UK airport security rules are in flux in 2026, with new CT scanners letting some airports ditch the 100ml liquid limit while most others keep it. Here is the complete, up-to-date guide to what you can take in hand luggage.
Liquids: it depends on your airport
The famous 100ml rule, in place since 2006, still applies at most UK airports. Liquids, gels, pastes and aerosols must be in containers of 100ml or less, carried in a single clear resealable bag.
But eight airports have now scrapped the limit thanks to 3D CT scanners: Heathrow, Gatwick, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Bristol, Bournemouth, Belfast International and Belfast City. At these airports you can carry containers of up to 2 litres, and Heathrow advises keeping laptops and tablets in your bag too.
Because the rules differ by airport, pack for the stricter one on a return trip.
Electronics
At airports with old scanners, laptops, tablets and large cameras usually need to go in a separate tray. At the eight upgraded airports, they can stay in your bag. When in doubt, take them out: it is faster than being pulled aside.
Food and drink
Solid food is generally fine. An empty water bottle can go through security and be refilled airside. Baby milk and essential medicines are exempt from the 100ml limit but may need separate screening, so allow extra time.
What is always banned
Sharp objects including knives and scissors with blades over 6cm, flammable items, and anything that could be used as a weapon stay prohibited everywhere, regardless of scanners.
Five packing tips for 2026
- Check your departure airport’s liquid rules before you pack
- Put your clear liquids bag at the top of your cabin bag for easy access
- Empty metal and insulated bottles before security; refill after
- Keep your boarding pass and ID handy rather than buried
- Allow extra time at security during the busy half-term period
Rules keep evolving as more airports install CT scanners. We will update this guide as the rollout continues.
