Many UK travellers have been turning to social media for tips to make their trips easier and more enjoyable. Platforms like TikTok have become popular places to share travel hacks. One recent video showed a traveller freezing an açaí bowl and packing it in her hand luggage to get it past airport security. The clip quickly went viral, with over a million views. However, this hack has raised concerns from travel experts and airport security officials.
Airport rules in the UK classify frozen snacks like açaí bowls as liquids. This means that even if the snack is frozen solid, it cannot be carried through security in hand luggage unless it meets strict liquid limits. The standard limit allows liquids in containers of 100 millilitres or less, all of which must fit into a single clear, resealable plastic bag. Frozen snacks that do not meet these rules can be confiscated at security checkpoints.
Many travellers may not realize that freezing a liquid snack does not change how it is treated at airport security. Once the frozen item begins to thaw, it returns to liquid form, which is why airport staff apply liquid restrictions to these items. Carrying frozen snacks that exceed these limits can result in snacks being thrown away and delays for passengers at security.
In addition to losing the snack, passengers who do not follow airport security rules risk fines. The UK government has strict regulations to ensure flight safety, and breaking liquid restrictions can lead to penalties of up to £5,000. These fines are part of security measures to prevent any dangerous substances being carried onto planes.
Travel experts recommend that passengers avoid packing frozen snacks in hand luggage unless they are certain the items comply with airport security rules. Instead, travellers should consider packing snacks in checked luggage where liquid restrictions are different or purchasing food after security checks inside the airport.
The confusion around frozen snacks on flights has increased due to many viral social media videos. Some content creators share tips that are not accurate or that ignore official guidelines. This causes misunderstandings among travellers, who may try to save money or time but end up facing problems at the airport.
Airports have strict policies to protect passengers and staff, and these policies must be followed. Frozen snacks, like açaí bowls, yogurt, or smoothies, are treated the same as liquids during security screening. If a frozen item is suspected to be liquid, security officers have the right to confiscate it or ask travellers to discard the item before boarding.
It is important to check the rules of the airport you are travelling from, as some airports may have different procedures. However, the general rule across UK airports is that frozen liquids are not allowed in hand luggage unless they meet the liquid limits. Passengers should plan ahead and pack accordingly to avoid delays or fines.
The rise of social media travel hacks has made travelling easier in some ways but has also created new challenges. It is best to rely on official sources and government websites for travel advice. These sources provide up-to-date information on what can and cannot be carried on flights.