A Cuban TikToker known as @linetamaro shared a series of practical tips on Tuesday for those planning to travel to Cuba with only carry-on luggage. She posted a video on TikTok in response to a follower's inquiry about the topic.
Her first piece of advice focuses on the liquid regulations enforced at U.S. airports: only containers up to 100 ml (3.4 oz) are allowed in carry-on bags. "If you're flying to Cuba, you can only bring liquid products that are up to 100 ml or 3.4 oz, and I recommend putting them all in a Ziploc bag or a clear plastic bag in case they ask for them," the creator explained.
She also highlights items prohibited by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the cabin. "You can't bring a hammer, knife, or razor; anything that is a sharp object is not allowed," she pointed out.
Another category of items that often causes confusion is food with a paste-like consistency. The TSA classifies peanut butter, regular butter, and cream cheese as "liquids or pastes," so they cannot be carried in amounts greater than 100 ml in the cabin.
However, @linetamaro shares a trick that worked for her: freezing cheese before the flight. "I took goat cream cheese and froze it, and then packed it with all the other products. It stayed perfect, and I had no issues here or in Cuba," she recounted. The TSA permits completely solid and frozen foods in the cabin; if they melt during the flight, liquid rules apply.
An aspect many travelers overlook is the rule regarding batteries. "Lithium batteries and power banks should be in your personal item, with you above, not below," the TikToker advised. This requirement is due to regulations by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which bans these batteries in the cargo hold due to fire risk.
Despite this warning, @linetamaro mentioned that she successfully carried two rechargeable fans in her checked luggage while flying with American Airlines. It is important to note that Cuban customs allow a maximum of two rechargeable fans per person; exceeding this limit can lead to confiscation of the items, as happened to a traveler in October 2025 who had three of five fans seized.
This type of content is part of a growing trend among Cuban women in the diaspora, driven by the chronic shortage of basic goods on the island and the high costs of excess baggage. Other creators have shared similar methods to maximize what fits in a carry-on bag, from packing techniques to strategic product selection.
At the end of the video, the TikToker invited more questions: "If you have any other questions, let me know, and I'll gladly make a little video for you."
Insights into Traveling with Carry-On Luggage to Cuba
What are the liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage when flying to Cuba from the U.S.?
Travelers can only carry containers up to 100 ml (3.4 oz) in their carry-on bags. It's advisable to place these items in a clear plastic bag for security checks.
Which items are prohibited in the cabin by the TSA?
Items such as hammers, knives, razors, or any sharp objects are prohibited in the cabin by the TSA.
How can travelers carry paste-like food items on a flight to Cuba?
Travelers can freeze paste-like food items such as cream cheese. Frozen foods are allowed in the cabin, but if they melt, liquid rules apply.
What are the rules for carrying batteries and power banks on a flight?
Lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your personal item and kept with you in the cabin, as per FAA regulations.