Popular squishy toys, including NeeDoh cubes and similar gel-filled items, could be confiscated at UK airport security this summer, according to travel experts and airport authorities. The toys, which often contain gel or liquid, may trigger manual bag checks and be deemed non-compliant with liquid restrictions.
Why Squishy Toys Raise Security Concerns
Even at airports using advanced 3D CT scanners, gel-filled toys appear unusual on security screens, frequently prompting manual inspections. Travel specialist Kate Donnelly (@Thedonnelllyedit) shared her experience: "From my own personal experience, [squishy toys] do tend to come under closer scrutiny when passing through airport security. My top tip for parents this summer, pack these items in your whole luggage."
Donnelly added: "There is a high chance that if you put these in your hand luggage, they will get confiscated. There are absolutely no markings on them to let you know exactly how much liquid is contained within them, and therefore, they are very easily removed." She warned that confiscation leads to upset children and additional costs for replacing toys at the destination.
Airport Policies on Squishy Toys
Luton Airport confirmed that any squishy toys containing gel or liquid must comply with the strict liquid rule when packed in hand luggage. The airport stated: "As the quantity of gel contained within these items cannot be accurately verified during the screening process, they are not permitted through security in hand luggage."
Manchester Airport echoed this, saying: "Things like squishy toys contain liquid - this includes NeeDohs, which use malt syrup. Smaller versions of the toy are under 100mls, but larger versions are not. The problem is that, as they don't have measurements printed on them, security staff have to estimate their size. Our advice is that all but very small squishy toys should be placed in hold baggage."
Varied Rules Across UK Airports in 2026
Due to a staggered rollout of new high-tech 3D CT security scanners, not all UK airports follow the same liquid rules in 2026. Airports using the new scanners allow up to 2000ml of liquids in hand luggage and do not require bags to be emptied. These airports include: Belfast City, Belfast International, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, London Gatwick, London Heathrow (all terminals), and Teesside International.
Airports still following the original 100ml rule include: Aberdeen, Bournemouth, Cardiff, East Midlands, Glasgow International, Glasgow Prestwick, Inverness, Isle of Man, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, London City, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich, and Southampton. A pause in scanner upgrades is in effect this summer to avoid disruption during peak travel times.
Practical Advice for Parents
To avoid delays and confiscations, experts recommend packing squishy toys in checked hold luggage, which allows more liquids than hand luggage. Parents should also consider leaving larger versions at home or purchasing smaller toys that clearly meet the 100ml threshold. Being aware of specific airport rules before travel can prevent last-minute surprises and ensure a smoother journey.
