Can I Bring a Water Bottle on a Plane? Bring a Reusable One!

Veganderlust contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. For more info, see the Disclosure Policy.

Can I bring a water bottle on a plane? Yes, just bring an empty reusable water bottle and refill it after the security check!

Traveling by plane can be a hassle, especially when you’re trying to navigate through airport security procedures and regulations. One question that often arises is whether you can bring a water bottle on the plane.

You can’t bring a full bottle through security, but the good news is you can bring an empty water bottle and refill it after the security checks.

I’ve been on my fair share of flights and I always bring my reusable stainless steel water bottle! You just have to bring it empty through security and refill it afterwards. Almost all airports have water fountains or special water bottle refill stations.

As a matter of fact, I highly recommend bringing a water bottle. Because it’s important to stay hydrated during a flight and on the plane you only get those tiny cups if you get a free drink at all.

Table of Contents

Can I Bring a Water Bottle on a Plane?

Selecting the Appropriate Type of Bottle

When choosing a water bottle for your trip, consider the water bottle materials. Stainless steel, plastic, and glass water bottles are common options. Each has its pros and cons, but my favourite are stainless steel bottles.

Stainless steel bottles are stylish, durable and often insulated, keeping your drink cold or hot for an extended time.
Plastic bottles are lightweight and inexpensive, but be sure to choose a BPA-free option.
Glass bottles are stylish and have no metallic taste, but a glass bottle is heavy and fragile.

Ultimately, select a reusable water bottle that best suits your needs and preferences. I use a stainless steel bottle which is not insulated. That way it’s very light but it doesn’t keep my drink cold.

Traveling with Empty Water Bottles

To pass through airport security, you’ll need to follow the TSA liquid rule. This means your water bottle must be empty when entering the security screening area.

But don’t worry – you can still stay hydrated during your flight. After passing the TSA security screening, refill your empty bottle at one of the water fountains or filling stations available in the airport.

Tina refilling a water bottle at a water refill station in an airport; Can I bring a water bottle on a plane? Yes you just bring an empty one and refill it after security — Can I take a water bottle on a plane? I always bring my water bottle and refill it again past the security check

Filling Stations and Water Fountains at Airports

Many airports have water fountains or special filling stations where you can refill your water bottle after going through security. These are typically located near restrooms or throughout the boarding gate areas.

Keep your eyes open for signs directing you to these water sources. Refilling your bottle at these stations helps you stay hydrated while avoiding the high cost of purchasing bottled water at the airport.

By selecting the appropriate type of bottle, traveling with an empty water bottle, and refilling it at airport filling stations and water fountains, you’ll be well-prepared to bring your water bottle on a plane.

Remember to drink plenty of water during your flight to prevent dehydration and make your journey more comfortable. Safe travels!

Why you should bring a water bottle on a plane

Staying hydrated is always important and the best way to do that on a plane is by bringing a reusable water bottle which you refilled after the security check.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a long-haul flight or just a short flight, I always bring my water bottle. And since I have my new Black Hole backpack I can handily put it in a side pocket.

A water bottle is one of my must-have travel items. Because on long-haul flights you only get tiny cups and on many shorter flights drinks aren’t included at all.

So, when you take a cheap airline, like Ryanair or Spirit Airlines, bringing your own water bottle also saves you money because you don’t have to buy an expensive drink on the plane.

Bringing a reusable water bottle is one of my tips for long-haul flights:

10 Tips for a Comfortable Long Haul Flight

Watch this video on YouTube

My long flight tips, filmed in Melbourne airport

Understanding Airport Regulations for Water Bottles

Rule for Liquids

When preparing for your flight, it’s important to understand the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids.

This 3-1-1 liquid rule states that you can bring containers up to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) of liquids, gels, or aerosols per item in your carry-on bag. All these items need to fit into a single quart-sized, resealable clear plastic bag.

This also goes for toiletries, so it might be good to minimise your toiletries and swap your liquid shampoo for a solid one.

Unfortunately, this means bringing larger bottles of water on a plane in your carry-on luggage is not allowed. However, you can always carry an empty water bottle in your hand luggage or checked bags.

To follow the rule and avoid dehydration during your flight, consider drinking plenty of water before boarding, purchasing a beverage past security, or filling your empty water bottle at a water fountain near your gate.

Exceptions for Breast Milk, Baby Food, and Medications

There are exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule for certain items such as breast milk, baby formula, and medications. If you’re traveling with an infant or need to bring essential medications on your flight, you may be allowed to carry these items in larger quantities.

For breastfeeding parents, the TSA allows breast milk, formula, and baby food to be carried on board in reasonable quantities, which means the 3.4-ounce limit doesn’t apply. However, be prepared for these items to be inspected during the security screening process.

Similarly, if you need to bring medication on your flight, the TSA regulations provide an exemption for liquid medications exceeding the 3.4-ounce limit.

It is recommended to inform the TSA officer about your medication at the beginning of the security screening process and keep the medication separate from your other liquids.

Environmental and Health Benefits of Reusable Water Bottles

Reducing Plastic Wastes

By using reusable water bottles, you’re making a positive impact on the environment. With the large amount of plastic waste generated from single-use bottles, switching to a reusable option is an excellent way to reduce your impact on landfills and the ocean.

In fact, it has been reported that using reusable bottles can help save the ocean by decreasing plastic pollution.

Additionally, producing disposable plastic bottles involves the use of fossil fuels, which emits greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. When you choose to use a reusable bottle, you’re taking a step towards reducing your carbon footprint as well.

Don’t forget to use your own water bottles not just at the airport but for the rest of your trip as well.

zero wast tips for beginners — I bring my reusable water bottle everywhere!

Considerations for BPA-Free and Chemical-Free Water Bottles

When selecting a reusable water bottle, consider your health along with the environment. Opt for BPA-free, chemical-free bottles to ensure the safety and quality of your drinking water.

BPA, or bisphenol A, is a chemical found in some plastics and can leach into your water, potentially causing negative health effects. By choosing a BPA-free bottle, you’re prioritizing your well-being.

Some popular materials for reusable water bottles include:

Stainless steel: These bottles are non-reactive, lightweight, and durable, making them an excellent choice for a long-lasting water container. They often come with an insulated feature, keeping your drinks cold or hot for extended periods of time.
Aluminum: Another lightweight and durable option, aluminum bottles offer a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly choice for your hydration needs.
BPA-free plastic: While you might want to avoid exposing plastic bottles to hot temperatures and direct sunlight, BPA-free plastics provide a safe, lightweight alternative to conventional plastic bottles.

Remember that when you travel by plane, you should adhere to the liquid rules for carry-on luggage, which restricts the volume of gels, aerosols, and personal care items. While this rule does not prohibit water bottles, it’s essential to empty them before passing through security.

Packing Water Bottles in Checked Bags

Containers and Baggage Safety Tips

When packing water bottles in your checked luggage, make sure to choose sturdy, leak-proof containers to avoid any spills or damage to other items in your bag.

If you’re bringing bottled water, tightly screw the cap on to prevent leakage. For reusable bottles, a wide-mouth option with a secure lid is recommended.

Keep in mind that, due to TSA regulations, liquids in containers with a volume greater than 100ml (3.4 ounces) must be packed in checked luggage. So, if you’re packing a water bottle to bring on your flight, it’s important to follow these guidelines.

To further safeguard your belongings, wrap your water bottle in a plastic bag or place it in a separated compartment within your checked bag. This helps contain any possible spills and makes it easier for airport security to inspect, if needed.

I actually never check a bag, I just travel with one carry-on bag, no matter where and how long I travel. For that, I used to just take my old school bag, but recently I upgraded to a stylish sustainable Cotopaxi backpack.

International Flights Considerations

When travelling on international flights, it’s essential to be aware of the specific requirements and restrictions imposed by each country. For example, Australia and New Zealand are very strict with what food and drink you are allowed to bring into the country.

In some cases, restrictions on liquids might be more stringent, particularly when it comes to carrying large quantities of liquids like bottled water or breast milk.

But bringing your own empty bottle of water is always allowed.

Why Can I Not Bring a Full Water Bottle Through Security?

You’re not allowed to bring a full water bottle past the airport security checkpoint for security reasons because terrorists could hide liquid explosives in water bottles.

FAQ: Can you take a water bottle on a plane?

Can you bring a stainless steel water bottle on a plane?

Yes, you can bring a stainless steel water bottle on a plane as long as it’s empty when you go through the security check. You can refill it afterwards.

Should I carry a water bottle in Europe?

Yes, tap water is drinkable in almost all European countries. So, bringing a reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated, saves you money and reduces single-use plastic.

Can you take an empty water bottle on a plane?

You can take an empty water bottle through airport security and then refill it before you board the plane. That way you can even take a full water bottle on the plane.

Final Thought: Can You Bring a Water Bottle on a Plane?

Can you take a water bottle on a plane? The short answer, you cannot bring a full water bottle through security but you can bring an empty water bottle and refill it after the security check.

I bring my stainless steel water bottle on every flight and I’ve never had a problem with it. So, can you bring a metal water bottle on a plane? Yes, you can. The worst thing that can happen is that you open it and show the security officer it’s really empty.

Facebook Tweet Pin Print Email

Can I Bring a Water Bottle on a Plane? Bring a Reusable One!