Navigating the dos and don’ts of what foods you can bring on a plane can be a bit tricky. Whether you’re preparing for a long-haul flight or a short trip, knowing which snacks are sky-friendly can save you time and frustration at security.
This guide will walk you through 12 foods that are perfectly fine to carry on, along with 12 that might just get you held up at the TSA checkpoint. So, pack smart and enjoy your travel snacks without a hitch!
1. Sandwiches
Packing a sandwich doesn’t have to mean soggy bread and sad fillings. Imagine a neatly wrapped turkey and cheese sandwich, snug in your carry-on. As long as your sandwich isn’t dripping with sauces or fillings that could be mistaken for liquids, it’s a go!
Think of classics like PB&J, turkey and cheese, or even a veggie wrap. These hand-held meals are not only compact but also incredibly satisfying mid-flight. Just ensure they’re wrapped tightly to avoid any mess.
Fun fact: The Earl of Sandwich is credited with inventing the sandwich in the 18th century! So, next time you bite into your airborne snack, you can thank him for this convenient creation.
2. Dry Snacks (Chips, Crackers, Pretzels)
Craving something crunchy at 30,000 feet? Dry snacks like chips, crackers, and pretzels are your best friends. These are perfect for munching while watching an in-flight movie or simply passing the time.
Packaged snacks are not only fuss-free but also adhere to the TSA’s guidelines, as they contain no liquid components. Feeling adventurous? Create your own snack mix with your favorite crunchy bites and pack them in a resealable bag.
Ever wonder? Pretzels date back to the 7th century, believed to be invented by Italian monks as a reward for children learning their prayers.
3. Granola Bars & Protein Bars
Granola bars are nature’s gift to travelers. Non-liquid, mess-free, and full of energy, these bars are perfect for long flights. Whether you’re a fan of nutty, chocolatey, or fruity flavors, there’s a bar out there for you.
Stash a few in your bag for that inevitable hunger pang or mid-flight craving. They’re compact and easy to carry, making them a staple in any traveler’s arsenal.
Did you know? Granola, in its earliest form, was invented in the late 19th century and has since evolved into the variety of bars we enjoy today.
4. Fresh Fruit (Apples, Bananas, Grapes)
Juicy, refreshing, and easy to pack, fresh fruits like apples, bananas, and grapes are ideal for in-flight snacking. These fruits are solid, making them a TSA favorite.
While packing, remember to choose fruits that are less likely to get squished or make a mess. Apples and bananas come with their own protective packaging, while grapes can be put in a small container.
Interestingly, bananas are technically a berry! This tidbit can be a fun conversation starter with your seatmate over a snack.
5. Nuts and Trail Mix
Whether store-bought or homemade, nuts and trail mix are like gold for travelers. These snacks are protein-packed, energy-boosting, and incredibly satisfying during flights.
They’re also convenient to store in your carry-on, ensuring you have a tasty bite whenever hunger strikes. From almonds to cashews, the variety in a trail mix can cater to any palette.
Fun fact: Nuts were among the first snacks consumed by humans, valued for their nutritional benefits and long shelf life.
6. Cheese (Hard or Sliced)
Cheese lovers, rejoice! Hard or sliced cheeses are a delightful addition to your in-flight meal. Think cheddar, gouda, or swiss – all fair game in your carry-on.
These cheeses don’t fall under the liquid category, thus flying past security without a hitch. Pair them with crackers or enjoy them solo as a rich, savory treat.
Did you know? Gouda cheese, originating from the Netherlands, dates back to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest recorded cheeses.
7. Cookies & Muffins
Need a mid-flight sugar fix? Enter cookies and muffins. These baked delights are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without causing a security hold-up.
Avoid gooey pastries that might be mistaken for liquids or pastes. Instead, go for solid, crumbly treats that offer comfort at cruising altitude.
Cookies have been a staple snack since they were first baked in 7th century Persia, spreading to Europe and the rest of the world soon after.
8. Beef Jerky
Beef jerky isn’t just for road trips. This protein-packed snack is perfect for flights, providing a satisfying chew and savory flavor without any mess.
It’s shelf-stable, TSA-approved, and doesn’t require any preparation, making it a convenient travel companion. Just slip it into your bag and enjoy when hunger strikes.
Fun fact: Beef jerky has ancient origins, with dried meat being a survival staple for early travelers and explorers.
9. Cooked Chicken or Steak Slices
Who says you can’t enjoy a gourmet meal mid-air? Pre-cooked chicken or steak slices are a delicious and hearty option for flyers looking to avoid in-flight meals.
Pack them in a secure container and enjoy them cold or at room temperature. They’re perfect for sandwiches or as a standalone protein boost.
Did you know? The tradition of bringing one’s own meals when traveling dates back centuries, long before commercial flights were a thing.
10. Pasta or Rice (No Sauce)
Pasta and rice might sound like bold choices, but without sauce, they’re TSA-friendly and quite a treat. Lightly seasoned or plain, these carb-rich foods can fill you up without causing a mess.
Make sure they’re cool and dry to avoid spilling any unwanted liquids. They make a perfect base if you wish to add cheese or protein on the go.
Fun fact: Pasta has been a popular travel food since Marco Polo’s time, when he brought it back to Italy from Asia.
11. Vegetables (Carrot Sticks, Celery, Peppers)
Crunchy, fresh, and oh-so-refreshing, sliced vegetables like carrots, celery, and peppers are perfect for healthy in-flight munching. They’re easy to pack and don’t need refrigeration.
Pair them with a small portion of hummus (under 3.4 oz) to elevate your snack game. These veggies are hydrating and packed with vitamins!
Did you know? Carrots weren’t always orange. They were cultivated in a range of colors, including purple, before the familiar orange variety became popular.
12. Chocolates and Candy
Got a sweet tooth? Chocolates and candy are solid travel companions that can brighten any flight. As long as they’re not gooey or sticky, they’re good to go.
Keep them in a sealed bag or tin to prevent melting all over your bag. They’re perfect for sharing with your seatmate or indulging in all by yourself.
Fun fact: Chocolate was originally consumed as a bitter drink by the Aztecs, before becoming the sweet treat we know today.
13. Yogurt
It might seem harmless, but yogurt is a no-go at security checkpoints. Even if it’s packed in a handy travel-sized container, it’s considered a liquid by the TSA.
If your yogurt exceeds the 3.4 oz limit, you’ll have to say goodbye to your creamy snack. Better to save this one for breakfast at your destination.
Did you know? Yogurt has been around for over 4,000 years and was first discovered accidentally by storing milk in warm climates.
14. Soups or Stews
Warm and comforting, soup might sound perfect for a flight, but it’s actually a liquid according to TSA rules. Even a sealed container won’t make it past security if it’s over 3.4 oz.
Consider packing a dry soup mix instead, which you can rehydrate at your destination. That way, you won’t have to part with your favorite flavors.
Fun fact: Soups have been a dietary staple since 6000 BC, with the earliest recipes featuring hippopotamus and sparrow.
15. Hummus (Over 3.4 oz)
Love hummus? Sadly, if it’s over 3.4 oz, it’s not making it through security. Considered a paste, it falls under the liquid rule.
Pack a smaller portion in your liquids bag to avoid disappointment. Pair it with carrot sticks or pita for a satisfying snack that won’t get confiscated.
Did you know? Hummus dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was enjoyed as a staple side dish.
16. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter fans beware. This creamy delight is also considered a liquid when it comes to TSA regulations. Anything over 3.4 oz will be left behind.
You can pack a smaller portion if you really can’t go without it. Spread it on bread, apple slices, or just enjoy it straight from the spoon.
Fun fact: The modern version of peanut butter was first introduced at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904 and has been a pantry staple since.
17. Soft Cheese (Brie, Cream Cheese)
Soft cheeses are delicious but tricky for air travel. Brie, cream cheese, and similar varieties are classified as liquids.
If your cheese is over the limit, it’s staying behind. Opt for hard cheeses instead, or pack a small amount in your liquid bag.
Did you know? Brie is known as the “Queen of Cheeses” and was popular at the tables of French royalty.
18. Dips & Salsas
Spicy, tangy, and perfect for chips, dips like salsa are a no-go in quantities over 3.4 oz. They’re considered liquids, so pack wisely.
Instead, bring just enough to satisfy your craving without getting you into trouble at security. Dry snacks will still be a hit!
Did you know? Salsa was first made by the Aztecs, and has been a popular condiment ever since.
19. Pudding or Custard
Deliciously creamy, pudding and custard can turn a snack into a dessert. But consider them liquid by TSA standards.
Even if it’s in a tiny portion, you’ll need to pack it in your liquid bag or leave it behind. Best enjoyed at home rather than at 35,000 feet.
Fun fact: Custard has been enjoyed since the Middle Ages, often used as a filling in pastries and pies.
20. Ice Cream
Melted or not, ice cream is seen as a liquid. Unless you’ve got the logistics for packing dry ice, it’s not going through security.
Save this sweet treat for when you land, and enjoy it in all its creamy glory without the fuss. It’s worth the wait.
Did you know? Ice cream has been a beloved dessert since its creation in the 17th century, enjoyed by royalty and commoners alike.
21. Alcoholic Beverages (Over 3.4 oz in Carry-On)
A little tipple might sound appealing, but alcoholic drinks over 3.4 oz aren’t allowed in your carry-on. Mini bottles are okay if packed in your quart bag.
Even if you bring your own, consuming them on the flight is usually against airline policy. Better to wait until you’ve reached your destination to toast your trip.
Fun fact: The earliest evidence of alcohol production dates back to 7000 BC in China.
22. Canned Foods
Canned goods might seem like a convenient option, but they often contain liquid, disqualifying them at security.
Whether it’s fruit in syrup or beans in brine, you’d be better off packing something solid instead. Less hassle and no liquid concerns.
Did you know? Canning was developed in the early 1800s, revolutionizing food preservation and travel fare.
23. Gravy or Sauce-Heavy Dishes
Nothing beats grandma’s lasagna, but if it’s swimming in sauce, it won’t fly. The TSA sees these dishes as a liquid hazard.
Consider separating the sauce if possible, or opt for a different dish altogether. Your taste buds might suffer, but it’s better than losing your meal at security.
Fun fact: Sauces have been used in cooking since ancient Rome, adding flavor and moisture to dishes.
24. Anything Oozing, Spilling, or Leaking
Leaky, oozing food items are a nightmare for security checks. Whether it’s oil, water, or cheese, you’re better off without it.
TSA agents prefer tidy passengers, so pack neatly and securely. It saves everyone the hassle of a messy bag inspection.
Did you know? The TSA handles over 2 million travelers daily, so every neatly packed bag helps keep things moving smoothly.
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