The day my expensive shaving gel almost ended up in the trash
I was at Schiphol Airport, ready to go on a city break. Everything was going according to plan, until I got to security.
“Do you have any liquids in your bag?” the security guard asked.
“Yes, in one of those plastic bags,” I said—confidently.
Until he fished out the shaving gel.
“This one is 150 ml. I can't take it.”
My favorite organic shaving gel—which I'd been searching for for weeks—was suddenly in his hand, on its way to the trash. I was incredibly disappointed. Not because I desperately needed it, but because I felt stupid: how could I have forgotten this?
I was eventually allowed to check it in for an additional fee, but since then I always check the hand luggage liquids regulations. And that's a good thing — because in 2025, things will have changed that you need to know.
Why These Rules Exist — and Why They're Changing
The liquid regulations were introduced following safety incidents in air traffic. Since 2006, a strict standard has been in place worldwide:
Max. 100 ml per package, packed in a resealable plastic bag of max. 1 liter.
By 2025, some airports will have switched to modern 3D scanning technology (CT scanners) . This will allow you to carry larger quantities of liquids at some airports—but not everywhere!
Note: Not every airport has this technology yet . Chances are you'll be allowed to bring something on the outbound flight that will be confiscated on the return flight.
What are the hand luggage liquid rules in 2025?
The basic rules remain the same unless otherwise stated:
✓ Liquids, gels, creams and pastes may not exceed 100 ml per item
✓ All items must be in one transparent resealable bag (max. 1 liter)
✓ Only one such bag is allowed per person
✓ The bag must be removed separately from the bag during the check
What counts as liquid in your hand luggage?
✓ Toothpaste
✓ Shampoo
✓ Sunburn
✓ Perfume
✓ Make-up (such as liquid foundation or mascara)
✓ Creams, oils, gels
✓ Honey, peanut butter or cream cheese (!)
Unsure? Treat it as a liquid. This way, you'll avoid disappointment at the inspection.
New in 2025: These airports have become more flexible
Thanks to the introduction of CT scanners (Computed Tomography), there are airports where:
✓ No longer do you have to put your liquids in a plastic bag
✓ You can take up to 2 liters of liquids in your hand luggage
✓ You can leave your laptop and electronics in your bag
Examples of airports with this technology:
-
Schiphol (partially rolled out, mainly for European flights)
-
London City Airport
-
Helsinki Airport
-
Frankfurt (certain terminals)
-
Milan Linate
But: always check the website of your departure and arrival airport for the latest updates.
My experience in Turkey confirmed everything
During my trip to Cappadocia (see my full story here ), the importance of hand luggage planning became painfully clear. Due to a huge delay, we were in danger of missing our connection—but because I only had a backpack, I was able to go straight through.
No check-in hassle. No waiting. No stress about luggage that might not arrive.
I only made that flight thanks to my hand luggage and good preparation.
Tips for stress-free liquid transport in 2025
✓ Use refillable 100 ml travel bottles (BPA-free)
✓ Label your bottles — customs officers don't like guessing
✓ Store liquids at the top of your bag for quick access
✓ Choose solid alternatives (such as shampoo bars or toothpaste tablets)
✓ Invest in a smart carry-on backpack with well-organized compartments
My favorite: The LIVVO travel backpack with vacuum system
This bag has changed the way I travel. Not only does it offer 30–50% more packing space thanks to its vacuum compartment, it's also perfectly organized with separate compartments—including a quick-access pocket for liquids .
✓ Hand luggage size (55x40x20 cm)
✓ Ideal for stress-free airport transit
✓ Vacuum packaging included
✓ Extra compartment for liquids and cables
✓ Comfortable to wear, even on long transfers
Check out the LIVVO backpack and travel as it was meant to be
Would you like to travel relaxed from now on — without baggage stress, liquid panic or queues?
View the LIVVO Vacuum Travel Backpack now
Live Light. Travel Smart.
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