Children could be forced to throw away their favourite toy at the airport if it breaks an important rule. Toys like NeeDoh cubes and sensory squishies are causing major headaches at security gates, leaving staff with little choice.
Due to their unusual density, these items could trigger alarms, leading to mandatory bag checks and, quite frequently, confiscation by airport staff. This may cause major upset for children and an added expense for parents who will have to replace the toys later.
Scottish Airport Rules
Airports in Scotland do not state any specific rules online about 'squishy toys'. There are mentions on the Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow Airport pages about items that have a "similar consistency" to liquid - which would include most of these popular sensory toys.
Expert Advice
Travel expert Kate Donnelly, known as @Thedonnelllyedit online, warns that the lack of clear labelling makes these items a prime target for security teams. She said that in her experience, squishy toys frequently draw extra attention from airport security. She said to avoid having them confiscated—due to their lack of clear liquid volume markings—it is best to pack them in your checked luggage. This prevents both upset children and the added expense of replacing the toys once you reach your destination, she added.
Packing Recommendations
To avoid any hassle at security, it is best to pack these toys away in the main suitcases that go in the hold. Because checked baggage rules are much more relaxed than cabin baggage rules regarding liquids, this is the most reliable way to avoid the risk of your child being told they must leave their toys behind.
As the UK continues its transition to new 3D CT scanners, rules regarding liquids remain inconsistent across the country. While some hubs have increased their allowance to two litres, allowing passengers to keep items in their bags, many others are sticking to the traditional 100ml restrictions.
Security Protocols
While the rules can feel intense, security staff are simply following strict safety protocols designed to keep the skies safe. It is always better to double-check your airport’s specific guidelines on their official website before heading to the terminal, as rules can change depending on current staffing or security levels.
Scottish airports still enforcing the 100ml liquid restriction: Inverness, Glasgow Prestwick, Glasgow International, Aberdeen. Scottish airports that have upgraded to the two-litre limit: Edinburgh.
