British holidaymakers are being urged to rethink their packing strategies after several major airlines quietly introduced bans on a cold-weather essential: the humble hot water bottle.
The surprising crackdown could see travellers facing confiscations or even hefty fines if they attempt to carry the items in their hand luggage, potentially putting a chill on winter getaways.
Which Airlines Have Issued the Ban?
The travel alert specifically concerns two of the UK's most popular carriers. easyJet has confirmed it prohibits hot water bottles in both cabin and hold luggage. Similarly, TUI has classified them as unauthorised items, banning them entirely from their flights.
While Ryanair's official policy remains less explicit, travel experts are advising caution, suggesting passengers assume they are not permitted to avoid any complications at the gate.
Why Are Hot Water Bottles Banned?
The primary reason for the prohibition is safety. Airlines categorise hot water bottles as a potential fire hazard. There are significant concerns that:
- They could leak scalding water mid-flight, causing injury.
- The rubber or PVC material could degrade and fail unexpectedly.
- They might be mistaken for other prohibited items during security screenings.
What Are the Risks for Passengers?
Ignoring these rules isn't just an inconvenience. Passengers caught with a hot water bottle in their carry-on could face:
- Having the item confiscated at security or the gate.
- Significant delays, potentially causing them to miss their flight.
- In worst-case scenarios, fines reaching up to £1,000 for violating airline safety regulations.
What Are the Safer Alternatives?
Thankfully, there are plenty of travel-friendly alternatives to keep cosy without breaking the rules. Airlines generally permit the following:
- Micheatable heat pads or wheat bags (provided they are unused and sealed).
- Disposable stick-on heat patches for targeted warmth.
- An extra layer of thermal clothing or merino wool base layers.
Always check your specific airline's website for their latest prohibited items list before you travel to ensure a smooth and penalty-free journey to the sun or the slopes.
