Brits travelling abroad for Christmas are being stopped at security for carrying Christmas puddings as we approach the busiest travel day of the festive period, December 22nd.
With UK airports reporting that 15% of travellers are getting their bags rejected at security for prohibited items, travel experts at eShores have come to the rescue to warn travellers of the lesser-known travel dangers that could ruin your Christmas. From packing wrapped presents for your loved ones, to taking Christmas day dessert through security, these five things could cause issues when travelling this festive season.
1. Packing wrapped Christmas presents
Christmas travellers may try to get ahead of their festive preparations, and come equipped with presents in their hand luggage to protect them or save space in checked baggage. However, security staff may be obligated to unwrap these items to inspect their contents, especially if the gifts contain electronics, liquids over 100ml, or sharp objects like children’s toys. To avoid the frantic search for new wrapping paper when you reach your destination, pack your presents in your hold luggage, or wait until you arrive to wrap them up!
2. Prohibited Christmas pudding
Tis’ the season to eat and drink to your hearts content, with many travellers packing festive foods to share with their loved ones (e.g., mince pies, Christmas puddings, or cured meats). But be warned, these might violate import rules, in places where meat and dairy products are heavily restricted.
Christmas pudding containing suet (a type of animal fat) is not allowed to be taken into the EU from the UK due to regulations on meat products. Similarly, cheese-based treats or anything containing unprocessed dairy, like certain rich Christmas chocolates, might also be confiscated at customs, bah humbug!
3. Travelling with crackers
Some airlines may let you bring a sealed box of Christmas crackers on board, but since they contain a tiny sprinkle of gunpowder, some airlines will ask you to pop them into your checked luggage instead. But make sure to do your research before you fly as some airlines don’t allow them in hand luggage or hold luggage.
To save yourself any festive frustration and make sure you can still enjoy those groan-worthy Christmas jokes, leave the crackers out of your hand luggage.
When it comes to party poppers, it’s a firm ‘no’—whether in hand luggage or checked luggage. Santa’s sleigh might be their only safe ride this year!
4. Beware of social media ‘dream holiday’ giveaways
Everyone has seen those enticing Facebook posts promising luxury Christmas holidays for just a share and a like, but sadly, they’re often too good to be true. Scammers use these to collect personal data and even spread malware. To stay safe, always verify the legitimacy of competitions and never share personal information on public posts.
5. Damaged passport
A common misconception is that if all the information on your passport is present, visible and legible, it is acceptable for travel. However, this isn’t always the case. Passports with water damage, rips or tears in them are often deemed invalid for travel, especially if information is obscured or the laminate has started to lift. Allow plenty of time to check your passport before your trip, so you don’t get a nasty surprise at the departures gate.
To avoid any unexpected travel mishaps this festive season, make sure your holiday is planned to perfection with eShores. From expert advice on navigating airport security to ensuring your trip is stress-free, eShores’ trusted travel specialists are here to make your Christmas getaway as magical as it should be.
