Many UK airports have made a significant change to the 100ml liquid rule for hand luggage, while others still enforce strict restrictions. It is essential for travellers to be aware of these differences before heading to the airport.
Airports That Have Ditched the 100ml Rule
Several UK airports have abandoned the 100ml liquid limit, permitting passengers to carry up to two litres of liquids through security. This change is due to the installation of new CT scanners that provide detailed 3D images of bags, allowing security staff to assess contents more effectively. The airports that have implemented this change include:
- Belfast International
- Belfast City
- Birmingham
- Bournemouth
- Bristol
- Edinburgh
- London Gatwick
- London Heathrow
Airports Still Enforcing the 100ml Rule
Many UK airports continue to require liquids to be in containers of 100ml or less. However, some have relaxed rules so that liquids no longer need to be placed in a clear plastic bag and can remain in hand luggage during security checks. Airports that still enforce the 100ml rule include:
- Aberdeen
- Cardiff
- East Midlands
- Glasgow International
- Glasgow Prestwick
- Inverness
- Isle of Man
- Leeds Bradford
- Liverpool
- London City
- London Stansted
- London Luton
- Manchester
- Newcastle
- Norwich
- Southampton
- Teesside
What Counts as a Liquid?
The Foreign Office states that liquids include:
- All drinks, including water
- Liquid or semi-liquid foods (e.g., soup, jam, honey, syrups)
- Cosmetics and toiletries (creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara, lip gloss)
- Sprays (shaving foam, hairspray, spray deodorants)
- Pastes (including toothpaste)
- Gels (hair gel, shower gel)
- Contact lens solution
- Any other solutions or items of similar consistency
For airports that still follow the 100ml rule, exemptions apply for baby milk or food, medicines, food for special dietary requirements, and liquids purchased in duty-free.
Travel Advice from TUI
TUI has issued a travel alert reminding passengers that while some UK airports are installing new scanners, current guidelines should still be followed unless the airport has explicitly changed its rules. Destination airports may also have different restrictions. TUI advises customers to check the airport security page on its website or the relevant UK airport’s information page before travelling.
