Before heading off on your holidays, it’s crucial to be aware of the UK airports that have scrapped the 100ml rule and those that haven’t to avoid being caught out.
The summer holidays are notoriously among the busiest times to jet off abroad, with thousands of families seeking a sun-soaked retreat while the kids aren’t at school. Airports are expected to be busier than usual, with longer queues at check-in and security, while planes are anticipated to be fully booked.
To ensure a smooth journey and experience, it’s vital to be aware of any restrictions that are in place before heading to the airport. One of the biggest is the 100ml liquid rule when going through security, particularly as a number of UK airports scrapped this limit earlier this year, while others have simply eased their restrictions on how travellers carry it through.
In a significant development in how we travel, eight UK airports have so far ditched the 100ml liquid rule, allowing passengers to carry up to two litres of liquids through security. The change is thanks to new CT scanners that provide security personnel with detailed 3D images of luggage, enabling travellers to keep their two-litre liquids in their hand baggage when passing through airport security.
What UK airports have ditched the 100ml liquid rule?
- Belfast International
- Belfast City
- Birmingham
- Bournemouth
- Bristol
- Edinburgh
- London Gatwick
- London Heathrow
Meanwhile, many UK airports still require liquids to be 100ml or under. Although many have eased their restrictions for travellers, so they no longer need to be placed in a clear plastic bag and can also be kept in their hand luggage when proceeding through security.
While specific regulations can differ, it’s advisable to check directly with the airport you’re departing from, particularly during the busy summer period. It’s equally important to verify any restrictions with the airport you’ll be flying back from, as nations outside the UK may have different rules, including those for liquids in 100ml containers and clear plastic bags.
However, there can be some confusion about what is classified as a liquid, particularly when it comes to beauty products. The Foreign Office states that liquids include the following:
- All drinks, including water
- Liquid or semi-liquid foods, for example, soup, jam, honey and syrups
- Cosmetics and toiletries, including creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara and lip gloss
- Sprays, including shaving foam, hairspray and spray deodorants
- Pastes, including toothpaste
- Gels, including hair and shower gel
- Contact lens solution
- Any other solutions and items of similar consistency
For airports that still operate under the 100ml rule, the government travel advice page noted that exemptions exist for baby milk or food, medicines, food for special dietary requirements or liquids purchased in a duty-free shop. There can still be restrictions on how much duty-free you can take on board the plane, so it’s important to check directly with the airline.
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This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
