Passengers travelling across Europe in 2026 are being advised to carefully check airline cabin rules before heading to the airport, as several carriers have tightened policies on food, drinks, and restricted items. Travellers flying between the UK and popular destinations such as Spain, France, and Italy may face unexpected delays or confiscations if they are unaware of updated regulations.
Airlines say the changes are designed to improve onboard safety, reduce disruptions during flights, and align travel rules with post-Brexit customs requirements across European borders.
Here is what passengers need to know before packing hand luggage this year.
New Cabin Rules Affect Food and Hot Drinks
Budget carriers including Ryanair and Jet2 have introduced stricter guidelines regarding hot food and beverages brought onboard by passengers.
Under current policies, travellers are not allowed to carry hot drinks such as coffee or tea onto aircraft cabins. Airlines say the restriction helps reduce the risk of spills during boarding or turbulence, which can cause injuries to passengers and crew.
In some cases, freshly prepared hot takeaway meals may also be refused at boarding gates.
Passengers who purchase coffee or hot snacks before boarding may be asked to finish them at the airport rather than take them onto the aircraft.
Airlines emphasise that cabin crew must prioritise safety in confined spaces, particularly during busy boarding periods.
Different Airlines Have Different Policies
Not all airlines follow identical rules.
Carriers such as easyJet and TUI Airways remain more flexible in certain situations. Hot drinks bought after airport security screening may still be allowed onboard if containers are sealed properly and considered safe for transport.
Because policies vary widely, travellers are strongly encouraged to check airline websites before departure to avoid confusion at boarding gates.
Alcohol Rules Remain Strict Across Airlines
Passengers should also remember that consuming personal alcohol onboard is not permitted across most European airlines.
Even if alcohol is purchased at duty-free stores or brought from home, it cannot be consumed during the flight unless served by cabin crew.
Airlines say this rule helps prevent disruptive behaviour and ensures responsible service during journeys.
Post-Brexit Food Restrictions for EU Travel
Travel between the UK and European Union countries continues to be affected by post-Brexit customs regulations.
Passengers flying to destinations including Spain, France, and Italy may face restrictions when carrying certain foods across borders.
Meat and dairy products brought from the UK into many EU countries can be confiscated by customs officials. Items such as cheese sandwiches, sausages, milk products, or yoghurt may not be allowed entry even if purchased at the airport.
These measures aim to protect agricultural standards and prevent animal disease risks.
Travellers should check customs advice carefully, particularly when packing snacks for children or long journeys.
What Food and Drinks Are Still Allowed?
Despite tighter rules, many everyday snacks remain permitted.
Passengers can usually carry:
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Fruit and vegetables
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Crisps and cereal bars
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Cold sandwiches with permitted fillings
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Soft drinks within airport liquid limits
Cold meals and low-odour foods are generally accepted because they reduce discomfort for other passengers during flights.
Airlines often advise avoiding strong-smelling foods such as egg-based fillings or heavily seasoned meals inside cabins.
Liquid Rules Continue to Apply
Standard airport liquid regulations remain in force for hand luggage.
Passengers can normally carry liquids in containers up to 100ml placed inside transparent resealable bags unless items are purchased after passing through security screening.
Exceptions include:
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Baby milk and baby food
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Essential medical liquids
Security staff may still request inspections, so travellers should declare these items during screening.
Popular Routes Also Affected
Travel experts say similar customs and food rules apply to flights connecting the UK with several other European destinations, including Ireland, Germany, and Portugal.
As travel demand continues to recover following pandemic disruptions, governments and airlines are updating regulations more frequently to manage safety and border controls.
Tips for a Stress-Free Flight in 2026
Experts recommend simple preparation steps to avoid problems at airports.
Buy Food After Security
Purchasing snacks airside reduces the risk of liquids or packaging being rejected during screening.
Choose Simple Snacks
Cold and easy-to-eat foods are the safest option for flights.
Avoid Packing Restricted Foods
Check destination customs rules before bringing meat or dairy items.
Always Check Airline Websites
Cabin policies can change quickly, especially during busy travel seasons.
Why Airlines Are Tightening Rules
Industry analysts say airlines are balancing passenger comfort with operational safety as flight numbers increase across Europe.
Cabin incidents linked to spills, alcohol misuse, and food waste have risen alongside passenger demand. At the same time, stricter EU import controls following Brexit have added another layer of enforcement for travellers crossing borders.
The Bottom Line for Travellers
While some passengers may find the new restrictions inconvenient, airlines argue that clearer rules help reduce delays and create safer travel environments.
Planning ahead, understanding customs regulations, and checking airline policies before departure can help travellers avoid last-minute surprises and enjoy smoother journeys across Europe in 2026.
