Quick Answer
⚠️ TSA does not allow bottles of water over 3.4 oz (100 ml) through security.
✅ You can bring an empty water bottle and fill it after screening.
✅ Bottled water purchased after security is allowed.
✈️ Exceptions: Baby formula, breast milk, and liquid medications are exempt from the limit if declared.
Details
- Carry-on (before security):
- Full bottles of water > 3.4 oz are not allowed through TSA.
- You may bring containers ≤ 3.4 oz inside your liquids bag.
- After security:
- Bottled water purchased post-screening can be brought onto the plane.
- Many airports have refill stations for reusable bottles.
- Empty bottles:
- Empty reusable bottles (metal, plastic, collapsible) are permitted through security.
- Fill them at a water fountain or station after screening.
- Checked luggage:
- Any amount of bottled water allowed, but bottles may leak or burst due to pressure changes.
- Exceptions (not limited to 3.4 oz):
- Baby formula, breast milk, toddler drinks.
- Liquid medications (with declaration).
TSA Water Rules Summary
| Water Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Bottled water ≤ 3.4 oz | ✅ Allowed (quart bag) | ✅ Allowed |
| Bottled water > 3.4 oz | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Empty reusable bottle | ✅ Allowed | N/A |
| Post-security bottled water | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Baby milk / formula / meds | ✅ Exempt (declare) | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Most common mistake: Forgetting a full bottle of water in your carry-on → TSA will make you dump it.
- ✈️ Reusable bottles save money: Bring one empty, refill after security, and avoid $6 airport bottles.
- ✈️ International connections: Even sealed duty-free water may be confiscated if you re-clear security.
- ✈️ Checked baggage risk: Bottles may leak due to air pressure.