Airport security checks have always been one of the less-enjoyable parts of flying — but this year brings one of the most significant changes in decades for UK passengers.
From the end of the old 100ml liquid rule at major airports to new scanning technology that speeds up security lines, this guide breaks down everything you need to know before you travel.
What’s Changing in 2026?
1. Heathrow Has Scrapped the 100ml Liquid Rule
As of January 2026, London Heathrow Airport has officially removed the 100ml liquid limit for hand luggage — a travel restriction that has been in place for nearly 20 years. Instead:
Passengers can carry containers of up to 2litres of liquids, pastes, and gels in their hand luggage (with some exceptions).
Laptops and tablets can stay inside your bag rather than being removed and screened separately.
The requirement to use clear plastic "liquid bags" is now gone at Heathrow.
This has been made possible by the installation of advanced CT security scanners that produce detailed 3D images of hand luggage contents, allowing security officers to identify prohibited items more effectively without separating liquids or electronics.
2. Other UK Airports Are Making Progress Too
Heathrow isn’t the only airport upgrading its technology — scanners that allow liquids and electronics to stay in bags are being introduced at other airports across the UK:
Birmingham Airport and Edinburgh Airport have already lifted the 100ml limit after installing new scanners.
Bristol has also adopted the new technology.
London Gatwick and other major airports are progressing with scanner rollouts and have begun easing liquid restrictions in some lanes.
However, the situation is still mixed and not every airport has fully changed its rules yet — so it’s important to check specific airport guidance before you travel.
3. What About Other Security Limits?
Even with the new scanners, some items still have rules you need to follow:
Metal or vacuum bottles usually must be empty when going through security and filled after the checkpoint.
Other standard security measures still apply (e.g., banned items like blades or flammable goods).
Rules in non‑UK airports may differ, especially on return flights — always check your destination airport’s requirements.
Why This Matters for Travellers
These changes are designed to:
✔ Speed up security queues — less removing and unpacking
✔ Reduce stress — fewer items to juggle at the checkpoint
✔ Cut plastic waste — millions fewer plastic bags used each year
✔ Make packing easier — bigger liquid containers allowed
For anyone flying from the UK this year — whether for a getaway, family trip, or Summer 2026 holiday — knowing your airport’s security policy can make departure smoother and quicker.
How to Prepare Before You Travel
Here’s a quick checklist to avoid surprises at the airport:
✔ Check Your Airport’s Rules
Security requirements (like liquids and electronics in bags) vary depending on whether new scanners are operative. Always check the official airport website before you fly.
✔ Pack Smart
Unless you’re certain the airport you’re travelling from has lifted the liquid limits:
Pack liquids in 100ml containers in a clear bag (as a precaution).
Have electronics accessible just in case you need to remove them.
✔ Know the Exceptions
Some items such as baby food or essential medicines may have different rules — check ahead to avoid delays.
✔ Think About Your Return
If you’re connecting through an airport without the upgraded scanners, the old rules may still apply on another leg of your journey.
FAQs — UK Airport Security 2026
Q: Has the 100ml rule been completely scrapped across the UK?
A: Not yet. Heathrow, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Bristol have lifted the 100ml rule due to new scanner technology, but other airports may still enforce it or allow liquids only up to a certain size. Always check your departure airport’s current policy.
Q: Do I still need to remove my laptop at Heathrow?
A: At Heathrow, laptops and tablets can usually stay in your hand luggage during security with the new CT scanners in place.
Q: What’s allowed in hand luggage under the new system?
A: Where scanners have been upgraded, liquids (in containers up to 2litres), electronics and other items can often stay in your bag during screening. However, local airport rules vary.
Q: Are all airports planning to adopt the new scanners?
A: Yes — UK airports are scheduled to install next‑generation scanners that eliminate the 100ml limit and remove the need to unpack electronics, but timelines differ and some have extensions to meet deadlines.
Q: What about international airports outside the UK?
A: Most airports around the world still enforce the traditional 100ml liquid rules. If connecting abroad, check security requirements at each airport on your itinerary.
In Summary
Security in UK airports is evolving in 2026 with major changes already in place at Heathrow and other airports. While the 100ml liquids rule is being relaxed at many sites thanks to new CT scanning technology, rules can vary between airports — so planning and checking ahead is crucial to avoid confusion or delays.
Want help planning the perfect Summer 2026 getaway? We can ensure you’re ready — from airport security to arrival.
