What can I take on a plane?

What liquids can I take on a plane?

Security restrictions have been in place for many years to limit the amount of liquids you can take onto planes in your hand luggage. Even so, many flyers remain confused over the amount of food, drink, cosmetics, sprays, pastes and gels they can carry aboard, and how they need to be packed.

The official restrictions are published on the government website, but this guide to taking liquids on flights should help too. It includes the special rules for baby milk and food, special diets, and items you buy once you’re through security. We’ve also included a separate section about medication.

The 100ml rule for liquids

Some airports in the UK and EU have now relaxed the 100ml rule for liquids. They now allow you to carry two litres of liquid in your hand luggage.

But at many airports, the 100ml rule still applies. That means you can’t bring more than 100ml of any restricted liquid into the cabin in a single container. These liquids must also be stored in individual 100ml containers.

Any liquid that you need more than 100ml of should be packed in your hold luggage.

Double-check the liquid rules for your flight before you go.

“Liquids” include:

• Drinks
• Partially or fully liquid foods, such as soup, baby food, or honey
• Toiletries and cosmetics, such as make-up, perfume, creams, lotions, gels, mascara, lip gloss or toothpaste
• Sprays and aerosols, such as deodorant or hairspray
• Gels, such as hair gel or shower gel
• Contact lens solution
• “Any other solutions and items of similar consistency”

Remember, the 100ml limit applies not just to the actual amount of liquid, but also the bottles or containers they are held in.

Other things you need to know

• All liquids must be taken through security in a clear plastic bag no larger than 20cm by 20cm. These are normally available for free at airport security terminals
• You can take one clear bag per person, so don’t bring too many liquids even if they’re in containers of less than 100ml
• If you use a lighter, you can take one onboard in the same clear plastic bag. Lighters are not allowed in hold luggage
• You’re not allowed to take containers of more than 100ml through security, even if they’re only partially full. The bag needs to be able to close and be sealed

Can I take alcohol on a plane?

Generally, you can take alcohol on a plane if you’re of legal drinking age. But there are some other important rules you need to know.

• Alcohol under 100ml: You can carry alcohol in containers of 100ml or less in your hand luggage if it fits in the clear plastic bag for liquids. The alcohol must be sealed in its original, unopened container
• Alcohol over 100ml: If you buy alcohol or any other liquids over 100ml after going through security, you’re allowed to take it on your flight. But the bottle or container must stay sealed in the secure, tamper-proof bag provided when you buy it

Some airlines might have their own restrictions on carrying alcohol, so always check before you travel. It’s also important to remember that you’re not allowed to drink your own alcohol on a plane. You can only consume the alcohol served by flight attendants.

Can I take food in my hand luggage?

Yes, you can usually take food in your hand luggage. Here’s some general guidance:

• Solid foods: You can bring most solid food in your hand luggage, such as sandwiches, fruit, vegetables, snacks and pre-packaged food
• Liquid or semi-liquid foods: Foods like soup or jam must be in containers of 100ml or less and fit in your clear plastic bag for liquids
• Baby food and milk: You can bring baby food, breast milk or formula in larger quantities than 100ml. It will be screened separately at security and might be tested
• Medical needs: If you need more than 100ml of liquid for medical reasons, you’ll need a prescription (if it is a prescription medicine) and a doctor’s note to bring it through security

There might be certain restrictions on meat, dairy and other animal products, as well as fresh fruit and vegetables. Always check the specific regulations depending on the countries you’re travelling between.

Taking medicines on a plane

Before deciding whether to pack your medicine in your hand luggage or hold luggage, you need to ensure that they’re not prohibited in the country you’re visiting. You might also need approval to travel with them.

If you’re taking prescription medications, contact the embassy of the country you’re travelling to. They may need to give you special permission to travel with medicines that are restricted in their country.

If you travel with medicines that are illegal in the country you’re visiting, even if they are common in the UK, the penalties can be severe. This also applies to over-the-counter medicines as well.

1. Discuss with your doctor

   Your GP or travel health specialist will be able to advise on whether you need immediate access to your medicine. If so, it’s no good if it’s bundled away in the hold.

   Your doctor can also provide you with a valid prescription and a note explaining why you need the medicine or medical equipment. It’s a good idea to keep a digital copy in case the original gets lost.

   Airport security may need to check that your medical equipment is safe for air travel so have your note ready when you’re going through the checks.

2. Taking medicine in hand luggage

   If you pack all the medicine you need for your trip in your hand luggage, you’ll be covered in case of delays or if your hold luggage goes missing

   Whether you have a large amount or just a couple of pills, it’s important to keep your medication in its original packaging, correctly labelled, and matching your prescription. It’s also crucial to have a copy of your prescription.

   You can then have a back-up supply in your hold luggage too, just in case.

   If your medicine is a liquid over 100ml or a sharp, like a syringe or EpiPen, make sure you have the necessary documents ready for when you go through security. There are special rules to allow you to travel with medical equipment, so as long as you’ve got everything to hand you shouldn’t have a problem. It just may take a little longer at security. You can always contact your airline in advance to check for any special restrictions.

3. Make sure you look after your wellbeing

   Airlines are concerned with the wellbeing of vulnerable passengers. This can include elderly people, those with medical conditions, or anyone needing extra comfort for a host of reasons.

   If you’ve recently had surgery or have any other requirements, let the airline know. They might be able to upgrade your seat.

4. Controlled medication

   Some medications are controlled substances, meaning that they are only legal in certain situations. Examples include anabolic steroids or painkillers containing opioids, like morphine or codeine. You might need a personal license to travel with these, which you can get from the Home Office. This process can take a little time, so apply at least 10 working days before your travel date. You’ll also need a note from  your prescribing doctor explaining why you need the medicine. If you’re unsure, apply early to avoid any issues.

5. Get travel insurance with good health cover

   If you need to travel with prescription medicine, it’s especially important to have travel insurance that includes health cover to meet your needs. Before you buy a policy, read the details carefully so that you can pick the right cover for you. Keep in mind that you’ll have to complete a medical screening and disclose any medical conditions and medications you’re taking. You might also need to pay a little extra. If you don't, any medical claims you make could be rejected.

Baggage allowances

It’s all too easy to get stung by an unexpected fee for a bag that’s an inch too big for your hand luggage or a suitcase that’s a few grams too heavy for the hold.

Each airline will have a different set of allowances and restrictions for hold and hand luggage. These can vary from route to route and might change at short notice, as can charges for excess baggage.

Avoid any nasty surprises at the airport by knowing your luggage restrictions and double-checking your baggage allowance on your airline's website. Remember to pre-book any excess charges to make sure you always pay the lowest fees.

Hold luggage

You can put almost anything you own in the hold of a plane, including pets, bikes, musical instruments and even coffins. But remember, each airline has a strict set of restrictions for hold luggage allowances, which could end up costing you a lot of money if you ignore them.

Most airlines will let you check as many heavy bags as you like into the hold. But they will usually charge you an excess fee, which is always higher at the airport than online. If you’re planning on flying with a lot of hold luggage, make sure you pre-book your extra bags before you leave home. Most airlines let you do this when you book your ticket, and they often give you a second chance when you check in online.

If you’re flying with anything valuable in the hold, make sure it’s covered by your travel insurance policy. Special items, including golf clubs, skis and business equipment, might be listed as optional extras, so it’s worth checking that your policy schedule carefully. Look for golf equipment cover and ski cover before you pack.

Avoiding excess baggage allowance charges

To avoid paying extra for your hold baggage, follow the airlines rules carefully. At the airport, your checked bags will all be weighed and sometimes measured to make sure they meet the airline’s restrictions. Simply put, if you don’t want to pay for any extra baggage, don't bring any with you. Weigh your packed bags at home before you leave and make sure they’re not over the limit.

You can weigh a packed suitcase easily enough by buying a set of luggage scales, which is generally less than £5 online, and often available at airport shops. But don’t make the mistake of filling your suitcases right up to the weight limit. Leave some room if you plan on bringing back any gifts or souvenirs.