HelpALittleDavid's Blog · Loving Laos

A Guide to Security Screening and What Not to Bring

Traveling on the Laos-China railway is a good experience. However, tales of difficulties at security checks can cause potential travelers to feel anxious. This blog will guide you on how to navigate the security screening effortlessly while informing you about prohibited items to ensure a smooth journey.

Understanding Security Screenings

Security screenings at railway stations are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the process:

1. Arrive Early: Allow yourself ample time before your train departs. Arriving at least 30-60 minutes early can reduce stress as you navigate through the screening process. In Luang Prabang it takes min 20 mins to get the the station and Vientiane is approx 45 mins.
2. Prepare for Inspection: Have your ticket and identification (passport) ready. Depending on the station’s regulations, you may have to present these documents at the entrance. Almost all stations require this to enter the station.
3. Luggage and Bags: Ensure that your luggage is easy to open. Security officials may ask to check the contents of your bags, and having them organized can expedite the process.

Regulations are not consistently enforced at stations and even by different staff at the same station.

What Not to Take

To avoid any complications at security checks, it’s vital to know what items are prohibited. Remember unlike an aircraft, you have full access to your luggage during the rip so security is tight. There are signs everywhere however that’s not so useful once you are already at the airport.

1. Sharp Objects: Items such as knives, fruit knives, scissors, or any weapon that could be used to inflict harm are strictly banned.
2. Flammable Materials: Avoid carrying items such as fireworks, lighter fluid, or any flammable liquids. Aerosols are 100% going to be taken off you.
3. Explosives or Hazardous Materials: Any substances that are explosive or can be harmful to others should never be included in your luggage. No vapes.
4. Controlled Substances: Be mindful of the local laws regarding medication and ensure that any prescription drugs are stored in their original packaging with your name.
5. Large Amounts of Cash: While carrying cash is generally allowed, bringing excessively large amounts might raise suspicions.

People have successfully taken:

• tweezers
• pump sprays and roll ons, (but no aerosols)
• asthma inhalers
• homemade Lao Lao whiskey and beer (other reports this is not allowed) and is over the 100ml
• any liquids under 100ml should be ok, if buying items by 50-75ml to be safe
• people have got small scissors and dive knives through but this is the exception and assume these will be taken
• Bottled water and coke etc are usually allowed through

The train itself is a pleasant ride. The constant messages over the PA in Chinese, Lao and English are annoying but as long as you are prepared you will enjoy a fast and convenient ride.

You will need to show your ticket to exit the station and board the train, and again when you exit your destination station.

Booking a ticket on the China-Laos Railway

At busy times it can be practically impossible to travel by train as the tickets are all sold out as soon as the counters or online sales on LCR open. The road between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng is very bad, taking at least 6 hours. Flying remains an option, but be sure to book well in advance.

• Use the LCR LCR application (if you have a Lao, Thai or Chinese telephone number) up to 3 days in advance
• https://www.laostrain.com/en you are not guaranteed to receive the tickets but they refund minus a small fee.
• Through the LCR ticket offices in cities or at the station (usually far from the city).
• Thorugh a travel agency or your hotel/guesthouse.

Laos, Laos Train, Luang Prabang, Travel

By David

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