Are you planning to travel by air soon?
The last two years can really be said to be game-changing years.
Every industry went through a complete makeover, and among all these changes, it’s no surprise if you have silly doubts such as, “Can you bring a metal water bottle on a plane?”
If you are among those about to take the first flight post the pandemic, you must read this article.
Here is the quick answer:
As a rule, you are allowed to bring a metal water bottle through the TSA checkpoint of an airplane, as long as it is empty. You can bring it in either your carry-on or checked luggage.
One important mention is that the T.S.A. security must be able to see the whole inside of the container.
If by construction, your metal bottle doesn’t allow this, then it will not pass security screening.
Related: Can You Bring A Hydro Flask on a Plane?
Metal water bottles are gaining more popularity mainly for two reasons
- They are better than plastic for the environment
- Plastic can cause health problems because of its chemical properties
Stainless steel vs. aluminum bottle
Initially, when I was transitioning from plastic to metal water bottles, I came across two most often used metals: aluminum and steel.
Choosing the right metal for the water bottle is important for your health.
Related: Can You Bring Metal Straws on a Plane?
You can get to choose from a wide collection of water bottles in different metals, and even copper is fast catching up.
Metal bottles are a good choice because of their:
- Durability
- Do not leach chemicals when heated
- Recyclable
- It can be used with hot and cold water
I have been using metal water bottles for many years now and find them very good.
I am prone to dropping things, and even after many falls, my water bottle has been able to stand the test of time, though with a few dents.
However, how do steel and aluminum fare against each other in metal water bottles?
I have used both varieties so that I can explain this better.
Aluminum is usually more reactive than stainless steel.
Most aluminum water bottles come with a protective lining to prevent the water from coming in contact with the metal.
Related: Can you take a Yeti Cup on a Plane?
The lining should be made of BPA-free materials only.
The issue with the lining is that cheap aluminum bottles don’t have an exactly BPA-free one.
Stainless steel, on the other hand, is a fuss-free material.
Both aluminum and steel are more durable than glass and plastic.
When compared with each other, stainless steel bottles are stronger than aluminum ones. A lot will also depend on the quality of steel or aluminum.
Aluminum water bottles are lighter than stainless steel ones. Aluminum water bottles can cool faster as well.
In appearance, aluminum water bottles are more stylish than stainless steel bottles.
The final choice, of course, rests with you.
Aluminum bottles are alright for light and casual activities, while stainless steel bottles are better for heavy usage.
Does the TSA care which metal your bottle is made of?
The TSA does not care about the material from which your metal bottle is made unless it’s depleted uranium. 🙂
It could be stainless steel, plastic, glass, clay, aluminum, or other material. Any reusable water bottle is better than single-use plastic or paper cups.
Reusable water bottles can be made from various materials, but some are better and safer than others. Glass, for example, is one of the safest materials because it is chemical-free and made from natural materials.
Related: Can you bring glass bottles on a plane?
Moreover, glass is easily available, free, and easy to clean. Unfortunately, it breaks easily and, once broken, can be extremely dangerous.
This is why I have stuck to my stainless-steel water bottle. It is light, safe, made with food-grade stainless steel, and tough and durable.
What else can anyone want from a reusable water bottle? To top it all, stainless steel has great insulation properties and maintains the temperature of the liquid it holds well.
How many metal water bottles can you bring in a plane?
There is no restriction on the number of metal water bottles anyone can bring on a plane.
The TSA allows passengers to carry empty water bottles in checked-in and carry-on luggage.
The TSA does not care about the number of metal water bottles you carry but pays more attention to any liquid in your water bottles.
You can store several metal water bottles in your checked-in luggage as long as they are empty and luggage weight is under the permissible limit. The same goes with the carry-on luggage.
The restriction is on the amount of liquid that can pass the security check.
The rule is known as the 3-1-1 rule. This rule clarifies the three main points about carrying liquids in your carry-on bags.
It means that no bottle larger than 3 ounces (more accurately 3.4 oz or 100ml), each bottle or container placed inside one clear plastic bag (quart-sized), and each passenger is allowed only one plastic bag.
FAQ
Can you take an empty metal bottle on a plane?
Oh yes, you can take an empty metal bottle on a plane.
There is a limit on the amount of liquid you can carry but not on carrying any number of empty metal water bottles.
The rule applies not only to water but also to shampoo, lotion, and even toothpaste.
The TSA does allow a few exceptions to this rule. Medicines, baby formula, breast milk, etc., can be exempted from this rule.
It is always advisable to carry a couple of empty water bottles with you on your travels if the weight limit permits.
These bottles are versatile, and you can store hot and cold liquids in them.
Can you bring a glass water bottle on a plane?
Yes, you can bring a glass water bottle on a plane. The TSA has no problem if you are carrying an empty glass water bottle on the plane.
Glass is considered a safe and pure material. It is no wonder that cold beverages, juices, and water are often served in glass containers.
Good quality glass does not impart any smells or odors to the liquid it holds.
Though nobody will stop you from carrying a glass water bottle on a plane, you need to be careful while handling it.
Glass breaks easily, and the shards can fly and hurt other people. Glass water bottles are cheap and do not harm nature.
Can you bring a metal water bottle on a plane to the UK?
Yes, you can bring a reusable metal water bottle on a plane to the UK. The same rule applies here regarding the bottle being empty while it goes through the security check.
All liquids must be in a container of fewer than 100 ml. The liquids in their container should be in a clear plastic bag.
Every passenger is allowed one plastic bag, and you can carry your bag of size 20 by 20 cm.
The bag must be of the right size, or you may have to ask for a plastic bag at the airport, sometimes for a small charge. There is no restriction on carrying a metal water bottle.
Can you bring metal straws on a plane?
People are more conscious of even small personal choices they make, affecting the environment.
Metal straws have become hugely popular, and several cities worldwide have banned single-use straws.
The TSA allows passengers to carry metal straws on the plane. You can carry them in your checked-in as well as carry-on luggage.
Reusable straws are long-lasting and usually come with their cleaning brush, making it easy to keep them clean. Moreover, a metal straw can last a long time and save some money once bought.
So, go ahead and take your metal straw with you next time you fly and feel happy about doing your bit for the environment.
