This Travel Hack Will Let You Transport Your Favorite Beverage Through Security

While some may choose to pay airport prices for beverages, there are a few sneaky ways around the TSA's liquid rules.

Bear in mind that the rules apply only to liquids themselves, not containers. It's entirely possible to bring empty water bottles through security and then fill them up at a water fountain on the other side.

But for those who want to bring their own actual liquids along with them, TSA checkpoints can be a bit more tricky and yet not altogether impossible.

Travelers who want to transport liquid — whether it's a local drink impossible to get back home, a favorite mineral water, or a power drink to combat jet lag on the plane — can simply freeze it at home and pass through security with their frozen beverage.

The TSA has special instructions for ice: "If frozen liquid items are partially melted, slushy, or have any liquid at the bottom of the container, they must meet 3-1-1 liquids requirements."

The 3-1-1 rule is, of course, that liquids must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less; they must be placed inside a single, clear plastic bag; and only one plastic bag is permitted per passenger. If you think it will take a long time to get through security, the freezing method might not work.

Those who want to make sure their liquid remains frozen could consider using ice packs, but just remember that the TSA will take away any ice or ice packs that are partially melted or have liquid at the bottom that doesn't meet the 3-1-1 requirements.

The agency notes that the decision about whether a frozen beverage meets these rules and passes through the checkpoint ultimately rests with the TSA officer.