UK Airport Liquid Rules Update Filipino Travellers Must Know

If you have ever tried to fit your skincare into 100ml bottles before a flight, you know the struggle. For years, passengers have had to follow strict liquid rules for hand luggage. It has always been a hassle. But things are finally changing at some airports in the UK.

The country is beginning to roll out new security technology that will eventually get rid of the 100ml liquid limit. That means you could soon say goodbye to your zip-lock plastic bags and travel-sized bottles. Here is everything you need to know about the updated hand luggage rules in UK airports.

Also read: ‘Airport to Anywhere’ Now Available on Grab PH

The new liquid rules explained

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Thanks to new 3D CT scanners, passengers can now carry up to 2 litres of liquid in their hand luggage at selected UK airports. That is a massive change from the old 100ml rule.

Even better, you will no longer need to take your liquids or electronics out of your bags during security checks. These advanced scanners create detailed 3D images of what is inside your bag, which helps airport staff detect threats without needing you to unpack anything.

It is all about faster, smoother, and less stressful airport security.

Which UK airports have the new liquid rules

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At the time of writing, only some airports in the UK have completed the upgrade. Here is a list of airports where the new rules already apply:

Birmingham

Bristol

Edinburgh

Gatwick

Leeds Bradford

London City

Luton

Newcastle

Southend

Teesside

If you are flying out from any of these airports, you can now bring larger bottles of liquids and do not need to remove your electronics at security. Still, it is best to check with your airline or the airport website for any updates before you travel.

Why it matters for travellers coming from or going to the Philippines

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Whether you are flying to the UK for work, a holiday, or as a stopover before heading to other parts of Europe, this update can make your trip easier. Travellers who pass through UK airports during long-haul flights will benefit from faster security checks and less hassle when packing hand luggage.

That means less time spent emptying bags at security and more freedom to bring full-size toiletries or pasalubong, as long as the airport you are flying from already has the new system. If your return flight to the Philippines starts at one of the upgraded airports, you can take advantage of these changes too.

However, if you are flying from airports that still follow the old rules, like Heathrow or Manchester, you will need to stick with the 100ml rule for now. Planning ahead is key to avoid delays or having items taken away at security.

Heathrow and other major airports still have the old rules

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Keep in mind that several major UK airports are still following the old rules. That includes Heathrow, Manchester, and Stansted.

The UK government originally aimed to have the new scanners in place by June 2024. However, some airports have faced delays due to technical issues and installation setbacks. Because of this, the deadline has been pushed back to June 2025.

Until the new equipment is fully in place, passengers travelling through these airports still need to follow the 100ml liquid rule and use clear plastic bags.

Travel tips during the transition

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Since not all airports have adopted the new system, it is important to prepare ahead. Here are a few tips for a smoother trip:

• Check your departure and arrival airport’s rules before packing.

• If the old rules still apply, keep your liquids in 100ml containers and place them in a resealable plastic bag.

• You may still need to remove laptops and tablets from your bags at security.

• Give yourself extra time at the airport in case there are delays or confusion during security checks.

Also read: Must-Have Travel Apps for Every Filipino Traveller in 2025

The future of airport travel

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The UK’s updated liquid rules mark a big step towards modernising airport security. While we are not there just yet, it is exciting to see these changes happening. Once the new scanners are fully rolled out, flying will be more convenient for everyone.

So if you are planning to visit the UK or fly out from a UK airport, make sure to check the latest guidelines. Whether you are carrying full-sized toiletries or just want to avoid unpacking at the airport, this change is a win for travellers.

Stay updated and pack smart. Travel is slowly getting easier, one upgrade at a time.