Absolutely, You Can Bring Gravy Through Airport Security

Many of us—myself included—might have forgotten the lessons from high school chemistry. However, as we approach this holiday travel season, it's wise to brush up on the essentials. Let us break it down for you.

The TSA permits frozen foods at security

To begin with, it’s important to highlight the Transportation Security Administration’s guidelines for transporting liquids through airport security: The TSA allows liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less; they must be placed in a quart-size clear plastic bag, limited to one bag per traveler. But there’s more to it.

The TSA also permits frozen goods at the security checkpoint, provided they are completely frozen when presented for screening. According to the TSA, frozen liquid items cannot be “partially melted, slushy, or contain any liquid at the bottom of the container.” If they are, they will be subject to the 3-1-1 rule. This means you'll need to time it perfectly to pass through security with a block of completely frozen gravy (TSA PreCheck can assist)—or invest in a solid travel cooler.

Keep in mind that all liquids, except for helium, will freeze if the temperature drops low enough, giving you a viable method to transport some of Grandma’s gravy from that festive meal.

The TSA is quick to remind that “the final call is made by the TSA officer on whether an item can pass through the checkpoint,” meaning this trick might not work every time. With that said, it’s useful to explore which holiday foods should go in a checked bag.

Foods you can take through TSA in your carry-on

You shouldn't face any issues bringing solid foods through security in your carry-on. These items include:

• Fresh cranberries
• Bread
• Baked potatoes
• Green beans
• Yams
• Pies
• Cakes
• Dry stuffing, as long as it’s more moist than solid. Otherwise, pack it in a checked bag.

Turkey is also allowed in your carry-on. However, if you're flying with an uncooked turkey, ensure that any ice packs surrounding it are fully frozen. Dry ice is allowed, but it must not exceed five pounds, and the container should be appropriately vented and labeled.

If you have questions about what items you can bring through TSA, their What Can I Bring? tool is a fantastic resource to check.

Foods you should consider putting in your checked bag

Generally, spreadable or liquid foods are best packed in your checked bag. This includes holiday classics such as:

• Gravy
• Mashed potatoes
• Sweet potato casserole
• Cranberry sauce

All these items are better suited for your checked bag, unless you’re willing to take a chance on a lenient TSA agent who might overlook a bit of slush in your Tupperware of mashed potatoes, or if you’re okay with squeezing the items into 3.4-ounce containers for a quirky mini-feast. No judgment here!

Advice for traveling with food

Beyond TSA rules, there are additional factors to consider when flying with food. Specifically: how to pack it to avoid mess or spoilage before you reach your destination. For smaller items, we suggest using a lunch box, such as the Puffy Lunch Bag by Baggu ($30), to keep them separated from your other travel essentials and ensure better temperature control during transit.

If you’re taking frozen gravy or sauce, ensure they’re in a securely sealed, leak-proof container.

This article was initially published in 2019 and most recently updated on November 16, 2023, with the latest information.