Edinburgh Airport Clears Up Hand Luggage Confusion

Many travellers passing through Edinburgh Airport know the routine of belts, trays and scanners, but not everyone feels confident about the finer points of hand luggage rules. The airport has now shared a simple breakdown of what is permitted in cabin bags across several commonly misunderstood categories, aiming to reduce last-minute stress and avoid belongings being removed at security.

Sports and leisure equipment are judged strictly by type. Baseball and cricket bats, golf clubs, darts and martial arts gear are not permitted as hand luggage due to the potential for injury. Tennis rackets, pool cues and fishing rods are allowed, so long as they meet standard cabin size and weight requirements. The airport advises checking specific airline policies when equipment falls close to size limits.

Most everyday electronics are permitted. Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, e-cigarettes, travel irons and spare batteries can all pass through security. Larger electronics no longer need to be removed from bags at Edinburgh, which helps speed up the search area. Hairdryers and straighteners are also allowed. Items such as walking sticks, crutches, pushchairs and wheelchairs are cleared as well, though walking poles are not.

Key Allowances and Restrictions

• Corkscrews, knives and scissors with blades over 6cm are not permitted
• Small scissors, razors, tweezers, nail clippers and knitting needles are allowed
• Liquids include gels, sprays, pastes and cosmetics, limited to containers up to two litres
• Wet wipes are allowed and not classed as liquids
• Baby milk, baby food and essential medical liquids are permitted with supporting evidence
• Bleach, disabling sprays, rat poison and paint thinners are prohibited

The guidance emphasises items that travellers often hesitate over when packing: empty metallic bottles can go through security and be refilled afterwards; solid foods are fine unless mixed with sauces; glass items are technically allowed but should be well protected. Medicines and medical equipment are permitted with prescriptions or notes where relevant.

The update underlines how useful clear airport guidance can be when travel habits rely heavily on personal tech, dietary products, medical items and flexible baggage. Fewer grey areas at security reduce delays, prevent belongings being confiscated, and help travellers prepare bags at home instead of at the conveyor belt. It’s a small change, but one that makes the airport experience less uncertain and more predictable for anyone passing through Edinburgh.