UK airports are warning parents not to pack gel-filled squishy toys in hand luggage this summer, as the popular sensory items can cause significant delays at security checkpoints. Officials say the quantity of gel inside these toys cannot be accurately verified during screening, often leading to manual inspections and confiscation.
Why squishy toys cause problems at security
According to Luton Airport, the gel contained within squishy toys like NeeDoh cubes and Squishy Dumplings makes them difficult to screen. Even advanced scanners can flag these items as unusual, triggering additional checks that delay both the passenger and others in line. The airport stated: 'The quantity of gel contained within these items cannot be accurately verified during the screening process.'
Travel content creator Kate Donnelly shared her experience in a recent video, saying: 'It appears all kids are obsessed with squishies these days.' She noted that from her personal experience, these toys 'do come under a lot of scrutiny when you’re passing through airport security.'
The rise of squishy toys
Over the past few years, squishy toys have skyrocketed in popularity among children and adults. One standout brand is RMS, creator of the viral 'Squishy Dumplings' — soft, sensory figures that achieved cult status online. On TikTok, collectors often film themselves hunting for rare designs, with ultra-rare glitter dumplings being among the most sought-after.
However, most of these toys are filled with gel, meaning they must adhere to liquid restrictions. Depending on the airport, the limit is either 100ml or two litres for liquids in hand luggage. Kate explains that many squishy toys have 'absolutely no markings' to indicate how much liquid they contain, making it impossible for security to verify compliance.
Advice for travelling with squishy toys
Kate advises parents to pack gel-filled squishy toys in hold luggage instead of hand luggage. She says: 'There is a high chance that if you put these in your hand luggage they will get confiscated.' This can lead to upset children and the added expense of replacing favourite toys at the destination.
Luton Airport echoes this advice, recommending that such items be placed in checked baggage to avoid delays and potential confiscation.
Airports with relaxed liquid rules
Some airports have lifted the 100ml liquid limit due to advanced screening technology. These include: London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Edinburgh Airport, Birmingham Airport, Bristol Airport, Belfast International Airport, George Best Belfast City Airport, and Bournemouth Airport. However, it is still recommended to pack squishy toys in hold luggage when possible.
