Brits heading abroad are being reminded that airport security staff have the authority to prohibit items in hand luggage even if they are normally permitted. The UK Government's official guidance states that security personnel will not allow anything through that they consider dangerous, regardless of standard allowances.
While items such as corkscrews, knives, and scissors are already banned, passengers may be surprised to learn that other items typically listed as acceptable can still be rejected at security checkpoints. The GOV.UK website provides a comprehensive list of prohibited items but emphasises that the final decision rests with security staff.
Specific restrictions apply to lighters, food, powders, and frozen goods. Only one lighter per passenger is allowed, and it must be placed in a resealable plastic bag kept on the person throughout the flight. Food and powders may require additional manual inspection as they can obscure x-ray images. Frozen items, including liquid, food, or ice packs, are generally not permitted in hand luggage unless for medical reasons or baby food.
Liquid restrictions remain in place at most airports, with containers limited to 100ml. However, some airports now allow containers up to two litres. Passengers are advised to check the specific rules at their departure airport before travelling.
