As the British summer approaches, many are gearing up for their much-anticipated holiday getaways. But before you jet off from Heathrow Airport, it’s crucial to brush up on the latest rules and regulations.
Taking flammable liquids or toxic products is among the more obvious must-nots when flying from any airport. Yet, what might come as a surprise is Heathrow’s limit on hand luggage at security checks.
The capital’s major airport enforces a ‘two-bag policy’ at its security gates to keep queues moving smoothly. This means passengers are allowed just two pieces of hand luggage through the checkpoint.
“To avoid delays, Heathrow operates a two-bag policy at airport security,” advice at the airport’s site reads. “Handbags and laptop bags count as a piece of hand baggage.”
In line with this policy, any item exceeding 56cm x 45cm x 25cm (22in x 18in x 10in) must be checked in, which helps reduce the number of security trays used and speeds up the process for everyone.
Beyond this, it’s also vital to know what’s permitted in your hand luggage. Certain electronic devices, for example, are allowed on UK flights, but there are specific guidelines.
While individual airlines may impose their own set of rules, the UK Government provides a list of nine essential items that are acceptable in both your carry-on and checked baggage.
For those using e-cigarettes, it’s crucial to carry them in hand luggage rather than hold luggage. During security checks, placing electronic devices in a designated tray allows staff to verify that no prohibited items are concealed.
Heathrow Airport’s advice also adds: “Please ensure your electronic devices are charged. If they don’t switch on, you may not be allowed to take them onto the aircraft. Charging points are available throughout the airport.”
On the other hand, most UK airports, including Heathrow, require liquids to fit inside a single transparent plastic bag when passing through security. Each liquid container must hold a maximum of 100ml, and the plastic bag must measure approximately 20cm x 20cm.
The Government’s website specifies that all items must fit ‘comfortably inside the bag’ to ensure it can be sealed. To prevent issues, do not try to seal it by tying a knot at the top, as this will not be accepted.
Below is the UK Government’s complete list of items categorised as hand luggage liquids:
Solid items such as deodorant sticks, soap bars, wet wipes, and lip balms are generally categorised as non-liquids. As a result, they usually do not need to be stored in the bag.
Guidance from Heathrow Airport adds: “Only limited quantities of liquids may be carried through airport security into the departure lounge. This includes bottled drinks, suntan lotion, fragrances, cosmetics, toiletries and all frozen liquids.
“…Liquids in containers over 100ml will not be permitted through security – please pack them in your hold baggage instead.”
