Families travelling this summer are being urged to check children's hand luggage for squishy toys, as airports increasingly confiscate items that breach liquid regulations. The toys, which include popular 'squishy dumplings' and slime-filled sensory cubes, have become a common sight in cabin baggage, but security teams are enforcing strict rules that ban them.
Why Are Squishy Toys Banned?
The issue stems from the toys' contents. Many squishy toys are filled with gel or slime, which falls under the same category as liquids and gels in airport security regulations. Under UK rules, liquids, aerosols, and gels over 100ml are not permitted in hand luggage. Since the exact quantity of gel inside a squishy toy cannot be verified during screening, they are generally not allowed through security checkpoints.
London Luton Airport has confirmed this policy. A spokesperson stated: "Any squishy toys that contain a gel or liquid must comply with the strict liquid rule when packed in hand luggage. Under current UK regulations, liquids, aerosols and gels over 100ml are not permitted in cabin baggage, and as the quantity of gel contained within these items cannot be accurately verified during the screening process, they are not permitted through security in hand luggage."
Airports Enforce Rules Consistently
The spokesperson added: "Our security teams are required to apply these regulations consistently to help ensure the safety and security of all passengers." This means that even if a toy appears small, its liquid content could still trigger confiscation. The rules apply to all items, not just toys, and airports may handle items differently, but the general principle remains the same.
The Department for Transport (DfT) has also weighed in, advising parents to check rules at individual airports before travelling. A DfT spokesperson told the BBC: "No matter how adorable your squishy dumpling is, airport security rules still apply." They recommended placing squishy toys in hold luggage, which is not subject to the same restrictions as hand luggage, to ensure children can enjoy their toys on holiday.
Other Toys to Watch Out For
Squishy toys are not the only items that can cause issues at security. Toy weapons, such as plastic guns and water pistols, are also banned on aircraft. Airlines including Ryanair, TUI, and EasyJet all state on their websites that toy or replica guns are not permitted on board. Ryanair's website clarifies that "toy guns (including recreational guns such as paintball guns), replicas and imitation firearms capable of being mistaken for real weapons" are not allowed inside any aircraft.
Parents are advised to review all items packed in hand luggage, especially those that could be mistaken for prohibited items. Sensory fidget toys, which are popular for keeping children calm during travel, should be checked to ensure they do not contain liquids or gels.
Impact on Families
The crackdown has led to disappointment for many children whose toys are confiscated at security. Some families have reported losing expensive toys, while others have had to repack at the last minute. To avoid this, experts recommend packing squishy toys in hold luggage or leaving them at home. The DfT's advice is clear: if in doubt, pack it in hold luggage.
As the summer holidays continue, airports are expected to maintain strict enforcement of liquid rules. Passengers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the regulations before arriving at the airport to ensure a smooth journey.
