Travellers from UK airports will have to endure yet another summer of adhering to the 100ml liquid rule, indicating the ongoing trend of miniature travel-sized bottles.
The anticipation was palpable when the Government insisted that airports install cutting-edge scanners capable of accommodating liquids up to two litres in cabin baggage by June 1, raising the prospect of once again breezing through with full-sized bottles in hand luggage.
But major airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester hit a wall with delays due to logistical challenges, missing the much-anticipated deadline. Amidst chaotic queues and widespread befuddlement, the Department for Transport (DfT) decreed that starting June 9, the longstanding restriction on liquids, gels, and pastes exceeding 100ml at security checks would be reinstated.
For holidayers this year, the grim reality is that those arriving at airports with large toiletries or cosmetic items risk having them confiscated at security, leaving beloved items to a dismal fate in airport departure bins.
Makeup company Glow Hub pinpointed this turmoil as a culprit for hold-ups. A frustrated traveller vented on Reddit: “It took 50 minutes to get through security (I was one of the lucky ones). Every line was open, and they had full staff, but every other case had hidden bottles of cola, perfume, etc,” reports the Mirror.
When it comes to navigating the perplexing world of makeup products for air travel, travellers often feel at a loss. The Department for Transport (DfT) has laid out certain stipulations: ‘Creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara and lip gloss’ are required to go into your liquids bag.
Other items that count as liquids include sprays and aerosols for instance, ‘shaving foam, hairspray and spray deodorants’ alongside gel-based contents such as ‘hair and shower gels’ and even toothpaste.
Anything that is of ‘a similar consistency’, as per the DfT’s guidelines, should also be packed within the liquids compartment; this covers any substance that is runny, creamy or generally damp in nature.
There’s even regulation on powdery substances. Passengers are expected to only carry up to 12 ounces of powdered beauty aides like blush and baby powder onboard. Crossing this threshold might subject them to additional screening at the airport, creating possible hold-ups in their journey timeline.
Cruelty-free and vegan experts from Glow Hub pointed out: “This year, a number of UK airports shared that they’d be updating their security tech so travellers could take more than the usual 100ml liquid limit in their carry-on luggage. Due to technical difficulties, many Brits may be unaware that these guidelines have now been revoked, and the original 100ml limit still stands.”
They highlighted the chaos caused by ever-changing regulations, stating: “Many may now be packing for their holiday abroad unaware that they cannot take liquids with more than 100ml in their carry-on or that they’re restricted on the number of liquids they can take through – leading to them losing their favourite products before they even board.
“It’s important to check what you can and can’t take in your carry-on before you get to the airport so you don’t lose your favourite beauty products at the gate.”
In a bid to save travellers’ skin (and cash), Gen-Z skincare brand Glow Hub has come to the rescue with its ultimate packing guide, ensuring all your beloved potions sail smoothly through security.
The brand advises: “To make sure your products aren’t confiscated at customs, play it safe by always opting for travel-sized products that fit within both your departure and destination’s customs rules. Also, ensure that you’re only bringing one standard 20cm x 20cm clear bag to fit these products in as most airports will only allow one per person.”
Glow Hub also suggests embracing multi-use products, saying: “Whether you’re taking a carry-on or checked-in luggage on your holiday this year, saving as much space as possible is crucial while travelling. Especially if you’re looking to grab some souvenirs while you are there.”
“To make the most of your suitcase, choose products that can multitask to ensure you’re making the most of your suitcase’s capacity.”
Swap your liquid products for solid alternatives. The makeup experts conclude by saying: “When packing your hand luggage, minimising your packed liquids is key to ensuring your bag stays below the 100ml liquid level. So try swapping your liquid products for solid alternatives wherever possible to maximise the number of skin saviours you can take on your trip.”
According to Manchester Airport’s (one of the largest airports in the UK) guidelines, “lipsticks, lip balms and stick deodorants are not classed as liquids,” meaning they do not need to be included in your transparent quart bag when going through customs.