Why the 100ml Airport Liquid Rule Is Finally Changing
And What That Means for Travelers
For nearly 20 years, UK travelers have had to decant shampoo into travel bottles, toss out water at security, and cram toiletries into flimsy plastic bags. Introduced in 2006 after a foiled terror plot, the 100ml limit became synonymous with post-9/11 travel: security through inconvenience.
Now, at last, it’s starting to disappear. Airports like Birmingham and Edinburgh are rolling out advanced CT scanners that can handle larger liquid volumes (up to two liters) without requiring items to be removed from your bag. The change feels less like a tweak and more like a long-overdue liberation.
Why It Matters
- Less stress at security - No more scrambling with plastic bags.
- Better for sustainability - Travelers waste fewer toiletries and buy fewer single-use minis.
- More dignity in travel - Flying doesn’t have to mean treating passengers like contraband smugglers.
But the rollout isn’t universal. Some airports will still cling to the old rule until their scanner upgrades are complete. That means travelers must pack with flexibility in mind.
FAQ: Do I Still Need to Follow the 100ml Rule Everywhere?
Yes - for now. Only a handful of UK airports with new CT scanners (like Birmingham and Edinburgh) have officially scrapped the rule. If you’re flying through London Heathrow, Gatwick, or many regional hubs, the 100ml restriction still applies. Until all airports are upgraded, it’s safest to pack a few travel bottles under 100ml -especially if you’re connecting through multiple airports.
Rank & Style Recommends: Best Travel Gear for the New Era
If you’re flying from or through the UK, smart packing is still essential. These products make your life easier, no matter which airport you depart from:
- Reusable Clear Toiletry Bag - TSA-approved and durable (no more flimsy ziplocks).
- Leakproof Travel Bottles (100ml) - Just in case your airport hasn’t updated yet.
- Collapsible Water Bottle - Fill up post-security or take it straight through at upgraded airports.
- Portable Power Bank - With fewer rules to stress over, you’ll still want juice for your devices.
- Slim Laptop Sleeve - New scanners may not require laptops out, but if they do, easy access saves time.
Our Take
Ending the 100ml rule isn’t just about carrying bigger shampoo bottles - it’s about rethinking air travel itself. For too long, passengers have borne the brunt of outdated “security theatre.” Smarter scanners mean smoother lines, less waste, and more dignity.
It’s a small step, but one that makes travel feel human again.
