This Magic Hack Will Get Your Drink Through Airport Security, Legally

Here’s an easy hack that’s actually been hiding in plain sight all along, something that seems so obvious when you think about it. But once you adopt it, it can actually provide a small but life-changing improvement in the lives of frequent travelers.

Here’s the deal: You know you can’t take any liquid larger than 3.4 ounces through security, and that all containers have to fit in a clear, quart-sized zip-locked bag. Naturally, that means you never have the option of bringing, say, your uber-precise coffee preference, prepared with half goat milk and half fat-free vanilla almond milk. And not only would you not be able to get that on the other side of security, but you’d have to pay jacked-up prices for a facsimile.

Turns out, there’s a workaround that is viable, easy, and completely legal. The Points Guy notes that you can simply freeze your liquids in advance, and as long as they are fully still frozen by the time you reach the security gate (not slushy or partially thawed), you are totally good to go.

After all, per the TSA’s own language: “Frozen liquid items are allowed through the checkpoint as long as they are frozen solid when presented for screening.”

So freeze your drink the night before your flight. Then, once through security, keep your drink safe and wait until it thaws to enjoy it on a long flight if time is no issue. If you’re eager, take your beverage into an airport lounge (if you have access) and sink it into a cup or bowl of hot water available for tea. You could also ask for hot water in a restaurant.

Yes, it’s an extra step, but it’s fully permissible and a perfect option for those who want not just to save money, but also to have exactly the custom concoction they prefer.

Speaking of custom concoctions, don't forget you can bring mini bottles of alcohol through TSA checkpoints legally too.