Matches and Lighters
Limited
One small box of safety matches or one refillable lighter allowed on person only.
Quick answer
Fire sources need constant supervision. Keeping the lighter in your pocket ensures you notice if it leaks or heats up. Hidden in bags, they can ignite unnoticed.
Torch/jet lighters create intense flames and are prohibited worldwide. Spare lighter fuel is classified as dangerous goods and must travel via cargo, not in passenger baggage.
International transits may confiscate even standard lighters, so carry a cheap disposable one you can surrender without fuss.
Allowed
- ✔One pocket-sized safety lighter (BIC type) without fuel refill.
- ✔One small box of safety matches carried on person.
- ✔Battery-powered arc lighters only if airline explicitly allows (rare—treat as electronics).
Not allowed
- ✔Torch/jet/blue-flame lighters.
- ✔Lighter fuel, butane canisters, refills.
- ✔Multiple matchboxes or souvenir zippo collections in hand luggage.
Matches & lighter policy
| Item | Cabin bag | On person |
|---|---|---|
| Safety matches | ❌ | ✅ (one box) |
| Standard lighter | ❌ | ✅ (one) |
| Torch lighter | ❌ | ❌ |
Do this
- ✅ Place the lighter in your jacket pocket after security so it’s easy to declare.
- ✅ Empty pockets before screening to show officers the lighter proactively.
- ✅ Buy lighters at your destination if transiting through stricter airports.
Avoid this
- ⚠️ Don’t store lighters in cabin baggage—they will be confiscated.
- ⚠️ Don’t carry more than one; multiple lighters look suspicious.
- ⚠️ Avoid gifting lighters to other passengers—they may decline and alert security.
FAQ
Q. Can I carry Zippo fluid?
No. Liquid fuel is flammable cargo and banned from passenger baggage.
Q. Are electronic plasma lighters allowed?
Treat them like small electronics with lithium batteries. Some airlines ban them outright, so check ahead.
Q. Do matches count for religious rites?
Carry only one safety matchbox. Anything larger must be checked (though matches in checked bags are technically banned too).
Tips before you fly
- ✈️ Switch to flameless USB lighters when possible—they’re easier to explain as electronics (if allowed).
- ✈️ If you don’t need a lighter immediately after landing, buy one at destination shops to avoid hassle.
- ✈️ Store matches in a small waterproof case to prevent accidental ignition.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines — simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.