As of July 15, 2026, a number of UK airports have upgraded to new 3D security scanners that permit passengers to carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers up to two litres (2000ml) in hand luggage. These airports include London Heathrow (all terminals), London Gatwick, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Belfast International, Belfast City, and Teesside International. At these hubs, travellers can leave liquids in their bags without using clear plastic bags. However, reusable metal, insulated, or double-walled vacuum bottles must be empty when passing through security and can be refilled inside the departure lounge.
Airports Still Enforcing 100ml Limit
Every other UK airport has yet to adopt the new scanners and continues to enforce the traditional 100ml limit. Among these, some airports such as London Stansted, London Luton, Glasgow International, East Midlands, Liverpool John Lennon, and Cardiff still require passengers to place 100ml containers in a clear, resealable plastic bag for scanning. Meanwhile, airports like London City, Manchester, Newcastle, Leeds Bradford, Aberdeen, and Southend have relaxed procedures slightly: although the 100ml limit remains, passengers can keep liquids and electronics inside their bags for processing.
Why the Gradual Rollout?
The UK Government originally planned a blanket lifting of the 100ml rule, but issues with scanner installation and compliance have led to a phased implementation. To avoid security bottlenecks during the summer peak, the Department for Transport has largely frozen rule changes at airports that have not yet reached 100% compliance. Major hubs like Stansted, Luton, and Manchester are updating lanes behind the scenes, with gradual transitions to the “in-bag” rules expected to resume in late autumn or winter 2026 as travel volumes decrease.
Return Journey Warning
Travellers are reminded that even if they fly out of a 2-litre-friendly airport such as Heathrow, most international destinations still enforce the strict 100ml rule. Passengers who buy full-sized toiletries in the UK may need to check them into hold luggage on the return journey or discard any leftovers before coming home. The Department for Transport advises checking specific airport rules before packing to avoid being caught out at security.
