Travellers risk having phones or laptops confiscated if they miss a pre-flight check

Laptops and phones running out of power are everyday occurrences that probably don't seem like a big deal. But did you know that avoiding this when travelling abroad is especially important?

Dead electronics during a flight are more than just an inconvenience. In fact, current Government advice warns that you could even be required to leave your device behind if it doesn't switch on when asked.

"Make sure your electronic devices are charged before you travel," guidelines on the Government's website state. "If your device does not switch on when requested, you will not be allowed to take it onto the aircraft."

While the Government does not explain why passengers must adhere to this rule, there are likely two key reasons. Seamus McCauley, Head of Public Affairs at Holiday Extras, outlined these in a recent conversation with Peterborough Matters.

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He said: "First, a device that won't power up may have a damaged or faulty battery, and lithium-ion batteries — which power most modern electronics — can pose a fire risk if compromised. Second, airlines may view a device that can't be turned on as a potential security risk."

Beyond this, it's essential to know the dos and don'ts of what items to pack in your hand luggage. For example, only specific electronic devices are allowed on flights departing from the UK.

Although certain airlines may impose different restrictions, the Government lists nine main items you can carry in your hand luggage and checked luggage.

• Mobile phones
• Laptops
• Tablet devices
• MP3 players
• Hairdryers
• Straighteners
• Travel iron
• Electric shaver
• Most cameras

However, its site adds: "Check the restrictions on certain types of batteries or contact your airline if you're not sure what you can carry[...] You can take hair curlers containing a gas cartridge in hand or hold luggage as long as the safety cover is fitted at all times. You must not take separate gas cartridges on board."

Passengers using e-cigarettes should also carry them in their hand luggage instead of their hold luggage. During security checks, placing electronic devices in a designated tray helps staff easily see and verify that no prohibited items are concealed.

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What counts as a liquid when flying?

Below is the UK Government's complete list of items categorised as hand luggage liquids:

• Pastes, including toothpaste
• Gels, including hair and shower gel
• All drinks, including water
• Cosmetics and toiletries, including creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara and lip gloss
• Liquid or semi-liquid foods, for example, soup, jam, honey and syrups
• Any other solutions and items of similar consistency
• Sprays, including shaving foam, hairspray and spray deodorants
• Contact lens solution

Solid products like deodorant sticks, soap bars, wet wipes, and lip balms are usually considered non-liquids. Therefore, they typically don't require storage in the bag.

Most UK airports require liquids to fit inside a single transparent plastic bag when passing through security. Each liquid container must hold a maximum of 100ml, and the plastic bag must be approximately 20cm x 20cm.