The general liquid allowance for carrying liquids on a plane in hand luggage is as follows:
- Liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less.
- All such containers must fit into one transparent, resealable plastic bag with a total capacity of no more than 1 liter (about 20cm x 20cm).
- Only one plastic bag per passenger is allowed.
- The plastic bag must be shown separately at airport security checks.
However, there are some variations and exemptions:
- Some UK airports with new 3D CT scanners (e.g., Bristol, Gatwick, Leeds Bradford, Luton, Newcastle, Southend, Teesside, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Birmingham) allow liquids in containers up to 2 liters and may not require removing liquids from hand luggage during security.
- Medically necessary liquids, baby milk/food, and duty-free liquids sealed in security bags are allowed in larger quantities.
- Liquid containers over 100 ml must usually be placed in checked baggage unless exempted (medicines, baby food, etc.).
As of 2025, many airports still apply the 100 ml per container limit, but some European airports are beginning to ditch the 100 ml limit partially or totally with new screening technologies. The overall limit per passenger for carry-on liquids is generally capped at 1 liter, but some airports allow up to 2 liters in hand luggage. In summary, expect to carry liquids in containers not exceeding 100 ml, placed in one clear 1-liter bag, unless you are flying from or through airports with updated rules allowing larger containers up to 2 liters. Exceptions apply for baby food, medicines, and duty-free liquids. This is the widely enforced liquid policy for hand luggage on planes in 2025.
