Thousands of Britons heading abroad for the festive season are being urged to think carefully about the Christmas presents they pack, as common gifts could trigger significant delays at airport security checkpoints.
Travel insurance expert Ian Wilson, managing director of Tiger.co.uk, has highlighted how seemingly innocent items can lead to long queues, confiscated belongings, and even missed flights. If security delays cause you to miss your flight, your travel insurance is unlikely to provide cover, making pre-travel preparation essential.
Restricted Items That Can Ruin Your Journey
Many popular Christmas gifts contain elements that are restricted or prohibited in cabin baggage. Security staff may need to inspect these items, which can unravel carefully laid travel plans.
Party poppers and Christmas crackers are strictly banned from aircraft due to the small explosive charge inside them. Airlines advise checking regulations if you plan to pack any festive novelties.
The well-known 100ml liquid rule for hand luggage catches many people out. Gifts that frequently exceed this limit or are forgotten include:
- Snow globes and gel candles
- Perfumes, aftershaves, and bottles of spirits
- Edible spreads like chutneys, jams, and pâtés
Unexpected Security Headaches
Other items can cause unforeseen complications. Realistic toy weapons, such as plastic guns or foam swords, can trigger additional checks and may be banned entirely if deemed too authentic.
Dairy products like soft cheeses cannot be brought into Great Britain from the EU, even as a gift. Meanwhile, lithium batteries found in new electronics, power banks, and vapes must be carried in hand luggage due to fire risks, with limits on spare batteries.
Even traditional festive packaging causes issues. Metal biscuit or tea tins can obscure X-ray scanners, prompting bag searches, while wrapped presents will likely need to be unwrapped by security personnel for inspection. Experts recommend using gift bags or wrapping presents at your destination.
Festive Attire Could Slow You Down
Travellers wearing Christmas jumpers or outfits with flashing lights or metallic components should be prepared for possible additional screening. A pat-down or being asked to remove the item could occur, so wearing suitable clothing underneath is advised.
With the holiday rush in full swing, a few minutes of planning regarding your packed gifts can prevent festive frustration and ensure a smoother start to your Christmas getaway.
