Bristol Airport Security Information

The more prepped for security checks you are, the faster the process should be. The general rules are: dispose of any liquid items over 100ml (this includes things like sun cream) before you go through security and if you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to worry about. On this page, we explore everything you need to know about Bristol Airport security.
Bristol Airport departures
Bristol Airport departures
Bristol Airport departures

Bristol Airport Hand Luggage - What you can and can't pack

Two of the most frequently asked questions when packing your hand luggage is how big your bag is allowed to be and what you're allowed to take. If this is you, hopefully, the below will answer your questions:

Bristol - Security
bag
liquids
medicines
sharp objects
sports

In addition to the above;

  • If an item does not fit into your hand luggage, it must go in the hold. This should be done before you check your hold luggage or you risk paying an inflated fee to check the item.
  • Large pieces of musical equipment can be taken on board as a 2nd piece of hand luggage, but this is dependant on the airline you're flying with. Please check this with them before you book.
  • Carrying a laptop? Be sure to remove it from your hand luggage bag before you put it through for screening
  • You are free to take pushchairs, wheelchairs and other mobility aids through security, but they too are subject to screening.
  • Only one bag of liquids per person. Liquids that do not fit in the bag size stated above will need to go into the hold.

Medicines and Baby food

  • Medicines are permitted in larger quantities than the 100ml but it is best to obtain a doctors note to save too much questioning at security.
  • Syringes that are needed for diabetics and other medical reasons will only be allowed in hand luggage if you can prove the medical necessity. Phone your airline/airport for clarification on what they would deem proof if you're unsure.
  • Enough baby food and milk to last the journey is also allowed through.

Duty-free / departure lounge purchases

  • Any liquid items purchased after security, of any size, can be taken on to the aircraft.Please be mindful however that you can't drink alcohol purchased in the airport on the plane.
  • Retain your proof of purchase throughout your journey as you will be required to show it at all transfer points if applicable.
Please Note: Restrictions apply to duty-free purchases made on return journeys where passengers change flights at an EU airport. These are explained in detail on the Department of Transport’s website

Bristol Airport Security - Prohibited Items

If items are confiscated at security control you will not be compensated and, with the exception of unusual circumstances, the confiscated items will not be returned.

Scissors Razor blades
Knives with blades of any length Household cutlery
Tweezers Hypodermic needles (unless required for medical reasons)
Tools Toy/replica guns (metal or plastic) Catapults
Knitting needles Sporting bats
Corkscrews Walking/hiking poles
Billiard, snooker or pool cues Darts

Syringes that are needed for diabetics and other medical reasons will only be allowed in hand luggage if you can prove the medical necessity. You may wish to phone the airline in advance to find out what they require as proof of your medical condition.