Seemingly innocent things could lead to longer queues, confiscated gifts
Christmas travellers should take care to rethink what they’re taking to the airport, as surprising festive items could cause security hold-ups. The reminder comes as airports across globe prepare for one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with a record number of passengers expected to fly home or abroad this Christmas and new year eve.
Travel insurance experts at Tiger.co.uk have provided their essential Christmas season packing and security tips to help holidaymakers get through airport security without unnecessary delays. One of the most common pitfalls is taking wrapped presents to the airport, as security may have to open them for inspection.
Many travellers may not realise that certain festive items are subject to the current airport liquid restrictions, and may be confiscated. This includes items like gel candles, snow globes, and festive spreads such as chutneys, jams, and soft cheeses. Christmas crackers and toy items that resemble weapons can also cause problems, as security can restrict them due to their explosive substances or realistic appearance.
Even something as innocent as a biscuit tin can trigger extra checks, as metal containers can be hard for scanners to read. Travel insurance expert and Managing Director at Tiger.co.uk, Ian Wilson, said: “Airports can be chaotic during the busy Christmas travel season and as predictions estimate more people flying than ever before this December, we’re urging passengers to think carefully about what they pack to avoid unnecessary delays and last-minute stress.
“People often get caught out by festive items they didn’t realise were restricted, and it can lead to long queues, confiscated items or even missed flights. It can be frustrating if you’ve bought a thoughtful gift only to have it banned at security, so a bit of extra preparation before you set off can help make your festive travels smooth and hassle free.
“If you end up missing your flight because you’re delayed at security due to your own packing mistakes, your travel insurance is unlikely to protect you. This is why it’s crucial to prepare your luggage carefully, checking liquid limits and avoiding restricted items.”
Festive items that may cause delays at airport security:
1. Party poppers
Party poppers are banned substances because of the small explosive ‘pop’ they have inside, so they can’t be taken on board. Also check the airlines rules on Christmas crackers, they may need to be in their original packaging to be allowed to travel.
2. Gel candles
Although solid wax candles are allowed through airport security, gel candles can be subject to the current liquid restrictions. If the gel candle is larger than 100ml, it might need to be placed in checked luggage, or else it could get confiscated.
3. Snow globes
Liquid restrictions also apply to snow globes. They often contain more liquid than permitted in hand luggage, with even mini ones potentially exceeding the current 100ml limit.
4. Weapon-like toys
Toy swords and guns, or anything that looks remotely like a weapon can trigger extra checks, even if they’re clearly designed for children. Realistic-looking items may be prohibited altogether.
5. Festive spreads
Some festive spreads such as chutneys, jams and pâtés will likely fall under the liquids and gels category under airport rules, so must be in checked luggage if they’re over 100ml. Also, you cannot bring dairy products, such as soft cheeses, into Great Britain from the EU.
6. Wrapped presents
Airport security may need to inspect the contents of your wrapped presents, so to avoid the disappointment of having your beautifully wrapped gifts opened, it’s best to wrap them once you arrive at your destination, or pop them in a gift bag.
7. Biscuit or tea tins
Metal tins, for biscuits or tea selections, can interrupt X-ray scanners, prompting your bag to be pulled to the side. Security staff may need to open the tins to check their contents, which could cause damage or delays.
8. Batteries for gifts
Be sure to check with your airline ahead of travel, as lithium batteries – often found in phones, power banks and vapes – can pose a serious risk of fire. If you are allowed to take them onboard, there may be restrictions to the number of batteries you can carry and where you can carry them, they’ll likely need stored in your hand luggage as a precaution.
9. Festive outfits
Choose wisely what you’re wearing through security, if it’s a festive onesie or a novelty outfit – especially one with flashing lights – you may be called for an additional pat down or asked to remove it, so be sure to have some layers underneath.
10. Liquid presents
Remember aftershaves, perfumes, bottles of liquors need to either be smaller than 100mls – according to current restrictions, purchased at duty-free or checked into the hold beforehand or these expensive items could quickly be confiscated.
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