As the summer travel season heats up, UK holidaymakers are facing some surprising restrictions—particularly when it comes to enjoying a hot cup of coffee or tea on their flight. Ryanair and Jet2, two of the UK’s most popular low-cost carriers, have banned passengers from bringing hot drinks onboard, even if purchased at the airport. Meanwhile, rival airlines easyJet and TUI still permit passengers to board with hot beverages, provided they have secure lids.
This disparity in airline rules is catching many passengers off guard and has sparked questions about consistency, safety, and how best to prepare for a summer getaway.
Why Are Hot Drinks Banned by Ryanair and Jet2?
The primary concern behind these bans is safety. According to Ryanair’s onboard policy, passengers are strictly prohibited from carrying hot beverages on the aircraft due to the risk of spillage, especially during turbulence or emergency landings. These hot liquids, if spilled, can cause burns and pose hazards in a tightly confined cabin space. The rule applies regardless of where the beverage was purchased—including airport cafés past security checkpoints.
Jet2 has implemented similar guidelines. As per the airline’s official customer notice, “hot food or hot drinks may not be brought onboard the aircraft.” The reasoning echoes that of Ryanair, emphasizing passenger and crew safety as the deciding factor. These policies also help streamline cabin cleaning and reduce spillage-related incidents mid-flight.
In practice, this means travelers flying with Ryanair or Jet2 should plan to finish their drinks before boarding. Airport lounges and terminal cafés offer convenient areas to enjoy a coffee or tea in comfort, but those beverages must be consumed before stepping onto the plane.
What About easyJet and TUI?
In contrast, easyJet and TUI Airways have adopted a more flexible stance. Passengers flying with these carriers are allowed to bring hot drinks onboard, provided the drink is stored in a secure container with a tight-fitting lid.
This policy acknowledges both the safety concerns and the importance of passenger comfort. Many travelers like to grab a hot beverage from popular terminal coffee shops like Pret, Costa, or Starbucks before their flight. If you’re flying with easyJet or TUI, you’re in luck—just make sure that coffee cup has a spill-proof lid.
Airports such as London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow report high foot traffic at café outlets during morning departures, especially among leisure travelers heading to sunny destinations like Tenerife, Faro, or Alicante. For these passengers, the ability to bring a hot drink aboard offers a small but appreciated luxury.
The Lack of Standardisation Among Airlines
The hot drink inconsistency highlights a broader issue within the aviation sector: a lack of standardisation in carry-on rules across airlines. While restrictions around liquid volume (e.g., 100ml limits in hand luggage) are generally consistent due to international aviation security agreements, policies around onboard items like food, beverages, and personal electronics can vary greatly between carriers.
This patchwork of rules can confuse travelers, particularly those booking with multiple airlines during one trip or flying out of busy UK airports to destinations across the European Union.
Brexit-Related Restrictions: No Meat or Dairy into the EU
Adding to the complexity is the impact of post-Brexit travel rules. Since the UK’s departure from the EU, passengers are no longer allowed to bring certain food products—particularly meat, milk, and dairy-based items—into EU countries. This rule applies even if the items are purchased at UK airport terminals or packed from home.
According to the European Commission’s official guidelines, these restrictions are enforced at border checks and could lead to fines or confiscation of items. For example, that ham-and-cheese sandwich or a yogurt-based snack may not make it past EU customs.
Therefore, even if your airline permits hot drinks or snacks, travelers must consider destination-specific regulations that apply once they land. The UK government’s “Travel Abroad” page and the EU’s “Traveling with Food and Drink” portal are helpful resources for up-to-date information.
Smart Tips for Summer Flyers
To avoid mid-travel mishaps or boarding confusion, UK travelers should keep the following advice in mind:
- Check Airline Policies Before You Fly: Visit your carrier’s website to confirm their rules around onboard drinks and snacks.
- Secure Your Drink: If flying with easyJet or TUI, ensure any hot drink has a leak-proof lid before boarding.
- Finish Hot Drinks Before the Gate: If flying Ryanair or Jet2, enjoy your coffee at the terminal café or lounge before heading to the gate.
- Comply with Brexit Border Rules: Leave all meat and dairy at home when flying to EU destinations—even in sandwiches or packaged snacks.
- Opt for Cold Beverages: Most airlines permit cold drinks in spill-proof bottles, offering a safe and compliant refreshment option.
Bottom Line: Know Before You Go
With millions of Britons heading abroad this summer, understanding your airline’s specific rules is key to a stress-free trip. Whether you’re grabbing a last-minute cappuccino at London Luton, catching a beach flight from Glasgow, or jetting off to the Balearics, small details like onboard beverage rules can impact your comfort.
Ryanair and Jet2 may not allow you to take your morning coffee to your seat—but easyJet and TUI still do. It’s a minor difference that makes a big impact when traveling early or with kids.
As always, checking both airline guidelines and destination regulations before departure will help ensure smooth skies ahead.
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