Hand Luggage Rules at UK Airports
Even though hand luggage rules have been relaxed to a certain degree, there are still many items that cannot be taken on-board an airliner. Although there are slight differences between certain countries the basic product types that cannot be taken on-board are the same. If you would still like to take the hand luggage items prohibited within the cabin of an airliner, you may still pack them in luggage that is checked through to the final destination.
Prohibited hand luggage items
When the United Kingdom is considered there are six main categories of prohibited hand luggage items. These categories include:
- Liquids and gels
- Liquid cosmetics and toiletries
- Food
- Writing implements
- Baby milk/food*
- Other items
*Permitted if tasted in presence of inspector for use in flight
Liquids and gels
Any liquid or gel in hand luggage that is contained within a can, bottle, plastic or cardboard container is not permitted past the initial screening checkpoint. Once past the checkpoint the passenger may purchase liquids or gels at airport stores. Leaving the security area and returning through security will result in the loss of the item. If the item is not taken out of the secure area it will be allowed onto the aircraft within the hand luggage. Hand luggage for destinations within the United States is subject to secondary search at the gate.
Liquids cosmetics and toiletries
All cosmetics and toiletries in a liquid or gel form are not permitted to be carried past initial screening in hand luggage. These items can be purchased at shops past screening and carried on-board in hand luggage if they do not return past the initial screening process. If they do they will be confiscated. Destinations within the United States may require secondary screening at the gate. Items included in this prohibited hand luggage category include: soaps, creams, toothpastes, sunscreen, lip gloss, mascara, deodorants, hair spray and shaving gels.
Food
Any liquid based food product in plastic packets, tubes or tin containers in hand luggage will not be permitted past initial screening. Some items that fall into this hand luggage category include: Pastes, jams, sauce, yogurt, soup and stew.
Writing implements
Ink and spare cartridges are included within this prohibited hand luggage category.
Baby milk and food
Baby milk and food are not permitted in hand luggage past the initial screening, unless the food and milk are tasted to demonstrate safety in front of an inspector. Then only an amount needed for the travel period is permitted. A secondary screening at the gate may be needed if travel to the United States is being made.
Other items
As may be suspected, no sharp items, cigarette lighters or non-safety matches are permitted in hand luggage past initial screening.
Medications
Medications are permitted in hand luggage if they meet certain specifications. Gel medications cannot exceed a certain amount while other medications need to be taken to prove safety. If this is not possible a pharmacist will made available to make a decision.