British holidaymakers may soon encounter significant changes to hand luggage regulations when flying to Europe, as the EU considers stricter security measures.
The proposed rules could see passengers limited to just one small carry-on bag, with additional restrictions on liquids and electronic devices. This move aims to enhance airport security but may cause frustration for frequent travellers.
What’s Changing?
The new regulations, currently under discussion, would standardise hand luggage policies across EU airports. Key changes include:
- A single small cabin bag allowance (approx. 40x20x25cm)
- Tighter restrictions on liquids (possibly reducing the 100ml limit further)
- Enhanced screening for electronic devices
Impact on UK Travellers
Although the UK has left the EU, these rules would affect all flights to European destinations. Airlines might need to adjust their policies, potentially leading to:
- Increased checked baggage fees
- Longer security queues
- Potential confusion during the transition period
The Department for Transport has stated it’s monitoring the situation but hasn’t confirmed whether the UK will adopt similar measures for flights departing British airports.
When Will This Happen?
No firm timeline exists yet, but industry experts suggest changes could be implemented within the next 12-18 months. Travel organisations are advising passengers to:
- Check airline policies before booking
- Allow extra time for security checks
- Consider packing strategies for smaller cabin bags
These potential changes come as airports continue to recover from pandemic-related disruptions, with passenger numbers steadily increasing.
