Manchester Airport has confirmed that the 100ml liquid limit for hand luggage will remain in effect throughout summer 2026, as millions of Britons prepare to travel for the school holidays starting this Friday.
New Scanners, Same Rules
Although new CT security scanners have been installed at Manchester Airport and other UK airports, the Government has not yet updated its guidance. Passengers must still comply with the 100ml restriction for liquids in carry-on bags. However, the new technology allows travelers to leave electronic devices and liquids under 100ml inside their bags during security checks, saving time and eliminating the need to unpack cabin bags.
What Counts as a Liquid?
According to Government guidance, liquids include drinks, soup, jam, honey, syrups, creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara, sprays, aerosols, gels, pastes, toothpaste, and contact lens solution. A half-empty 200ml bottle can still be confiscated because it does not comply with the 100ml rule.
Airports with Different Rules
Research by vape firm Ecigone found that many UK airports still enforce the 100ml limit, including Aberdeen, Cardiff, East Midlands, Glasgow International, Glasgow Prestwick, Inverness, Isle of Man, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, London City, London Luton, London Stansted, Newcastle, Norwich, Southampton, and Teesside.
A smaller group of airports has removed the 100ml limit and moved to a two-litre allowance: Heathrow, Gatwick, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Bristol, Belfast International, and Belfast City. Heathrow states that liquids in containers up to two litres can be carried through security at Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5, but metal or insulated bottles must be emptied before screening. Gatwick, Edinburgh, and Bristol also allow containers up to two litres, with restrictions on metal or double-walled containers.
Return Journey Considerations
Passengers should be aware that airports abroad may have different rules. A traveler might take a full-size bottle of sun cream through a UK airport on the outbound journey but then have to place it in checked luggage or leave it behind if the foreign airport still enforces the 100ml limit. Manchester Airport advises checking the departure airport's official website for the most up-to-date information before traveling.
