UK Set to Relax Airport Liquid Rules at Some Airports
If you’ve travelled through a UK airport at any point in the last 20 years, you’ve likely dealt with the frustrating 100ml liquid limit in hand luggage. Now, that rule is finally beginning to change—but only at certain airports and not all at once.
The 100ml liquid rule was introduced in 2006 after a major terror plot was uncovered. Authorities discovered that explosives could be made using common liquids like hydrogen peroxide, disguised in drink bottles. As a result, travellers were suddenly banned from carrying anything over 100ml through airport security.
Since then, all liquids, gels, aerosols, pastes, and even some foods like yogurt or soft cheese have had to go into small containers—each no more than 100ml. These items had to fit in a single clear plastic bag (about 20x20cm), which you had to show at security.
It was supposed to be a temporary rule, but it stuck around for nearly 20 years.
What’s Changing in 2025?
Starting July 2025, some UK airports will finally scrap the 100ml limit—but only if they’ve installed new 3D scanners. These high-tech machines can better detect threats, so passengers can:
- Carry liquids in containers up to 2 litres
- Keep liquids and electronics inside their bags during screening
This will make airport security checks quicker and less stressful—but only at airports with the new scanners.
Birmingham and Edinburgh airports already allow larger liquid amounts and don’t require liquids to be placed separately in a plastic bag. Other airports like Heathrow and Manchester are rolling out changes more slowly.
Just because you were allowed to carry large liquids at UK airports, don’t assume the same applies when coming back. Rules depend on the airport, and some still strictly enforce the 100ml limit.
Even in the UK, not all terminals or smaller airports are ready yet. So always check the rules for both your departure and return airports.
Why Was the 100ml Limit Reintroduced in 2024?
Interestingly, in June 2024, even airports that had the new scanners were told to go back to the 100ml rule temporarily. The UK government said this was needed to fix issues with the new machines, such as mistakenly identifying harmless items like sunscreen or bananas as dangerous.
So even now, some airports with the new scanners are still applying the old rules, for now.
Until the transition is fully complete, assume the 100ml liquid rule still applies—unless your airport clearly says otherwise.
Remember:
- All liquids in hand luggage must be in containers no bigger than 100ml
- They must all fit in one clear plastic bag (maximum 1 litre capacity)
- You’re allowed one plastic bag per person
- Keep the bag easily accessible for screening
Check your departure and return airport websites before flying to avoid having your liquids thrown out at security.
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Over the past 6+ years, with IaM, and working in the travel and immigration sector, Charlie has authored 200+ in-depth guides on Schengen, UK visas & other destinations they have relocated 1,000+ families safely through the system. A Clockwork Practitioner, Charlie also works hard to streamline operations and adheres to the mantra "Task Clients Well".
When they’re not translating policy into plain English, you’ll find them scouting new destinations, collecting local stories, and mastering a new language to better serve our global community.
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