The Simple Hack for Bringing Water Through TSA Security

Airplane cabins are abnormally dry environments, which is why it’s so important to stay hydrated during flights. But given the TSA’s strict liquid limits, bringing full water bottles through airport security isn’t as simple as many travelers would hope. There is, however, one clever work-around that allows you to get past these restrictions and bring a full, standard-size water bottle with you into the terminal. Let’s take a look at this ingenious, yet simple hack below.

An Ice-Cold Solution

When passing through airport security, all liquids — water included — must be in containers that measure 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. Standard water bottles, which typically measure 12 ounces or greater, are prohibited under these rules. But there’s an important distinction — the rule only applies if the water is in liquid form, and frozen water bottles are 100% permitted.

A TSA spokesperson confirmed to CNN, “Frozen liquid items are allowed through the checkpoint as long as they are frozen solid when presented for screening.” The logic behind this decision is that dangerous liquids are very difficult to freeze without an extra refrigerant to keep them cool, so a frozen water bottle on its own is likely safe.

You’ll want to time this carefully, or bring a cooler in the car so the water bottle doesn’t melt on your way to the airport, which would invalidate this hack. The TSA’s website says, “If frozen liquid items are partially melted, slushy, or have any liquid at the bottom of the container, they must meet 3-1-1 liquids requirements.” So if you notice your frozen water bottle has begun to melt while waiting in a long line, you’ll either have to drink it or toss it.

Technically, this hack applies to more than just water. You can also freeze bottles of soda or even skin care products — as long as the liquid stays frozen, it’s permitted. However, don’t freeze anything you’d be sad to throw in the trash, just in case it melts or the TSA agent prohibits it at their discretion.

Also consider that regulations may differ in other countries. For example, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority requires frozen liquids to still adhere to the 3.4-ounce/100-milliliter limit, so be sure to read up on local rules before attempting this hack abroad.

Why Bother?

Let’s be honest:  You may be wondering if this hack is really worth the trouble. Fair. There are plenty of alternatives — you can always bring an empty reusable water bottle to the airport and fill it up at a filling station in the airport, or just purchase a bottle of water at one of the many shops in the terminal after you go through security.

But there are instances when this hack can come in handy. Airport shops charge a premium for their products, which are often priced 10% to 15% higher than street prices, so if you don’t have a portable travel water bottle handy, you can save money by bringing a cheaper bottle of water from home. 

The Importance of Staying Hydrated

Whether you bring your own frozen water bottle or not, the most important thing is to remain hydrated whenever you travel. The humidity in a typical airline cabin is much lower than what we’re used to on the ground (around 10% to 20%, compared with 40% to 50%). That often results in eye irritation, dry skin, and other general discomfort. The more water you drink during the journey, the more likely you are to arrive feeling refreshed and jet lag-free.

To prevent dehydration, the Aerospace Medical Association suggests consuming 8 ounces of water for every hour you’re in the air. At the same time, they also recommend avoiding alcohol, coffee, and sugary drinks, all of which are likely to dehydrate you more quickly.