Liquids in hand luggage: which UK airports allow 2 litres, and which still say 100ml

Why the rules differ from airport to airport

For years, every UK airport used the same rule: liquids in containers of 100ml or less, in one small clear bag, taken out at security. That changed as airports installed new security scanners that can check liquids inside your bag. Airports with the new equipment and approval can allow bigger containers; the rest still use the old limit.

GOV.UK now says liquids rules depend on the airport, and that you should check the rules for the airport you’re leaving from, any airport where you change planes, and the airport you fly home from. That last one is the one people forget.

UK airport liquids rules: airport by airport

These are the rules each airport publishes on its own security page. We checked every one on 16 October 2026; rules are changing, so check again shortly before you fly.

Metal bottles and flasks

Even at airports that allow 2 litres, metal, insulated and double-walled bottles must be empty when you reach security. Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham and Edinburgh all say so, because the scanners can’t see through them. Empty yours before the queue and fill it up airside.

If your airport still uses the 100ml rule

GOV.UK sets out the traditional rule, which still applies at most airports that haven’t changed:

• Each container must hold no more than 100ml, even if it’s only part full
• Where the airport asks for a bag, liquids go in one transparent, resealable plastic bag that holds no more than a litre and measures about 20cm by 20cm
• The bag must close properly, without being tied at the top
• One bag per person, shown at security
• Larger containers go in your checked luggage

Exemptions at every UK airport

GOV.UK says you can take containers of up to 2 litres through security at any UK airport if they are for essential medical purposes, for special dietary requirements, or are baby food or baby milk. Security staff may need to open them to screen the contents, so pack them where they’re easy to reach, and bring a copy of any prescription for medicines.

Liquids you buy airside, such as duty free, are allowed if they’re sealed in a security bag with the receipt visible. Don’t open the bag until you reach your final destination, especially if you’re changing planes. Frozen liquids aren’t allowed in hand luggage at all.

Flying home: US, European and other airports

Your flight home is screened by a different airport with its own rules, so a 2-litre bottle that sailed through at Heathrow may be taken off you on the way back.

At US airports, the TSA’s rule is containers of 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) or less, in one quart-sized bag, with medicines and food for babies and young children exempt from the limit. Many airports in Europe and elsewhere still use a 100ml limit too, so check your return airport’s own security page before you pack.

What counts as a liquid

More than you’d think. Gels, pastes, creams, lotions, aerosols and liquid-food mixtures all count: toothpaste, mascara, lip gloss, hair gel, contact lens solution, soup and jam included. Solid alternatives, such as shampoo bars and solid deodorant, don’t count, which is one reason they’re popular with people who travel with only a cabin bag.

Our carry-on only checklist covers what else to pack, and our guide to power banks on planes covers the other item security checks most often.

Questions people ask