Squishy toys have become a popular choice for young travellers, but their gel-like filling leaves many parents unsure whether they can be carried through airport security.
Some families have reported being turned away at security with a squishy, while others have been allowed to keep theirs. Newcastle Airport has now set out the rules.
What are the rules on squishy toys?
A squishy is a soft, squeezable toy that deforms when compressed and slowly returns to its original shape. These toys come in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes.
Under airport rules, liquids, aerosols and gels in hand luggage must be in individual containers of up to 100ml. Anything larger than 100ml is not permitted.
Newcastle Airport has confirmed that squishy toys can be carried in hand luggage if they are 100ml or less, though they will still be screened at security. The airport advises putting squishies in hold baggage where possible.
A spokesperson said: "Squishy toys that contain a gel-like substance must be 100ml or less and will be subject to the screening process at security. We recommend that passengers pack any gel-filled squishy toys in their hold luggage where possible."
Double-walled water bottles
There is also a restriction on double-walled water bottles, such as those made of stainless steel. All liquids, aerosols and gels at Newcastle Airport are subject to an automated screening process that determines whether they can be taken on the journey.
Liquids in double-skinned containers, such as thermos flasks or thermal water bottles, cannot be scanned and are not allowed through security. Empty double-skinned bottles are permitted.
The airport said: "The catering outlets in our departure lounge are more than happy to provide passengers with hot or cold water as required. We would recommend for a more seamless journey, that passengers continue to pack as many liquids as possible in their hold baggage, and only carry in their hand baggage what is required for the flight."
