5 travel changes in Qatar you need to know before the travel

Travel season is just around the corner, and with a short break at the end of the month, so many Qatar travellers are gearing up for their next getaway.
With several popular destinations seeing changes, we’ve rounded up all the new travel changes you need to know before heading to the airport.
One major region has introduced a new arrivals system that could affect your plans, while additional restrictions on travel items are now in place for flights to key destinations.
To avoid any holdups at the airport, here’s your guide to the latest travel rules in Qatar this October.
1) New checked baggage restrictions for travellers

Travellers heading to or via the U.S. should note that cordless hair straighteners, flat irons, and curling irons with lithium batteries are not allowed in checked baggage. These devices can only go in carry-on bags and be placed in a safety cover to prevent accidental activation.

Similarly, travellers headed to South Korea should be aware that curling irons with non-removable batteries are also banned unless set to “flight mode” and approved by the airline.

2) European Union introduce a new Entry/Exit SystemCredit: Canva Pro
Effective from Sunday October 12, European Union countries will begin introducing a new Entry/Exit System at the borders of Schengen countries.
The new system will replace the manual stamping process, and applies to all non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay of up to 90 days in any 180-day period in 29 different European countries.
The EES will not apply to EU citizens, Schengen residents or those with long-stay visas or residence permits.
3) Power Bank and Vapes banned on carry on
Qatar Airways has issued a travel advisory prohibiting passengers from carrying certain Anker power banks onboard, including the below.Anker Power Banks (Models: A1647 / A1652 / A1681 / A1689 / A1257) – Recalled in June 2025
Anker PowerCore 10000 – Recalled in June 2025
Anker Power Banks (Models: A1642 / A1647 / A1652) – Recalled in October 2024
If you’re travelling with other power banks, e-cigarettes, or vapes, remember that these items must not be packed in checked-in baggage.
When onboard, the devices should not be charged, and safety caps or covers must be placed over air vents on e-cigarettes or vapes to prevent accidental activation.
4) Travel changes to Qatar Airways flightsInternational Airlines Group (IAG) partners, Aer Lingus and LEVEL. (Credit: Qatar Airways).
the world’s best airline for the ninth year in a row, Qatar Airways continues to prove exactly why travellers love it — with constant expansion and new routes making travel even easier.
The airline has been steadily rolling out updates to its network, with several flight increases announced for its winter schedule. Starting this October, travellers look forward to even more flights taking off.
This includes 18 U.S. routes, including Boston, Bradley International, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, Nashville, Newark, Orlando, Philadelphia, and Washington Dulles, plus a soon to be announced new service to Las Vegas. This is with the airline’s new codeshare partnerships with International Airlines Group (IAG) members Aer Lingus and LEVEL.
5) Qatar Airways airport transition in CambodiaTecho International Airport (KTI).
Qatar Airways has recently announced that all flights to and from Phnom Penh International Airport (PHN), Cambodia, will operate at the newly built Techo International Airport (KTI).
The new airport is bigger and more modern, offering a smoother travel experience. Travellers should start booking flights to explore new destinations down south, and if you’ve already made plans, make sure to double-check your booking details before heading to HIA.

Wednesday, 1 October 2025