What Can I Take on a Plane?

Liquids, Food & Electronics Explained

Last updated July 2026

  • By Simiran Gataora

Travelling should be exciting, not stressful. Yet one of the most common questions before a flight is, "Can I take this on the plane?"

From toiletries and snacks to laptops, medication and power banks, airport security rules aren't always as straightforward as they seem. To make things even more confusing, some UK airports now allow liquids in containers of up to 2 litres, while others still follow the traditional 100ml rule.

This guide explains what you can take in your hand luggage and check-in luggage, how the latest UK liquid rules work, and what to expect when you arrive at airport security. We'll also cover food, electronics, medication, baby items and duty free purchases, helping you pack with confidence before your next trip.

Planning your trip?

Read the below below your trip.

Check out the below for more information 

Understanding UK Baggage Rules

Items You Are Not Allowed to Take on a Plane

Luggage Size Guides

Airline Baggage Guides

TL;DR

  • Most everyday items can be taken on a plane, but some have restrictions.
  • Many UK airports still follow the 100ml liquid rule, while others now allow liquids in containers of up to 2 litres using new 3D security scanners.
  • Most solid food is allowed in hand luggage, but foods that spread or pour count as liquids.
  • Laptops, tablets and phones are generally allowed in both hand luggage and check-in luggage, although they're best carried with you.
  • Power banks and spare lithium batteries should always travel in your hand luggage.
  • Essential medication and baby milk are exempt from standard liquid restrictions when needed.
  • Airport security rules and airline baggage allowances are different, so always check both before you travel.

Table of Contents

  • 1

    Can You Take Liquids on a Plane?

  • 2

    What Food Can You Take on a Plane?

  • 3

    what electronics can you take on a plane?

  • 4

    Travelling with Medication

  • 5

    Travelling with Baby Milk and Baby Food

  • 6

    Can You Take Duty Free Liquids on a Plane?

  • 7

    Smart Packing Tips for Flying 

  • 8

    Final Verdict

  • 9

    FAQs

Can You Take Liquids on a Plane?

Yes, you can take liquids on a plane, but the rules depend on where you pack them and which airport you're flying from.

Liquid restrictions mainly apply to hand luggage because everything you carry into the aircraft cabin must pass through airport security. 

If you're packing liquids in check-in luggage, the rules are much more flexible.

Liquids in Hand Luggage

The rules for hand luggage are changing across the UK.

 

Many airports still follow the traditional 100ml rule, where every liquid must be in a container of 100ml or less. These containers should be presented during security screening if required by your departure airport.

 

However, airports that have introduced the latest 3D security scanners now allow passengers to carry liquids in containers of up to 2 litres. At these airports, you can usually leave your liquids inside your cabin bag during security screening.

 

Because not every airport has upgraded its scanners, it's important to check the rules for both your departure and return airports before you travel.

Liquids in Check-In Luggage

If you're packing liquids in your check-in suitcase, the rules are much simpler.

 

There is generally no 100ml limit for liquids carried in the aircraft hold, making check-in luggage the best place for:

  • Full-size toiletries
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Shower gel
  • Perfume
  • Cosmetics
  • Drinks and other larger liquid items

To avoid leaks, make sure bottles are tightly sealed and consider placing them in a waterproof toiletry bag or sealed plastic bag before packing.

UK Airport Liquid Rules at a Glance

What Counts as a Liquid?

Airport security treats more than just drinks as liquids.

This includes:

  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Shower gel
  • Toothpaste
  • Sun cream
  • Moisturiser
  • Foundation and liquid make-up
  • Mascara and lip gloss
  • Deodorant sprays and aerosols
  • Contact lens solution
  • Soup, yoghurt, honey and sauces

A good rule to remember is: if it pours, sprays, spreads or squeezes, airport security is likely to treat it as a liquid.

Case Insight

The biggest misconception we hear is that the 100ml rule has disappeared completely.

While more UK airports are introducing 3D scanners that allow liquids in containers of up to 2 litres, many airports still follow the traditional rules. If you're unsure, packing to the 100ml limit is still the safest way to avoid delays or having items removed at security.

Key Takeaway

Hand Luggage and check-in luggage follow different rules for liquids.

 

If you're travelling with full-size toiletries, packing them in your check-in suitcase is usually the easiest option. For hand luggage, always check your departure airport's latest guidance and remember that your return airport may have different security procedures.
Title

What Food Can You Take on a Plane?

The good news is that most food is allowed on a plane. However, the rules depend on whether you're carrying it in your hand luggage or check-in luggage, and whether you're travelling within the UK or internationally.

Food in Hand Luggage

Most solid foods can be taken through airport security and packed in your hand luggage.

This includes:

  • Sandwiches and wraps
  • Crisps and snacks
  • Biscuits and cakes
  • Chocolate and sweets
  • Fresh fruit and vegetables
  • Bread and pastries
  • Cooked meals
  • Hard cheeses
  • Nuts and dried fruit

These foods are unlikely to cause any issues at airport security, although you may be asked to remove larger food items from your bag for screening.

Foods That Count as Liquids

Some foods are treated as liquids because they can be poured, spread or squeezed.

This includes:

  • Soup
  • Yoghurt
  • Honey
  • Jam
  • Peanut butter
  • Hummus and dips
  • Soft cheeses, such as Brie
  • Sauces and salad dressings

If you're travelling through an airport that still follows the traditional liquid restrictions, these items must comply with the current hand luggage liquid rules.

Food in Check-In Luggage

Check-in Luggageoffers much more flexibility for carrying food.

You can usually pack:

  • Full-size food items
  • Jars and bottles
  • Homemade meals
  • Sauces and condiments
  • Larger quantities of snacks
  • Gifts and speciality foods

To avoid spillages, make sure containers are tightly sealed and packed securely.

Baby Food and Special Dietary Requirements

Airport security allows larger quantities of essential food needed during your journey.

This includes:

  • Baby milk
  • Formula
  • Baby food
  • Sterilised water
  • Liquid food required for medical or dietary reasons

Security staff may ask to inspect these items separately, so it's worth keeping them easy to access in your hand luggage.

Travelling Internationally With Food

Airport security rules are different from customs regulations.

While you may be allowed to take food through airport security, some countries restrict what food you can bring across their borders.

Common restrictions often apply to:

  • Meat and meat products
  • Dairy products
  • Fresh fruit and vegetables
  • Seeds and plants

Before you travel, check the customs rules for your destination as well as any restrictions that apply when returning to the UK.

Case Insight

One of the most common surprises at airport security is discovering that foods like yoghurt, peanut butter and honey are treated as liquids rather than solid food.

If you're travelling with hand luggage only, it's worth checking whether your food falls under the liquid rules before you pack.

Key Takeaway

Most solid foods can be packed in both hand luggage and check-in luggage without any problems.

If a food can be poured, spread or squeezed, it's likely to be treated as a liquid and may be subject to airport security restrictions. When travelling internationally, always check your destination's customs rules as well as airport security guidance before you fly.
Title

What Electronics Can You Take on a Plane?

Most everyday electronic devices are allowed on a plane, whether you're travelling with hand luggage only or checking in a suitcase. However, some electronics, particularly those containing lithium batteries, have specific rules about where they must be packed.

If you're travelling with expensive electronics such as laptops, tablets or cameras, it's generally recommended to keep them in your hand luggage to reduce the risk of damage or loss.

Electronics in Hand Luggage

Most personal electronic devices can be packed in your cabin bag, including:

  • Mobile phones
  • Laptops
  • Tablets
  • E-readers
  • Digital cameras
  • Smart watches
  • Bluetooth headphones
  • Gaming consoles
  • Electric toothbrushes
  • Hair straighteners and curling wands
  • Electric shavers
  • Chargers and plug adapters

At airport security, you may be asked to remove larger electronic devices from your bag for screening. 

 

However, some UK airports with the latest 3D scanners now allow electronics to remain inside your cabin bag.

 

It's also worth making sure your devices are charged before you travel, as security staff may ask you to switch them on.

Electronics in Check-In Luggage

Most electronic devices can also travel in check-in luggage, although valuable items are usually best kept with you in the cabin.

If you're packing electronics in your suitcase:

  • Switch devices off completely (not sleep mode).
  • Protect them with clothing or a padded case.
  • Make sure they can't be accidentally switched on during the journey.

Power Banks and Spare Batteries

Power banks and spare lithium batteries must always travel in your hand luggage.

They are not permitted in check-in luggage because lithium batteries can present a fire risk if damaged.

If you're carrying spare batteries, protect the terminals by keeping them in their original packaging or using a protective battery case.

Battery Limits

Most airlines allow lithium batteries rated up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) without prior approval.

Larger batteries may require airline approval or may not be permitted at all.

Some airlines also place limits on the number of battery-powered devices or spare batteries you can carry, so it's always worth checking your airline's policy before you travel.

Case Insight

A common mistake is packing a power bank in a check-in suitcase or burying a laptop at the bottom of a full cabin bag.

Keeping your electronics organised and easy to access makes security checks much quicker, while carrying power banks and spare batteries in your hand luggage helps you avoid delays or having items removed before your flight.

Key Takeaway

Most personal electronics can travel in either hand luggage or check-in luggage, but power banks, spare lithium batteries, vapes and e-cigarettes should always stay in your hand luggage.

If you're travelling with valuable electronics, packing them in your cabin bag is usually the safest option.
Title

Travelling with Medication

Most medications can be taken on a plane, but it's important to pack them correctly and check the rules before you travel, especially if you're flying internationally.

As a general rule, keep any essential medication in your hand luggage so it's available if your check-in luggage is delayed or lost. If you're travelling with prescription medicines, it's also a good idea to keep them in their original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription.

Medication in Hand Luggage

Essential medication is usually best carried in your cabin bag.

This includes:

  • Prescription tablets and capsules
  • Liquid medication
  • Inhalers
  • Insulin
  • EpiPens
  • Medical devices such as blood glucose monitors

If you're travelling with liquid medication over the standard hand luggage limit, tell airport security before screening. You may be asked to provide supporting documentation, such as a prescription or a letter from your GP.

Case Insight

One of the biggest mistakes travellers make is packing all of their medication in their check-in suitcase.

If your luggage is delayed or misplaced, you could arrive without the medication you need. Keeping essential medicines, prescriptions and any supporting medical documents in your hand luggage gives you peace of mind throughout your journey.

Medication in Check-In Luggage

Many non-essential medications can also be packed in your check-in luggage.

However, it's recommended that you keep enough medication in your hand luggage to cover your journey and allow for unexpected travel delays. Carrying a small backup supply in your check-in suitcase can also be helpful, provided it's safe and appropriate to do so.

Travelling with Controlled Medicines

Some medicines that are available in the UK are restricted or controlled in other countries.

This includes certain:

  • Strong painkillers
  • ADHD medication
  • Sleeping tablets
  • Medicines containing controlled substances

Before you travel, check the entry requirements for your destination. Some countries require a doctor's letter, while others may ask for an export licence or additional documentation.

Key Takeaway

Always travel with essential medication in your hand luggage, keep prescription medicines in their original packaging, and check the rules for your destination before you fly.

If you're travelling with controlled drugs, liquid medication over the standard hand luggage limit, or medical equipment, allow extra time at airport security and carry any supporting documentation you may need.

Title

Travelling with Baby Milk and Baby Food

Travelling with a baby is stressful enough without worrying about airport security. Fortunately, parents and carers are exempt from the standard liquid restrictions for essential baby items needed during the journey.

 

This means you can usually take baby milk, formula, sterilised water and baby food in your hand luggage, even if they exceed the standard liquid limits.

Baby Items You Can Take in Hand Luggage

You can usually carry:

  • Baby formula (powder or ready-to-feed)
  • Expressed breast milk
  • Sterilised water
  • Baby food pouches and jars
  • Cow's milk for infants
  • Juice for young children, where appropriate

These items should be packed in quantities that are reasonable for your journey.

Packing Baby Supplies

If you're travelling with check-in luggage, it's worth packing extra supplies for your destination while keeping enough essentials in your hand luggage for the flight and any unexpected delays.

Many parents find it helpful to carry:

  • Ready-to-feed formula
  • Powdered formula
  • Baby snacks
  • Sterilised bottles
  • Cooling packs for breast milk or baby food

Keeping feeding items together in one easy-to-reach section of your cabin bag can make security screening much quicker.

Airport Security Screening

When you reach airport security, baby food and milk will usually need to be screened separately.

Security staff may ask you to:

  • Remove baby food and milk from your bag.
  • Open containers for inspection or testing.
  • Allow liquids to be screened using approved security equipment.

These checks are completely routine and help ensure everyone can travel safely.

Flying Internationally with Baby Food

Airport security rules and customs regulations are different.

Although baby food and milk are generally permitted through airport security, some countries have restrictions on bringing dairy products and other foods across their borders.

Always check the customs requirements for your destination before you travel.

Case Insight

A little preparation goes a long way when flying with a baby.

Packing feeding essentials together in one travel organiser makes them easier to remove for security screening and quicker to access during your flight. If you're checking in luggage, keep enough milk, food and nappies in your hand luggage to cover the journey, plus a little extra in case of delays.

Key Takeaway

Parents and carers can usually carry baby milk, formula, sterilised water and baby food in quantities needed for the journey, even when they exceed the standard hand luggage liquid limits.

Keep these items easy to access, allow extra time at airport security, and check your airline and destination country's requirements before you travel.
Title

Can You Take Duty Free Liquids on a Plane?

Yes. Liquids purchased from duty free shops after you've passed through airport security can usually be taken onboard your flight, even if they exceed the standard hand luggage liquid limits.

This includes items such as:

  • Perfume and aftershave
  • Alcohol
  • Cosmetics
  • Skincare products
  • Other liquid purchases from duty free shops

To keep these items exempt from the normal liquid restrictions, they must remain sealed inside the official Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) provided by the retailer.

Rules for Duty Free Liquids

To avoid having your purchases confiscated, follow these simple rules:

 

Leave the Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) sealed until you reach your final destination.

Keep your purchase receipt inside the sealed bag where it can be easily checked by security staff.

Do not transfer the items into another bag before completing your journey.

Be prepared to show the sealed bag and receipt if requested during security screening.

Connecting Flights

If you're changing planes during your journey, remember that you may need to pass through airport security again.

 

If your duty free liquids were purchased outside the UK or your connecting airport has different security procedures, your purchases may need to be screened again before you're allowed to continue your journey.

 

For this reason, it's always worth checking the rules for every airport on your itinerary, not just your departure airport.

Travelling Home with Duty Free

Duty free purchases are also subject to customs allowances.

Although airport security may allow you to carry duty free liquids onto the aircraft, your destination country may have limits on how much alcohol, perfume or other goods you can bring into the country without paying duty.

Always check the customs allowances for your destination before you travel.

Case Insight

Many travellers assume duty free purchases are exempt from all airport security rules.

In reality, the exemption only applies if the items remain sealed inside the official tamper-evident bag. Opening the bag before a connecting flight or transferring the contents into another bag could result in your purchases being confiscated during additional security screening.

Key Takeaway

Duty free liquids over 100ml are generally allowed onboard when purchased after airport security and carried in the official sealed Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB).

If you're travelling with connecting flights or returning through another airport, always check the security requirements for each stage of your journey before you fly.perfect - next section please.

 
Title

Smart Packing Tips for Flying 

Knowing what you can take on a plane is only half the battle. Packing your belongings well can help you get through airport security more quickly, stay within airline baggage allowances, and make your journey much less stressful.

Here are a few simple ways to make travelling easier.

Smart Packing Tips for Flying

Knowing what you can take on a plane is only half the battle. Packing your belongings well can help you get through airport security more quickly, stay within airline baggage allowances, and make your journey much less stressful.

Here are a few simple ways to make travelling easier.

Organise Electronics

Chargers, cables, power banks and headphones can quickly become tangled at the bottom of your bag.

 

Keeping all your electronics together in a dedicated organiser makes them easier to access during security checks and helps protect them during your journey.

Pack with Packing Cubes

Packing cubes help separate clothing, toiletries and electronics, making it much easier to find what you need without unpacking your entire suitcase.

 

They're particularly useful if you're travelling with both hand luggage and check-in luggage.

Weigh Your Luggage Before You Leave

Many airlines charge expensive excess baggage fees if your luggage exceeds the weight allowance.

 

Using a digital luggage scale before leaving home helps you avoid unexpected costs at the airport and gives you time to rearrange your luggage if needed.

Choose the Right Cabin Suitcase

If you're travelling with hand luggage only, choosing a lightweight cabin suitcase gives you more of your baggage allowance for the things you actually want to pack.

 

Before buying a new cabin case, always check your airline's size and weight requirements, as baggage allowances vary between airlines.

 

You can also read our airline-specific baggage guides for Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways and Jet2 to help you choose the right cabin luggage.

Choose the Right Check-In Suitcase

If you're travelling with check-in luggage, choosing the right suitcase can make packing easier and help you stay within your airline's baggage allowance.

Look for a lightweight yet durable suitcase, as the lighter the case, the more of your weight allowance is available for clothing, toiletries and souvenirs.

Before you travel, check your airline's check-in baggage size and weight limits, as allowances vary depending on the airline, route and ticket type.

If you're unsure which suitcase is right for your trip, explore our guide to Choosing the Right Check-In Suitcase and our airline baggage guides to help you travel with confidence.
Title

Final Verdict

Packing for a flight is much easier once you understand the difference between airport security rules, airline baggage allowances and customs regulations.

Most everyday items, including food, electronics and medication, can be taken on a plane, provided they're packed correctly. The biggest areas of confusion are still liquids, lithium batteries and country-specific restrictions, so it's always worth checking the latest guidance before you travel.

 

If you're unsure about a particular item, check the official UK Government guidance, your airline's baggage policy and any customs rules that apply to your destination.

 

For more travel advice, don't forget to explore our guides to Understanding UK Baggage Rules, Items You Are Not Allowed to Take on a Plane, and our airline-specific baggage guides for Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways and Jet2.

 

Whether you're heading away for a weekend city break or a long-haul adventure, the right luggage and travel accessories can make every journey that little bit easier.

FAQs 

Can I take liquids over 100ml on a plane?

It depends on the airport you're travelling from. Some UK airports now allow liquids in containers of up to 2 litres thanks to new 3D security scanners, while others still follow the traditional 100ml rule. Always check the rules for both your departure and return airports before you travel.

Can I take food through airport security?

Yes. Most solid foods, such as sandwiches, fruit, crisps and chocolate, are allowed in hand luggage. Foods that can be poured, spread or squeezed, such as yoghurt, soup and peanut butter, may be treated as liquids and must follow the relevant airport security rules.

Can I pack a power bank in my check-in luggage?

No. Power banks and spare lithium batteries should always be packed in your hand luggage. They are generally not permitted in check-in luggage because they present a potential fire risk.

Can I take prescription medication on a plane?

Yes. Prescription medication is generally allowed in both hand luggage and check-in luggage. However, it's recommended that you keep essential medication in your hand luggage, carry it in its original packaging, and travel with a copy of your prescription or a doctor's letter where appropriate.

Can I take baby milk and baby food through airport security?

Yes. Parents and carers can usually carry baby milk, formula, sterilised water and baby food in quantities needed for the journey, even if they exceed the standard liquid limits. These items may be screened separately by airport security.

Do airport security rules change between countries?

Yes. Airport security procedures, customs regulations and airline baggage policies can vary depending on where you're travelling. Always check the latest guidance for your departure airport, your airline and your destination before you fly.

About the Author

Hi, I’m Simiran Gataora. I manage customer service, e-commerce admin, and social media at Case, helping customers find luggage that genuinely works for the way they travel. 

 

What started with a blog about petite suitcases quickly turned into a real love for writing, practical travel advice, and the details that make luggage easier to live with. I enjoy sharing honest, helpful advice on everything from airline rules to suitcase features, always keeping it clear, useful, and never too salesy.

 

I travel too, so I know there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to luggage. Whether it’s a tote bag for a weekend away or a lightweight check-in case for a longer trip, I’m always looking for what genuinely works, especially as someone petite. 

 

Chances are, I’m probably still checking airline baggage rules or noticing suitcases wherever I go.

Why Shop with Case Luggage?

At Case, we are proud to be an authorised UK retailer for leading brands including Samsonite, Tumi, Briggs & Riley, Bric’s, and Carl Friedrik. That means every product you buy from us is 100% authentic, supplied directly from the manufacturer, and fully covered by the official brand warranty.
 

With over 100 years of experience in premium travel goods, our reputation is built on trust, expertise, and customer-first service, helping travellers choose luggage they can rely on for every journey. You can shop online, or visit us in person at our London stores in Piccadilly, at Heathrow Airport terminals, and as the exclusive luggage concessionaire inside Harrods, one of London’s most prestigious and world-renowned department stores.

Related Reads

Editorial Policy

Our recommendations are based on our expertise and research in the luggage sector. Brand partners do not approve our editorial content. Warranties and airline rules can change, so always check the latest details before you fly. Every article goes through multiple expert reviews to ensure the information we provide is clear, accurate, and genuinely helpful in finding the best luggage for your needs.