Avoid Stress Before Take‑Off: Four Everyday Items That Could Trigger Airport Delays, What You Need To Know

Published on December 11, 2025

As winter holiday travel peaks, air passengers in the United Kingdom and worldwide are being reminded of important carry‑on luggage rules to avoid unnecessary delays at airport security checkpoints. Security screening protocols require that all carry‑on items pass through X‑ray machines and meet strict rules on liquids, electronics and other potentially problematic goods — and packing certain common items could lead to extra checks, inconvenience or even confiscation before departure.

With travel volumes rising during school holidays and festive breaks, understanding what should — and should not — go into hand luggage can make the difference between a stress‑free airport experience and a last‑minute scramble that threatens boarding times. This guidance is essential for both holidaymakers and business travellers who depend on smooth transit through international airports.

What Security Rules Say: Basics You Must Know

Airport security agencies around the world, including the UK Civil Aviation Authority and international partners, outline clear rules for carry‑on baggage. Among the most common are liquid limits, which typically restrict containers to 100ml or less per item, all packed within a single transparent resealable bag — although some airports are beginning to adopt new technology that may expand this allowance in future.

Additionally, electronic devices with lithium‑ion batteries such as laptops, tablets and power banks are permitted but may be subject to extra scrutiny. Batteries that exceed recognised limits can trigger security alerts and extended inspections — especially if they are large power banks or specialised gadgets. Most airlines and airport rules require electronic devices to be charged and switched on upon request, otherwise they may be disallowed from carry‑on.

1. Large Batteries and High‑Capacity Electronics

A frequent trigger for delays at security checkpoints is electronic items with high‑capacity lithium‑ion batteries, such as oversized power banks or unmarked gadgets. While smaller devices commonly carried in hand luggage — like smartphones, laptops and tablets — are generally allowed, airport security can detain larger or unverified batteries for additional checks or even refuse them altogether. To reduce delays, travellers are advised to transport these devices where rules permit, pack them in an accessible part of carry‑on and ensure they are fully charged before screening.

2. Spreadable Foods and Liquid Snacks

Many travellers like to bring snacks or familiar food items onboard, but spreadable foods such as jams, soft cheeses, chutneys and sauces are treated under the liquids and gels rule. Even if these items seem solid, their paste‑like consistency makes them subject to the 100ml liquid limit in most airports, and larger containers can be seized during screening. This is especially important for international travellers, as food restrictions vary by country and may be stricter at certain destinations. Packing such items in checked luggage or choosing dry snacks instead can help avoid security holds and delays.

3. Oversized Umbrellas and Bulky Items

While compact umbrellas and small travel essentials are generally permitted in hand luggage, large umbrellas, such as golf‑style models, can cause issues during security screening or create handling hazards inside cabin space. Airport guidelines suggest placing larger items in checked luggage to make carrying more efficient and reduce potential safety risks. Large, pointed umbrellas in carry‑on have been noted by security professionals as items that can trigger extra inspection or be refused at checkpoints.

4. Powdered Supplements Like Protein Powder

Powdered substances, including protein powders or similar supplements, are not banned outright but can lead to prolonged security checks. X‑ray equipment often shows powdery items as ambiguous or unclear, prompting manual searches to confirm they are harmless. This results in delays not only for the passenger whose baggage is being inspected but also for others in the queue. Avoiding these items in carry‑on, or packing them in checked luggage when possible, can reduce unnecessary screening delays.

Impact on Business Travel and Holiday Tourists

Business Travellers

For business passengers with tight schedules, unexpected security delays can jeopardise meeting times or connections. Packing according to restrictions helps ensure fast transit through checkpoints — especially when carrying laptops, chargers and essential work devices.

Leisure Tourists

Holidaymakers often carry snacks, electronics and personal items to stay comfortable during long flights. However, understanding security guidelines and avoiding items that can trigger holds helps keep travel plans on schedule and reduces stress at airports crowded with other travellers.

Step‑by‑Step Packing Guidelines

1. Check the Rules Before You Pack: Visit official airline or government airport security pages to review the latest carry‑on restrictions — these vary by country and can change without notice.
2. Separate Liquids, Gels, Pastes: Place all items of this type in containers of 100ml or less, or pack them in checked luggage to avoid confiscation and delay.
3. Organise Electronics: Ensure devices are packed where they can be easily accessed, fully charged, and ready for inspection if requested.
4. Avoid Bulky Items in Carry‑On: Larger equipment like oversized umbrellas or sports tools should go into checked luggage to streamline screening queues.
5. Manage Powders Thoughtfully: Place powdered supplements in checked bags to minimize the need for manual inspections.

Additional Travel Tips for Tourists

• Arrive Early: During peak travel periods, allot extra time for security checks.
• Use Fast Lane Services: Where available, programmes like TSA PreCheck or equivalent can speed up screening.
• Know Country‑Specific Rules: Some countries have unique restrictions on food, plants or liquids; always verify destination rules before flying.
• Keep Documents Accessible: Have boarding passes, passports and any travel authorisation ready to aid fast security processing.

Key Points in Bullets

• Large or unverified electronic lithium batteries can trigger additional screening.
• Spreadable or liquid‑based foods must comply with the 100ml liquid rule in most airports.
• Bulky items like large umbrellas are better placed in checked luggage.
• Powdered items such as protein powder may lead to manual bag inspections.
• Always check specific airline and government security guidelines before travel.

Final Thought: Smarter Packing Makes for Smoother Travel

Packing with a clear focus on airport security compliance can significantly enhance your travel experience, especially during the busy winter holiday season. Understanding and avoiding items that commonly cause delays not only speeds up your journey through security but also eases the stress associated with long queues and last‑minute checks. For international travellers, industry updates and official guidance from sources such as the UK government’s airport security advice are essential to review ahead of every trip. Prepared travellers are empowered travellers — and thoughtful packing is the foundation of a smooth airport experience.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated