Things to remember about airport security

If you are travelling through or to the UK soon, there are a few things to remember about airport security. The security measures in the UK are intense and so thorough, some passengers have missed their flight because of delays trying to make it through security. It is important to be prepared for and always cooperate fully with security measures in place. Particular attention should be paid to items recently purchased at the airport before or after any stage of security screening to avoid any delay to boarding. It is often a good idea to pack your suitcases and dress according to a check-list of items to help you swiftly through your next UK airport security checkout.

  1. Remove laptops and hair-dryers placed in carry-on luggage for separate screening.
  2. Remove any medical equipment from the carry-on for separate screening. The medical equipment must have fully supporting documentation indicating its use and its authorization and necessity for allowing the item in the carry-on. This documentation must come from a doctor or other qualified medical professional.
  3. Necessary medicine containing more than the allotted 100ml must be accompanied by two different forms of authorisation. The first must come from a doctor or a qualified medical professional in the form of an official document. The second should be approved by the airline as well as the airport you will leave from.
  4. Any other liquid may remain in the carry-on if you purchase the item(s) after you go through security.
  5. If you have a baby, the following items are okay: baby bottle filled with water, baby milk and baby food. An additional precaution in effect provides that the travelling adult must taste the liquid items and identify each type of baby liquid. More than 100ml of baby items are allowed.
  6. Because lighters have lighter fluid inside, the UK security allows one lighter per person. This lighter must remain in the pocket of the individual carrying it at all times.
  7. If a large musical instrument should need to travel with you, purchasing an extra seat is required. This item screens separately as well.
  8. Any pushchair or wheelchair aboard, but must have a separate screening.
  9. Any pointed weapons, edged weapons or sharp objects are not allowed to be carried on to the plane. This category of weapon includes darts, syringes, corkscrews, scissors and knives.
  10. In addition to the previous weapons, blunt objects are also prohibited. This category may include sporting equipment such as baseball bats, cricket bats, golf clubs, hockey sticks, skateboards, fishing rods, pool cues, lacrosse sticks, kayak paddles and any other equipment needed for a sporting past time.