packing

A viral video showing a woman freezing her açaí bowl to get it past security has sparked a warning from experts, who say the hack could lead to a £5,000 fine for UK travellers

Social media, particularly TikTok, has emerged as a breeding ground for so-called “travel hacks.” Holidaymakers frequently rely on content creators for guidance on maximising their flights and hotel experiences.

Nevertheless, much of the guidance discovered online should be approached with considerable scepticism, particularly when it doesn’t originate from a qualified professional. This has proven true with one passenger’s footage, which has captured the attention of travellers and has now been viewed more than a million times.

In the footage, she demonstrates how she smuggles her açaí bowl through airport security: by freezing it before placing it in her hand luggage, reports the Express.

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

Now, travel specialists are offering their verdict – and they have one stark warning.

According to Amanda Parker, spokesperson for Netflights, freezing açaí bowls or similar liquids to stop security screening isn’t merely ineffective – it could lead to your snack being seized or, worse still, a substantial penalty.

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

“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.”

And the danger doesn’t stop at security checks, as travellers jetting back to the UK could find their bowl’s contents triggering alarm bells with customs officials.

Numerous favourite toppings and ingredients – from dairy products to seeds and fresh fruit – violate 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 cautioned. “You could face a £5,000 fine if you break these rules.

“As açaí bowls are normally topped with nuts and seeds, plus they’re dairy, it’s important not to freeze your açaí bowl for your flight home to the UK, as you could pay the price.”

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.

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.”

Joan Higginbotham, who spent 12 days aboard the International Space Station and on a NASA Shuttle mission, now promotes STEM subjects in her role at the Kennedy Space Centre Visitor Complex

An astronaut deploys a tried-and-tested technique to ensure that she never forgets an item when on holiday.

As one might suspect of a NASA astronaut with an electrical engineering degree and time aboard the International Space Station under her belt, Joan Higginbotham is, as she puts it, “very analytical”.

The Chicago-born 60-year-old has many accolades, including being one of only five African American women to have gone to space and forming part of the crew of the STS-116 mission aboard Space Shuttle Discovery.

She can also proudly claim to be one of the most methodical suitcase packers out there.

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“Part of my DNA is being very analytical, shall we say. As I’m packing, I will make a checklist, which probably speaks to me being an astronaut, as everything we do is via a checklist. We go to the bathroom via a checklist. That is how I organise my packing, I do it by days, I look at the weather, look at whether what I’m wearing is weather appropriate. I will be very transparent. I have an Excel spreadsheet. It goes by day, I map out what I’m going to wear. My husband makes fun of me. I remind him I have never forgotten anything,” Joan explained during a trip to London.

Joan had a 10-year wait after joining the astronaut programme before she was assigned a mission and eventually got to space. During this time, she lost seven of her ASCAN classmates in the devastating 2003 Space Shuttle Columbia accident.

Three years later, she participated in the STS-116 mission aboard Space Shuttle Discovery, which saw her join a crew of seven as a “mission specialist” and spend 12 days in space helping to assemble and upgrade the International Space Station.

Joan’s career began in 1987 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre, where, as a Payload Electrical Engineer, she helped to prepare and launch more than 53 Space Shuttle missions. Now she has returned to the Florida space centre as an ambassador, spreading her passion for STEM by meeting young space enthusiasts.

“We are promoting the KSC visitor complex, where visitors can come and do interesting things related to space,” Joan said of her trip to London.

“I like to tout a couple of things that I’ve tried. One is the Shuttle launch simulator; if I had gone on it first, I don’t know if I would’ve gone on the real Shuttle. (The real shuttle) has a lot of motion. There is a lot of shaking, rattling and rolling in the real thing, you will get that in the simulation as well. It is a very interesting ride.

“There is also a virtual reality interactive event where you go on a mission to the Moon with three other people, and you help mine moon rocks. It is kind of a competitive thing. I did not win. There is something called the Launch Complex 39, a 360-degree view of every active launch pad at the space centre.”

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex was ranked the top attraction in the United States and third globally by Tripadvisor in their 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards. As well as rides and space simulations, one of its big selling points is the presence of retired astronauts such as Joan and Bruce Melnick, who are on hand to chat with members of the public.

The latest guest experience at the Centre is the reworked Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour, which now includes a stop at The Gantry at LC-39. Opened in July 2025, The Gantry at LC-39 offers 360-degree panoramic views of active launch pads and the surrounding wildlife refuge, a full-scale rocket engine that comes to life during a simulated static-fire test – complete with thunderous sound, dazzling lights, and mist.

Hands-on exhibits including a Rocket Build Interactive for designing and virtually launching rockets, and a cutting-edge Earth Information Center showcasing NASA’s planet-monitoring efforts through immersive visuals and interactive media are among the other new draws.

New for Christmas 2025 is a space-themed drone show. Guests can enjoy a brand-new nightly show during the Holidays in Space festive celebrations.

Time your visit right and you’ll be able to watch a live rocket launch from behind NASA’s gates, complete with live commentary from space experts. While weather and technical issues mean that seeing a blast-off is never a sure-fire thing, Kennedy Space Center is on pace for a record-breaking number of launches in 2025.

Sept. 22 (UPI) — The Philippines was bracing for “catastrophic” damage Monday from a supertyphoon that came ashore in the far north of the country, packing winds of more than 140 mph., and forcing the evacuation of thousands of people.

The country’s weather bureau said typhoon Ragasa posed a “high risk of life-threatening storm surge” in excess of 10 feet with authorities warning of extensive damage to property and infrastructure from flooding and landslides, as well as the wind.

Ragasa came ashore in the remote Batanes or Babuyan islands, about 60 miles off the northern coast of Luzon, the main island of the Philippine archipelago, bringing down power lines in Abra and Cagayan pronvinces on the mainland.

In Manila and across large areas of the country, schools and government offices were shut to reduce the risks to human health and safety from the supertyphoon, which is the equivalent of a Category 5 hurricane.

The impact in regions as far away as the Visayas and Mindanao, 800 miles to the south, was due to it boosting the effect of a potent southwest monsoon that had already brought weeks of flooding to the central and southern Philippines.

Taiwan was also impacted, with heavy rains prompting authorities to evacuate hundreds of residents in Hualien, a county on the eastern coast.

The typhoon was expected to track northwestwards, bypassing Taiwan, headed for southern China, where authorities in Guangdong Province were warning of a “catastrophic, large-scale disaster” in the coming days.

The typhoon is not expected to come ashore from the South China Sea until Wednesday, but residents have been advised of heavy rains and strong winds as early as Tuesday with the city of Shenzhen planning a massive operation to move 400,000 people out of harm’s way.

Train services in the province have already halted operations.

To the south in Hong Kong, authorities were warning residents of a “rapid deterioration” of the weather on Tuesday, although the Education Department was still weighing a decision on whether to close schools.

Hong Kong International Airport was preparing for a 36-hour period of full flight cancellations, the longest ever such suspension of civil aviation, due to go into effect at 6 p.m. local time on Tuesday through 6 a.m. Thursday.

Cathay Pacific, the territory’s main carrier, said it expected to cancel about 500 flights while Hongkong Airlines cancelled at least 93 through Thursday, according to the carrier’s website.

The ‘game-changing’ hack is popular with travel fans because it helps prevent creases

A woman has revealed a “game-changing” packing trick that prevents wrinkles so you can look fabulous on holiday. The popular technique was showcased in a TikTok video shared by womenswear brand Sophie Cameron Davies.

Taking to social media, @sophiecamerondavies revealed why it’s worth investing a bit more time when packing your case to save hassle during your break. The caption read: “If your suitcase is full of floaty dresses, silk pieces or anything remotely crease-prone, try this.

“No more steaming out wrinkles for half your holiday. It’s simple, space-saving, and actually works.

“Save this one – your future self will thank you.” As shown in the clip, the trick requires holidaymakers to fold their garments, ensuring they stay flat within the suitcase.

Sophie explained: “Lay your clothes completely flat, don’t roll or overfold. Fill the full width of your suitcase right into the corners, and fold only once or twice max to avoid deep creases.

“Then just lay each piece on top of the other like a stack. It keeps everything smooth and compact, so simple but game-changing.” The clip has garnered more than 600,000 views, along with thousands of likes.

It also inspired commenters to share their preferred approach, and it appears many people swear by Sophie’s method. One enthusiast of the packing technique wrote: “I have packed like this for years and it’s honestly a game changer!

“Less folds = more space.” Another commenter shared their positive experience, writing: “I’ve been doing this more recently!

“So much better!” A third person revealed: “I always pack like this – never have to iron.”

Adding to the praise, someone mentioned: “I’ve always done this and left them on hangers too. So once I arrive, hang straight up.”

A social media user replied: “I do this too ….makes unpacking at hotel sooooo much easier.” Some people offered their own twist on the idea, like one who said: “I use the other side for clothes as it’s flat and the side you have put the clothes in I use for toiletries and shoes, swimwear etc .. it works no creases.”

Another viewer added: “I do this but I lay each piece flat hanging from the sides. Lay items on top then flip the sides inwards and secure it.”

However, not everyone was convinced by the packing hack. In response to a sceptic who said: “Then when you stand the case up everything will fall down,” someone defended the method but highlighted a different criticism, saying: “No, it doesn’t.

“I’ve packed like this – just a pain looking for things when arriving at destination.” Others expressed a preference for using packing cubes instead, reports the Express.

One such response read: “I swear by packing cubes, makes everything so much easier.” A fan agreed: “Same, family of 6, everyone has a set of their own colour cubes – makes life so much easier.”

The commenter replied: “Aren’t they just brilliant. I wouldn’t ever not use them now.”

However, someone else wrote: “They take up way more space though. I always lay clothes flat (or as flat as I can) and get more space out of the case.”

A packing method that went viral last year has been revealed to be a huge risk for those wanting to save money on their luggage allowance

Packing to maximise your luggage allowance can be a challenge, especially for those prone to over-packing. Whether you’re a fan of rolling your clothes instead of folding them, or prefer to pack your suitcase upright rather than laying it flat, there are numerous hacks that can help you optimise your suitcase space.

However, trying to sneak in more than your allowance permits can be risky and could even result in a broken suitcase if overstuffed. Leaving behind bulky items like hairdryers and towels, which are typically provided by hotels, can lighten your load.

There are also some unconventional methods to squeeze more out of your luggage. One flight attendant even suggested using a Duty-Free bag for extra items, as this doesn’t count towards your baggage allowance.

While you might get away with sneaking a plastic bag from Duty-Free onto your flight, there’s one slightly crafty packing method that will likely land you in hot water.

Keeping track of each airline’s luggage allowance can be perplexing, and when in doubt, it’s best to verify. While wearing an extra layer or two, instead of packing them, is unlikely to cause any issues, there’s one thing that’s sure to land you in trouble, reports the Express.

Many of us often pack a neck pillow to ensure comfort during a flight, particularly on long-haul journeys, but some TikTok users have suggested bringing an empty pillowcase and stuffing it with clothes to create a makeshift pillow.

TikTok is a fantastic source for travel tips, especially packing advice, but one packing trick shared on the platform could potentially result in you being denied boarding.

The ‘pillow hack’ that went viral last year involves passengers stuffing an empty pillowcase or even a neck pillow with additional clothes to avoid paying for extra luggage. While this has worked for some, it has spectacularly backfired for others.

One user who attempted this crafty packing technique was ultimately denied boarding after a dispute with airport staff. TikToker @natashaorganic was caught with a pillowcase full of clothes at Orlando International Airport and was eventually escorted away by airport security after refusing to pay for extra luggage.

While it might seem like a cost-effective option, it could end up costing you more, especially as airline luggage policies are continually changing and becoming stricter. You wouldn’t want to risk having to discard clothes at the gate after your pillow stuffed with clothes is discovered.

As a travel editor, I’ve packed suitcases more times than I can count. I recently upgraded my packing cubes to this excellent ones, and they’ve made a huge difference to how I pack

For savvy travellers, packing cubes are a must – they’re a neat and condensed way of organising your clothes, can be lifted out of the suitcase and popped straight into your hotel room wardrobe, and can save you precious case space (and even money too, on excess baggage fees).

As a travel editor, I’ve used packing cubes in the past – this popular £10 Amazon set – but, although a great price, I found these ones to be very flimsy, and the zips quickly broke on a number of them. However, ahead of a recently long weekend to Spain, I upgraded to these travel editor-approved Briggs & Riley ones – and they made such a big difference.

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I’d already heard great things about the Briggs & Riley Packing Cube Sets following on from another trip I took recently with other travel editors; every one of them were either wheeling Briggs & Riley suitcases or had the packing cubes inside, and everyone praised how good they were.

When mine arrived, I could immediately tell they were far superior quality to the ones I’d previously used. Available in three colours, the zips are sturdy, the cubes all fit neatly into the largest one, and the expansion and compression design feature is genius; open it up wide, fill it up with your clothes, then zip it up smaller and tighter to maximise suitcase space.

They’re also made from antibacterial treated fabric for odour prevention, and have a useful handle on the size for quick and easy lifting out of cases; they almost look like mini suitcases themselves.

On this particular trip I used the Check-In Packing Cube Set, £99, as I was checking in a medium-sized suitcase, and they fit really well; they’d fit even better in a ‘full-size’ case. My partner, who was taking a cabin bag, used the Carry-On Packing Cube Set, £79, which were also very spacious; these would still be an excellent option if you wanted to spend a little less.

Because the downside of these is that they’re certainly not the cheapest packing cubes on the market. However if you’re a regular traveller, I honestly think they’ll last you a lifetime, and seriously improve your holiday packing. I won’t be without them now.

If you’re after a slightly cheaper option but something that’s more robust that the bargain Amazon options, I’ve also heard great things about the Antler Set of 4 Packing Cubes, £50, available in eight stylish colours, while Next’s £16 Set of 3 Luggage Packing Cubes are a cute and colourful option.

Packing can be a nightmare when you’re trying to stick to cabin bag limits, but there is one change you can make that will ensure extra space in your bag – and it’s not the common rolling technique

One of the biggest hurdles when jetting off abroad is trying to cram all your essentials into the airline’s limited luggage allowance. If you’re aiming to travel light, sticking to cabin bag restrictions can be a real headache – but there’s one simple switch that could free up some much-needed space in your suitcase.

A common trick for conserving space is rolling your clothes; not only does it make use of the suitcase space, but it also helps avoid deep creases from forming when packed down. While many travellers have adapted to this technique, there’s an alternative method proven to be even more effective.

The KonMari folding technique, popularised by Marie Kondo, involves folding your garments into rectangles, rather than rolling them into cylinders, as we often see. This allows the clothes to stand upright next to each other in your suitcase, optimising even more space, reports the Express.

Here’s what to do:

• Take your item of clothing and fold one side to the middle, then the other side over it, creating a rectangle
• Then, fold it in half lengthways
• From here, fold it into thirds until it’s a small rectangle that can be slotted in alongside other items

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In addition to this nifty technique, it’s also smart to ditch hefty toiletries like shampoo and body wash, as most hotels supply these complimentary. If you’re heading overseas for an extended period, think about purchasing these upon arrival to spare suitcase space.

Alternatively, numerous hotels are happy to receive online deliveries prior to your stay, allowing you to order your bathroom necessities to arrive before you do. It’s a straightforward strategy to lighten your load and prevent overpacking items you may not even use.

Investing in jewellery and cable organisers is another savvy move. These will keep your belongings safe and untangled, saving you from rummaging through your suitcase in search of what you need.

Now you’ve mastered the rectangular folding technique, there’s another tip to be aware of when you’re at the airport.

Waiting for your suitcase to appear on the carousel at the airport can be a tense wait, but there’s an easy trick to ensure your suitcase is one of the first to be taken off the plane – and it won’t cost you an extra penny.

Hadleigh Diamond, Commercial Director at SCS Chauffeurs, revealed that a lot of the company’s clients use the same hack to get out of the airport as efficiently as possible. He explained: “Clients regularly tell us that the difference between a good travel day and a stressful one often starts with baggage reclaim.

“If you’re standing waiting for 30 minutes while the carousel clunks out someone else’s bags, your trip can feel so much longer. But the fragile sticker trick is a game-changer, and it often works.

“We’ve heard this tip from both airport ground staff and frequent flyers. You don’t need to lie or explain – just politely ask the check-in agent to add a ‘fragile’ sticker to your suitcase. It’s not guaranteed, but more often than not, your bag is among the first out. We’ve seen it work time and time again.”

The reason it works is that airport ground handlers will typically load ‘fragile’ items last into the aircraft’s hold to avoid them getting crushed, and then these get removed first on the other side to avoid sitting under heavy loads. Of course, it won’t save you hours of time, but those 20 minutes it might save you could just mean a bit of extra pool time (or getting to your hotel early enough to be one of the first at the buffet!).

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Fashion experts have revealed the clever ‘5-4-3-2-1’ packing hack that they say could let you pack up to 30 outfits into one bag – and therefore avoid extra fees

We’ve all been there; you finish packing for a holiday, only to find that you end up having to sit on top of your suitcase, squishing it down and hoping that it won’t burst open when you check it in at the airport.

After all, if you’re away for a week it can feel impossible to decide which outfits you’ll need, and therefore packing everything from your wardrobe feels like the easiest solution. Well, according to fashion insiders there’s actually a simple rule that could help you not only cut down how much you pack, but it could mean you pack up to 30 outfits without needing much space.

The experts at Joe Browns have recommended using the ‘5-4-3-2-1’ packing method. The idea is that you stick to a simple formula; five tops, four bottoms, three pairs of shoes, two bags, and one destination-specific item.

For example for a beach holiday you could pack:

• Five tops: casual vests, lightweight blouses and a smarter top for dinner
• Four bottoms: shorts, skirts and trousers
• Three pairs of shoes: ones for walking around the city, one for poolside, and one for dressing up for the evening
• Two bags: A larger bag for the daytime, and then a smaller bag for when you only need to carry your essentials
• One destination-specific item: swimwear for the beach

Of course, if you have space then you can always add-in a few ‘bonus’ items such as a versatile dress, or a poolside cover-up. The perk of packing light is that you can opt for a smaller suitcase or stick to just one bag, meaning you could swerve extra hand luggage fees.

In fact, the insiders have previously shared a few packing hacks to avoid going over the luggage limits. One of their tips? “Go for items that have multiple purposes,” they recommend. “Prioritise versatility over volume to avoid overpacking.”

They also recommended that before packing, you look at how each item works with others to create multiple combinations. They added: “Planning mix-and-match looks helps you travel lighter and stay effortlessly stylish throughout your trip.” Layers can also be handy instead of “just in case items”, as these can be added or removed depending on how the weather acts during your getaway!

For those who do struggle to keep to one bag, there could be good news on the way. A major ruling may soon allow holidaymakers to take two bags into plane cabins, at no extra charge. That’s because the EU’s Transport and Tourism Committee recently proposed changes to EU passenger rights rules by 38 votes to two and two abstentions.

These still need to be voted through by the European Parliament in the coming weeks, and then discussed by country representatives for the European Council, but it’s already a step in a positive direction for those who struggle to navigate through airlines’ differing hand luggage rules.

You can find out more about planning a holiday wardrobe on the Joe Browns website.

Brits flying with the likes of Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2 and British Airways need to navigate hand luggage rules but fashion insiders have revealed their trick to avoid facing hefty fines

Packing for a holiday should be a fun process, but we all know that between navigating hand luggage rules to checking your travel documents, it can sometimes become a headache.

Airlines such as Ryanair, Jet2, easyJet, Wizz Air, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic all have different rules around what you can and can’t take in hand luggage, and what the weight limit is for those bags.

There’s always that dreaded moment when your bag gets weighed at check-in, and you hold your breath and hope you won’t go over the limit forcing you to choose between frantically repacking in front of the whole queue, or accepting sometimes hefty charges. In fact, it’s estimated that in 2024, Brits spent approximately £205 million on overweight baggage fees.

It’s not just the weight of your bag that’s a factor either; the size comes into play too. For example, on Ryanair flights you can bring one free bag but it must measure no more than (40 x 20 x 25 cm) and fit under the seat. A second bag could incur costs of up to £36. With easyJet, the dimensions of your carry-on bag—including the handle and wheels—must not exceed 56 x 25 x 45 cm. If you go over this, you could be charged up to £40 to store your bag in the hold.

The good news is that there are some easy hacks to help you stick to the weight limit in the meantime. Fashion experts at Joe Browns have shared their top tips on how to pack lightly while still managing to get all of your essentials into your bag. Check out their top tips below…

• Focus on essentials: Go for items that have multiple purposes. Prioritise versatility over volume to avoid overpacking.
• Wear heavier items: Need bulky trainers or thick jumpers for your trip? Wear them on the plane to save space in your luggage.
• Plan outfits in advance: Before packing, consider how each item works together to create multiple combinations. Planning mix-and-match looks helps you travel lighter and stay effortlessly stylish throughout your trip.
• Be smart with layers: Rather than packing extra ‘just-in-case’ items, opt for layers that can be added or removed depending on the weather.
• Weigh your bag before you leave: Use a handheld luggage scale at home to avoid surprise charges at the airport.
• Consolidate toiletries and make-up: Streamline your holiday beauty routine by choosing multi-use products or minis. It’s a great excuse to keep things low-maintenance and leaves room for that one outfit you just couldn’t leave behind.

There could be good news on the way for passengers though, as a major ruling may soon allow holidaymakers to take two bags into plane cabins, for no extra charge. Just last week, the EU’s Transport and Tourism Committee proposed changes to EU passenger rights rules by 38 votes to two and two abstentions.

The proposals still need to be voted through by the European Parliament in the coming weeks, and then discussed by country representatives for the European Council, but it’s already a step in a positive direction for those who struggle to pack everything into one bag.

Have you found a clever luggage hack? Email us at [email protected].

In a now viral video, a TikTok user shares their travel hack for packing more clothes while avoiding excess baggage charges. While some commenters praise the hack as ‘genius’ others see some faults.

A plane passenger has stunned others by revealing where she secretly stashes her clothes to avoid paying extra baggage charges.

The video, posted by Nina Edwine (@nina_edwine) to TikTok and which has amassed two million views, shows how she stuffs her neck pillow – as opposed to her hand luggage – with clothes.

Despite the small size, Nina pulls garment after garment after garment out of the neck pillow – showing just how much you can fit inside. She was able to pack in 10 individual items of clothing – including a bra, tops and a dress – inside her neck pillow. She captioned the video: “rat technique to avoid paying 50euros [£43] for cabin baggage”.

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In addition to drawing millions of eyes, the viral video has generated much discussion in the comment section, attracting almost 2,000 comments. The tactic has been widely applauded by the TikTok community, but some people have pointed out some flaws.

“This is actually genius [for real],” wrote one commenter. “I will surely do this my next trip” wrote another, with many others also agreeing they were ready to put this hack to the test.

However, some commenters were sceptical that this would actually be allowed by airline staff. Especially on low-budget airlines like Ryanair that are sticklers for overweight and oversize luggage.

One user wrote: “I was traveling with Ryanair last Thursday and if you only have a small luggage you can’t have [anything] else. The lady by the gate told EVERYONE to put the pillow in their bag or throw them away.”

Another user claiming to work at an airport said: “As a gate agent, we still notice and we’ll still charge you for that.” While a different commenter said their attempt to use a similar hack failed: “Did this with a normal pillow and Ryanair staff at Marrakesh were not having it”.

Others joked that, even if gate agents weren’t already inspecting people’s neck pillows for ‘contraband’ they would from now on. “You lot are exposing this and when we get to the gate about to hop on a Ryanair flight, they will want to check everything,” wrote one commenter.

Commenters were quick to share other great tips for how to sneak extra clothing onto a flight without paying for additional baggage. “Buy any item at duty free [store], get a bag to go and you can put your clothes etc in that bag,” wrote one user.

Another tip was to use “one of those Uniqlo cross body bags”, and to “wear it under your coat with a scarf round your neck to disguise the strap”.

This one simple trick can save you a lot of time and effort when you open your luggage in your hotel and it only takes a matter of minutes to complete

Anyone packing miniature toiletries into their hand luggage have been told to perform one handy trick before zipping up their suitcase.

A group of Travel Insider writers for Qantas have divulged their best space-saving hacks for packing hand luggage. And this tip not only saves space but a potentially messy eruption.

“Squeeze air out of toiletries” urges one travel writer for passengers attempting to pack sunscreen and other lotions and liquids in their hand luggage. The hack even comes with a guarantee that “you’ll thank yourself later”.

“Is there anything worse than getting to your hotel only to find that half–empty tube of sunscreen has erupted in your bag?” the expert writes. “Squeeze any air out of your toiletries bottles before you travel to create a vacuum effect that sucks lids and caps on tight.”

READ MORE: Tourists urged to ‘prepare for worst’ and pack two items in hand luggage

It only takes an extra minute while packing can save you from losing your costly creams or having to replace them on arrival at your destination. It can also protect your clothes or other items in your hand baggage from being ruined.

That said, another travel expert provides another great idea for those worried about travelling with their favourite products. “I save up all my skincare samples (online store Adore Beauty and Aesop are generous with theirs) so I have a full suite of products for any trip – it saves so much space and weight.”

In addition to being space and weight friendly, these samples will also help you stay under the 100mL limit at UK airports. The limit is still in place despite the installation of new state-of-the-art scanners in a number of UK airports.

The Department of Transport previously announced a “major shake-up of airport security rules” to better screen liquids and electrical items such as laptops. The security update was eagerly awaited by travellers as it would finally end the 100ml limit on liquids, aerosols and gels (LAG) for hand luggage.

The 100ml limit was initially implemented in 2006 after a foiled terror plot but was only ever meant to be a temporary measure. But slow progress to modernise security technology has seen the measure extended.

The driving force behind the more relaxed security update was the availability of new state-of-the-art security scanners that would be better equipped for passenger screening. The Computed Tomography (CT) scanners—the same technology used for medical scanners—are capable of creating 3D images of luggage to better detect potential threats.

The superiority of these scanners are one way that airports are striving to modernise in order to reduce passenger queue times. Initially, there was a June 2024 deadline for UK airports to integrate the new security measure but it was later extended to June 2025.

Because of the continued delay, all liquid containers must be kept in a single clear, resealable plastic bag. The bag should not exceed dimensions of 20cm x 20cm and must have a maximum capacity of one litre.

Only certain liquids, such as essential medications, liquids for specific dietary needs, and baby food or milk, are exempt from the 100ml limit.

Passengers may think they’re ahead of the game by bringing their own food and drink onto the plane – but not every airline is so lax when it comes to allowing consumption on-board

Most UK airlines allow passengers to carry food in both their hand luggage and checked baggage, though it is the quantity that may vary.

If you are planning to bring food into an aeroplane for consumption at your end destination, you should also keep in mind the customs regulations for the country you are visiting, as they all differ. Every passenger will have their hand luggage screened by security ahead of boarding – and it is here that people carrying specific items may be pulled up on what they’ve packed.

See below for a list of some of the most popular UK carriers and what they say about bringing food on-board a flight.

READ MORE: Ryanair travel rules for Brits visiting Spain, Greece, France or Portugal this summer

Ryanair

Ryanair permits passengers to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages on board, so long as they fit within the airline’s cabin bag size and weight restrictions. However, hot drinks and alcoholic beverages are not permitted onboard.

Baby food is subject to more lenient liquid rules. Ryanair mandates that if you are travelling with an infant (8 days-2 years), there is no limit to the amount of baby milk, powdered milk, sterilised water and baby food you can bring onboard. Additionally, baby food does not need to be placed in transparent plastic bags like other liquids.

easyJet

Yes, easyJet passengers can bring food into the cabin. However, when it comes to liquid foods, the carrier’s 100ml limit on liquids and gels still applies. That means large quantities of soups and custards are not permitted.

Only alcohol bought in the airport departure lounge and unopened can be brought into the cabin. It must also be lower than 70% abv and stored in either your cabin bag or an airport shopping bag. Passengers are forbidden from drinking their own purchased alcohol on board and can face prosecution for doing so.

Baby food, sterilised water and milk are the only exceptions to the 100mL liquid maximum. However, easyJet warns there is still a 2L maximum and you may be asked to taste the food for security purposes.

British Airways

The British Airways website states that passengers: “Can take solid foods like sandwiches, biscuits, fruit, nuts, etc. into the cabin but the same restrictions for liquids apply to liquid foods, e.g. drinks, soups, sauces, jam or jelly.”

The carrier also warns passengers to verse themselves in the restrictions of the country that are travelling to and from. “The country of your destination may restrict the types of food allowed into the country, e.g. meat, fresh fruit and vegetables are forbidden by many countries.”

TUI

TUI passengers are permitted to bring food into the cabin, but the airline advises passengers to pack “low-risk food such as pre-made sandwiches and snacks that can be eaten cold.” This is because refrigerators and microwaves are not available for passenger use. That said, flight crews are able to warm milk bottles for infants in hot water as needed.

Jet2

Jet2 does not clearly outline its hand luggage restrictions when it comes to food. However, the airline does state that passengers are not permitted to carry: “Items which in our reasonable opinion are unsuitable for carriage by reason of their weight, size or character or which are fragile or perishable or which may affect the safety, health or comfort of other passengers or crew, this may include hot or strong smelling foods and drinks”.

Jet2 also doesn’t allow hot drinks or hot food on their planes. It also says you cannot bring food onboard if it’s not allowed by the laws of the country you’re flying from, to, or over.

A warning has been issued that there are a number of items that tourists should avoid packing in their hand luggage – with certain goods potentially causing accidents

As Brits prepare for their summer holidays, a warning has been issued about what not to pack in your hand luggage. Hand luggage is often used to store valuables or items needed on the flight, but the company advises travellers to be cautious about what they include.

Firstly, Fulton Umbrellas warns holidaymakers to be mindful when packing electronic items with lithium ion batteries. While rules can vary between airlines, generally only electronics with batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh should be packed in hand luggage. The firm also advises ensuring all devices are fully charged and switched off before being stowed away.

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Fulton Umbrellas also urges travellers to think carefully about the food they pack in their carry-on cases, reports the Express. While many people take food home or snack on the plane, items like jams, soft cheese and chutneys could be seized as they count towards the 100ml limit on liquids.

Furthermore, different countries have additional restrictions on certain types of food, so it’s crucial to research banned items before travelling to avoid disappointment and confiscation.

Finally, the company suggests passengers should steer clear of packing certain types of umbrella in their hand luggage, depending on their size.

While there are generally no restrictions on carrying a brolly in your hand luggage, larger ‘golf-style’ umbrellas could pose a risk, especially when packed in soft cases.

Instead, holidaymakers are advised to stow these larger umbrellas in their checked luggage, freeing up more space for other items in their carry-on bag.

In addition, Fulton Umbrellas has issued a warning to those fitness enthusiasts who plan to maintain their regimen while on holiday, advising them to reconsider packing protein powders in their bags.

Although not explicitly prohibited by airlines, these powders can obscure the view on X-ray machines, hiding items that are placed behind them.

Consequently, travellers who opt to pack protein powders in their hand luggage may find themselves spending extra time at security, as staff will likely need to manually inspect the case.

A new TikTok travel hack has seen holidaymakers being refused onboard their flight, and it’s all to do with how they’re packing their luggage

When it comes to jet-setting, there are specific rules and regulations we must adhere to at the airport, particularly regarding what you can pack and how much is permitted in the UK. However, a recent TikTok trend has resulted in travellers being denied boarding.

The ‘travel packing’ trend has seen a whopping 402 per cent increase in Google searches over the past month alone. Travel packing involves holidaymakers seeking innovative ways to maximise their luggage space – a necessity as budget airlines continue to tighten their baggage allowances. Nonetheless, holiday provider Travel Republic has unveiled some top travel hacks that won’t land you in hot water at the airport this summer.

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So, what’s this TikTok travel hack all about? In 2023, the ‘pillow hack’ was making waves on social media, reports the Express. This crafty trick involved passengers stuffing an empty pillowcase or neck pillow with extra clothes to dodge paying for an additional bag for clothing.

TikToker, @natashaorganic, recently posted a video showing the hack spectacularly backfiring, which has amassed 2.8 million views and nearly 300,000 likes.

The footage depicts a passenger looking rather disgruntled after staff at Orlando International Airport informed them they needed to pay for extra baggage for their pillowcase full of clothes.

This resulted in a dispute with the airport staff, and as the passenger failed to comply with their request, they were subsequently denied boarding and escorted from the gate by airport police.

No traveller would want to invest all that time, money, and effort only to be informed that they cannot board their flight.

Kate Staniforth, head of marketing at Travel Republic, commented: “Whilst many TikTok users have claimed this hack works, unfortunately, this is not always the case and you can be caught out.

“It’s down to the discretion of the airline staff, meaning you could be left with a choice between paying for additional luggage or leaving your items behind.

“You don’t want to risk the enjoyment of going on holiday and having to either leave your possessions or pay for additional luggage at the airport as it is nearly always cheaper to pay for baggage in advance.”

Budget airline Ryanair has shared a simple packing tip which can help passengers “save space” in their hand luggage – and it’s something that is often recommended by travel experts

Ryanair, famed for its budget-friendly fares, has a strict baggage policy that can catch passengers off guard, leading to unexpected fees at the airport. The amount of luggage you can bring depends on whether you’ve purchased a standard fare, chosen Priority, or paid extra for cabin or hold baggage.

No matter your baggage allowance, Ryanair has shared a simple packing tip they claim will help you “save space”. The airline advises against leaving any space unused, suggesting: “Roll your clothes instead of folding. They’ll wrinkle less and you’ll have much more room in your luggage to fit in any extras you pick up while you’re away.”

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This rolling technique is often endorsed by seasoned travellers. For those flying with a standard ticket on Ryanair, only one small bag is allowed free of charge, which must not exceed 40 x 20 x 25cm.

Should your bag be larger than these limits, you might end up paying an additional fee at the airport, so it’s crucial to ensure everything fits within the permitted dimensions.

Lifestyle experts from Oakley have weighed in on the matter, highlighting that the effectiveness of rolling clothes to maximise luggage space actually hinges on the technique used.

They explained: “While the age-old advice of rolling clothes to save space is nothing new, the real game-changer lies in the technique.

“Instead of simply rolling each garment individually, consider layering items within each other before rolling. For example, place socks and underwear inside shirts or pants to create compact bundles that save both space and preve.”

You can boost your luggage allowance by purchasing a Priority ticket which not only allows you to board earlier but also entitles you to a second larger cabin bag measuring 55 x 40 x 20cm and weighing up to 10kg.

When it comes to distributing weight, Ryanair also shared a handy tip for customers, reports the Express. They said: “Do pack your heaviest items, for example, shoes [and] jeans, in the bottom of your wheelie suitcase. You’ll find it’s much easier to roll as the weight will be more evenly distributed.”

Passenger who want to take extra luggage but also save money, in the long run, should always book and pay for any additional bags in advance of their flight. It’s always cheaper to do this online before you arrive at the airport.

What is Ryanair’s luggage allowance?

All Ryanair fares include one small personal bag which can be brought on board, such as a handbag or laptop bag, but this can only measure up to 40 x 20 x 25cm and must fit under the seat in front of you. Anything more than that and you’ll have to pay extra.

Passengers can pay for Priority which entitles them to board via the Priority boarding queue at the gate, plus take one small personal bag measuring 40 x 20 x 25cm and a 10kg bag measuring 55 x 40 x 20cm.

If you’re looking to check in a bag, you have the option to add either a 10kg or 20kg check-in bag to your booking.

However, these must be dropped off at the check-in desk prior to going through security and both options come with an extra charge.