Have you ever been unsure of the question “can you bring instant noodles on a plane?” Actually, this is a question that many passengers wonder about, as bringing noodles will save you from the overpriced food options on the airplane and the airports.
But before you take your favorite ramen, cup noodles, or miso soup, you need to know the rules and regulations of flying with instant noodles.
In this post, I’ll answer all the common questions about bringing instant noodles on a plane, and give you some tips and tricks to enjoy them without any hassle.
Let’s find out.
Do instant noodles count as liquids in hand luggage?
The TSA didn’t specifically mention any type of noodles on its website.
But I found this Tweet on X.
You can bring instant noodles with you on a plane in either carry on luggage or checked luggage.
This applies also to any other instant lunch whether it is Maruchan, Nissin or Tapatio.
But if you want to take cup noodles or instant noodles with any liquid or paste, such as sauce, water, or oil, then they will have to follow the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule.
This means that you can only take liquid food that is 3.4 ounces or less in each container, and they must fit in a quart-sized clear plastic bag.
So, if you have a cup noodle that has liquid broth inside, you will have to either empty it or put it in your checked luggage. Otherwise, it will be confiscated by the security agents.
As explained by the AskTSA team in response to Laurelle Victoria (@nutellaurelle) in the screenshot below.
Do I need to take out instant noodles when going through security?
The answer to this question depends on the type of instant noodles you have, and the security screening procedures of the airport you’re flying from.
Generally speaking, if you have dry noodles and seasoning packets, you don’t need to take them out of your bag when going through security, unless the security officer ask you to do so.
However, if you take any sauce, broth, or oil along with your instant noodles, you need to take them out of your bag and put them in a separate bin, following the 3-1-1 liquid rule.
You also need to take out any food items that are organic, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, or cheese, and put them in a separate bin, following the instructions of the security agents.
This is because these food items might block the scanners from detecting what is inside the bag.
To make your security screening smoother and faster, it’s advisable to pack your instant noodles in a clear plastic bag or container, and label them clearly.
This way, the security agents can easily see what you have, and you can avoid any possible objection from the TSA clerks.
Instant noodles rules for flights in the USA
If you’re flying within or from the U.S, you need to follow the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) rules for transporting food on planes.
As I mentioned above, the TSA allows solid food items, such as instant noodles, in both carry-on and checked bags. However, due to the 3-1-1 rule any liquid food, such as sauce, broth, or oil, must be in 3.4 oz containers when transported in carry-on.
Liquid food that exceeds 3.4oz should be packed in your checked bags.
To avoid the aggro of the TSA liquid you can put all the raw ingredients, like veggies, noodles, and raw spices in an insulated food thermos or container,
Don’t forget to bring your utensils and condiments along with it. And, you’re good to go.
When you feel hungry during your flight, take out your instant noodles and politely ask the flight attendants for some boiled water.
Pour the hot water into your food thermos. Let it rest for 5 minutes or less, mix things up and voila.
Is it better to pack instant noodles in hand or checked luggage?
The answer to this question depends on your personal preference and the type of instant noodles you have.
But whether you choose carry-on or checked luggage, it is vital to pack your noodles securely to prevent any spills or breakage during the flight.
Can you take instant noodles on international flights?
The regulations for bringing liquids on board the airplane in the UK are similar to those in the US and other European countries.
If you’re flying to or from another country, you need to check the rules and regulations of that country for bringing food to their territories.
Different countries have different standards and requirements for what food items are allowed or not, and how they should be packed and declared.
For example, some countries might allow instant noodles with liquid or paste, while others might not.
To avoid any trouble or confusion, it’s best to do your research before you fly, and follow the instructions of the airline and the customs officials of the country of your destination.
You can also check the websites of the relevant authorities, such as the IATA (International Air Transport Association), the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), or the FAS (Foreign Agricultural Service), for more details and guidance.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, as long as your noodles do not have any liquids or look soupy, you are good to bring them through the security checkpoint.
But there are regulations in place that you need to be aware of if you plan to take mixed cup noodles, as they are considered a liquid and must hold only 3.4 oz or less in carry-on luggage.
Remember that once you navigated the security checkpoint, you are free to add water to your noodles.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
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