With the February half-term underway and Easter just around the corner, many UK families are gearing up for some well-deserved holidays. Whether you’re jetting off for a winter getaway or planning a spring break, understanding airport security rules is essential to avoid any last-minute surprises at the gate.

Airlines, including major carriers like easyJet, Ryanair, TUI, and Jet2, have strict hand luggage regulations to ensure passenger safety. Before you pack, knowing which items are prohibited in your carry-on is crucial, as failure to comply could lead to confiscation or even delays in your journey.

Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to leave out of your hand luggage.

Every airline complies with security rules in place at airports across the UK, with all of them releasing advice over what you can and cannot pack, and which items belong in the hold. A statement from Ryanair said that, even though some sharp objects are allowed in checked-in baggage, and not in the cabin, extra precautions must be taken. It said: “Any sharp objects in your checked-in luggage should be securely wrapped to prevent injury to any staff who need to handle it.”

One of the most well-known restrictions is the liquid limit. Any container exceeding 100ml is strictly prohibited in hand luggage. If you need to carry larger quantities, these must be packed in your checked luggage.

For liquids under 100ml, they must be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of one litre. The bag should measure approximately 20cm x 20cm and must be presented separately at security.

There are a few exceptions to the 100ml rule. Essential liquid medicines exceeding 100ml are allowed but may require proof of prescription. Parents travelling with infants can also bring baby milk, sterilised water, and baby food beyond the limit. Additionally, liquids bought in duty-free shops are permitted if they remain sealed in a security bag with the receipt visible inside.

Passengers are permitted to carry one lighter, but it must be stored in a resealable plastic bag and kept on your person at all times. It cannot be packed in your hand luggage after security or placed in checked baggage. easyJet says: “You can carry cigarettes in your cabin bag. (It’s worth checking how many cigarettes you’re allowed to bring into your destination country). Lighters can be taken on board but they must be carried in your pocket. Matches are not allowed on board.”

A variety of everyday items are banned from hand luggage, including:

Knives & Blades – Any blade longer than 6cm is prohibited.

Scissors – Small scissors (with blades under 6cm) may be allowed, but larger ones are not.

Corkscrews – Even small corkscrews are banned.

Party Poppers & Fireworks – Any pyrotechnics, including flares and toy caps, are strictly forbidden.

If you’re planning to bring sporting gear, be aware that many items are not allowed in the cabin, including:

Baseball, cricket, and softball bats

Golf clubs and darts

Walking/hiking poles

Martial arts equipment and crossbows

If needed, these items should be checked into the hold.

Tools can be considered hazardous, and most are not permitted in the cabin, such as:

Any tool with a blade or shaft longer than 6cm

Drills, saws, hammers, and screwdrivers

Wrenches, pliers, and crowbars

Bolt or nail guns

For safety reasons, certain chemicals are completely banned, including:

Acids, alkalis, and corrosive substances

Bleach and cleaning agents

Vehicle batteries and fuel systems

Self-defence sprays (e.g., pepper spray)

Radioactive materials

Flammable or combustible substances

Unsurprisingly, firearms and ammunition are not allowed in hand luggage. This includes:

Guns (including air rifles and starting pistols)

Explosives such as grenades and flares

Smoke canisters and cartridges

Firearm replicas and gun-shaped lighters

Some firearms may be transported in checked luggage, but specific airline policies vary. Always check with your airline before travelling.

Each airline has its own set of guidelines regarding prohibited items. For detailed and up-to-date information, check your airline’s official website or refer to airport security guides at major UK hubs like Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester. If you’re ever unsure about whether an item is allowed, it’s always best to contact your airline or travel operator directly before heading to the airport.

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