Understanding the EU’s New Hand Luggage Rules: What They Mean for Your Holiday

You don’t have to be a frequent flyer to know that any trip to the airport is one dictated by rules, especially when it comes to what you can put in your hand luggage. There’s been a few changes to hand luggage rules lately, with many airports around the world scrapping previous restrictions on the liquids you can travel with. But, things have taken a turn, and the rules are back in place as of this month.

Hand Luggage Rules You Need to Know

The liquid restrictions, which were first introduced back 2006, have been reinstated at EU airports for the time being. These rules affect how you pack and manage your liquids, gels and creams in hand luggage. Passengers have been limited to carrying liquids in containers of 100ml or less for many years and, though many airports have scrapped these rules recently, they are now back in place.

Liquids in your hand luggage need to be placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag no larger than 20cm x 20cm, which must be presented separately at security. Liquids include common items like drinks, cosmetics, sprays and even semi-liquid foods such as honey or soup. Toiletries like toothpaste, shower gel and sunscreen also fall under this rule. There are some exceptions for passengers with special dietary needs, baby formula, or medications, though these may require prior confirmation with the airport and, in some cases, a doctor’s note.

The rule change mainly impacts airports in the EU that have not yet installed advanced CT scanners. These airports will continue enforcing the 100ml liquid rule, until they have advanced scanners in place. If you’re flying from an airport that already has scanners, you may be able to leave liquids and electronics inside your luggage during screening. But, as many airports haven’t fully adopted the new technology, it’s important to check your destination and return airports’ requirements.

Will This Hand Luggage Rule Always Be in Place?

Once fully rolled out, the new CT scanner technology will revolutionise airport security by providing high resolution, three dimensional images of luggage contents, allowing for more accurate detection of prohibited items. This could eventually eliminate the 100ml liquid rule at many airports, making air travel more convenient and reducing waiting times at security checkpoints. However, the implementation has faced delays, meaning that passengers will need to follow the current liquid restrictions for the foreseeable future.

For now, it’s important to stay informed and prepared for hand luggage restrictions by checking the rules at both your departure and destination airports. Of course, if you’ve chosen a holiday lodge in the UK, this isn’t something that you’ll need to worry about.

How to Avoid The EU’s New Hand Luggage Rules

A holiday lodge offers a relaxing alternative to the stress of air travel, where hand luggage rules, baggage allowances and airport security can often become a hassle. With a lodge holiday, you can pack as much as you want without worrying about liquid restrictions or fitting everything into a tiny suitcase. 

There’s no need to navigate stressful airport queues or worry about your luggage being overweight. You can simply load up your car and head to your lodge, where all the comforts of home await. It’s a stress-free way to enjoy a holiday, without the limitations that come with flying.