Airline passengers warned ‘don’t assume’ over ‘confusing’ hand luggage rule

There are strict rules over what can be carried on a flight but getting the liquid allowance right can be difficult with some surprising items included

Most people jetting off from UK airports know there are strict rules around baggage allowances. Whether it is the size of the bag going on as hand luggage through to the weight of a suitcase, all the regulations must be met otherwise it an prove both costly and time-consuming.

But while many are aware that liquids can be limited when taking them on a flight, not everyone knows that there are some surprising items which need to be taken into consideration. And many of these fall under skincare as holidaymakers try to take their beauty regime away with them to their destination.

Rhysa Phommachanh, Skincare Expert at Landys Chemist, says it is important to check out skincare at airport security and during flights: “Many travellers are now packing full skincare routines in their hand luggage, but it can be confusing knowing which products are allowed. As a general rule, if a product can be spread, rubbed, or sprayed, it will usually fall under airport liquid restrictions.

“We’re also seeing a growing trend for full skincare routines being carried out mid-flight, but this isn’t always ideal for the skin. Cabin environments are very low in humidity, meaning the skin is already under environmental stress. Applying multiple layers of products can increase the risk of irritation, especially if hand hygiene is limited due to shared surfaces on board.

“A more simplified approach tends to work best for long-haul travel. Basic essentials such as lip balm, a lightweight moisturiser, or a facial mist are usually more than enough to maintain hydration without overwhelming the skin barrier.”

Rhysa outlined some common mistakes that can cause delays at the airport.

Assuming some products don’t count as liquids

With newer skin care products on the market like balms, jellies, and sticks, it can be confusing to tell whether or not these products fall under liquids. Items such as sheet masks, eye patches, cleansing balms, face creams, and serums are all treated as liquids at security. If they don’t comply with the liquid rules, you could be delayed, or the items could be confiscated.

Overpacking travel minis

Even travel-size skincare that is under the liquid allowance can still cause issues. Some airports will still stop passengers if their liquids don’t fit into a single, fully sealed, clear bag.

Packing liquids incorrectly can trigger extra screening

Splitting your skincare across multiple bags or not presenting it correctly at security can trigger extra screening and slow you down.

Decanting into unlabelled bottles

Pouring your favourite skincare into random containers might save space, but unlabelled products can raise questions and lead to manual checks.

Bringing pressurised skincare products on board

Facial mists, setting sprays, and spray sunscreens are skincare staples, but because they’re pressurised, they’re more likely to be pulled aside for inspection and delay you getting through security.

Not checking airport rules before you fly

Liquid rules aren’t the same everywhere. Some airports are updating systems, while others still enforce strict bag limits, so your routine might not make it through if you assume it’s all the same.

According to the Uk government advice there are restrictions on many liquids – including frozen ones. It advises: “Airport security staff will not let anything through that they consider dangerous – even if it’s normally allowed in hand luggage.

“If possible, pack liquids in your hold baggage (luggage that you check in).” It explains what counts as a liquid saying these include:

• all drinks, including water
• liquid or semi-liquid foods, for example soup, jam, honey and syrups
• cosmetics and toiletries, including creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara and lip gloss
• sprays, including shaving foam, hairspray and spray deodorants
• pastes, including toothpaste
• gels, including hair and shower gel
• contact lens solution
• any other solutions and items of similar consistency

It warns you cannot carry frozen liquids in your hand luggage. It also advises people to check the rules before setting off.

It says: “The rules for carrying liquids in your hand luggage depend on the airport.” It says before you travel, check the rules:

• at the airport you’re flying from
• at any other airports you’ll be travelling through, including your return journey

How much liquid you can take

The website says: “At most airports, you cannot take liquids in containers larger than 100ml through security. This still applies if the container is only part full.

“Some airports may allow you to take liquid in containers that hold up to 2 litres of liquid. Check for exemptions if you’re taking baby milk or food, medicines, food for special dietary requirements or liquids bought in duty free.”

Transparent bags for liquids

It warns travellers they may have to put liquid containers in a separate, transparent bag, however this is not the rule at all airports. If the airport asks you to put liquids in a separate bag:

• containers must be in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm x 20cm
• contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed
• the bag must not be tied at the top
• you’re limited to one plastic bag per person
• you must show the bag at the airport security point

Exemptions

According to the website passengers can take liquid containers up to 2 litres through security at all UK airports if they:

You can also take liquids bought at an airport or on a plane (such as duty free) through security if:

• the items are sealed inside a security bag when you buy them
• the receipt for the items is sealed in the security bag and visible

It adds: “You must not open the security bag until you reach your final destination. Airport staff may need to open the items to screen the liquid at the security point.”