As travel restrictions change and continue to evolve, particularly following the recent ban on UK travellers from bringing meats and cheeses back from the EU, it’s more important than ever to know exactly what can and can’t go into your hand luggage. As of April 12, a new ban prohibits bringing meats, both raw and cured, as well as cheeses, even if purchased at Duty Free. The ban comes in response to a recent surge in foot and mouth disease in Europe, and those caught violating the rules could face fines of up to £5,000 fines in serious cases.
Travel experts at Fulton Umbrellas have revealed a list of eight surprising everyday items that could get flagged at airport security. Some might seem harmless enough, but they could result in a lengthy screening or, worse, the confiscation of your belongings.
1. Sports equipment
Planning a few rounds of tennis or snooker on holiday? Rackets and cues are allowed in hand luggage but anything bulkier or with potential to cause injury like cricket bats, golf clubs, or darts must go in the hold.
2. Drones
Drones fall under the same rules that apply to other electronic equipment capable of holding a charge, such as laptops and cameras but whether they’re allowed in your cary depends on the battery size.
If your drone uses a lithium-ion battery between 100Wh and 160Wh, it’s generally permitted in your hand luggage and, in fact, it’s recommended to keep devices with this kind of battery in your carry-on rather than in checked baggage to reduce the risk of accidental damage or fire.
Should you need to pack it in the hold, make sure the drone is completely powered off and kept away from aerosols, perfumes, or any flammable items.
When flying in or out of the UK, any device with a battery must be charged enough to power on during security checks though you don’t need a full charge, you just should be able to show that the device works if asked.
3. Soft cheese
Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert are banned over the 100ml limit and so are jams, chutneys, and even antipasti or olives in oil. and sauces. These are all considered “liquids” by airport security and must go in checked bags if over the limit.
However, if you’re travelling from the EU to the UK, there is a temporary ban bringing cheese of any kind, whether it’s part of a sandwich or purchased at Duty Free.
4. Umbrellas
Foldable umbrellas are permitted in both cabin and checked luggage but larger golf umbrellas may be flagged due to their large size and potential risk for accidents, so these are best packed into the hold.
5. Walking/hiking poles
Walking poles are not permitted in hand luggage due to their potential to be used as weapons so make sure they’re packed in your checked baggage if you’re planning on bringing them with you on holiday.
7. Scissors
You can bring a small pair of scissors on a plane as long as the blades are shorter than 6cm, but anything bigger than this should be stowed in the hold. However, make sure you always check with your airline, as some have stricter regulations on sharp items.
8. Tent pegs
According to the experts, tent pegs fall under the “sharp object” category and are not allowed in hand luggage. They must be packed into the hold to avoid confiscation.
