If you’re flying out of the United Kingdom, here’s some good news: you no longer need to cram your liquids into tiny 100ml bottles. Birmingham or Edinburgh airports have officially lifted the long-standing liquid restriction, allowing passengers to carry containers of up to 2 litres in their hand luggage.

Even better, there’s no need to remove liquids or large electronics like laptops and tablets at security. That’s a huge time-saver and a major convenience boost.

Why Was the 100ml Liquid Rule Introduced, and Why Is It Changing Now?

The 100ml liquids rule was introduced in 2006 after a major terror plot involving liquid explosives. By 2023, some UK airports began lifting it using advanced CT scanners.

But in June 2024, the rule returned due to scanner issues, causing too many manual bag checks. Now, with approved CT scanner systems in place, airports are again allowed to relax the rule.

Where Exactly Has the 100ml Rule Been Scrapped?

So far, only Birmingham (BHX) and Edinburgh (EDI) airports have removed the 100ml cap entirely. Here’s what that means if you’re flying from these airports:

You can carry liquids in containers up to 2 litres

No limit on the number of containers

No need to remove liquids or electronics at security

Laptops and tablets can stay in your hand luggage

Gordon Dewar, CEO of Edinburgh Airport, called it a “momentous day,” highlighting that an entire generation of travellers has only known the 100ml rule since its introduction in 2006

What About Other UK Airports?

At most UK airports, the 100ml rule is still in place, and the usual drill applies:

Liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less

All containers must fit in a transparent resealable bag (max 20cm x 20cm)

Total volume must not exceed 1 litre

Large electronics must be taken out at security

Even some airports with CT scanners still require you to follow these steps.

UK Airports With CT Scanners (But Rules Vary)

Here are airports that have installed CT scanners, but may still enforce the 100ml limit or require you to remove items at security. Always check before you fly:

Birmingham ✅ (100ml rule lifted)

Edinburgh ✅ (100ml rule lifted)

Bournemouth

Bristol

Cardiff

East Midlands

Gatwick

Leeds Bradford

London City

Luton

Newcastle

Newquay

Southend

Teesside

Again, some of these airports might not require you to remove items at security, but still limit container size. Check the latest updates on the airport’s official website before packing.

Are There Any Exemptions to the 100ml Rule?

Yes, and they still apply even where the rule is enforced:

Essential medicines (proof may be required)

Baby milk or food

Special dietary liquids

Each of these can exceed 100ml, up to 2 litres in most cases, but may be subject to inspection.

What Airports Might Scrap the 100ml Rule Next?

Airports that already have the upgraded CT scanners are in line to lift restrictions once they get approval from the DfT. This could include several of the regional airports listed above.

What About International Airports?

Don’t assume UK rules apply elsewhere. While UK airports are starting to relax their rules, international regulations still vary. If you’re connecting through or arriving at an international airport, check their regulations:

EU countries still enforce the 100ml rule for liquids, aerosols, and gels, and require them to fit in a one-litre transparent bag. 

US security may inspect powder-based items over 350ml in carry-ons.

Australia and New Zealand are strict about biosecurity, and no fruit, seeds, plants, or meat products.

Always check the rules for every airport on your itinerary, especially if you’re transiting or transferring.

Be Careful With Souvenirs and Gadgets

Some commonly-confiscated items might surprise you:

Snow globes

Jam, honey, sauces

Built-in suitcase battery packs (must be removed and carried in hand luggage)

Spare lithium batteries (maximum of 2, between 101–160Wh or 2–8g lithium content)

Final Takeaway

UK air travel is entering a more relaxed era, but only at select airports. With Birmingham and Edinburgh leading the way, others may follow soon. Until then, always check your departure and transfer airport rules before flying. A little planning can save a lot of hassle at security.

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