π· Can you bring Photographic film on a plane?
Cabin recommended (checked scanners fog film)
As of 2026-08-24
The rule in detail
Unexposed film is safest in your carry-on. Checked-baggage scanners use far stronger X-rays than the cabin checkpoint, and CT scanners in particular fog film regardless of its speed. Ordinary cabin X-ray has almost no effect on film rated ISO 800 or below, but CT machines are spreading through airports, so taking the film out and asking for a hand inspection is the reliable route. Developed film and prints are unaffected by any scanner.
Why the rule is written this way
It is classified as Carry-on or checked because it counts as an ordinary travel item, so there is no restriction on where it goes.
Either bag is fine. If its shape is the kind that invites a question at the checkpoint, keep it in an outer pocket of your cabin bag so you can produce it quickly.
The rules this verdict comes from
The verdict above follows from 1 Korean rule listed below, named in the original Korean because that is how they are indexed at the national law database. These are the rules themselves, not an airline summary β when screening staff disagree, this is the text that decides. Rules are amended; anything changed after the review date above follows the original.
What actually happens at the airport
- Check-in desk β this is the point of no return for your suitcase. Anything that may only travel in the cabin cannot be retrieved after this step.
- Security screening β if the X-ray flags a shape, the bag is opened. Most problem items are caught here.
- Extra check at the gate β on some routes there is one more inspection.
Confiscated items are rarely returned. If you are unsure, confirm the specification before you leave home.
Keep film together in one pouch and ask for a hand inspection
Other items in the same class
The items below are also classified as Carry-on or checked. Quantity and volume limits differ per item, so check each rule separately.
| Item | Rule |
|---|---|
| π Corded hair straightener / hairdryer | Cabin: yes / checked: yes |
| βοΈ Nail clippers / tweezers / eyebrow razor | Cabin: yes / checked: yes |
| π Medicine / prescriptions / supplements | Cabin: yes / checked: yes (prescriptions on you) |
| π· Tripod / selfie stick | Cabin: yes / checked: yes (length limits apply) |
| π₯€ Vacuum flask / tumbler | Cabin and checked, as long as it is empty |
| π Instant noodles | Cabin: yes / checked: yes (declare at customs) |
| βοΈ Umbrella / parasol | Cabin: yes / checked: yes (check length for long ones) |
| πΌ Baby formula / baby food | Cabin: yes / checked: yes (100ml waived with an infant) |
| π Dried seaweed / dried fish | Cabin: yes / checked: yes (declare at customs) |
Frequently asked questions
- Photographic film β can I take it in the cabin?
- Cabin recommended (checked scanners fog film). Unexposed film is safest in your carry-on. Checked-baggage scanners use far stronger X-rays than the cabin checkpoint, and CT scanners in particular fog film regardless of its speed. Ordinary cabin X-ray has almost no effect on film rated ISO 800 or below, but CT machines are spreading through airports, so taking the film out and asking for a hand inspection is the reliable route. Developed film and prints are unaffected by any scanner.
- Photographic film β can I put it in checked baggage?
- Yes. Neither bag breaks the rules, so decide on weight and on whether you will need it right after landing.
- Is there anything else to watch out for with Photographic film?
- Keep film together in one pouch and ask for a hand inspection