Why there is a limit of liquids at airports?
If you fly often, you need to remember lots of rules. Some include not bringing sharp objects or electronics in your bag.
You also need to watch how heavy and big your luggage is.
But one rule that annoys everyone is the liquid limit.
So, if you fly a lot, it's important to know it to make your trips easier.
What are the limits?
After discussions, experts agreed on a universal standard: containers could hold up to 3.4 ounces or 100 ml of liquid, a measure established by explosives specialists.
The liquids should be stashed into a single one-quart plastic bag, and each traveler is allowed one.
Some exceptions apply for breast milk, baby food, necessary medical items, or special diets, though these rules differ between countries.
You can also bring liquids purchased on planes or in airports, like duty-free items, as long as they're sealed in a tamper-proof bag with your receipt.
image source: tsa.gov
Why was the ban introduced?
In August 2006, British security services discovered a scheme aiming to bring homemade bombs onto many flights across the Atlantic Ocean and set them off while flying.
The plan involved using hydrogen peroxide as the explosive, hidden it in regular drink bottles to avoid getting caught during security checks.
The terrorists planned to put the bombs together while the planes were already in the air
Worries about the possibility of similar attacks happening again resulted in quick and strict measures.
At the beginning, the 100ml liquid limit was supposed to be introduced only for a short time, but the authorities eventually stuck with it to stay cautious about any other potential risks.
How can I take more liquids with me?
To bring more liquids you can consider carrying empty water bottles through security at airports.
Later you can then fill them up at water fountains once you've passed through.
Additionally, checking in luggage allows you to bring larger amounts of liquids, as there are no restrictions on liquid containers in checked bags.
Just make sure to securely pack any liquids to prevent any spills during travel.
Is the change about to come?
There's hope that technology improvements could lead to fewer restrictions soon.
CT X-ray technology can now create precise 3D images that can be rotated, giving security officers better information about the content of the luggage.
With this new technology, passengers can leave liquids and electronics in their carry-on bags, possibly even carrying liquids over 100ml per bottle.
The solution saves time, money and makes security checks smoother.
Scanners have been tested in major airports worldwide, like London Heathrow, and are now in place in several, including many big US airports and Amsterdam Schiphol.
The UK government also announced plans to allow passengers to carry up to 2 liters of liquids in their hand luggage at UK airports. This was decided this after successful trials at airports in London Gatwick, Heathrow, and Birmingham.
However, it'll still take a while for this technology to be available enough to change the rules.
Predictions made in 2022 suggested that it would require around two years to complete the upgrades, but the process is still ongoing.
The liquid restrictions that have been around for over 15 years will likely stay with us for some more time.