Airline food has been the butt of many a joke for decades, and while it’s true that some airlines have upped their culinary game in recent years, the quality of meals served on most commercial flights is still largely hit or miss. To serve as a backup for subpar food or just to enjoy throughout our time in the air, we always make sure to pack plenty of snacks. That said, it’s important to be aware of TSA restrictions when choosing snacks to avoid having them confiscated while going through security. Here are a few of our go-tos.
Fruit
While the legalities of traveling with fruit do vary by destination (most countries don’t allow the importation of produce), it’s usually okay to bring fruit on the plane. Beyond being tasty and convenient, the high water content of fruit can help you stay hydrated throughout your flight, as the air in most cabins tends to be quite dry. Options like apples and bananas are easiest to pack, while grapes and cubed melon contain the most water for hydration.
Mixed Nuts
Nuts are a great source of protein and healthy fats and are pretty much guaranteed to make it through security without a hitch. Even a handful of mixed nuts is enough to keep your tummy full and your blood sugar stable for hours, making them one of the best choices if you’ve got limited space in your carry-on bag. Just be sure to choose an unsalted variety, as salt can make dehydration worse.
Sandwiches
If you prefer to bring something that feels more like a meal, a sandwich may be the best way to go. Not only can you customize it according to your preferences, you won’t need any special dishes or cutlery to enjoy your sandwich come mealtime.