Can you take liquids in hand luggage on eurostar

Carry containers of 100 ml or less, all placed together in a single transparent resealable bag (maximum 1 litre), and present that bag separately at security screening for cross‑Channel high‑speed services.

This rule covers gels, creams, pastes, aerosols, perfumes and beverages: each vessel must show its capacity and fit entirely inside the resealable 1‑litre pouch (typical dimensions around 20 x 20 cm). Multiple small bottles are acceptable only if the pouch closes fully without bulging; any item exceeding 100 ml may be refused at the checkpoint.

Exceptions: prescribed medicines, infant formula and specialist dietary products are permitted in quantities above 100 ml when required during travel – keep prescriptions or clinical letters ready for inspection and declare such items at security. Purchases made after security (duty‑free sealed with receipt in a tamper‑evident bag) remain valid for carriage, but local import rules at the destination still apply.

For larger quantities, place items in hold baggage; follow carrier weight limits and dangerous‑goods restrictions. Stations operating cross‑Channel high‑speed services apply airport‑style screening processes, so pack fluids/gel items according to airport standards to avoid delays or seizure at security.

Allowed fluids and size limits for carry-on on the cross‑Channel train

Pack fluids, gels and aerosols in a single transparent resealable plastic bag no larger than 1 litre; each container must be 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) or smaller; one bag per passenger.

Medication and infant formula exceeding 100 ml are permitted when required during travel; present prescription or a clinician’s note and declare these items at security. Duty‑free purchases made after security should remain in the sealed tamper‑evident bag with the receipt until arrival.

Use travel-sized refillable bottles, transfer toiletries into 100 ml containers, place the clear bag at the top of cabin baggage for separate screening, and check the train operator’s security page before departure. Allow extra time at the terminal when carrying medical fluids that require verification.

Allowed volumes per container and packaging rules for cross‑Channel cabin baggage

Limit each bottle or tube to 100 ml (3.4 fl oz); all containers must fit comfortably inside a single transparent resealable plastic bag with a maximum volume of 1 litre (approx. 20 x 20 cm).

Only one resealable bag permitted per passenger; present the bag separately during security screening for visual inspection and X‑ray.

Containers exceeding 100 ml are prohibited regardless of remaining content. Gels, creams, pastes, aerosols and pressurised foams are treated as fluids and subject to the same 100 ml rule; aerosols should have functional caps.

Medical items and infant feeding supplies are exempt from the 100 ml limit when required for the journey: carry prescription labels or a supporting medical note, keep originals of medicated packaging when possible, and declare these items at the security checkpoint.

Duty‑free purchases made after exit controls are allowed in larger sealed tamper‑evident bags (STEBs); retain the receipt and do not open the STEB before boarding on the cross‑Channel service.

Practical measures: transfer toiletries into clearly labelled 100 ml travel bottles, use a transparent 1‑litre pouch (~20 x 20 cm), position the pouch near the top of cabin baggage for quick access, and ensure bottles close fully. Expect staff to request opening of containers for additional checks or screening tests.

How to pack toiletries and cosmetics to clear security fast

Place all toiletry items inside a single transparent resealable pouch and keep that pouch on top of the cabin bag for quick inspection.

Packing strategy

• Group by type: gels/creams, sprays, and solid bars–store each group in its own small compartment or clear mini-pouch to speed up targeted checks.
• Prefer solid alternatives: shampoo bars, solid deodorant, and balm foundations replace wet products and cut inspection time.
• Use leak-proof travel bottles with locking caps and secondary sealing (wrap cap thread with plastic film or use a small piece of tape) to prevent messes if screening delays occur.
• Place breakable containers in the center of the bag surrounded by soft items (socks, T-shirts) to reduce burst risk during handling.
• Label refill bottles clearly with product name and source; transfer only from original containers when time permits to avoid unlabeled jars that prompt extra checks.

Security presentation and quick checks

• Remove the resealable pouch and place it in a separate tray or on top of the cabin bag when approaching screening points–keeping it visible halves processing time.
• Have prescriptions, vaccination cards, or doctor’s notes for medically required creams, injectables and gels ready and accessible; present documentation without being asked.
• Keep aerosols and pressurised sprays together in the pouch but segregated from open jars; retain original packaging for novelty or specialty products to avoid clarification requests.
• When small cosmetic palettes contain liquids (eyeliner gel, liquid highlighter), open them for inspection before reaching the scanner to speed up staff verification.
• For last-minute changes, keep a spare clear bag and a minimal set of essentials (solid soap, toothbrush, small balm) ready in a personal item for immediate access if the main pouch is confiscated.

Final checklist before departure: resealable pouch packed and accessible, medical/childcare documentation separate, solids substituted where possible, leak-proofing applied, and fragile items cushioned inside the cabin bag.

Medicines, baby milk and special-diet liquids: what paperwork and screening to expect

Carry original prescriptions and a signed clinician’s letter for all prescription medicines; present paperwork at security and keep products in original pharmacy packaging.

• Required documents: prescription with patient name, generic and brand names, dose and prescribing date; clinician’s letter on headed paper stating medical need and dosing schedule; pharmacy labels or e-prescription printouts. Add a translated copy in French or Dutch for journeys that cross into those countries.
• Proof for infants: unopened formula tins, purchase receipts or batch numbers, and a short note from the child’s GP or paediatrician if special formula is medically prescribed.
• Special-diet feeds (enteral or nutritional supplements): clinician’s letter specifying diagnosis, product brand, ingredient list and typical daily volume; sample packaging or product inserts help speed inspection.
• Controlled medicines (opioids, benzodiazepines, certain stimulants): prescription showing exact quantity and prescriber contact, and confirmation of medical necessity. Confirm import/export restrictions for origin, transit and destination countries before travel.
• Needles, syringes, insulin pens: carry prescriptions, original boxes and a proper sharps case; refrigeration packs for temperature-sensitive meds should show a thermometer or cold-chain indicator where possible.

• Declare relevant items at the security checkpoint before entering screening. Place them separately for X‑ray or manual inspection along with the supporting documents.
• Inspection procedures typically include: visual checks, opening containers, swabbing for explosive residues, and chemical testing. Officers can request a small sample to be poured out or tasted if identification is required.
• If items are opened during screening, staff will usually reseal them in view or transfer contents to a sterile container. If contamination is suspected, disposal and replacement may be required.
• Keep all items accessible and organised: a single transparent pouch for medicines, a labelled bag for infant feeds, and a printed folder with prescriptions speeds the process. Expect an extra 15–30 minutes for checks during peak periods.

Cross-border practicalities: verify country-specific rules for prescription import, carry prescriber contact details and a copy of passport/ID that matches prescription name, and carry only clinically necessary quantities plus a small contingency supply.

1. Prepare a one-page inventory (item, dose/volume, purpose, prescriber contact) in print and on a mobile device.
2. Label all containers clearly with patient or infant name and prescription details.
3. Keep unopened backup packaging (formula tins, medicine boxes) to show origin and composition if requested.
4. If refused passage or entry on medical‑grounds, request a written explanation and contact the consulate or medical provider immediately.

Buying drinks at the station or on board: rules for carrying shop and duty-free beverages

Recommendation: purchase beverages after security screening or onboard; products sold in sealed tamper-evident bags (STEB) with a visible receipt are permitted in the cabin even if container volume exceeds 100 ml, provided the seal remains intact until arrival and customs checks are complete.

Station shop purchases

Items bought before security must comply with the 100 ml per container restriction and be placed inside a clear resealable screening pouch for cabin screening. Shops located inside the secured departure zone issue items already packaged to bypass the 100 ml rule – confirm the outlet is post-security at the point of sale. Keep receipts visible and the STEB unopened; failure to do so may result in removal at the security point.

Onboard sales and duty-free rules

Onboard purchases normally arrive in tamper-evident packaging with a receipt. Retain the sealed bag and receipt for border/customs checks. Personal import allowances differ by destination; a frequently referenced EU guideline for arrivals from non-EU territories is: 1 litre of spirits over 22% ABV OR 2 litres of beverages up to 22% ABV, plus 4 litres of still wine and 16 litres of beer. Quantities above national allowances must be declared and may incur duty or seizure – check the destination authority for exact limits when crossing international frontiers.

Practical packing tips: store sealed purchases upright in an easily reachable external pocket of a cabin bag for fast inspection; avoid opening STEBs before clearing all checks. A compact, stable bag helps prevent breakage – consider a model such as best gym bag for crossfit for upright storage. Families using prams will find models with roomy storage useful; see best double umbrella stroller australia for examples with large pockets suitable for sealed purchases.

Refused fluids at security: disposal, short-term storage and refund steps

Choose one immediate action: dispose at a designated point, place the item in a paid left‑luggage facility, or request a refund or exchange from the retailer.

Disposal: hand over the container to security staff or use station‑provided disposal bins (often labelled “security disposal”). For non‑hazardous water‑based contents, an empty into a toilet is usually acceptable; avoid pouring unknown or chemical contents into sinks or onto floors to prevent stains and slip hazards – for spill cleanup guidance consult how to clean cat sick off carpet. Do not attempt to vent pressurised cans; let staff handle aerosols and gas cartridges.

Short‑term storage: most major terminals offer lockers or manned left‑luggage counters. Typical locker dimensions accept items up to roughly 50×35×25 cm; common price range £5–£12 per item per 24 hours, with larger items handled at staffed desks. Declare perfumes, solvents or pressurised containers before deposit; some operators refuse hazardous goods.

Refunds and exchanges: keep the original receipt and payment method. Retailers normally accept returns for sealed, unused cosmetic and beverage items bought on site; onboard purchases require contact with the train or shop team before leaving the station. If a refund is refused, request a written reason from security or retailer to support a complaint or card‑charge dispute.

Evidence to collect: photograph the sealed item, packaging and receipt; note staff names, time and location of refusal; obtain a disposal or deposit receipt when available. These records speed refunds, insurer claims or courier returns.

Hazardous or high‑value items: if contents are flammable, corrosive or pressurised, avoid locker drop if the service policy forbids hazardous goods – either surrender to security for controlled disposal or arrange regulated courier shipment (dangerous‑goods rules will apply). For expensive perfumes and designer cosmetics, request manager intervention immediately; escalation while still at the checkpoint yields the best outcome.

When in doubt at the checkpoint, hand the container to security staff and ask for written confirmation of action taken; unresolved disputes can then be taken to the retailer, station management or payment‑card issuer with full supporting documentation.

FAQ:

Can I take liquids in my hand luggage on Eurostar?

Yes. Small containers of liquids, gels and aerosols are permitted in hand luggage if each container is 100 ml (or 100 g) maximum and all containers fit into a single transparent resealable plastic bag of up to 1 litre per passenger. Larger items should go in hold luggage or be bought after security. Medicines and baby food are treated differently and must be shown to security staff.

How do I pack toiletries and cosmetics so they pass Eurostar security?

Put each liquid item in a container no bigger than 100 ml and place all such containers in one clear resealable bag (maximum capacity about 1 litre). Carry one bag per person and take it out of your hand luggage for separate inspection at the security scanner. If you need larger quantities, either put them in checked baggage or purchase them in shops located after the security checkpoint; items bought after security usually come in tamper-evident bags with the receipt and can be carried onboard. If you have connecting flights, check the airline rules too, since airport security may apply additional restrictions.

What are the rules for medicines, baby milk and duty-free liquids on Eurostar?

Liquid medicines and medical supplies needed during travel may exceed the 100 ml limit but must be presented to security for checks; carry prescription labels or a doctor’s note if possible to speed up the process. Baby milk, formula and other infant feeding items are allowed in amounts reasonable for the trip and should also be declared at the security desk. Duty-free liquids purchased after you pass the security screening are generally permitted if they remain sealed in the tamper-evident bag provided by the shop and you keep the receipt; if you plan to travel onward by air, confirm that the sealed bag and purchase receipt meet airline and transit-country requirements. Security officers have the final say at the checkpoint, and customs allowances for alcohol or other goods depend on your destination, so allow time at the station and check Eurostar’s official guidance before you travel.