to taste them for security verification.
Prohibited Items in Hand Luggage
For safety reasons, many items are strictly forbidden from being carried in the aircraft cabin. These items should be placed in your checked baggage if permitted at all.
- Sharp Objects: Knives of any length, scissors with blades longer than 6cm, razor blades, and tools like screwdrivers or drills.
- Weapons: Firearms, replica or toy guns, pepper spray, tasers, and martial arts equipment.
- Flammable & Explosive Materials: Lighters (more than one), lighter fluid, fireworks, and aerosols that are not toiletries.
- Sports Equipment: Items like baseball bats, ski poles, and hockey sticks must be checked in.
Security Checkpoint Tips
- Have your 1-liter liquids bag out and ready for inspection.
- Remove all large electronics (laptops, tablets) from your bag and place them in a separate tray.
- Empty your pockets of all items (keys, coins, phone) before walking through the scanner.
- Cooperate with security personnel; their primary goal is everyone's safety.
- For a quicker process, consider using the Fast Track service.
Electronics and Batteries
Personal electronic devices like laptops, tablets, and cameras are allowed in your hand luggage. Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your hand luggage and are not permitted in checked bags due to fire risk. Ensure batteries are protected from short circuits.
If you have questions about specific items, it is always best to check with your airline directly before you travel. For issues regarding lost baggage or compensation, please refer to our Passenger Rights guide.