As TSA security has gotten more strict over the years, you’re no longer able to bring liquids through TSA security unless they are three ounces or less. However, I used to always travel with a water bottle, and now I’m not able to. If you don’t want to have to purchase one inside security, here’s a cool trick about how you can “sneak” water through the TSA checkpoint.
The TSA only bans water in liquid form, however as long as the water bottle is completely frozen you can bring it through TSA, usually with no questions asked. In fact I just tried this on a recent trip from LGA, and the TSA officer let me right through and didn’t even need to search the bag.
Per the TSA website,
Frozen liquid items are allowed through the checkpoint as long as they are frozen solid when presented for screening. 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.
Bottom Line
Now you know, that you’re allowed to bring water bottles or other liquids through TSA as long as they are completely frozen! This works great if you’re going on a long flight because by the time you get on the plane usually it will start to melt.
Feel free to comment below about your success with bringing frozen liquids through TSA.
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We have found it quite easy to bring empty water bottles through security bad then fill the bottles at the water fountains near the gate.
Freezing water in plastic bottles may cause the plastic to leech into the water as it defrosts. Same for reheating frozen food packaged in plastic dishes in a microwave. This may be cancerous. Best bet, refill a glass or metal reusable bottle on the other side of security. Second choice, refill a plastic bottle. But again the overuse of plastic may be unhealthy.
We’ve taken frozen gogurts on a few flights. No problems whatsoever. It’s perfect for early flights when we don’t want to wake the kids for breakfast.
SK does not understand basic physics.
File this more on the side of interesting trivia than practical. Best to bring empty water bottle and refill airside. If it takes you too long to get to the airport the ice will start to melt and they’ll just simply make you throw it out as you won’t be able to empty it. And if you get it through it will be a good couple of hours before you can drink it. This isn’t practical IMO.
I use a Tervis Tumbler water bottle which works perfectly. I fill it 2/3 a day or two ahead and freeze it. When I get to the airport, I drink the melted water. Then after security, I finish filling it with water. There is still a huge block of ice inside lasts for a day inside this insulated container. On the end is a loop that I attach a closed hook to the outside of the bag going through security; otherwise they want to open the bag to take a look at it.