Yes, you can. But there are rules.

A cooler counts as a checked bag if it’s within size and weight limits. Most airlines allow hard-sided coolers up to 62 linear inches (length + width + height). Soft coolers are usually fine as carry-ons if they fit under the seat, but for frozen food you want the insulation of a hard cooler anyway.

The problem is dry ice. If you use dry ice to keep things frozen, you can only take about 5.5 pounds per passenger (varies by airline), and it must be properly marked and ventilated. Most people just use frozen gel packs or regular ice in a sealed bag. Regular ice will melt and leak, so double-bag your food and line the cooler with absorbent material.

TSA will inspect the cooler. If your food is frozen solid, fine. If it’s partially thawed or looks suspicious, they might open it. Lock the cooler with a TSA-approved lock or use zip ties that can be cut. Pack dense frozen items (meat, stews) — avoid liquids that could spill.

Bottom line: It works, but don’t fill it with fish you caught three weeks ago and expect a warm welcome.