Introduction
Traveling by air can be stressful, especially if you’re not familiar with the rules and regulations regarding what you can bring on board. Packing snacks is one way to make your flight more comfortable. However, it’s essential to know what foods are allowed and what foods aren’t. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about taking food through airport security, including the dos and don’ts, surprising foods you can bring, and tips for packing your snacks effectively.
The Ultimate Guide to Bringing Food Through Airport Security
Before you start packing your snacks, it’s essential to understand the rules and regulations regarding what types of food are permitted on flights. According to the TSA, all solid foods are allowed in carry-on luggage, but specific items are prohibited, such as liquids over 3.4 ounces.
If you’re bringing liquids such as yogurt or pudding, they must comply with the TSA’s liquids rule. That means they must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less and packed in a clear, quart-sized bag. You’re only allowed one bag per passenger, so choose your containers wisely.
When packing food, it’s important to keep in mind the TSA’s guidelines for carry-on bags. Foods that are packed in larger containers or wrapped in foil or plastic may appear suspicious to TSA agents and could cause a delay or inspection of your bag. Therefore, we recommend that you pack your snacks in clear plastic bags or containers for easy inspection.
7 Foods You Never Knew You Could Bring Through Airport Security
Believe it or not, many surprising foods are allowed through airport security. These foods may seem questionable, but they’re allowed due to their solid consistency. Here are seven foods that you may not have thought were airport-friendly:
- Nuts
- Whole fruits and vegetables
- Hard cheeses
- Cooked meats like chicken or turkey
- Bread rolls and sandwiches
- Baked goods like muffins or cookies
- Dry cereal or granola
It’s essential to note that these foods must be packed properly to avoid inspection or delays. For example, sandwiches should be wrapped in clear plastic rather than foil. Hard cheeses should be vacuum-sealed, and fruits and vegetables must not have any liquid on them.
Don’t Let Airport Security Take Away Your Favorite Snacks!
When packing snacks for your trip, you may want to avoid items that are prohibited by the TSA. Common items that are not allowed through airport security include:
- Liquids over 3.4 ounces
- Soups or gravies
- Jellies, jams, or preserves in jars or cans
- Salsa or dips
- Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof
- Non-solid cheese or creamy spreads
If you’re traveling with any of these items, it’s best to pack them in your checked luggage, or leave them at home and purchase them after you arrive at your destination.
The Dos and Don’ts of Bringing Food on a Plane
When deciding what snacks to bring on your next flight, keep in mind the TSA’s guidelines. Here are some guidelines to follow when packing your snacks:
- Do pack solid foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and baked goods
- Do pack these foods in clear plastic bags or containers
- Do pack sandwiches and bread rolls in clear plastic wrap
- Don’t pack liquids over 3.4 ounces
- Don’t pack soups, gravies, or creamy spreads
- Don’t pack items in foil or plastic wrap
In addition to these guidelines, it’s essential to consider the flight length and whether your snacks will need refrigeration. If you’re traveling on a short flight, your food will likely be okay at room temperature. However, if you’re traveling on a longer flight, you may want to bring an ice pack or choose non-perishable snacks.
Prepping Your Snacks for the Flight: Airport Security Edition
Now that you know what snacks are allowed, it’s time to start packing. Here are some tips and tricks for packing your snacks for airport security:
- Use clear plastic bags or containers for easy inspection
- Vacuum-seal hard cheeses or meats to avoid inspection
- Wrap sandwiches and bread rolls in clear plastic
- Use reusable containers for eco-friendly packing
- Organize your food for easy access during the flight
Reusable containers like bento boxes or silicone bags are great for eco-friendly packing. Not only will you reduce waste, but these containers also provide a sturdy option for keeping your snacks safe and secure.
Conclusion
It’s crucial to know what foods are allowed and prohibited when traveling by air. By adhering to the TSA’s guidelines and packing your snacks properly, you can avoid delays and enjoy some tasty treats during your flight. Remember to pack solid, non-perishable foods in clear plastic bags or containers, and avoid liquids over 3.4 ounces. We hope that our ultimate guide to bringing food through airport security has helped you prepare for your next trip.