What happens if you get hungry and want to eat on your flight? Sure, the flight may provide small snacks or meals. But it is also pretty common for this food to not be the most tasty option. So the question often gets asked– Can I bring snacks on a plane? We will take a look at what is allowed and what should be left behind.can I bring snacks on a plane

Snacks and Food from Home

Solid foods can be packed in either your checked luggage, your carry-on, or your personal item (purse, briefcase, small backpack).

Any foods or snacks that are classified as a liquid or gel can only be packed in your checked luggage. Unless, the container is unopened and is 3.4 ounces or less. If that is the case, also remember to take it out of your carry-on luggage and in a clear plastic for inspection through the security line.

Baby food and formula can also be allowed in your carry-on in reasonable quantities. Just be sure to take this out of your bag for the security inspection.

Snacks from the Airport

After you have gone past security at the airport, you will see stores and restaurants. Generally, you can bring snacks from these areas to eat while on the plane.

In most cases, it is best that you do buy your food and drinks at the airport because of higher prices in-flight compared to those off the airplane. And anything you don’t finish in the airport, you can usually bring on the plane.

Snacks on International Flights

You will be able to bring snacks on plane for international flights. However, if you do not finish and are bringing the snacks to another country or US territory, you may need to declare it when you land.

You are required to declare any fresh or dried fruits and vegetables. Beans, seeds and nuts will also need to be declared and inspected upon your arrival. This is because they could carry foreign pests and diseases that harm the local agriculture and our environment.

It’s much easier to simply throw away any remaining snacks that may need to be declared before your flight ends. Flight attendants will make an in-flight announcement regarding specific items that need to be declared for the country you are flying into. They will also provide the paperwork needed to declare your snacks if you want to bring them with you.

Hope this helps clears up any questions you had about if you can bring a snack on the plane. As with most things in traveling, there are a lot of options for you to choose from. Whether you bring your snacks from home or buy snacks at the airport, I hope your belly stays full on your next flight.