Thinking about bringing your own nourishment on a plane but not sure if your food will be allowed on your flight?
You’re not alone, airport security and some airlines are getting pesky about what food to bring, it can get tricky to know what treats and beverages you can pack.
In this detailed guide I will break down everything you need to know about taking food on a plane, what you can and can’t bring through the security checkpoint, to tips on packing smart and staying respectful to fellow passengers.
Let’s dive right in.
TSA Food Rules: What Foods Are Allowed Through Airport Security?
The biggest challenge when bringing food on a plane is getting it through the security checkpoint.
While the TSA does not have any restrictions for sold food, their rules mostly focus on liquids.
If your food is liquid or spreadable, it has to follow the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule for carry-on.
- 3 (liquids, pastes, or gels must be in 3.4 ounce / 100 ml or less containers)
- 1 (liquids containers must fit in a single quart sized bag)
- 1 (Each passenger is allowed to bring only one bag.)
This means food like peanut butter, honey, sauce, salad dressing, and dips might get a little confusing.
But solid foods like granola bars, nuts, crackers, and sandwiches will easily pass the security checks.
This is a screen grab from the TSA official website for solid treats.
If you want to bring a delicious dessert like the Pistachio Cream, a smart trick is to divide it in small containers that meet the liquid rules and put together your food after security.
You can also bring fruits on domestic flights without any restrictions.
Canned food if it is solid are permitted in cans of more than 3.4 oz / 100 ml in carry-on luggage.
Any cans that are more than 3.4 oz / 100 ml need to be transported in checked baggage.
This is a screenshot from X for Celina asking the TSA customer service about taking a sandwich, cut up fruits or chips with her on the plane.
The AskTSA replied that solid foods are allowed in carry-on bags with no quantity limits, but Liquid, creamy or spreadable food items must be in containers less than or equal to 3.4 oz/ 100 ml, and placed in a quart sized bag.
TSA Rules For Bringing Food for Babies and Toddlers
Good news, the TSA food restrictions are lenient when it comes to flying with babies.
The TSA lets you have reasonable quantities (for personal use) of formula, breast milk, juice, and baby food more than the allowed liquid limits.
But you will need to inform the security officer that these items are for your child so they screen them separately.
You can also have ice packs for baby food or milk, even if they’re partially melted.
Be prepared for extra screening but don’t worry it’s a common process for families.
Can You Bring Frozen or Refrigerated Food on a Plane?
Liquid frozen food can pass the 3-1-1 rule if it’s completely frozen solid when going through security.
But keeping it frozen that long can be tough, and if the TSA thinks it’s partially melted, they will count it as a liquid and end up confiscating it.
Ice packs are permitted also, just ensure that they are also solid frozen by the time you get to the security.
Keep in mind that you won’t be able to keep your food cold once on the plane unless you have a cooler, so pack things that taste good at room temperature.
What About Airline Rules on Bringing Food?
Most airlines do allow passengers to bring food into the cabin, even though some low cost airlines may have stricter rules when it comes to bringing food on a plane.
Simply because, they want passengers to pay for snacks on board the airplane.
Low cost airlines are making money from these extras, like charging for luggage and selling food on planes.
If you’re flying with one of the low cost airlines, keep it simple, stick to small snacks rather than full meals.
Being polite and low key helps avoid conflicts with flight attendants.
Can You Bring Food on Plane From Home?
If you are not a fan of snacks or Airlines served food, taking food from home on your flight is allowed and it’s a healthy choice.
You will not face any issue taking your favorite baked cakes and pies, on board the aircraft.
However; the same rules always apply concerning liquid rules.
There will be some simple additional inspections for your food but overall you are good to go.
Food that you buy after the airport security checkpoint can be brought onboard without inspection.
TSA agents may ask you to separate your food from other items, it is preferable to organize your carry on before you head to the airport for ease screening and avoid any inconvenience at the security checkpoint.
How Do International Flights Affect Food Rules?
Taking food to another country is slightly different, international flights always add another layer of rules.
Most countries have a list of foods that you can and can’t take to their own territories.
Usually countries are more strict with meats, fresh fruits, vegetables, and some dairy foods.
Rules are slightly different for each country, it’s best to check the customs guidelines of your destination country before packing food for international flights.
For in flight snacking, simple non perishable items like granola bars, dried fruit or trail mix are the best option.
Best Snacks to Bring on a Plane Without Annoying Fellow Passengers
One thing I always keep in mind is the type of food I bring on my flight.
I don’t want fellow passengers getting annoyed by the smell of eggs wafting from my snack.
When packing food for your flight, consider those around you.
Avoid strong smelling foods like fish or pungent cheeses that could make passengers around you uncomfortable
Also, it is better to avoid peanuts or peanut products, since many people have allergies that can be triggered by even nearby exposure.
Choosing neutral, easy to eat snacks helps keep everyone happy on board.
You can check out this useful guide to eating right while traveling for more info.
| Food | Airport security as in carry-on | Checked luggage |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee (Liquid) | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed | Yes |
| Creamy Dips and Spreads | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed | Yes |
| Gravy | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed | Yes |
| Honey | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed | Yes |
| Hummus | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed | Yes |
| Ice cream | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed | Yes |
| Jam and Jelly | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed | Yes |
| Juices | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed | Yes |
| Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof | No | No |
| Maple Syrup | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed | Yes |
| Bottled Water | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed or completely empty | Yes |
| Olive oil | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed) | Yes |
| Cooking Spray oil (Oil in aerosol form ) | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz / 100 ml allowed) | No |
| Peanut Butter | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed) | Yes |
| Salad Dressing | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed | Yes |
| Salsa and Sauces | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed) | Yes |
| Soda | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed) | Yes |
| Soups | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed) | Yes |
| Yogurt | Yes, but less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed) | Yes |
| Dried mushrooms | Allowed but canned mushroom need to follow the TSA liquid rules. | Yes |
Top Tips for Packing and Bringing Food on a Plane
- Pack reasonable quantities: Pack reasonable quantities of food in resealable containers and bring foods that don’t need refrigeration.
- Always follow the TSA rules: Liquids, gels, and spreads must fit in your quart-sized bag and be under 3.4 oz / 100 ml.
- Check international rules : Don’t bring any food that is restricted to your destination country, unless you are going to consume it during your flight.
- Be thoughtful for fellow travelers : Go with non smelly, allergy-friendly snacks to keep your flight comfortable for everyone.
Final Thoughts: Final Tips for Bringing Food on a Plane.
Taking your own food on a plane can make your trip more comfortable.
Just ensure that you stick with solid foods for the smoothest experience at security.
If you are planning to bring cream or food in liquid form, like soups, you will need to adhere to the TSA liquid rule that I mentioned above.
Avoid packing items that melt or spoil quickly, and always check the rules of your destination country if you’re flying internationally.
FAQs About Bringing Food on a Plane: TSA Rules, Airline Policies & More
Yes, snacks prepared at home like sandwiches, cheese crackers, cookies, and fruit are allowed to go through the security checkpoint without Any issues, as long as liquids follow the 3.4 oz / 100 ml rule.
You can bring almost any food to meet your dietary needs, just remember the liquid limits and check airline policies.
Yes, ice packs are good to go, just make sure your cooler fits within your airline carry-on size limits, read more about traveling with ice packs here.
They will usually ask you to toss it out before boarding. It’s best to double check ahead if your food is allowed to avoid losing your snacks.
Yes but your drinks must not go over 3.4 oz / 100 ml, and they need to be in a quart sized bag. You can always buy beverages after you clear the security.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
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- Can You Bring Spices On A Plane?
So I can take a Subway sandwich or a 10-piece Popeyes on board!?
Hi, Cameron you can bring a Subway sandwich or a 10-piece Popeyes on board—as long as there’s no sauce, dressing, or condiments on them when going through security. But if you buy them after security, like from a Subway or Popeyes inside the terminal, you’re free to bring whatever you want on the plane.
Happy Travels