Heathrow Airport has introduced significant changes for summer 2026, including a £7 drop-off charge and the abolition of the long-standing 100ml liquid limit for hand luggage. With more than 23 million holidaymakers expected to pass through the UK's busiest airport during July and August, passengers are being urged to familiarise themselves with the updated rules before arriving.
The airport says the modifications are designed to streamline the journey through its terminals, but they also carry financial and practical implications for travellers. Being caught unprepared could mean extra costs or delays, especially during peak holiday periods.
Drop-off fees at Heathrow terminals
From now on, every vehicle entering the designated drop-off areas outside each terminal will incur a £7 charge. Heathrow has made it clear that this fee applies every time a vehicle enters, stating: “If you enter a drop-off area a second time, you will need to pay the charge again and every time after that.” Pick-ups and waiting vehicles are not permitted in these zones at any time.
Passengers have several payment options. According to Heathrow, you can “pay for a single drop-off, or pre-pay for multiple drop-offs online or by phone.” If you choose to pay after using a drop-off zone, the payment must be made by midnight on the following day. Importantly, there is no facility to pay at an airport ticket machine or within the terminal drop-off zones themselves. Payments for recent or future visits can be made through the Heathrow website.
For those looking to avoid the fee, a free alternative exists. Heathrow explains: “Free drop-off is available at Heathrow’s Park & Ride car parks, previously known as Long Stay, where passengers can take a free bus transfer to the terminal.” This option is ideal for drivers who don’t mind a short shuttle ride and want to keep costs down.
100ml liquid rule scrapped
One of the most significant changes to affect passengers is the removal of the 100ml liquid limit, which was scrapped earlier this year. Travellers now can carry up to 2 litres of liquids in their hand luggage through security at Heathrow. This means no more fiddling with clear plastic bags – liquids can remain inside cabin bags during screening.
However, the airport advises that reusable metal or insulated bottles must be emptied before going through security. They can be refilled afterwards, which is good news for those wanting to stay hydrated during long journeys.
In addition, the restriction on carrying large electronic devices has also been relaxed. Laptops, tablets and other gadgets can now be left in cabin bags when passing through security, eliminating the need to remove them for separate screening.
Hand baggage allowance and other considerations
Passengers are allowed to take up to two pieces of hand baggage through security. However, Heathrow stresses that travellers should check their airline's specific baggage allowance, as size and weight limits can vary considerably between carriers. Even if the airport permits two bags, an airline might have its own restrictions.
It’s also crucial to remember that not all airports have adopted these new rules. Security regulations can differ across UK and international airports, so travellers are advised to check the rules at their destination or the airport they will use for their return journey. Heathrow’s changes apply only to its own terminals.
With record passenger numbers expected this summer, planning ahead has never been more important. From the £7 drop-off fee to the increased liquid allowance, understanding these changes can help passengers avoid unnecessary stress and delays. For the most up-to-date information, travellers should visit the official Heathrow Airport website before their trip.
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