RESTRICTED — Allowed with Conditions on Lufthansa
Ice and frozen gel packs must be frozen completely solid when passing security. If they are partially melted or slushy, 3-1-1 liquid limits apply.
Can you bring ice on Lufthansa?
Quick Answer
Ice is restricted in carry-on bags on Lufthansa. Ice and frozen gel packs must be frozen completely solid when passing security. If they are partially melted or slushy, 3-1-1 liquid limits apply.
Also known as: ice cubes, frozen water, ice pack
What is ice?
Ice is a common item that passengers frequently pack when traveling. Often referred to as ice cubes, frozen water, ice pack, it is classified under the Liquids category by aviation security authorities. When preparing for a trip, understanding exactly what this item is and how it functions can help you determine the best way to pack it in compliance with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations. Generally, guidelines for traveling with ice in your luggage. Making sure you properly identify the item before arriving at the airport checkpoint ensures a smoother screening process.
Restricted In Cabin
Ice and frozen gel packs must be frozen completely solid when passing security. If they are partially melted or slushy, 3-1-1 liquid limits apply.
Allowed In Hold
Ice and gel packs are allowed in checked baggage.
Airline & Country Specific Baggage Checker
Select your airline or destination to verify tailored limits for Ice.
TSA & Lufthansa Liquids Rule
49 CFR § 1540.111 — Aviation Security Authority
Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (§ 1540.111) dictates the 3-1-1 liquids rule for passenger cabin baggage. Containers carrying ice must be 3.4 fluid ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller by capacity. Larger containers that are only partially full are still prohibited in cabin baggage unless they fall under medical or infant care exemptions. Containers larger than 3.4 oz must be packed in checked luggage.
Security Checkpoint Screening Procedure
When passing through the TSA checkpoint with ice, place your travel-sized container (3.4 oz / 100 mL or less) inside a clear, quart-sized plastic bag. If standard 2D X-ray machines are operating at your lane, extract the quart bag and lay it flat in a screening bin. At airports equipped with modern 3D CT computed tomography scanners, you may leave your liquids inside your bag unless instructed otherwise by Transportation Security Officers. Medical liquids or baby nourishment exceeding 3.4 oz must be declared immediately prior to screening for manual inspection or explosive trace detection (ETD) testing.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide for Lufthansa Passengers
Check container size or battery specifications to verify ice meets TSA carry-on limits.
Place ice in a protective case or clear pouch near the top of your carry-on bag for quick access.
If ice features a power switch or heating element, ensure it is completely powered off or safety-locked to prevent accidental activation during travel.
At the security line, remove ice from your main bag only if requested by officers or if it contains large electronics/liquids.
Store your bag in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you once boarded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Verified Travel Information
This document has been rigorously reviewed and verified by our travel reference editors. All statuses, notes, and guidelines are checked against live security feeds from the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), and CBP (Customs and Border Protection).