Flying home for Christmas? Packed with Christmas gifts to spread the festive cheer? Think again before you load your suitcase or carry-on with certain holiday items. Berk Bayraktar, seasoned traveller and CEO of Esimatic, (the company that specialises in travel tech solutions) shares his expert tips on how to navigate airport security with your gifts intact.
Liquid Christmas gifts
Many luxury gifts, like perfumes and spirits, fall foul of strict liquid regulations. Most airports enforce the 100ml (3.4oz) rule for carry-on liquids. For high-proof alcohol, like absinthe or rum over 151-proof, even checked luggage isn’t an option due to flammability concerns.
Berk’s tip: “Buy travel-sized versions or shop duty-free after security. You’ll avoid the hassle and might find exclusive options.”
Wrapped presents
Wrapping your gifts in advance might seem efficient, but security inspections could leave you with torn paper and frustration. Airport scanners struggle with opaque packages, so wrapped gifts often get opened during checks.
Better idea: Berk suggests festive gift bags. “They’re reusable and stay intact during inspections. Or bring wrapping paper to use after you arrive.”
Festive decorations
Items like Christmas crackers or sparklers rarely make it past airport rules. Crackers often contain small explosive components, and oversized snow globes breach liquid limits.
Safe swaps: Opt for electronic decorations or lightweight paper ornaments to keep the holiday spirit alive without breaking the rules.
Toy weapons
Toys resembling weapons—even harmless ones like water guns—can trigger security alarms. These items slow down queues and risk confiscation.
Avoid the drama: If in doubt, skip anything that could be mistaken for a dangerous item.
Food Christmas gifts
Holiday treats like eggnog or liquid desserts may also get flagged at security. Oversized cakes could cause problems depending on local regulations.
Berk’s advice: Prepare festive foods fresh at your destination or stick to non-perishable snacks like biscuits or chocolates.
Plan ahead for smooth holiday travel
Travelling with gifts doesn’t have to cause holiday stress. Plan smarter by knowing what’s allowed, using security-compliant packaging, and shipping gifts in advance when necessary.
As Berk says, “Travel smarter, not harder. A little preparation ensures a smoother journey and happier holidays.”
Safe travels and a joyful Christmas!
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