It's almost September and the summer holidays are drawing to an end, which for many people means the window for a quick getaway is running short.
But it also means there is a significant six-day warning for Brits travelling to Europe.
Imagine this scenario: You've checked in for a flight, and after five failed attempts, you scan the barcode on your boarding pass, sling your packed bags off your shoulders, and prepare to head through security.
Suddenly, everyone around me is rushing around with clear plastic bags in hand, trying to cram as much liquid as they can into them, ready to put on a tray, and praying the bag stays closed.
The exception to this is if you're in Europe, where restrictions have eased and this panic over liquids in carry-on luggage is much calmer.
To be honest, these bags are usually stuffed to the brim. (Getty Images)
The installation of next-generation CT scanners at many Schengen airports means passengers can now carry larger amounts of liquids in their carry-on luggage.
Many UK airports also allowed this, but had to temporarily reintroduce the old 100ml rule on June 9th.
Following this, the European Commission will also temporarily reinstate the restrictions on September 1, meaning that if you are returning from Europe after that date, you will not be able to take any liquids, aerosols, gels, pastes or cosmetic products in containers larger than 100ml in your carry-on baggage.
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And yes, that basically means you'll need to prepare for the possibility of lengthy delays, with the European branch of Airports Council International (ACI) saying the changes could create “significant operational burdens.”
Advanced CT scanners, which were previously installed, have increased security and now passengers can leave liquids and laptops in their bags.
Olivier Jankovec, ACI Europe's general secretary, told The Independent: “Security is non-negotiable and a top priority for European airports, so all airports will be fully compliant with the new regulations.”
“But the fact is that airports that were early adopters of this new technology are suffering significant operational and financial consequences.”
The changes are expected to cause delays. (Getty Images)
“They have made the decision to invest in and deploy C3 scanners in good faith, given that the EU has approved the equipment without any restrictions.”
ACI Europe called on the European Commission and member states to “urgently develop a roadmap” to ensure these rules remain as “interim” as possible.
When rules were changed in Britain in June, many airports, including Birmingham, saw queues of up to three hours.
A Department for Transport spokesman said: “The temporary reintroduction of the 100ml liquids limit at some airports is to allow us time to further improve the system.”
“This will only affect people travelling from the six regional airports where Next Generation Security Checkpoints (NGSC) are already fully operational – around 6% of all UK air passengers.”
So, guys, rules come into force again in Europe this Sunday so make sure you only put 100ml or less of liquids in a clear plastic bag.
