This is where things get tricky. Heathrow counts more than just water and juice as liquids. They consider anything that squishes, sprays, or spreads.
Emirates Updates Heathrow Carry-On Liquid Guidance - LoyaltyLobby
Your mascara? Yes. Your tub of Nutella? Absolutely. A jar of jam you bought at the local market? That’s liquid, too. Even that tiny pot of lip balm you keep on your keys needs to go in the bag.
I once watched a man argue with security over a tube of Pringles, and it was not a highlight of my morning. But he learned fast: if you can squeeze it, take it out.
A Fun Way to Think About It
Imagine your liquids are like a family of ducks. You can bring them all, but they all have to visit the same pond (the clear bag) before boarding the plane. If one duck is too big for the pond, it stays behind.
This silly image actually helps me remember. If your hand lotion is a chunky duck, leave it at home or put it in checked luggage. Only bring the petite, well-behaved ducks that fit in the bag.
Heathrow has a ton of shops on the other side of security, so you can buy bigger bottles after. Just don’t try to bring them in from outside.
