Overview
- Travel tips shared in UK media warn that insulated metal bottles must be empty at security because scanners cannot verify the liquid inside.
- If a bottle contains water, staff usually pour it out rather than confiscate the container, which triggers extra screening and delays.
- Most UK airports still enforce the 100ml limit for liquids in hand luggage under government guidance, with larger amounts advised for checked bags.
- Some airports using advanced 3D scanners now allow containers up to two litres, including hubs such as Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham and Edinburgh, so passengers should check their departure airport’s rules.
- Passengers recommend bringing an empty bottle to refill after security to save money, with many noting that water on flights typically is not free.