Can SodaStream Cylinders Be In Luggage

Not sure if you can fly with SodaStream cylinders? Discover the TSA rules, airline policies, and smart travel alternatives for CO2 cartridges in your luggage.

Thinking of Flying with Your SodaStream? Read This First.

You love your sparkling water. Maybe your destination doesn’t have it. Or maybe you’re just not ready to give up those perfect homemade bubbles for a week. Whatever the reason, you’re wondering: can SodaStream cylinders be packed in luggage?

The short answer? No, not really. At least, not without jumping through some serious hoops—and even then, it might still be a no.

Let’s break down what the TSA, FAA, and major U.S. airlines actually allow.

TSA and FAA Rules on Compressed Gas Cylinders

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are very clear on this one:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2) cylinders are considered hazardous materials.
• SodaStream cartridges are under high pressure, which makes them a no-go item on most commercial flights.
• TSA prohibits them in both carry-on and checked bags, unless specifically marked as “empty” and with valve protection (and even that might be denied).

Officially:

• CO2 cylinders above 28g capacity (like SodaStream’s 60L) are not allowed in passenger baggage.
• Even empty cylinders can trigger red flags at screening checkpoints.

So unless you’re traveling under very specific conditions (e.g., with a private charter), leave those cylinders behind.

Airline-Specific Rules (U.S. Domestic Carriers)

Verdict: U.S. airlines follow federal guidelines and don’t permit SodaStream cylinders onboard.

What Happens If You Try to Pack One Anyway?

Best-case scenario? TSA pulls you aside and confiscates the cylinder.

Worst-case? You’re fined for violating FAA dangerous goods regulations—and your flight is delayed or denied boarding.

Risks Include:

• Fines (up to $15,000)
• Delayed flights
• Security questioning or denied boarding
• Loss of the item (they won’t store it for later pickup)

Not worth the hassle.

Alternatives to Bringing SodaStream Cylinders on a Plane

If you’re craving your fizzy fix, here are smarter, TSA-approved alternatives:

1. Buy Cylinders at Your Destination

• SodaStream has global distribution. Check local retailers.
• Use the brand’s store locator online to find refill stations.

2. Use Portable Carbonators with Smaller Cartridges

• Devices like DrinkMate or Aarke may use smaller, single-use cartridges
• Some CO2 capsules (under 28g) are allowed if the airline approves

3. Pack Pre-Carbonated Bottles

• Bring sealed sparkling water bottles in your checked bag
• Make sure they’re well-wrapped and under the liquid limit if in carry-on

4. Ship the Cylinder Separately

• Some couriers allow shipment of CO2 cylinders if properly labeled
• Check with FedEx or UPS for hazardous material options

What About International Flights?

The rules abroad may vary, but most countries follow ICAO and IATA dangerous goods guidelines, which also prohibit compressed CO2.

If you’re flying internationally:

• Always check with the arrival country’s customs agency
• Assume that any non-empty cartridge will be flagged
• Call your airline ahead of time—don’t wait until check-in

FAQs

Can I bring an empty SodaStream cylinder in checked luggage? Technically possible with valve protection, but TSA agents can still reject it if it appears pressurized.

Can I fly with a mini CO2 cartridge? Only if it’s under 28g, properly labeled, and airline-approved (usually used in life vests or bike tools).

Are SodaStream machines themselves allowed? Yes—the machine (without cylinder) can go in checked or carry-on luggage.

Can I mail a CO2 cylinder to my destination? Yes, but it must be shipped as hazardous material through a carrier like FedEx or UPS.

Can you fly with SodaStream bottles but not the CO2 cylinder?

Yes. The SodaStream plastic carbonating bottles are TSA-compliant and can be packed in both carry-on and checked baggage—as long as they’re empty. If they’re filled with water or soda, they’ll fall under the TSA liquid restrictions.

What you can pack:

• Empty 1L or 0.5L BPA-free SodaStream bottles
• SodaStream-branded dishwasher-safe bottles
• The SodaStream machine itself (without cylinder)

What to avoid:

• Pressurized CO2 cartridges
• Filled bottles over 3.4 oz in carry-on
• Bottles showing damage or cracks (they may be flagged)

Tips:

• Clean bottles thoroughly before travel
• Wrap them to avoid crushing in checked bags
• Mark them as “personal kitchen item” if questioned

So yes, leave the cylinder behind—but your reusable bottles can come along for the ride.

Can I take a SodaStream on a cruise ship or train if I can’t fly with it?

Cruise lines and Amtrak each have their own rules, but some allow SodaStream cylinders with approval.

Cruise Lines:

• Most major cruise lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian) prohibit compressed gas.
• However, some allow small CO2 cartridges for medical or recreational use if declared in advance.

Amtrak:

• More lenient than airlines
• CO2 cartridges not explicitly banned, but must be declared and secured
• Staff may inspect the SodaStream unit and cylinder

Alternative Ideas:

• Bring the SodaStream unit and purchase a CO2 cylinder at the port
• Use mini carbonators like DrinkMate with smaller cartridges (if allowed)
• Ask cruise line guest services about shipboard sparkling water availability

Always call ahead and get written confirmation. Transportation outside of airlines tends to be more flexible—but don’t assume.

What’s the cost of buying a SodaStream CO2 cylinder at your destination?

CO2 cylinder pricing varies by location and retailer. In the U.S., a standard 60L SodaStream refill typically costs between $14.99–$17.99 with exchange and $29.99–$34.99 without exchange.

U.S. Retailer Price Comparison (60L CO2 Cylinder):

Outside the U.S.:

• Canada: ~CAD $20–25 with exchange
• UK: ~£12–15 with exchange
• EU: €10–15 per refill

Plan to check availability in advance, especially in rural or international areas. Many places now offer SodaStream exchanges in pharmacies and supermarkets, not just specialty stores.

Can I bring a SodaStream CO2 cylinder in an RV or camper van?

Yes—but there are some best practices to keep it safe. While RV travel isn’t regulated by TSA or FAA, you’re still dealing with a pressurized gas cylinder, so handle it with care.

Safe Transport Tips for RVs:

• Secure the cylinder upright using bungee cords or a crate
• Keep it in a cool, shaded area to prevent pressure buildup
• Never store it near the engine or gas stove
• Check for leaks or damage before transport

Legal Considerations:

• In most U.S. states, carrying a SodaStream CO2 cylinder in an RV is not restricted
• Transporting across U.S. borders may require customs declaration
• For campers with onboard carbonators (like Aarke), only use cartridges approved for RV travel

As long as the cylinder is stored safely and upright, there’s no federal law preventing it in personal road vehicles.

Is it legal to mail a SodaStream cylinder to yourself?

Yes—but only via carriers that allow hazardous materials. CO2 cartridges are Class 2.2 non-flammable gas, which must be shipped under specific guidelines.

Carriers That Allow It:

• UPS: Requires hazardous materials label, paperwork, and surcharge
• FedEx: Must use FedEx Ground with ORM-D or limited quantity labeling
• USPS: Does not allow CO2 cylinders, even if empty

Shipping Guidelines:

• Must be shipped ground (never air)
• Cylinder must be properly secured and labeled
• Include SDS (Safety Data Sheet) in packaging for commercial shipments

Estimated Shipping Costs:

• UPS Ground (1 cylinder): $18–$25
• FedEx Ground (1 cylinder): $20–$28
• Hazard surcharge: $5–$15 per shipment

It’s doable—but not exactly easy or cheap. Factor in time and paperwork.

Can I use a third-party CO2 brand instead of SodaStream when traveling?

Yes, many third-party brands are compatible with SodaStream machines, but this depends on thread compatibility and safety.

Compatible Brands in the U.S.:

• Soda Sense
• DrinkMate
• Blue Rhino Exchange (limited availability)
• SodaMod (refillable, not TSA-compliant)

Pros:

• Often cheaper than official SodaStream refills
• May offer more flexible refill options

Cons:

• Not always approved by SodaStream warranty
• Thread differences could cause leaks or damage
• Not allowed on planes either—same CO2 restriction applies

Cost Comparison:

Traveling? Stick to bottled water or plan to buy cylinders after arrival.

Are mini carbonators allowed on planes if they use small cartridges?

Sometimes—if the cartridges are 28g or less, and declared ahead of time. These mini carbonators (like those used for soda siphons or whipped cream) may qualify under FAA allowances.

Conditions:

• No more than 4 cartridges per passenger
• Must be non-flammable CO2
• Stored in original packaging
• Airline approval required before boarding

Devices That May Qualify:

• iSi Soda Siphons
• Aarke Carbonator with travel-sized capsule insert
• Older-style hand-pump seltzer bottles

Allowed by Airline?

While not guaranteed, smaller cartridges are your best shot at bringing carbonation gear onboard.

Can I rent SodaStream equipment while traveling instead of flying with it?

Yes—in some urban areas, SodaStream machines and cylinders are available for rent or loan through rental companies, Airbnb hosts, or cooking gear shops.

Where to Look:

• Local kitchenware rental stores
• Vacation rental platforms that offer add-on appliances
• Some high-end Airbnbs and VRBOs offer SodaStream machines as amenities

Average Cost:

• Machine: $15–$30/week
• Cylinder (included or separate): $10–$15 refill fee

Rental Benefits:

• No need to transport equipment
• Avoids TSA and shipping hassle
• Easy access to sparkling water abroad

Check local availability ahead of time and message hosts if unsure.

Do hotels allow SodaStream use in rooms?

Most U.S. hotels won’t stop you from using a SodaStream machine in your room, but there are exceptions.

Allowed:

• Boutique and extended-stay hotels
• Suites with kitchenettes
• Airbnb and VRBO

Not Allowed or Discouraged:

• Hotels with no in-room appliances
• Budget hotels with strict energy use policies
• Rooms where CO2 noise may disturb others

Tips:

• Run the machine during daytime to avoid noise complaints
• Don’t store the cylinder in direct sunlight
• Clean up spills—CO2 can create foam overflow

Call ahead or ask at check-in. When in doubt, stick to bottled sparkling water.

Final Verdict: Leave the Cylinder, Bring the Bubbles Another Way

As fun as fizzy water is, SodaStream CO2 cylinders aren’t worth the TSA drama. U.S. regulations are strict, and the risks (fines, confiscation, flight delays) just aren’t worth it.

Instead, plan ahead. Ship it. Buy it when you land. Or pack a few bottles of Perrier in your checked bag. When it comes to travel, the only thing you want exploding under pressure is your excitement—not your luggage.