Two decades after liquid restrictions were introduced at airports following a foiled terror plot, some London airports have relaxed the rules thanks to new scanning technology. However, three major airports still enforce the traditional 100ml limit. As of summer 2026, passengers flying from London Stansted, Luton, and City Airport must keep liquid containers under 100ml, while Heathrow, Gatwick, and Southend allow up to two litres.
Stansted, Luton, and City Airport retain 100ml rule
London Stansted (STN) still requires liquids under 100ml each in hand luggage, but passengers no longer need to separate them into a plastic bag. The airport advises packing liquids in hold luggage where possible. Electrical items can remain in hand luggage, and watches, including smart watches, do not need to be removed.
London Luton (LTN) also maintains the 100ml restriction, advising passengers to pack liquids in hold baggage. All liquid containers must be under 100ml or 100g, but no plastic bag is required. Electronics can stay inside hand luggage. After security, passengers can purchase full-sized products and refill empty water bottles at water fountains.
London City Airport (LCY) enforces the 100ml limit for liquids and gels, with each container's volume clearly visible on the original label. However, liquids and electronic devices can remain in hand luggage during screening.
Heathrow, Gatwick, and Southend allow up to two litres
London Heathrow (LHR) permits liquids in containers up to two litres across all terminals. Liquids can stay in cabin bags, but reusable metal or insulated bottles must be emptied before security. All electronic devices should be fully charged, as devices that cannot be switched on may be refused onboard.
London Gatwick (LGW) allows liquids up to two litres, excluding metal or double-walled containers, which still need to be emptied. All other liquids, including creams, gels, pastes, sprays, and aerosols, can remain inside hand luggage. Large electrical items like laptops and iPads do not need to be removed.
London Southend Airport (SEN) introduced new C3 security equipment earlier this year, allowing passengers to carry liquids up to two litres in cabin baggage. All electrical items can remain in bags, and the airport now uses security body scanners for all passengers.
Key reminders for travellers
Passengers should avoid metal or double-walled bottles, such as Thermos flasks, as security scanners cannot penetrate insulated layers. Returning travellers must follow the rules of their departure airport, so partially used large bottles may not be allowed back. Always check the official airport website before flying, as rules can change at short notice.
