MANY children may be asking if they can take their squishy toys on flights this summer, however, there are some rules to be aware of.
The toys have become a viral sensation, but they may not be allowed through security gates at certain airports.
Children may not be able to bring their favourite squishy dumpling toys on flights as they may get flagged by security.
This is because the toys, available in a variety of colours, contain gel inside.
UK airports have restrictions on the quantity of liquid, gels, and pastes that can be checked in through hand luggage, often limited to a 100ml volume.
However, a number of airports have developed new CT scanners that allow liquids up to two litres to be accepted through security.
These airports currently include Belfast International, Belfast City, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Gatwick and Heathrow.
A host of major airports, such as Luton, Stansted and Manchester still require the removal of 100ml liquids, gels and pastes from bags, and therefore would be more reluctant with squishy toys.
To see whether these dumplings would be accepted, the Department for Transport told the BBC: “No matter how adorable your squishy dumpling is, airport security rules still apply.”
The department advised passengers to check the liquid allowance at the departure airport, noting that “the safest place is in your hold luggage,” for any squishy toys.
Manchester Airport, which only allows 100ml of liquid, told the BBC that “all but very small squishy toys should be placed in the hold baggage”, with only toys with under 100ml liquid accepted through security.
But larger toys may not have the exact measurement listed on the item, meaning it’s better to bring them in hand luggage so security can estimate the size.
Gatwick Airport, which allows up to two litres in hand luggage, said they normally accept squishy dumpling toys, but the toys will be required to go through security screening.
As with anything that goes through airport security, it is important to remember if the item fails checks, it will not be allowed on the plane.