Airport liquids and hand luggage: check your route

The quick answer

Check the official rules for every airport where you will pass security. Liquid limits now vary at UK airports, and your return or connection airport may apply a different limit.

Check the bag and its contents separately

First check your airline's permitted cabin bag size, weight and number of pieces. Then check what airport security allows inside. Buying an extra cabin bag does not change the screening rules.

Make a quick list of items worth checking: toiletries, drinks, gels, medicines, baby supplies, electrical devices and batteries. Read the relevant guidance before packing them, particularly if an item is unusual or essential to your journey.

Do not rely on a single UK-wide liquid limit

The UK government's guidance says liquid rules have changed at some airports. Heathrow currently allows liquid containers of up to 2 litres through its security process. That is an airport-specific example, not permission for every airport on your itinerary.

Follow each airport's instructions about containers, bags and whether items stay inside your luggage. For a return journey or connection, check the airport where the next security screening will happen; rules can differ from those at your first departure.

Give essential items their own check

Medicines, medical equipment, baby milk and baby food have dedicated guidance. Check the applicable evidence, quantity and screening requirements rather than treating them exactly like ordinary toiletries. Leave time to explain an essential item at security.

For batteries and power banks, use your airline's current dangerous-goods information. British Airways, for example, requires power banks and spare batteries in hand baggage rather than checked luggage. Airlines may impose additional capacity or use restrictions, so check your carrier before travelling.

Pack for a straightforward screening

Place documents and items you may need to show where you can reach them. Check pockets and small bags for things left from everyday use. Keep only what you need for the journey in your cabin luggage, within the applicable rules.

Use a short checklist for the outward and return trip. If you are unsure about a particular item, ask the airport or airline before leaving home. Security staff make the screening decision; an old social-media post is not a substitute for the current official instructions.

Your checklist

• Departure airport security rules checked
• Connection and return airport rules checked
• Airline cabin-bag allowance checked separately
• Medicines, baby supplies and batteries checked if relevant

Questions and answers

Keep planning your journey

• Baggage allowance without the guesswork
• Online check-in: what to do and when
• Planning a flight with children

Sources and latest guidance

Last checked: 2026-09-13

• GOV.UK: hand luggage restrictions
• Heathrow: security and baggage
• British Airways: baggage and battery guidance