Can You Bring a Bottle on a Plane?

Once you start using a reusable water bottle, you'll want to take it everywhere. After all, it's good for you and good for the planet. What's not to like? Equally, you may be worried about certain restrictions and the risk of leaving your trusty bottle behind. So, if you're setting off on your travels and wondering, can you bring a reusable metal water bottle on a plane? Look no further. This article details everything you need to know about travelling with a reusable water bottle. 

Can You Bring a Reusable Water Bottle on a Plane? Rules & Guidance on Where to Take Your Metal Bottle

Short answer, yes. Providing your reusable water bottle is empty when going through security checkpoints, you should have no issues travelling with a reusable water bottle.

Understanding the Regulations on Reusable Water Bottles 

If you're departing from the UK, you shouldn't face any issues travelling with your reusable water bottle. If you've ever been on the TSA website, it can be confusing to determine what you can and can't take.

Thankfully for eco-conscious travellers, the TSA does not state that you cannot take reusable water bottles on planes.

Of course, there are important rules and regulations, particularly the liquid rule. Regulations state that liquid exceeding 100ml cannot be taken through security. Thankfully, the easy solution is to empty your bottle before security and refill it once you're through.

By June 2024, the UK government are introducing a new limit of 2 litres. So, you can take a water bottle through without emptying it.

It's worth noting that any layovers and your destination may have different regulations to your departure airport. If you want to double-check that you can travel with a reusable water bottle, check the rules for your end destination, too.

Tips for Travellers with a Reusable Water Bottle

Want to make travelling with a reusable water bottle a breeze? Check out our top tips! 

  1. Empty your bottle before security, so you have one less thing to worry about. 
  2. Fill it up before boarding so you can stay hydrated while waiting for service. 
  3. Choose a bottle you can use on the go with features like a carry loop. 
  4. Buy a flip-lid water bottle if you want to sip without needing two hands free. 
  5. Ensure you keep your water bottle nice and clean to stay hydrated and healthy! 

Does the Material Matter?

There are no specifications about the material used in bottles, so you should be good to go whether you're using glass, plastic or stainless steel reusable water bottles. However, it's worth considering the practicalities of the material. For example, a 1-litre glass bottle may be deemed dangerous, not to mention weighty.

Can You Bring a Reusable Water Bottle to…

While we've covered international travel by aeroplane, there are many other places people commonly ask about too. So, whilst we're at it, let us answer those.

Reusable water bottles at the cinema

Generally, you should be fine to take a reusable water bottle to the cinema, provided it contains water or another soft drink. Cineworld, for example, has a policy against hot food and alcoholic beverages. So, double-check the venue's website if you're unsure.

Reusable bottles at festivals, concerts, and events

Unfortunately, several large venues, such as Wembley Stadium and the O2, don't allow stainless steel water bottles. Thankfully, festivals are more committed to reducing single-use plastic, with festivals like Reading, Download and Glastonbury actively encouraging it with on-site refill stations.

If you're heading to a festival, concert, or event, check the guidelines on their website or ask customer service beforehand.

Reusable bottles at theme parks

Many theme parks, including Disney, Universal Studios and Thorpe Park, allow visitors to bring reusable water bottles. However, some venues don't allow glass bottles. So, always double-check the venue's website beforehand.

FAQs

Does the TSA/CAA allow refillable water bottles?

Yes, providing the refillable water bottle is empty when you go through security, there are no guidelines that state you're not allowed to take reusable water bottles.

Can you bring a metal bottle on a plane if it's empty?

Yes! The TSA website doesn't state anywhere that reusable metal bottles aren't allowed on planes.

Are metal containers allowed on planes?

You can take metal containers with lids in your carry-on and checked baggage.

Will I be kicked out of the cinema if I bring my own drink?

Many of us believed the myth that you're now allowed to bring your own food and drink into the cinema for years. Thankfully, it's not true, and you can bring your soft drink without the risk of getting kicked out. However, some cinemas do have a policy against bringing alcohol.

Regardless of where you travel, checking the rules before you set off is always wise. A quick search should answer your question within seconds. In addition to the regulations, consider your hydration needs and convenience, too. For example, if you're hiking, you'll want a lightweight bottle that's easy to drink from and can be clipped to your backpack. 

Not sure what's best for your needs? Explore our reusable water bottles here.
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