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If you’ve flown recently, especially through London Heathrow, you’ll know the old airport security mantra by heart: “100ml containers, in a clear plastic bag, take them out at bag check.” It’s a (rather inconvenient) rite of passage when travelling that we’ve slowly gotten used to over the years. But now, Heathrow has flipped the script in a big way.
Here’s the good news: Heathrow Airport has scrapped the 100ml liquid limit for departing passengers. That means no more tiny toiletry bottles, no more decanting into containers, and no more rummaging in your hand luggage as you approach security.
Why was the 100ml rule there in the first place?
Back in 2006, a foiled terrorist plot involving liquid explosives led to this rule: liquids carried through security had to be in containers no larger than 100 millilitres and placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag. This was a workaround at a time when airports couldn’t reliably distinguish between everyday liquids and dangerous substances.
For nearly two decades, passengers of major airports (including London Heathrow) would empty their pockets, remove their shoes, and pull out their various bottles into a clear plastic bag for security. It’s been one of those annoying (yet familiar) parts of flying. But, this is no longer the case…
What has changed?
You’ll be pleased to know that Heathrow has caught up with many other airports around the world. The London airport has spent around £1 billion (yes, you heard that correctly) on brand-new scanners across all its terminals. These scanners build 3D images of your hand luggage, giving security staff far clearer insight into what’s inside. And that means they can spot risks without forcing travellers to unpack everything.
Basically…
- No 100ml limit at Heathrow – you can now take liquids in containers up to 2 litres through security.
- No need to take liquids out of your bag – they can stay packed in your carry-on.
- Laptops and tablets can usually stay in your bag too.
At this moment in time, Heathrow is the largest airport in the world to roll out this way of screening liquids.
What can you pack?
- You can bring larger bottles of shampoo, lotion or drinks in your cabin bag when departing from Heathrow.
- Tech items, like phones, laptops and tablets, can usually stay in your bag now.
- Duty-free liquids bought at the airport still count, but they should remain sealed as usual.
We have just one important heads-up: this only applies when departing from Heathrow. If you’re connecting through another airport or returning to the UK via a place that still uses the old scanners, the old 100ml rule may still be in force.
Always check the rules at every airport you’ll pass through.
Why does this change matter?
This isn’t just about packing bigger bottles. This new tech at Heathrow:
- Speeds up security lines, especially at peak times, saving you stress and queueing.
- Cuts down on plastic waste – just think about all of that single-use plastic!
- Makes flying feel a little more modern and less restrictive.
And, if you’re someone who really hates airport security, this is a super time-saving change. Hopefully, it’ll make plenty of passengers’ experiences better.
Yes, Heathrow’s security rules have changed. The old 100ml liquid limit for departing flights is gone, thanks to new tech. So, pack those bigger bottles, keep your gadgets inside your hand luggage, and get through security a little easier (and safely). Just don’t forget, other airports may still play by the old rules.
To make the most of smoother security and stress free packing, it’s also worth thinking about what happens beyond the airport. Even with easier rules at Heathrow, travel can still throw up surprises, from delayed flights to lost luggage or last minute cancellations. That’s where comparing travel insurance comes in and you can compare some of the UK’s top providers in minutes via mustard.co.uk. By checking different policies side by side, you can review cover that suits your trip, your budget and your peace of mind, so you’re protected no matter which airport rules you’re dealing with. After all, the best trips are the ones where you’re prepared for the unexpected. Compare Now
Written By Piper Huxley
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