Air travel is in a constant state of evolution, and travellers passing through UK airports in 2025 are now seeing some of the biggest changes to airport security in many years. Although some people have felt frustrated with the 100ml liquid restrictions and the need to remove laptops and tablets during security checks for many years, the introduction of new scanning technology may change this. However, there could still be some challenges for travellers.
Whether you’re a regular or an occasional flyer, it’s essential that you keep yourself up to date with the latest rules so you can have a smooth journey. It may help to look up which airports are adopting the new rules and the best way to pack so you can avoid delays and other problems. Travel habits have shifted dramatically in recent years, with more people flying for business, leisure and short breaks than ever before. This means it's essential to keep yourself informed about airport security updates is essential to avoid surprises and make the most of your travel experience. With the right preparation and the perfect cabin bag, you can breeze through security checks and focus on enjoying your trip.
What Are the New Rules?
Since the mid-2000s, liquid restrictions in cabin baggage have been in place around the world. The rules were brought in for security purposes and are designed to stop people from taking dangerous liquids onboard. Passengers are expected to limit liquids, gels and aerosols to containers of 100ml or less, and they need to fit inside a transparent 1-litre resealable bag.
Laptops and tablets also need to be removed from bags so they can be screened separately. This means security officers can get a clear X-ray image and detect any objects which could be deemed suspicious. These measures have helped to keep people safe, but they have also caused stress and delays for travellers. Unpacking liquids and tech devices can slow down the security process and even lead to items being lost or confiscated. It can mean longer queues and starting holidays in a stressful frame of mind.
Recently, airports have started installing new computed tomography or CT scanners which produce detailed 3D images of baggage contents. These give a clearer and more precise view which means security staff can examine electronics without asking passengers to unpack them. The new technology has been trialled at various big-name airports and is likely to be rolled out to others shortly.
Passengers are now able to carry liquids in containers larger than 100ml and up to two litres in their hand luggage, without having to remove them to be screened separately. They can also keep laptops and tablets inside their bags while they’re being scanned. This development means that travellers can look forward to less hassle and unpacking, and can expect to move faster through airport security.
Which Airports Are Following the New Rules?
Currently, only a small number of airports have adopted the new rules, including Birmingham and Edinburgh. Many other popular airports have yet to fully implement these scanners, and people are therefore being asked to presume the old rules still apply unless they know otherwise. This means if you’re flying from an airport and aren’t sure if it’s using the new technology, you still need to pack liquids inside 100ml containers in a clear bag and remove laptops and tablets for screening just as you would have in the past.
In some cases, airlines are following different rules from the airports that they work in. Even if the airport you’re travelling from is using the new technology, the specific airline you’re travelling with may expect you to follow the old rules.
What Should I Do Before I Travel?
As there is still a lot of inconsistency around the new rules, it’s crucial that you head to your departure airport website so you can confirm whether you need to remove liquids and devices like laptops or not. Airports normally update the policies online as soon as changes are made and the new scanners are installed. As mentioned before, you also need to confirm with the specific airline if they have adopted the new rules. It can be best to prepare for both scenarios and pack your liquids inside 100ml containers just in case.
Organised cabin bags with dedicated compartments for liquids and electronics can make it easy for you to remove and repack items when you need them and can speed up the process.
Packing Your Cabin Bag Smartly in 2025
At a time when travel rules are changing, it’s more important than ever that you use a bag that’s designed to keep you organised, flexible and ready for both old and new security procedures. A built-in toiletries pouch can help you keep all your liquids together and means you can separate your liquids quickly at the checkpoint if you still need to.
A bag with a dedicated tech compartment can also be very useful. Choose one that comes with a padded laptop sleeve or tech compartment that’s easy to access. This means you’ll be able to remove and present your devices within moments during the screening process.
Try to keep essentials in external easy-access pockets. These can include things like boarding passes, phones and passports.
Make sure that the bag you choose meets the airline size requirements and is easy to manoeuvre, especially when moving quickly through busy airport terminals.
How Cabin Max Can Help
At Cabin Max, we specialise in supplying you with cabin bags that are designed with today’s travel landscape in mind. The bags that we provide blend style and functionality with airport-friendly features so we can help make your journey as smooth as possible.
The Anode 40L is a spacious travel bag which fuses generous storage with smart design. It has a built-in toiletries pouch that safely contains your liquids and makes it easy for you to access them, which means it’s ideal for airports that are still enforcing liquid restrictions. The tech compartment will protect your laptop and give you quick access to it if you still have to take it out of the bag during checks. It’s become a very popular option with our customers thanks to its lightweight construction and practical wheels, which means it’s a reliable companion for any trip.
The Manhattan 20L Underseat Cabin Bag is perfect for avoiding hand luggage fees on airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizzair. Compact at 40x20x25 cm, it fits most under-seat allowances, and you can wear it as a backpack or shoulder bag for versatile comfort. Made from durable UV-coated twill and eco-suede, it looks great and stands up to travel wear. There’s also internal padded tech storage that fits laptops up to 13”, while 3D internal pockets keep your belongings organised. On the outside, a quick-access front pocket, side bottle holder, lockable zips and a rear trolley strap make airport navigation easy and secure.
The Metz 20L Underseat Cabin Bag is perfect for travellers flying Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizzair, and others with free underseat allowances. Its 40x20x25 cm size fits neatly under seats, giving you plenty of space with a flexible suitcase-style opening. Weighing just 500g, it’s lightweight and comfortable to carry, thanks to the generous padding. The front organiser pocket keeps your tablet, documents and tickets handy, while its durable RPET polyester construction made from recycled plastic bottles makes it an eco-friendly choice. It’s backed by a three-year warranty and combines practicality, comfort and sustainability.
Travel Smarter in 2025
UK airport security is changing for the better, but the transition period means travellers must be ready for a mix of old and new rules. When you choose a Cabin Max cabin bag, you’re investing in a travel companion that will keep you organised, flexible and ready for anything. Cabin Max bags help you pack smart, move fast, and reduce travel stress. You can get in touch with us at any time if you need any help with selecting the right travel bags for you in 2025.
Why Choose Cabin Max for Your Luggage Needs
At Cabin Max, we know what travellers really want. Our customers come to us whenever they need luggage solutions that are smart, practical and reliable. We have many years of industry experience and have designed our bags to meet the evolving challenges of modern travel. Whether you need to get to grips with strict airline size limits or ever-changing security rules, our lightweight yet durable bags and cases will help you stay organised with features like padded tech compartments and built-in toiletry pouches.
We’re also committed to sustainability and use recycled materials in many of our products to help protect the planet. Whether you’re heading off on a business trip or a weekend break, you can rely on us to provide you with bags that combine style and function. This means you can expect your journey to be smoother, easier and more enjoyable.
Get in Touch
If you need any advice on choosing the perfect cabin bag, we’re always ready to help. You can contact us easily by using the live chat feature on our website or by sending an email to info@cabinmax.com.