Sustainably traveling and keeping oneself hydrated while flying becomes easier and more sensible when done following proper regulations and guidelines. Whether it's flying for business, college, or just a quick holiday from Dubai International Airport (DXB), knowing how to take your bottle in your plane ride will only result in an economic benefit for you in terms of plastic waste and frustration saved.
As Loch, we’re passionate about water, wellness, & travel-friendly solutions so let’s dive into what you need to know about flying from Dubai with a refillable water bottle.
1. Understanding DXB’s Liquid Rules
Like all other international airports, DXB adheres to global liquid standards. This measure ensures that security is heightened and all international air standards are met by:
- To clarify, the same applies to all notable liquids viz. you must not take more than one hundred milliliter in your hand luggage through the security checkpoint. All the liquid products should be in bottles of 100 ml or less and should be packed in a single resealable plastic bag, which is not bigger than 1 liter.
- Thus, if you are bringing your own water, it has to be a small size only that can be easily taken away at the security check. Also, in case the water has been already put in your container, it will more likely be the water that gets to be removed.
This can sound irritating, but the trick is the same the world over: security checkpoints do not permit large amounts of fluid prior to screening. The catch, You can bring your empty bottle of any size through the security checkpoint!
2. The Importance of the Empty Bottle
A re-useable bottle such as a Loch bottle is a useful travel companion because:
Empty bottles are permitted through the security checks. Security personnel are only concerned about the liquid content, not the container.Thus, if your container is devoid of any liquid when you run it through the scanner, then you can proceed without any issues.
Subsequently, it can be replenished with purified water at coffee shops, public water dispensers, or at the airport terminal's water refill stations. Besides, it reduces plastic wastage and is cheaper than the bottled water purchased from a store. Loch’s eco-friendly bottle can, besides fostering the environment, quench your thirst in the most natural way.
3. Preparation for DXB Security Check for Your Bottle
Here are the guidelines on what you should do before you reach DXB:
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Airport Recommendations for Arrival Prior to International Flights
The Dubai Airport recommends arriving at least 3 hours ahead of time prior to boarding an International Flight, thus allowing ample time for the Check-In process and locating Water Refilling Stations! -
Empty Your Bottle
Before you proceed to check in your luggage through the security line, ensure your bottled water has been drained. Otherwise, if it has a trace of liquid inside, you might have to dump it. -
EXTRA TIP: Bag your liquids correctly
If that's so, then you would have to put your travel liquids, for example, skincare or medications, inside a clear plastic bag and follow the 100ml rule.
4. Where to Refill Your Bottle at Dubai Airport
And now, the best part about one time through security is staying hydrated – it’s even easier! Some general areas and ways include:
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Water fountains and water bottle filling stations
At the Airport terminals, particularly in Terminal 3, there will be Water Fountains located in close proximity to the restrooms, to enable you to refill your water bottle before you head off to the lounge area. - The locations of the Water Fountains are typically around:
Waiting areas by Gates
Restrooms
Public Seating areas
Although water fountains are in various locations, they are accessible at different locations throughout the entire Airport.
Buy Water at Duty-Free or Cafés
After security and passport control, you’ll find shops, cafes, and vending machines selling bottled water for very reasonable prices (sometimes around AED 1 for a small bottle).
Pro tip: Keep the receipt if you buy water this can make passing secondary screening easier, especially on flights to countries like the U.S. which may check liquids again at the boarding gate.
Cafés or Food Outlets are the places to ask about refilling.
Refilling your bottle will be a common practice at many food outlets if you buy something. Although it is not often said, many globetrotters tell about the nice staff that are ready to fill up the eco-friendly bottles particularly if you are the one supporting the café by getting a beverage or a treat.
5. Water on the Aircraft
Generally, the majority of international flights provide water as soon as you are on board: Water is given for free either in cups or in bottles.
If you request it after the plane has taken off, the staff in the cabin are generally willing to refill your bottle with water (just be careful of the turbulence when refilling).
This way, you will not rely on the airport stores altogether for water since you will be hydrated throughout the flight.
6. Why This Matters Sustainability
Single use of plastic is one of our biggest concerns at Loch, and we strive to make this a reality at airports.
Every month at DXB alone, around one million plastic water bottles are thrown out at security checks, though many people did not even know that they could refill their reusable bottles afterwards! These bottles usually go through recycling process and are made into fabrics and other products, but the best option is to eliminate the waste.
By bringing your reusable bottle:
- You assist in the reduction of single-use plastics,
- Minimize industrial greenhouse gas emissions from bottling,
And join a worldwide movement of people traveling with low levels of waste.
7. FAQs
Can I take a full reusable bottle past security?
Definitively not, unless it be empty. You can have liquids in containers of 100 ml or less only and no one can share them with you after the security check.
Will every terminal have a refill?
Yep, most terminals have water refill stations. You'll usually spot water fountains or refill spots, especially at bigger terminals like Terminal 3.Just a heads-up, it might be a little different depending on where you are at the gate.
Are the water bottles I got outside Dubai Airport permissible to carry?
No those are likely ill-fated to the trash can when they get to the security check. Better to obtain or refill after the screening.
Final Thoughts
It shouldn’t be a hassle to take a bottle when flying from the Dubai International Airport. The fundamental factor is comprehending the regulations empty to security, refill after security and being aware of your options once you’re airside.
With more airports implementing refill stations and travelers selecting reusable solutions, every little endeavor plays a part in a cleaner earth and a more intelligent travel experience.
Therefore, fill your Loch bottle with nothing, smoothly pass through security, and enjoy the convenience of refilling after all, excellent hydration should not be a secondary consideration.
