Travel rules, checked against the official source
Hand luggage, liquids, passports, the new EU entry checks and your rights when a flight goes wrong: what the rules actually say, taken from governments, regulators and airports.
Luggage & security
Liquids in hand luggage: the 100ml rule, UK and EU 2026
Most airports still cap liquids at 100ml per container; Heathrow, Gatwick, Edinburgh and Bristol allow 2 litres. Check each airport on your trip.
Luggage & securityPower banks on a plane: cabin only, 100Wh and 160Wh limits
UK CAA rules: power banks go in the cabin, never the hold. Up to 100Wh is allowed, 100-160Wh needs airline approval, and no more than two per person.
Passports & entry
EU Entry/Exit System (EES): what UK travellers give
The EES records 4 fingerprints and a face photo of visa-free non-EU visitors. Fully operational at Schengen external borders since 10 April 2026.
Passports & entryETIAS for UK travellers: start date, EUR 20 fee, validity
ETIAS is not in operation yet. The EU expects it in the last quarter of 2026: EUR 20, valid 3 years or until the passport expires.
Passports & entryUK passport validity for Europe: the 10-year, 3-month rule
For Schengen, a British passport must be issued under 10 years before you arrive and expire at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave.