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Travellers should be aware that this weekend, a brand new set of rules are being implemented across UK and European airports.
To create uniformity where air travel is concerned, the European Union is standardising cabin bag sizes and reintroducing liquid limits from 1 September.
As the deadline approaches, holidaymakers are encouraged to plan accordingly for their trip and to become acquainted with the new rules.
Below, we’ve outlined everything you need to know to ensure a smooth trip abroad this September.
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100ml liquids rules for hand luggage
If you’ve flown by air over the last two decades then you will be aware that a strict 100ml liquid limit has been in play.
This legislation was initially ushered in after a transatlantic terror plot involving explosives hidden in drinks bottles was foiled in 2006.
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Despite staying strong for almost 20 years, various airport terminals lifted the hand luggage limit after Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB) were installed.
These 3D scanners allowed plane passengers to forgo the 100ml liquid limits and were approved by the Aviation Society.
In June 2024, the UK reverted back to the strict limit and now the EU has stated all airports across Europe will follow suit.
As of 1 September, passengers are prohibited from carrying items containing more than 100ml of liquid in their cabin bags.
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These items cannot total more than one litre when combined and must be placed inside a clear, resealable bag roughly measuring 20 x 20cm.
What toiletries constitute as liquids?
According to MoneySavingExpert.com, toiletries such as shower gel, toothpaste and shampoo are considered liquids by 10 of the busiest UK airports.
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Items such as oils, spray deodorants and hair spray are also deemed as liquids, meaning you must adhere to the reinstated 100ml rules if you’re bringing these in your hand luggage.
Elsewhere, Birmingham, Bristol and London Heathrow airports all claim Vaseline tubs count as a liquid, while travellers are free to bring as many lipsticks as they want through Manchester, Stansted and Gatwick.
To discover more items classified as liquids before you travel, check out our guide.
Cabin bag weight
The European Union has stated that cabin bag weight and dimensions are being standardised from 1 September.
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New rules coming into play will allow plane passengers to bring one cabin bag and a small personal item on board.
Hand luggage must not weigh more than 10kg with maximum dimensions (inclusive of handles and wheels) of 55 x 40 x 20cm while small personal items must be no larger than 40 x 30 x 15cm.
Passport rules
If you want to board a plane this September then your UK passport needs to be less than 10 years old on the day of travel.
It also must have at least three months remaining on its validity after your return.
While these requirements have been around for a while, a lot of passengers still end up getting their travel disrupted for not properly adhering to the rules, so be sure keep an eye on your passport's expiration date.
Ella Scott