luggage

A seasoned traveller has shared a list of items that should never be packed in checked luggage, as they could be difficult to replace if your suitcase goes missing

A travel guru has issued a stark warning to holidaymakers, urging them not to pack certain items in their checked luggage. With many travellers heading off for Christmas breaks or to enjoy some winter sun, Jet2, Ryanair, easyJet, and TUI passengers are being warned about the potential dangers of packing a variety of everyday items.

TikTok user @thepointsguy has offered crucial advice on what you should “never put in your checked bag, regardless of how short your flight is.”

He’s highlighted items such as suncream and plug adaptors, due to the potential issues if your checked bag goes missing.

This guidance serves as an important reminder to always keep certain essentials within reach during travel. One item that should always be kept close at hand is any prescription medication, reports Chronicle Live.

The expert said: “One thing that should always be kept close at hand is any prescription meds. The expert said: You may be able to get a doctor to call in your prescription, but that becomes trickier if it’s a weekend or a holiday or if your medication doesn’t allow for refills before the previous prescription runs out.”

Moreover, he has advised against storing electronics in checked luggage. He cautioned that despite the honesty of most airport staff, there remains a “risk” of theft.

He also warns against packing “jewellery and cash” in checked luggage, along with any “items with significant personal value”, urging holidaymakers to keep such treasures close to hand to prevent “financial or emotional loss”.

Finally, he suggested that “plug adapters and high-quality suncream” should remain in your hand luggage, as these could be difficult to find in more remote locations if your checked baggage goes missing.

The savvy traveller suggests packing “daily necessities” in your carry-on bag – always ready for those times when a spare outfit, essential toiletries, or vision aids such as glasses or contact lenses might be needed at short notice.

Following this prudent advice going viral and receiving widespread praise online, one TikTok user commented: “Everything important goes into my carry-on. Meds, contacts, electronics in particular.”

Another agreed, adding: “I only have clothing and shoes in checked bags. Everything else is in my carry-on.”

This handy guidance comes as millions of Brits jet off to Christmas markets as well as winter sun destinations from the Canaries to the Caribbean. However, if you’re hoping to travel light with just hand luggage and space is a concern, another travel expert has revealed a clever trick to pack ‘three months’ worth of stuff’.

This strategy was shared on TikTok by @joanna. pirog, who ditched the use of packing cubes for a more simple and cost-effective method.

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Her demonstration involved an empty suitcase and a selection of holiday clothes, which she neatly rolled before carefully placing them within the luggage.

Her suitcase held an impressive range of dresses, shirts, tops, skirts, and shorts with ease, and even when it appeared full, Joanna managed to fit in extra items by slotting them into small gaps. She insisted that this method allowed her to pack ‘three months’ worth of clothes into a single compact suitcase.

The pooch went missing during a journey from Buenos Aires to Barcelona, prompting a claim for losses from the owner. Now the European Court of Justice has handed down its ruling

Pets on flights can be classified as baggage, the European Court of Justice has ruled.

In a blow for pet owners, the ruling means that airlines are not required to pay higher compensation if the animal is lost.

The ruling was handed down by Europe’s highest court, the ECJ, after it was asked to intervene in the case of a lost dog. The pooch went missing during a journey from Buenos Aires to Barcelona, prompting a claim for losses from the owner.

Mona, the dog, had been put in a special pet crate, only to escape on the way to the plane. Mona was never found, prompting a claim of €5,000 (£4,340) for “non-material damage” by the passenger, and a six-year court case.

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The airline involved, Iberia, accepted liability for the loss of the pet but not the size of the claim.

The Spanish court that heard the case then referred it to the ECJ, asking whether the concept of “baggage” in the Montreal Convention governing air travel incorporated or excluded pets traveling with passengers.

“According to the Montreal Convention, other than carriage of cargo, aircraft perform international carriage of persons and baggage,” the ECJ wrote, summarising its judgment.

“The concept of ‘persons’ corresponds to that of ‘passengers,’ with the result that a pet cannot be considered to be a ‘passenger,'” it said. “Consequently, for the purposes of air travel, a pet falls within the concept of ‘baggage’ and the compensation for the damage resulting from the loss of a pet is subject to the liability rules for baggage.”

A key point was that the passenger had not submitted a special declaration of interest in delivery. That is a formal step that involves paying an additional fee, which would have allowed them to increase the liability limit for the precious cargo.

The Spanish airline argued it exceeded the liability for lost luggage without any special declarations as to the crate’s contents.

“The dog got out of the carrier, started running near the plane and could not be recovered,” the ECJ papers say.

It was heard at the earlier court hearing in Spain that despite an intense campaign on social media launched by Mona’s owner, the dog has never been recovered.

The dog owner’s lawyer in Madrid, Carlos Villa Corta, said he disagreed with the arguments made in the Luxembourg court. “I believe that a great opportunity has been missed to continue raising awareness of the rights of animals and the people who care for them. Ultimately, the ECJ considers that pets do not deserve special or enhanced legal protection compared to a simple suitcase,” he said, the Guardian reported.

According to Spanish reports on the first court case, it was ruled that because a special declaration about the animal was not made before the flight, the pet owner was entitled to only €1,578.82.

In a statement, the ECJ said: “The fact that the protection of animal welfare is an objective of general interest recognised by the European Union does not prevent animals from being transported as ‘baggage’ and from being regarded as such for the purposes of the liability resulting from the loss of an animal.”

A TikTok user has shared a ‘travel hack’ that shows how to get an açaí bowl through security – but experts have warned that it could result in a hefty fine

Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have become a hub for so-called “travel hacks.”

Holidaymakers often turn to these online content creators for tips on how to make the most of their flights and hotel stays.

However, much of the advice found online should be taken with a pinch of salt, especially if it doesn’t come from a qualified expert.

This has been the case with one passenger’s video, which has caught the attention of travellers worldwide and has now been viewed over a million times.

In the clip, she reveals how she manages to get her açaí bowl past security: by freezing it before packing it in her hand luggage, reports Chronicle Live.

The post sparked confusion in the comments section, with one viewer asking: “Wait, how did you get this through security?”, and another warning, “Pretty sure this is still considered a liquid.”

Now, travel experts are weighing in – and they have one clear warning.

According to Amanda Parker, spokesperson for Netflights, freezing açaí bowls or similar liquids to bypass security screening isn’t just ineffective – it could result in your snack being confiscated or, worse, a hefty fine.

“According to official government guidelines, you’re not allowed to carry frozen items in your hand luggage,” explained the travel specialist.

Even though this açaí bowl is frozen, it’s still considered a liquid and security will treat it as a liquid. “Your treat may start to thaw when you pass through airport security, and if it exceeds the 100 ml liquid limit, it’ll be going straight in the bin. Plus, the spillage while you carry it, not worth the hassle.”

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Furthermore, the risk continues beyond security, as the contents of the bowl could also cause issues at customs for those returning to the UK. Many popular toppings and ingredients, including dairy, seeds, and fresh fruit, breach UK border regulations.

“There are restrictions on bringing food back to the UK, too. Meat, dairy, fish, fruit, veg, nuts and seeds are all no-nos,” Amanda warned. “You could face a £5,000 fine if you break these rules. Since açaí bowls are typically topped with nuts, seeds, and dairy, it’s crucial not to freeze your açaí bowl for your flight back to the UK, as you could pay the price.”

A secret flight tip could help ensure your luggage is among the first pieces to appear on the carousel once you’ve landed, and it doesn’t involve ‘fragile’ stickers

Airport journeys can be riddled with anxiety, from the nail-biting security queues to the dread of misplaced luggage that only subsides once you spot your case on the conveyor belt. Whilst keeping a watchful eye ensures nobody mistakenly grabs your bag, a clever hack could see you retrieving your suitcase ahead of the crowd after landing.

Travel experts at Escape.com have shared a cunning strategy: check in your luggage as late as possible without risking missing your flight. Airport ramp worker and gate agent Thomas Lo Sciuto revealed the insider knowledge: “Your best option is to be one of the last passengers to check your bags.

“This is because bags will always be loaded front to back on the bag carts.”

Yet timing alone doesn’t guarantee success. Occasionally, it’s down to the way you pack your belongings, reports the Mirror US.

If leaving check-in until the eleventh hour fills you with dread, SmarterTravel discloses that some carriers – such as Delta at London Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 3 – organise luggage by dimensions to achieve proper weight balance aboard the aircraft, suggesting an alternative approach worth considering.

Hand over your case at the check-in desk and curious about its journey afterwards?

Your luggage is sorted into large containers, or “cans”, which can carry multiple bags for easier transport.

As per travel site SmarterTravel: “In other words, how far back your bag ends up depends on the weight of the can and the needs of the plane, not when you check it.”

It’s worth noting that single-aisle planes usually store checked luggage in a holding area before being loaded onto the aircraft shortly before take-off. Thus, suitcases are likely to be loaded in the order they were checked in.

However, checking in early may actually work against you – your bag could be put at the back of the storage space and loaded last, although it would probably be the first to be unloaded.

Want to avoid a lengthy wait at the baggage carousel?

Marking your suitcase as “fragile” could do the trick. News site news.com.au suggests that labelling your suitcase “fragile” can result in ground staff loading your bag last, which means they could unload it first.

Suitcases are also more likely to be processed in batches, meaning the order may not always be the same.

But remember to remove any old “fragile” labels from a previous trip.

You can also jazz up your luggage with ribbons, brightly coloured labels, or a unique name tag so it’s easily spotted.

Travelling with only hand luggage is the quickest way to breeze through the airport.

However, to avoid having to check your bag in, make sure it meets the airline’s specific requirements.

A personal item, often referred to as a small bag, should fit under the seat in front of you and typically shouldn’t exceed 40x30x20cm.

Hand luggage must be stowed in the overhead locker. They usually weigh up to 10kg and are no larger than 56x45x25cm.

Among UK airlines, British Airways typically offers the most generous free hand luggage allowance on its basic fares.

Passengers are allowed to bring one 23kg hand luggage bag (56x45x25cm) and one smaller personal item (up to 40x30x15cm) free of charge.

Jet2 and Virgin Atlantic also allow a free hand luggage bag (10kg, 56x45x25cm) and a personal item. Always double-check with individual airlines before you travel.

The Foreign Office issued an alert on Saturday

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a warning to anybody who is planning on taking luggage abroad with them. Tens of millions of overseas trips are made from the UK each year, and the FCDO regularly shares information aimed at keeping Brits safe while travelling.

In a new alert on X, formerly Twitter, on Saturday the FCDO issued a warning regarding baggage. The post reads: “Criminal gangs are known to pressure people into carrying drugs.

“Always pack your own luggage and do not carry anything through customs for someone else.” Further information provided on an accompanying graphic warns: “There’s no such thing as a free holiday. You booked a jail sentence. Do not carry cannabis through customs for someone else.”

The warning comes after British nationals have been caught carrying cannabis out of Thailand. While low-strength cannabis is legal in the south-east Asian country, the FCDO warns, cannabis of any strength is illegal in the UK, and may be illegal in other countries you travel to.

It goes on to remind passengers that airports have “excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items” and explains that anyone caught carrying cannabis in other countries may be given a long prison sentence, and even the death penalty.

FCDO guidance continues: “Legal processes before court hearings can be long and expensive. It can take many months for a case to go to trial. In some countries, you can be arrested if you have traces of cannabis on your clothing, baggage or within you.

“Random blood and urine tests can be taken to see if it is within you. It is illegal to take cannabis out of Thailand without the appropriate export permissions issued by the authorities.

“Illegally carrying cannabis, particularly large quantities, can lead to heavy fines or imprisonment in Thailand.”

Richard Deakin, a security consultant from Halesowen, West Midlands, has sparked debate after sharing footage on TikTok of his conversation with easyJet staff at Luton Airport

A tourist has accused easyJet of using a “money-making tactic” following a dispute about his baggage.

Footage on social media shows easyJet staff ask Richard Deakin, 37, to repeatedly put his luggage in the sizer as he checked in at Luton Airport. He claimed the suitcase – his hand luggage – fit easily but he said staff continued to ask him to pop it in the sizer. Richard asked a fellow passenger to film him doing so to “prove a point,” a clip he later shared on TikTok where it has been watched by more than 106,000 people.

He feared he was going to miss his flight to Málaga, Spain for his four-night break and became “quite angry” at staff’s insistence. He eventually made the plane, but is now speaking out to encourage people not to simply stump up cash if their luggage is within the dimensions.

The security consultant said: “If I hadn’t been so persistent they would’ve forced me to pay that fine. It’s a money-making tactic. Before I put [the bag] in I was confident it was the right size because I’d measured it and weighed it.”

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Richard, who is from Halesowen, West Midlands, added: “At first it’s a bit of a struggle pushing it down but then it just slides in and goes all the way down to the bottom.

“It was hard to get in because I had several tubs of gravy granules because in Spain it’s quite expensive. I was quite angry. I did know I could just take a few things out of my bag but I was being a bit pedantic out of principle. If you want to pick on me, I don’t mind having a debate about it.

“After that video was recorded a manager came down and asked me to do it again. This is the bit that really [annoyed] me. I said ‘it’s just been witnessed by six of your staff who said it’s okay and this is the video’. He said ‘I need to see it again’.

“I’d done it once or twice before the video, and [then] two times with managers. It looked like the flight was going to take off and I was scared at that point. The ego got put away in the back pocket really quick. I took the book and the charger pack out and put [the bag] in [the sizer].”

Richard had enough clothing in his bag for the short stay last month but, despite measuring the little bag at home, came into difficulty at check-in. He admitted it was “hard to get in” but claimed it fit clearly in the end.

The security professional added: “So many people wouldn’t have been so persistent and fallen right into the trap. There are people that won’t stand up and talk and ask the question so they’re getting charged.

“While I understand the rules, it’s frustrating to pay for a bag that was underweight and would have been placed in the same overhead locker as everyone else’s.”

The tourist’s social media clip has divided opinion with some criticising him for “yelling” at employees. Some, though, users jumped to Richard’s defence in the comments.

One user wrote: “EasyJet should be ashamed.” Another user commented: “I will avoid EasyJet at all costs. It’s a greedy, uncaring airline. Shame on them.” A third added: “If it fits, it doesn’t matter if it’s easy or not.”

Other users criticised Richard for his demeanour. One user wrote: “Why are you yelling at them?” Another commented: “Why are you shouting at them for doing their jobs?” A third user commented: “That bag is too big. Simple as that.”

An easyJet spokesman said: “We have a well understood bag policy and customers are only charged if their bags are too large, in fairness to customers who have paid to bring larger bags, and we do not tolerate aggressive or threatening behaviour towards our ground crew. Once Mr Deakin was able to fit his bag in the gauge, he was not charged and was able to board.”

A savvy traveller decided to use a very unique hack to stow some extra hand luggage on her return flight – and the flight attendants didn’t even bat an eyelid

A clever hack involving undergarments has gone viral after one traveller revealed how she “stuffed” her bra before a Wizz Air flight – saving her a fortune on baggage costs.

The cost of adding extra baggage onto flights can sometimes be more expensive than the ticket itself – with restrictions getting tighter on hand luggage.

Budget airlines like RyanAir and EasyJet notoriously make last-minute checks at the gate – sometimes resulting in extra fees for those who are slightly over the limit. But one woman has revealed a clever trick for sneaking in extra clothes – and it’s all in her bra.

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Chelsea Dickenson was flying home from Lisbon with Wizz Air who only allow a tiny 40 x 30 x 20cm cabin bag for free.

And while she managed the outbound flight fine, she wanted to try out the clever hack for her return journey. Just before her flight, she bagged herself a giant bra – that was not her size – for less than £5 from a local shop.

“I’d never seen anyone use a bra for this purpose. And the logic was solid: airlines weigh and measure your bag, not your body. My coat pockets had been carrying overflow snacks and chargers for years, so why not give my chest a piece of the action too?,” she told the Metro.

After making it through security, she headed straight to the toilets to get changed into her bra – surprisingly fitting a lot of clothes inside.

“On the day of my flight, I wasn’t about to stroll through security looking like I’d got a Portuguese breast enlargement – this was about getting through the scales and bag sizers,” she explained.

Chelsea stuffed the bra with her gym kit, a bikini, and a fishing vest. But one thing she hadn’t prepared for was the intense heat the extra padding would provide.

“It was like a private heat wave,” she wrote. Her boyfriend James also found the sight amusing.

At the gate, the flight attendants didn’t bat an eyelid and let them board the plane smoothly. But while it worked, she admits she wouldn’t do it again and would opt for less invasive options.

Top packing hacks to avoid extra baggage fees

1. Roll your clothes

Rolling clothes like T-shirts, jeans and dresses can save a lot of space in hand luggage thanks to making the items more compact compared to simply folding.

2. Packing cubes

Investing in packing cubes can save space – especially those that are vacuum packed meaning you can get rid of excess air and flat pack your clothes with ease.

3. Wear bulky items

On the plane, opt to wear your more bulky items like coats, jackets, hoodies or tracksuits. While you might be warm layering clothes, you can always remove them onboard and stow them in the overhead lockers.

4. Place heavy items at the bottom of hand luggage

Strategically packing can save a lot of space, with heavy items helping to keep the bag’s structure while offering more room for lighter items on top.

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The clip, featuring a Qatar Airways wide-body aircraft, was filmed at Madrid–Barajas Airport in Spain. The zoomed-in footage, filmed from a terminal window, shows the ground staff member outside the plane’s rear door.

A baggage handler was caught on camera hurling luggage in scenes have left social media users divided.

The zoomed-in footage, filmed from a terminal window, shows the ground staff member outside the plane’s rear door. He can be seen catching items tossed by a colleague and flinging them on.

The clip, featuring a Qatar Airways wide-body aircraft, was filmed at Madrid–Barajas Airport in Spain. The video-taker joked: “I’ll put this bottle of wine in the suitcase, I don’t think it’ll break…”

Social media users were quick to react to the clip. “This video should reach his company so they can see how well this man works,” one said.

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Raquel questioned: “Is that what we pay for checked baggage for?” While Mónica vented: “This only happens in Spain. I’ve never seen luggage treated so badly anywhere else, it’s unbelievable. Almost every time we come back from a trip, the suitcases arrive wrecked.”

Analú said: “Honestly, that’s a disgrace. I’m sure there are plenty of unemployed people who would be happy to do that job properly.”

But not everyone was convinced the baggage handler was in the wrong.

“For those who’ve never flown or even seen a plane and criticise without knowing: they’re just taking out the blankets to clean the cabin, it’s not luggage,” one commenter pointed out.

Pablo added: “Suitcases aren’t unloaded at the passenger doors.” And Nicolás concluded: “Honestly, I think he’s doing everything right – he’s very efficient at his job.”

Madrid–Barajas Airport and Qatar Airways have been approached for comment.

The incident is not the only aviation-related outrage to ruffle feathers. Declan Minogue and his wife Claire Minogue, 61, were travelling back from Faro to Dublin Airport on 21 July after seven relaxing nights in Portugal. The 63-year-old felt a bit of hunger coming on, so he decided to order the £5.90 Hot Ham and Cheese Panini from a flight attendant.

However, it was not the hunger-busting snack he had hoped for. Decland claims he was ‘stunned’ to open it up and discover just one piece of ham and the ‘tiniest bit of cheese’ with no butter. Despite polishing off the ‘bland’ sandwich that he compared to ‘something out of Oliver Twist,’ Declan claims he was forced to buy more food when he landed because he was still hungry.

Taking to social media, the dad-of-two shared a photo of the sandwich captioned ‘shocking and insulting’.

Declan who lives in Lusk, Dublin, Ireland, said: “It was the worst airplane food ever. It was a massive rip off. I was shocked when I saw it. I got it and I opened it and couldn’t believe it so I took a picture. It had two slices of ham and the tiniest bit of cheese and the cheese was like butter. There was no substance to it. I was stunned.”

A flight attendant has shared the eight items she believes are essential to bring on a plane, especially if it’s a long-haul flight, as it will make your experience more relaxing an enjoyable

Flying off somewhere, whether it’s for a holiday or for something else, can be nerve-wracking, particularly when you’re facing a lengthy flight or you’re not an experienced traveller. One of the most crucial tasks before heading to the airport is ensuring you’ve packed all your must-have items.

Holiday packing can feel daunting, as it’s a mix of trying to squeeze everything in whilst avoiding creases, worrying about taking too much, or panicking you haven’t brought enough with you. Whilst many travellers choose to check their luggage, you’ll still be permitted to bring a small bag into the cabin as hand luggage.

Taking to social media, cabin crew member Chloe has revealed eight items she considers absolutely vital to take aboard an plane in your hand luggage, especially for long-distance journeys, as they’ll make your trip more pleasant and comfortable.

“Must haves on planes, from a flight attendant,” she posted on the opening slide of her TikTok post.

She then went on to dive into her recommendations of things that she things are essential to pack for a plane.

1. ‘Poo’ spray

Using the loo on an aircraft can be an uncomfortable situation for some passengers, particularly when nature calls for number twos. To make the ordeal more bearable for yourself and fellow travellers, Chloe suggested packing a ‘poo spray’.

Whilst it might sound peculiar, the spray is applied either around the lavatory or straight into the toilet bowl and will consequently mask unpleasant bathroom odours.

“It’s called Poopurri and yes it works. Be a good human and spray before you walk away,” Chloe posted.

2. Snacks & drinks

Next, she suggested bringing your own food and beverages aboard the aircraft. Her primary reasoning for this centres on how unforeseen turbulence or conditions might postpone the scheduled meal service.

“If turbulence hits, you might not get served for hours,” she explained. “Bring your own snacks and drinks, plane food is mid anyway.”

3. Disposable toothbrush

“Nothing hits like brushing your teeth after a long flight nap,” she said. “These little guys are pre-pasted! No sink, no mess, just fresh.”

The item she endorsed was a multipack of throwaway mini toothbrushes that already contain toothpaste, eliminating one additional product from your packing list.

Should you prefer not to purchase another single-use item, an excellent alternative would be simply packing your own toothbrush and toothpaste in your hand luggage for freshening up before touchdown.

4. Noise-cancelling headphones

Aircraft can be loud, which can make the journey feel considerably longer than it actually is. To combat this, Chloe suggests packing some noise-cancelling headphones for use during the flight.

“Trust me – they’re a lifesaver, she said. “Block out crying babies, engine noise, and snoring seatmates. “”.

“Just make sure they come with a wire for in-flight screens,” she added.

5. Steam eye mask

“Best travel hack I’ve found,” she said about her fifth tip, which was steam eye masks. These masks help to boost blood flow around your peepers.

The warmth can also help you unwind and drift off more easily.

“The heat soothes my dry, tired eyes and eases the pressure. It’s the only reason I can sleep on flights now,” Chloe said.

6. AirFly

If you’ve got headphones or earbuds that need Bluetooth to function, having a Bluetooth transmitter, such as an AirFly, will let you use your own headphones for the in-flight entertainment.

“A game changer for anyone who flies and wants to use their own wireless earbuds instead of those uncomfortable airline headphones,” Chloe said.

7. Good neck pillow

If you know you’ll want to kip or chill out during your flight, investing in a neck pillow can be brilliant for preventing a stiff or sore neck.

However, Chloe warned her viewers to ensure they purchase a decent quality one.

She said: “Not all neck pillows are created equal. Find one that actually supports your head or risk waking up with neck pain and regret.”

8. Passport and pen

Finally, as most travellers will already know, the most crucial item you need to take on your flight is your valid passport.

But Chloe also made sure to mention that you should pack your own biro.

“Double-check that your passport isn’t expired. And bring your own pen!” she said. “You’ll need it for customs forms, and flight attendants never seem to have extras.”

Chloe then shared a few more tips to make your flight more comfortable, including wearing compression socks, carrying gum or mints, a pill case with medications, sanitising wipes, hand sanitiser, a reusable water bottle, and face masks.

Karle Ofarrell was about to board a Ryanair flight from London Gatwick to Dublin when staff told her that her bag was too big and that she’d have to pay an extra charge

A group of passengers stepped in to try to save a woman from paying a £75 Ryanair cabin bag charge.

Karla Ofarrell was travelling from London Gatwick to Dublin when a Ryanair worker asked her to make sure her luggage fit in the bag sizer. And when the 35-year-old was told it was too big, a group of men offered their belts.

As a team, they tried to wrap the belt around the bag to squash it down and pass the check. But the staff member wouldn’t back down. The intervention came after a Mirror reporter was forced to fork out a significant chunk of cash to take her water bottles on a Ryanair flight.

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“Staff came directly over to me while I was sitting down and asked me to put my bag in the bag holder,” Karla, from Dublin, told Luxury Travel Daily. “It fit in, but the staff said it didn’t, and I would need to make the case shrink somehow to fit it behind the tape.

“They didn’t pull anyone else’s bag, and when I argued that it fit, she said the bag was a danger to fly with, so I would need to make it smaller or else it wouldn’t fly. Three or four men who were standing nearby started to offer their belts.

“I tried two different ones that were too small, and then finally one belt that would fit and make the case smaller. The flight attendant wasn’t happy about it, shushed the crowd and said they were disturbing other passengers.

“Someone shouted out, ‘Micheal O’Leary is charging €10 for having the craic’. The flight attendant got more and more irate and wouldn’t accept the bag with the belt. They ignored my attempts at boarding. She made me wait until last and said she wouldn’t let me fly unless I paid the fine and I could ‘take all the pictures I wanted’.

“Me and the other passengers agreed that she wanted to make an example out of me, so she doubled down because she was embarrassed.”

Karla had already forked out £385 for the return flight on 9 July and £40 for priority boarding. She claims that when she pointed this out to the staff, they threatened to ban her from flying. Karla says she made a complaint to Ryanair.

She added: “The fines are an unbelievable waste of time and bad press. Unfortunately, we had to fly Ryanair due to flight times for meetings.”

A Ryanair spokesperson said: “This passenger booked a Regular fare for this flight from London Gatwick to Dublin (9 Jul), which allowed them to carry a small personal bag and a 10kg cabin bag onboard. As their cabin bag exceeded the permitted size, they were correctly charged a standard gate baggage fee (£75) by the gate agent at London Gatwick Airport.”

One woman has shared a ‘game-changing’ way to store liquids in your hand luggage before a flight – and it’s something she only learnt after being married to a pilot for 13 years

In the majority of UK airports, any liquids in your carry-on luggage must be under 100ml and stored in a transparent bag for easy inspection by security personnel. While you can take bigger containers in your hold luggage, those making smaller trips might only have hand luggage with them for the journey.

While some major UK airports have recently implemented new scanners that permit up to two litres of liquids in hand luggage, it’s always prudent to check the regulations at your destination to avoid having to discard your favourite toiletries at security on your return trip.

If you’re still required to limit your liquid items on your next flight, or if you’re simply trying to conserve space for more clothing in your suitcase, fear not. A frequent traveller, who happens to be a pilot’s wife, has shared a straightforward hack for packing toiletries that many wish they’d known sooner.

The woman, Laurie, advised passengers in an Instagram video to stop storing their liquid containers upright in their clear bags. While this is how products are typically displayed in adverts for visual appeal, it’s rather impractical.

Instead, Laurie suggests laying your liquids horizontally, assuring travellers they’ll be amazed at how much difference this simple adjustment can make.

She revealed: “This is the number one travel hack I learned as a pilot’s wife after about 13 years of packing only a carry-on suitcase. If you pack the liquid containers horizontally so that they are all lying flat, for some reason, you can fit more in.

“The tiny things, like my mascara and my primer, can fit vertically in the open pockets of space, much like you would do in a suitcase. Hope this travel hack helps!”

The tip might be a no-brainer for some seasoned travellers, but it left numerous commenters astounded, with many expressing surprise at not having thought of it before.

One individual shared their newfound enlightenment: “I was today years old when I learned this from you! I love my compression bags for clothing … just got home from a two-leg trip and whew … carry-on was heavy! Thanks for your great tip.”

Another chimed in: “I recently traveled and realised the same thing. Huge difference in room.”

Meanwhile, a third praised: “Love this tip Laurie!”

What liquids can I take to an airport?

There are limits on how much you can carry in your hand luggage. For those with checked baggage, it’s wise to stow liquids there. The term ‘liquids’ encompasses a broad range of items including all beverages, foodstuffs such as soups, jams, and syrups, cosmetics and toiletries, sprays like shaving foam and deodorant, contact lens solutions, and gels like hair and shower gel.

The regulations for carrying liquids in your hand luggage can differ from one airport to another. It’s advisable to familiarise yourself with the rules at your departure airport, any transit airports, and your return journey airport before setting off.

Most airports enforce a rule that prohibits passengers from taking liquids in containers larger than 100ml through security checks. This rule remains in effect even if the container is not filled to capacity. However, some airports may permit you to carry liquid in containers that can hold up to two litres.

In addition, you might be required to place liquids into a separate, clear bag. While this isn’t a universal requirement across all airports, it’s always better to be prepared or do your homework in advance.

If the airport instructs you to segregate liquids into a separate bag:

• Containers must be in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm x 20cm
• Contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed
• The bag must not be tied at the top
• You’re limited to one plastic bag per person
• You must show the bag at the airport security point

Neil Armstrong was worried about potential charges over luggage size restrictions when he flies with his family of nine – so he decided to take matters into his own hands

When Neil Armstrong and his family of nine were gearing up to fly with a budget airline, he was concerned about potential extra charges due to luggage size restrictions. The clan had booked flights with Ryanair, an airline notorious for its stringent carry-on bag policy and associated fees.

To sidestep a hefty bill, the 54-year-old took the initiative. Equipped with cardboard and tape, he constructed his own replica of the airline’s sizer cage in just 15 minutes. He then used this DIY sizer to measure all the family’s hand luggage, ensuring there would be no costly surprises at the airport.

READ MORE: EasyJet, Ryanair and TUI travellers warned over little-known rule that could stop them flying

A viral video on TikTok shows Neil diligently crafting the sizer to the exact dimensions of 40x20x25cm. The father-of-three confessed that he had to swap his own hand luggage backpack after discovering it didn’t fit into his homemade box, reports the Daily Record.

However, he is now confident he has avoided a potential £510 fee, based on Ryanair’s standard charge of €60 (£51) per bag. The graphic designer remarked that he felt ‘like a Ryanair employee’ while inspecting the bags but urges other patrons of the budget airline to follow suit.

His daughter, Imogen (Immy) Armstrong, 20, shared a TikTok video of Neil assembling the box, which has since amassed over 200,000 views. Neil, from Maidstone, Kent, said: “The family had a bit of a snigger but they think it’s a great idea. I’m proud of it. I’ve read that people have been charged so I wanted to be sure that our bags would fit. I didn’t want to get caught out.

“You can get the tape measurer out but that’s not really accurate and I saw the boxes at the airport but when you’re there it’s too late. I thought I’d make my own and all 10 of us can get our hand luggage and make sure it fits in that.

“I went and got some cardboard, followed the strict centimetre rule, stuck the cardboard together and made this box. The rest of the family only live streets away so I told them to come round when they have a minute and pop their bags in.

“It’s not until you mock something up that you can actually visualise it (the Ryanair measuring box). I don’t want to spend my holiday spending money on a bag. I realised the bag I was going to take wasn’t going to fit so I’ve used another one. I felt like a Ryanair worker, saying to the kids ‘no that won’t do. Go and get another one (bag)’. I’d encourage other people to do it too so they’re not caught out.”

The family is now confidenT that they will avoid any extra baggage fees for their flight from London Stansted to Tenerife. Imogen’s TikTok video bore the caption ‘When your dad doesn’t wanna pay Ryanair £70 so makes his own hand luggage check’.

A TikTok user reacted by saying: “A new level of airport dad has been unlocked.” A second person commented: “Honestly, great idea.” A third quipped: “Hey, I don’t blame him! Work smarter not harder.” Ryanair has been approached for a response.

When it comes to packing your hand luggage, there are plenty of items you need to be careful with in order to make it through airport security

If you’re jetting off this summer and planning to cram your life into a hand luggage bag, there are some items that could land you in hot water. Hand luggage liquids generally need to be under 100ml to pass through airport security, including water bottles, face oils, moisturiser and hand gel, reports the Express.

However, some items that aren’t technically liquids can cause issues at security. Fulton Umbrellas have put together a list of surprising items you can and can’t take with you on your travels.

Firstly, soft cheese is part of the 100ml limit if you’re travelling back to the UK from the EU. The same applies for jams, chutneys, sauces and anything sold in liquid like antipasti or olives.

Some countries even have stricter rules when it comes to travelling with food, so always check before you pack. Another item that should not be packed in your carry on is protein powder.

This is because powders can obstruct x-ray machines and therefore will need to be manually checked by staff. This can be a lengthy process so it’s fastest and safest to just leave it at home – or if you’re really desperate, put it in your checked bag.

Surprisingly, in the UK there is one item you are allowed to take on that you might not be aware of.

If you’re only taking carry-on luggage with you, but you fancy dabbling in a little arts and crafts on the plane, you are allowed to take a small pair of scissors on board.

In the UK, the standard rule is that any pair of scissors with a blade length less than 6cm is permissible.

For larger pairs, it’s recommended to stow them in your checked luggage. Different airlines may have varying regulations regarding items with blades, so it’s advisable to verify if you need to carry scissors with you.

If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here

The days of being charged additional fees for your hand luggage on flights could soon be a thing of the past – at least in the EU

UK holidaymakers have been warned of a significant change to hand luggage rules on flights to Europe. The BBC has highlighted a considerable shift in hand luggage regulations for European Union flights. The era of being slapped with extra charges for your cabin baggage on flights may soon be over – at least within the EU.

On June 24, 2025, legislators voted in favour of a proposal that would allow passengers to bring a small carry-on bag weighing up to 7kg (15.4lbs) onto their flight free of charge, even on budget airlines. This development comes as Ryanair‘s chief, Michael O’Leary, has fired back at ‘unimplementable’ proposals that could permit each plane passenger to bring two free cabin bags on board.

READ MORE: Flight attendant shares the only type of suitcase you need

This development comes as Ryanair‘s chief, Michael O’Leary, has fired back at ‘unimplementable’ proposals that could permit each plane passenger to bring two free cabin bags on board, reports Birmingham Live.

During Ryanair’s earnings call for the first quarter of 2026, its CEO vehemently criticised the ‘impractical’ move. As per Travel Weekly, he stated: “The idea that everyone is entitled to two free bags on board is unimplementable – they don’t fit in the aircraft.

“There’s not room on largely full aircraft for one small carry-on bag and one large trolley bag. About 50 per cent of the passengers can bring a trolley bag and we do that using the priority boarding service.

“Any rules that would alter that would be infringing EU rules guaranteeing the freedom of airlines to set pricing and policies, and we don’t believe that will happen.”

READ MORE: Holidaymakers in France could be turned away at the border for five reasons

Ourania Georgoutsakou, managing director of Airlines For Europe, Europe’s largest airline association, expressed her concern: “Europe’s airline market is built on choice. Forcing a mandatory trolley bag strips passengers of that choice and obliges passengers to pay for services they may not want or need,”.

She further questioned: “What’s next? Mandatory popcorn and drinks as part of your cinema ticket? The European Parliament should let travellers decide what services they want, what services they pay for and, importantly, what services they don’t.”

Meanwhile, Mr O’Leary announced his consideration to increase the incentive to “eliminate the scourge of passengers with excess baggage. I think it’s unlikely to play out but there’s clearly going to be some kind of negotiation between the parliament and the commission on passenger rights.”

By eliminating carry-on baggage fees, airlines will make travelling abroad easier. Even better, it will save them from spending hundreds of pounds to send off a small piece of luggage.

Ryanair and EasyJet passengers have long been warned about the strict hand luggage rules, but a shoe expert has shared a ‘simple yet effective’ shoe rule to help you stay within the limit

Budget carriers such as Ryanair and easyJet might lure travellers with their low-cost tickets, but their stringent cabin bag policies can quickly bump up the overall price. Holidaymakers are bound by tight restrictions on both the weight and dimensions of their hand luggage if they want to sidestep extra fees for additional carry-ons or checked baggage.

However, a savvy shoe guru has come forward with a “simple yet effective shoe rule” that could help jet-setters keep within the free luggage limits. It’s all about planning your holiday agenda well in advance, which enables you to be discerning about what earns a spot in your suitcase and what gets left at home.

Gabriel Miller from Gatsby Shoes points out that shoes are often the biggest culprits when it comes to hogging space and piling on the pounds in your luggage.

Gabriel’s top tip for travellers is to curb the number of shoes they pack. “Packing efficiently not only eases the stress of travel but also helps you navigate different situations with ease, safe in the knowledge that you have a shoe for every occasion,” he said.

He champions a pared-down packing strategy: stick to a maximum of three pairs of shoes for any trip, which not only frees up space but also encourages thoughtful packing, reports the Express.

Gabriel reassures that a carefully curated trio of footwear can meet the demands of various outings, from exploring urban landscapes during the day to enjoying an elegant evening meal.

“It’s about bringing what you need, not what you might use,” he said.

Gabriel has broken down the must-have shoes for holidaymakers into three essential categories, advising travellers to pack just one pair from each to cover all bases on their trip.

For the first category, Gabriel suggests a pair of comfy walking shoes or trainers that are versatile enough for travel days. “Your primary pair of shoes should be comfortable for walking, durable enough for adventure activities, and stylish enough not to detract from your daily outfits,” Gabriel explained.

He advises sticking to neutral colours that can easily match with a variety of outfits.

Moving on to the second category, Gabriel recommends a smarter pair of shoes for any posh dinners or formal events you might attend while away. “Even on vacation, a dressier shoe option is crucial for evenings out or more formal events,” Gabriel noted.

For men, he suggests versatile loafers, while women might opt for chic heeled sandals that can elevate any look.

Lastly, for those jetting off to sunnier shores or beachside locales, Gabriel insists on including a pair of sandals or appropriate beachwear shoes. These types of footwear are usually light and take up little space in your suitcase.

“Ideal for relaxing days by the water or casual strolls, a good pair of sandals is indispensable,” Gabriel stated. He recommends choosing sandals that are easy to clean, quick to dry, and comfy enough for all-day wear.

There are some people who are not phased by the security checks and scanners and brazenly try to smuggle illegal substances through the airport – a number of them have now been nabbed

Thousands of families will be jetting off to and from Manchester Airport for their summer getaways. While most holidaymakers are mindful of the 100ml liquid rule and removing large electrical items from their hand luggage, there are always a few who slip up.

Yet, there are some travellers who seem unfazed by security measures and audaciously attempt to smuggle illegal substances in their luggage. A number of these so-called “tourists” were nabbed by vigilant security teams and police at Manchester Airport.

Among those caught was a pair of friends who claimed their suitcases were brimming with shopping, a woman who flaunted her holiday snaps to staff before being apprehended, and a boxer who accepted an “offer he couldn’t refuse”.

Below is a snapshot of some individuals arrested at Manchester Airport, as highlighted by the Manchester Evening News, though it’s not an exhaustive list.

They claimed they went shopping in New York – their luggage told a different tale

Sophie Bannister, 30, hailing from Withington, and her mate Levi-April Whalley, 31, from Lancashire, appeared to have returned from a fabulous shopping spree in New York, touching down on British turf with suitcases that seemed to overflow with new purchases.

Their suitcases, however, told a starkly different tale. Upon their return to the UK, the pair were caught with over 35kg of cannabis in their baggage.

In April, seated together in the dock, the women clasped hands and wept as the court was informed of their attempt to smuggle the drugs into the country, reports Liverpool Echo.

Both women pleaded guilty to the charge of fraudulent evasion of prohibition. Bannister’s 20-month term was suspended for 18 months, while Whalley was given a 16-month sentence which was also suspended for the same duration. The court heard that both women were susceptible to exploitation due to their personal and financial struggles.

The remorseful friends disclosed to the Mirror the series of events that led them to become entangled in a cannabis smuggling scheme, which seemingly began with a single message on social media.

She flaunted her holiday snaps to staff – then they nicked her

A mum who proudly presented her vacation snaps to officers at Manchester Airport found herself under arrest when they spotted a revealing detail.

Larissa Lins, aged 27, insisted she had travelled to the UK to “research nice places” after transiting through France and Portugal from Brazil. Despite her claims of innocence regarding any illicit activities, the photo gallery she shared with the officials inadvertently revealed her time in France.

While browsing through the images, they came across a snapshot of the “white pellets”. Further investigation revealed that Lins had ingested, concealed, and stashed away a kilogram of narcotics both inside and outside her body.

After admitting to her role in the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition on importing a class A substance, she was sentenced on October 17 last year. The court informed her that she will “almost inevitably” face deportation back to Brazil after completing 40% of her term.

Boxer behind bars after irresistible offer

A former pugilist and father of two found himself under arrest at Manchester Airport following what he described as “‘an offer he felt he could not refuse”.

Edward Nesbitt, aged 36, was one of two drug mules imprisoned in May, alongside Yoke Woon, subsequent to the seizure of a suitcase crammed with 23 kilos of cannabis at the airport. Manchester Crown Court listened to accounts of how Uber driver Woon arrived with the contraband on a flight from Singapore in March.

He abandoned the suitcase on the luggage belt in Terminal 2, where it was retrieved by Nesbitt, who had landed on a different plane from Amsterdam. Prosecutor Mark Pritchard detailed how Woon, aged 43, touched down at T2 just past 8:30 am on March 4 on a Singapore Airlines flight from Singapore, using a Malaysian passport.

Friends admir ‘you’re going to see it’ as luggage scrutinised

Two school friends faced the music after a “naïve and stupid” decision following their three-week revelry in Thailand. Lewis Ellis and James Poutch jetted off in April to experience a festival dubbed as “the world’s biggest water fight”.

Upon their return to Manchester Airport via Abu Dhabi, Ellis, 20, and Poutch, 19, were stopped for a luggage inspection.

Ellis didn’t hesitate to confess to customs officers: “I have cannabis in my bag, I may as well tell you because you’re going to see it.”

The search revealed a staggering 37kg of cannabis stashed in their bags. Both Ellis and Poutch were handed suspended sentences at Manchester Crown Court.

At the moment most easyJet and Ryanair passengers are only allowed to take a small personal bag on board for free

Passengers flying with Ryanair and easyJet may soon be able to take two cabin bags onboard without paying any extra charges. At the moment, these airlines allow those on a basic fare to bring one small personal item onto the plane, with any extra luggage incurring additional fees.

Ryanair has recently had to expand the dimensions of its personal bag allowance, due to a change in EU regulations. Under a new rule, travellers with the budget carrier will be entitled to take hand luggage measuring up to 40 x 30 x 20cm, representing a 20% expansion from the previous 40 x 20 x 25cm size limits.

easyJet’s dimensions are already in line with the new rule. And an additional EU law change could mean passengers are able to bring both a cabin bag measuring up to 100cm and a personal bag without extra charges.

READ MORE: Holiday win as Brits allowed to use e-gates again in another major EU countryREAD MORE: Seven key passport checks for Brits or you could risk being turned away at the airport

The proposed legislation will only be given the greenlight, though, with backing from a minimum of 55% of EU member nations. Discussions are scheduled to begin later this month.

Should it receive approval, the rule would apply to all journeys within the EU, plus routes travelling to and from the EU. European Parliament members (MEPs) are also pushing for children under 12 to be seated alongside an adult companion without additional fees.

Currently, airlines face no legal requirement to ensure children sit with family members, though the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) suggests they should do so. The CAA states: “Young children and infants who are accompanied by adults should ideally be seated in the same seat row as the adult.

“Where this is not possible, children should be separated by no more than one seat row from accompanying adults. This is because the speed of an emergency evacuation may be affected by adults trying to reach their children.”

Worried your summer holiday will be ruined by lost luggage? Check out these 3 simple rules that can slash the risk of your suitcases being left behind – or ending up in a different country altogether

Don’t let lost luggage spoil your holiday this summer with these three simple but effective preventative measures.

There is nothings worse than finally making it through border control, only to find your suitcase never even boarded the plane – or has magically ended up somewhere else. It’s a nightmare scenario that impacts millions of tourists every single year, despite technological advancing improving tracking capabilities.

Last year, it is thought 33.4 millions bags were mishandled, a slight decrease compared to the 33.8 million pieces of luggage that were mishandles in 2023 – but still an alarmingly high figure. While the majority of lost bags do end up being recovered – it can sometimes takes several days before you’ll be reunited with your holiday wardrobe, which can completely short, or city-hopping trips.

READ MORE: UK airports to face ‘busiest summer ever’ as worst days to fly are named

However, The Independent has compiled three easy steps you can follow to drastically reduce the chances of rocking up to your hotel with nothing but the clothes on your back. “When booking flights, be aware that many of the bags that go missing are lost at connecting hubs such as London Heathrow, Paris CDG, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Madrid,” the publication explained. “So you might want to pay a premium for a direct flight rather than one where you and your luggage are obliged to change planes.”

If you’re travelling short-haul to popular destinations such as Spain and Portugal, this will be a breeze. However, if you’re travelling long-haul, it might not be feasible – even if you’re willing to pay more.

Another handy piece of advise to stick to is making sure your contact details are included in your bag. This will help maximise the chances of your luggage being returned to you, especially if any external tags have been accidentally ripped off. It’s worth including you name, physical address, email and a phone number on a piece of paper – and placing it on the inside of the bag.

Of course, the easiest way to make sure your luggage doesn’t get lost is to not check-in any bags to begin with. This may not always be possible – but if you’re only going away for a few nights, you’ll easily be able to fit all of your essentials in a cabin bag.

Airlines such as British Airways (BA) actually allow customers to bring two pieces of luggage: a hand bag up to 40 x 30 x 15cm that can weigh up to 23kg but must fit under the seat in front of you, and a cabin bag to be stored in the overhead lockers. This can be up to 56 x 45 x 25cm in size and can also weigh up to 23kg.

As previously reported, even low-cost airline Ryanair is increasing the size of its free cabin bag following an EU ruling. Currently, passengers unwilling to pay for additional luggage must make sure their free ‘personal bag’ does not exceed 40 X 25 X 20cm – a volume of just 20 litres.

However, in the coming weeks, Ryanair will increase this to 40 X 30 X 20cm. It is still smaller than rival easyJet, which allows passengers to bring a free under seat bag of 45 x 36 x 20cm (including wheels and handles).

Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

A TikTok user has shared a genius packing hack to help you fit more clothes in your case – and it doesn’t involve using packing cubes, which she said “don’t save any space”

For those nipping off on quick holidays this summer, paying extra for a large suitcase in the plane’s hold just doesn’t make sense.

Here’s where a bit of packing savvy comes in handy, be it with a compact wheely case, a rucksack or a holdall that you can take into the cabin with you.

All the rage amongst holidaymakers on social media right now are packing cubes, praised for their ability to keep suitcases neat and make more room. But now, people are discovering an old-school packing tactic does the job equally well – and it’s said to squeeze ‘months’ worth of clothes in.

READ MORE: Little-known plane rule means Brits risk being hit with £53 fines onboard

This smart technique was shown off on TikTok by @joanna. pirog, who ditched her organising cubes for a better, cheaper approach when preparing for a getaway.

She demonstrated with an unfilled suitcase surrounded by clothes she intended to take; she rolled each item tightly and methodically popped them into the bag, reports the Liverpool Echo.

She managed to fit a selection of dresses, tops, t-shirts, skirts and shorts with room to spare and, despite appearing full, Joanna found space for even more by wedging them into small crevices.

According to her, rolling clothes meant she could get three months’ worth of belongings into just one small suitcase.

In her caption, she said: “Packing cubes don’t save space, roll your clothes and you’ll fit so much more!”.

In the video’s comments, people agreed that packing cubes were pretty useless unless you’re carrying a massive suitcase.

“I’m with you on the packing cubes. I just find they make it so much worse,” one viewer said. Another chimed in: “I’m so impressed.”

Joanna pointed out that while she travelled across Europe with her luggage, most airlines didn’t bother to check its weight – but if you do get caught out and it’s too heavy, you could be slapped with a fee to chuck it in the hold.

If you’re looking for another packing trick to try this summer and you don’t want to resort to packing cubes, influencer Chantel Mila has just the thing.

She has recommended standing your suitcase upright, rather than laying it flat on the floor, and packing your belongings vertically in columns.

Not only will this help to maximise space, but you’ll be able to see everything in your case much more clearly, which will make unpacking so much easier when you reach your destination.

If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here

Don’t let a dicky tummy, sunburn or travel sickness ruin your holiday this summer, with nutritional therapist and pharmacist Deborah Grayson’s top tips

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to summer holidays – whether you’re jetting off to the Mediterranean, road-tripping across the UK, or packing for a long-haul getaway. But one of the most important things is sometimes the first to be overlooked – your health. As a pharmacist with more than 30 years’ experience, I’ve helped countless holidaymakers caught off-guard by sunburn, food poisoning or an unexpected allergic reaction.

One in eight holidaymakers get ill abroad, according to statistics. And nearly half of us fear a medical emergency abroad. But the good news is that with a few smart, proactive steps, you can avoid most common travel ailments and keep your summer trip on track. So whether you suffer from travel sickness, struggle with jet lag, or just want to avoid the classic sunburn-blister-sore-feet trifecta, here are 10 essential summer health hacks to help you feel your best, wherever you’re headed.

How to build the ultimate travel first aid kit

You don’t need to carry half a pharmacy with you, just pack the essentials. Make sure you have plasters and antiseptic wipes, as well as antihistamines (for bites, allergies or hay fever), and rehydration salts for heat or stomach bugs. Pop a pack of paracetamol or ibuprofen in your kit, as well as anti-diarrhoeal medication like loperamide.

Don’t forget travel sickness tablets, and hydrocortisone cream for rashes or bites. If you have prescribed medications, keep them in their original boxes with your name clearly labelled. Keeping these in a bag in your hand luggage ensures you’re covered if your main suitcase goes missing.

Beat travel sickness before it starts

Motion sickness happens when your inner ear and eyes send conflicting signals to your brain – often triggered in cars, boats or planes. Prevention is far more effective than waiting until you’re nauseous. Antihistamines such as cinnarizine or hyoscine patches are proven remedies and available over the counter. For natural alternatives, ginger capsules or acupressure wristbands may help some people. I also recommend facing forwards in a moving vehicle, avoiding reading or scrolling, and crack a window where possible.

Stay one step ahead of jetlag

There’s nothing worse than losing the first day or so of a long-awaited holiday due to jet lag. While you can’t avoid it altogether, there are some things you can do to minimise the effects. If possible, try to adjust your sleep schedule a few days before you fly. Drink plenty of water on the flight, and avoid alcohol. If it’s an overnight flight, avoid eating a heavy meal. Get some sunlight as soon as you arrive to help reset your internal body clock. Melatonin supplements may be useful for short-term sleep regulation but speak to a pharmacist first.

Stay hydrated – especially on your flight

Cabin air is dry, and dehydration not only leaves you feeling groggy but can worsen jet lag, headaches, and increase your risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis). Drink a glass of water every hour during your flight and avoid caffeine or alcohol, both of which dehydrate you. Consider oral rehydration salts if you’re flying long haul or suffer from conditions that make you more prone to dehydration. Pack a refillable water bottle (you can fill it after security) and use hydrating facial mists or moisturiser to combat dry skin.

Prevent sunburn

It’s tempting to start a holiday by spending hours in the sun lying on the beach or by the pool. But a trip away can easily be ruined by sunburn, which isn’t just painful but can increase your risk of skin cancer and can lead to sunstroke. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours and immediately after swimming. Don’t forget areas like ears, feet, scalp, and the back of the neck. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest.

Protect against bites and stings

Mosquitoes, midges and other biting insects can cause allergic reactions or transmit illness depending on where you’re travelling. Use an insect repellent containing DEET, especially around sunrise and sunset. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, and sleep under a mosquito net if needed. If you’re bitten make sure to clean the area, apply hydrocortisone cream, and take oral antihistamines to reduce swelling and itching. If the area becomes red, hot or painful – or you develop a fever – seek medical advice.

Avoid holiday tummy troubles

Food poisoning and traveller’s diarrhoea can ruin any trip. In many hot countries, bacteria multiply more quickly, especially in street food or undercooked meats. Stick to bottled or filtered water (including when brushing teeth) and avoid ice cubes unless you know the source. Peel fruits yourself and be cautious with salads washed in local water. Pack antidiarrhoeal tablets and rehydration salts. If symptoms last more than 48 hours, or there’s blood in the stool, seek medical help.

Plan ahead for pre-existing conditions

If you have a long-term condition, speak to your GP or pharmacist at least 2-4 weeks before you travel. Get any vaccinations you need and ensure you’re fit to fly, particularly for long-haul trips. Take a basic health summary or EHIC/GHIC card (for EU countries) and always declare conditions on travel insurance. If you’re flying with mobility issues, allergies or need medical equipment like oxygen or needles, inform your airline in advance. And remember – pharmacies abroad don’t always stock the same brands or doses. Being prepared gives you peace of mind.

Mind your medication in the heat

Many people don’t realise that extreme heat can reduce the effectiveness of some medications, particularly for blood pressure, thyroid conditions or diabetes. Tablets like nitroglycerin and insulin are especially sensitive and should be kept below 25°C, away from direct sunlight or car glove boxes.

For those on temperature-sensitive meds, pack a cool bag or insulated pouch, especially on day trips. Additionally, store your medication in carry-on luggage rather than checked bags, as luggage holds can get extremely hot. A travel-sized thermometer in your kit can help you keep an eye on conditions if you’re somewhere very hot.

Deborah Grayson is a pharmacist with 30 years’ experience, and a nutritional therapist. She runs Digestion With Confidence: digestionwithconfidence.co.uk

FILL YOUR FIRST AID KIT

Take steps now to make sure you have everything you need for every kind of holiday health challenge

Kwells 300mcg travel sickness tablets, £3.99 for 12 (Boots)

O.R.S hydration tablets, £6.49 ( orshydration.com )

Navigate Carnaby travel bloom washbag, £23 (dunelm.com)

Sea-Band Nausea relief Ginger Capsules, £6.69 for 20 (Superdrug)

Skincalm Bite & Sting Relief 1% Cream Hydrocortisone – 10g, £4.65 ( amazon.co.uk )

Bioré Aqua Rich UV Invisible Face Mist SPF 50, £17.99 (Superdrug)

La Roche Posay UVMune 400 Dermo-paediatrics Invisible Spray SPF50+, £25.50 (lookfantastic.com)

Regatta x Orla Kiely water bottle, £38 ( regatta.com )