What this guide covers
- How many small gas cartridges (for soda makers, bicycle pumps, beauty instruments, beer servers, etc.) you can take
- Self-inflating life jackets and their spare cartridges
- Gases that cannot be taken, such as gas cylinders for portable stoves
1. Small gas cartridges
Small gas cartridges that do not use flammable or toxic gases (used in beauty instruments, soda makers, portable bicycle pumps, beer servers, etc.) are handled as follows.
| Item | Carry-on baggage | Checked baggage |
|---|---|---|
| 50ml or less per container | Allowed (up to 4 per person) | Allowed (up to 4 per person) |
| Over 50ml per container | Not allowed | Not allowed |
The document notes that for carbon dioxide, 50ml is equivalent to 28g.
Source: MLIT: "Examples of Dangerous Goods by Air Transportation" (English version, last updated April 24, 2026) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
2. Self-inflating life jackets (for marine rescue, motorcycles, etc.)
| Item | Carry-on baggage | Checked baggage |
|---|---|---|
| Life jackets (with 2 cartridges fitted) | Allowed (up to 2 per person) | Allowed (up to 2 per person) |
| Spare cartridges | Up to 2 per life jacket allowed | Up to 2 per life jacket allowed |
| Spare cartridges only (without the life jacket) | Not allowed | Not allowed |
Only life jackets intended to be worn by a person. Pack them so they cannot be activated accidentally.
Source: MLIT: "Examples of Dangerous Goods by Air Transportation" (English version, last updated April 24, 2026) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
3. Gases and other items that cannot be taken
| Item | Carry-on baggage | Checked baggage |
|---|---|---|
| Gas cylinders for portable gas stoves and gas burners | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Portable gas stoves, gas burners (the unit itself) | Allowed (with no gas left) | Allowed (with no gas left) |
| Fire extinguishers | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Helium gas (voice-changing gas cans) | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Gas springs for wheelchairs | Allowed | Allowed |
The document says that an electric wheelchair with a gas spring may not be allowed in the cabin depending on its size, so check with your airline in advance.
Source: MLIT: "Examples of Dangerous Goods by Air Transportation" (English version, last updated April 24, 2026) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
Some airlines have stricter rules. On international flights, rules of other countries' authorities may also apply.