Hand Luggage Restrictions

Hand luggage restrictions are constantly changing at airports across the UK so it can be hard to keep up with what you are and aren’t allowed to take on with you. Whereas the rules are pretty standard across all UK airports it is advisable to double check before flying because it can vary depending on your destination.  

• As of the 14^th November 2007 hand luggage restrictions were loosened as the one bag rule was lifted. However, this doesn’t mean that all airports have honoured this and some may still enforce that you can only carry one bag so again, it is wise to check before leaving for the airport.
• There are still hand luggage restrictions regarding travelling with liquids, creams, gels, pastes and aerosols. You are only allowed to take liquids in containers holding no more than 100 ml on board with you and they must be carried separately in a transparent, re – sealable plastic bag. There are a few exceptions to the rule including baby food or milk and medicines. However you may be asked for a doctor’s note to prove you need the medication for the flight so make sure you bring one with you.
• Sharp or pointed items are strictly prohibited in hand luggage and will be confiscated at security control no matter what you need them for. Some of the more obvious things include knives, scissors and hypodermic needles unless required for medical reasons. However, some people don’t realise that things such as razor blades and certain toys will be confiscated if it is thought that they could cause harm.
• Other hand luggage restrictions include no Christmas crackers, party poppers and non – safety matches. One cigarette lighter per person may be carried but any more will be taken away.
• Many people are confused about how the hand luggage restrictions affect what you can buy at the airport. Once you have gone through security control anything you buy can be taken on board including alcohol, fragrances and cosmetics in sizes over 100 ml.