Airport Security: Be Careful What You Pack

Passing through airport security can be a hassle, but the checks are in place to make sure we all fly safely. When you pass through security, there are many items that you should avoid taking in your hand luggage because they are not permitted.

One of the issues that catches out travellers is that of liquids taken on board an aircraft in hand luggage:

Travellers are not permitted to carry liquids in containers over 100 ml in size.

Even if you have 100 ml of liquid in a 200 ml bottle, it will not be allowed through security.

Liquids include cosmetics, creams and pastes.

You must put them in a clear plastic bag to pass through security, which are often provided when you arrive.

An exception may be made for baby milk. However, you can only take what you need for the journey, and you may be asked to taste the milk as a security measure.

Some medicines may also be allowed through in larger quantities, but you must have permission from the airline and airport, and you will require authorisation from your doctor as well.

When you arrive at the airport you will see a long list of items that you cannot take in your hand luggage. If you have packed any of these, make sure you remove them prior to passing through security because otherwise they will be removed and you could find yourself facing delays or perhaps being interviewed by the authorities.

Sharp items including razor blades, knives and scissors

Blunt instruments including baseball bats and martial arts equipment

Tools including items like screwdrivers and drill bits

Stunning devices including sprays and gases

Firing weapons of any kind, including toy guns, bows and catapults

Explosive devices including fuses and pyrotechnics

A large number of items are classified as dangerous, and are either completely banned, or may be allowed on board with you provided you have permission from the airline. It's well worth checking on the Civil Aviation Authority website for an exhaustive list.

Camping stoves (fuelled by gas/flammable liquids)
Diving cylinders above 280kPa
Fireworks
Flammable Paint
Lighter Fuel
Party Poppers
Smoke hood with oxygen supply
'Strike anywhere' matches

Illegal drugs
Offensive weapons such as flick knives
Self defence sprays, eg pepper spray & CS gas
Endangered animal & plant species
Rough diamonds
Indecent or obscene materials
Personal imports of meat/dairy from non-EU countries

Some goods are banned but you may be able to bring them in with a permit or licence. These include:

Firearms
Swords
Explosives
Ammunition


Restricted goods can be brought into the UK from any EU country as long as they are for your own consumption, but restrictions apply for other countries.

Meat
Dairy products
Fruits
Vegetables
Plant products

It makes sense to check with your airline and the CAA exactly what items you shouldn't pack before you travel.

If you don't to then be prepared for delays and possible uncomfortable interviews if you fall foul of the regulations.

Sources
Civil Aviation Authority - http://www.caa.co.uk/
HMRC - https://www.gov.uk/duty-free-goods