How Much Liquid Can You Take in Your Hand and Hold Luggage?

How Much Liquid Can You Take in Your Hand and Hold Luggage?

From moisturisers and shampoo to a bottle of wine, packing the wrong liquid in the wrong luggage is an easy way to get caught out by airport security. Understanding the rules and restrictions around liquid allowances in carry-on hand luggage and check-in hold luggage will save you time, stress, and the frustration of having to leave something behind.

Liquids in Hand Luggage: What You Need to Know

For most UK airports, the long-standing 100ml liquid restrictions still apply for hand luggage and cabin bags:

  • Each liquid must be in a container no larger than 100ml, even if it’s not completely full.

  • All containers must fit inside a single transparent, resealable plastic bag, with a maximum capacity of 1 litre. Standard dimensions are around 20cm x 20cm.

  • Only one bag per passenger is allowed, and it must be presented separately at the security checkpoint.

This rule applies to a broad range of items, including drinks, toiletries, cosmetics, and even semi-liquid foods like yogurt or sauces. Security staff are strict about these limits, so overfilling a container or bringing multiple bags can result in confiscation.

Some airports, however, are adopting newer CT scanner technology that allows for more flexibility:

  • Liquids in containers up to 2 litres can stay inside your hand luggage during screening.

  • You may not need to remove electronics or liquids from your bag at airport security.

Airports that have upgraded include Edinburgh, Birmingham, Bristol, Gatwick, and Luton. Others, like Heathrow, Manchester, and Stansted, still enforce the older 100ml rules.

Tip: Always check the rules at both your departure and return airports. Just because you can carry more liquid at one airport doesn’t mean the same applies on your way back.

Liquids in Hold Luggage: More Freedom, Fewer Rules

Packing liquids in your check-in hold luggage is generally much simpler and less restrictive:

  • Full-size toiletries and cosmetics are allowed, including bottles over 100ml.
  • Alcoholic beverages are permitted up to 5 litres per person, provided they’re under 70% ABV and in retail packaging.

  • Liquid foods such as sauces, jams, and soups can be packed without restriction.

Even though rules are more relaxed, it’s important to pack carefully to avoid leaks and damage:

  • Seal containers tightly and place them in leak-proof bags or dedicated toiletry organisers.

  • Avoid packing flammable, corrosive, or otherwise hazardous liquids, as these are prohibited by airlines and airport security.

What Counts as a Liquid?

Airport security uses a broad definition of liquids. If an item spreads, smears, pours, or sprays, it is considered a liquid. This includes:

  • Drinks (water, juice, alcohol)
  • Toiletries (shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant)
  • Cosmetics (foundation, mascara, lip gloss)
  • Food items (jam, soup, sauces)
  • Semi-liquids (yogurt, soft cheese, spreads)

Even items that seem solid, like lipstick or solid deodorant, can sometimes be flagged depending on the airport, so it’s wise to double-check before you travel.

Exemptions to Liquid Rules

There are a few important exceptions to the 100ml liquid allowances for hand luggage:

  • Essential medicines, if you have supporting documentation from your doctor or pharmacy.
  • Baby food or milk, which may be needed during the flight.
  • Special dietary liquids for health reasons.

  • Duty-free purchases, provided they remain sealed in a security bag with a visible receipt.

These items may still be subject to additional screening, but they are generally allowed beyond the usual liquid limits.

Packing Tips for a Smoother Security Experience

  • Check your airport’s current liquid rules in hand luggage before packing, especially if you have connecting flights at multiple airports.

  • Use travel-sized containers if you’re unsure whether your airport has upgraded scanners.

  • Pack liquids in hold luggage whenever possible to reduce the risk of confiscation or delays.

  • Arrive at the airport early if flying from locations that still enforce older liquid restrictions.

  • Use leak-proof travel organisers to keep your liquids secure and prevent spills in your suitcase.

Know the rules to avoid the stress

If you're ever unsure about what you can pack, it's always best to check with your airline or departure airport before you travel. And if you're looking for hand or hold luggage that makes packing liquids and passing through airport security easier, we’re here to help. Explore our range of travel-ready suitcases designed to keep your essentials secure and your journey stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much liquid can you take in hand luggage?

You can carry liquids in your hand luggage in containers of up to 100ml, all fitting inside a single 1-litre transparent bag. Some UK airports now allow up to 2 litres with upgraded scanners.

Can you take liquids in hold luggage?

Yes, you can pack full-size liquids in hold luggage, including toiletries, food, and alcohol (up to 5 litres under 70% ABV).

What are the restrictions on liquids in hand luggage?

Liquids must be in 100ml containers and fit in a 1-litre bag. You must present these separately at security unless your airport uses CT scanners.

Can you put liquids in your suitcase?

Yes, liquids can go in your checked suitcase. Just make sure they’re sealed and packed to prevent leaks.

Can you take vape liquid in your suitcase?

Yes, vape liquids are allowed in hold luggage. For hand luggage, they must follow the 100ml rule and be placed in your liquid bag before you go through airport security.