If your dream European jaunt is on the horizon, then be warned because a new set of travel rules will come into force next week and could impact your trip.
If you’ve travelled on a plane over the last two decades then you’ll already be aware that passengers face a limit on how much liquid they can pack into their hand luggage.
Since 2006, legislation has prohibited customers from carrying liquids, gels or creams over 100ml in their cabin bags.
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However, those recently travelling through UK airports such as Birmingham and Dublin may have experienced this strict rule being lifted for a short spell.
However, the European Union has announced liquid limits are set to be unified later this week along with cabin baggage limits.
Here is everything you need to know about the new rules that will come into play next month.
What were the previous liquid rules?
The recent introduction of Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB) in various UK and European airports allowed airline customers to carry any size liquids in their cabin bags.
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Moreover, this 3D scanner, initially approved by the Aviation Society, didn’t force passengers to remove liquid or electronic items from their bags
However, in June, all UK airports reverted back to the 100ml rule and now airports across Europe are doing the same.
What are the new rules on carrying liquids in hand luggage?
From Sunday (1 September), all passengers flying out of UK and European airports must abide by the previously outlined 100ml liquid rules in their hand luggage.
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Each liquid, gel or cream carry-on item must not exceed the 100ml limit and cannot total more than one litre when combined.
These items must be placed inside a clear, resealable pouch that roughly measures 20cm x 20cm and be scanned separately from your bag.
Why have the liquid limits across Europe adjusted?
According to the EU, negative information regarding the newly installed EDSCB has caused them to reintroduce stricter liquid limits.
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It’s understood that ‘information indicating that the equipment does not meet the standard for which it has been approved’ recently came to light.
What are the new hand baggage rules?
Previously individual airlines have been allowed to impose their own rules and regulations when it comes to carry-on bags.
However, from this week, that will be a practice of the past, thanks to the EU.
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Officials have stipulated that carry-on baggage will be standardised, and each person will be allowed to bring one cabin bag and a small personal item on board.
Small personal items include handbags, backpacks and laptop cases that can easily slide under the seat in front of you.
New cabin baggage weight and heights
If you’re bringing cabin baggage on board your flight to Europe then be aware that it cannot exceed a weight greater than 10kg.
Moreover, the maximum dimensions of the case, including handles and wheels, will be 55cm x 40cm x 20cm from September 1.
The dimensions of your small personal item should not exceed 40cm x 30cm x 15cm.
How long will the new legislation be enforced?
The EU’s new rules will be enforced from 1 September. It is also presumed they will be in play until otherwise stated.
The union claims this standardisation is ‘necessary’ but that rules could eventually be changed in the future.
Topics: Travel, Plane Etiquette, UK News, Holiday