Eight UK airports have permanently scrapped the 100ml liquid rule, enabling passengers to carry up to two litres of liquids in hand baggage through security. The change, implemented earlier this year, is powered by new CT scanners that produce detailed 3D images of luggage, eliminating the need for separate liquid bags.
Airports That Have Scrapped the 100ml Rule
The following airports now allow liquids up to two litres without requiring them to be placed in a clear plastic bag: Belfast International, Belfast City, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Bristol, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, and London Heathrow.
Passengers departing from these airports can keep liquids, including drinks, toiletries, and gels, inside their hand luggage. However, travellers are advised to check directly with their airport for any specific operational variations, especially during peak summer months.
Airports Still Enforcing the 100ml Limit
Many UK airports continue to require liquids to be in containers of 100ml or less. These 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, and Teesside.
At these airports, liquids must still be placed in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag of no more than one litre capacity, with each container not exceeding 100ml. Some airports have eased the requirement to remove liquids from hand luggage, but the volume limit remains.
What Counts as a Liquid?
The UK Foreign Office defines liquids as: all drinks (including water); liquid or semi-liquid foods (soup, jam, honey, syrups); cosmetics and toiletries (creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara, lip gloss); sprays (shaving foam, hairspray, deodorants); pastes (toothpaste); gels (hair and shower gel); contact lens solution; and any other items of similar consistency.
Exemptions and Duty-Free
For airports still operating the 100ml rule, exemptions apply for baby milk or baby food, medicines, and food for special dietary requirements. Liquids purchased at duty-free shops after security are generally allowed, but airlines may impose additional restrictions on the quantity carried onboard. Passengers should verify with their airline before travelling.
Travellers returning to the UK from abroad should also check the liquid rules at their departure airport, as many countries outside the UK still enforce the 100ml limit and require clear plastic bags.
