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33 Easy Travel Snacks for your Airplane Carry-On Bag

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When I travel, the foodie in me always has to bring snacks for the trip. I always plan for easy travel snacks for a few reasons. For starters I’m not always sure what terminal I’ll be in at the airport so the food choices might get dicey once I get past security. Next, depending on the airline I’m flying there might not be great options once I board the plane (we’ve all been there). Lastly, I like to be prepared when I’m traveling even when I arrive at my final destination to have quick portable fuel sources on hand for when *hangry* hits in the form of easy travel snacks.

In this blog post I’ve compiled all of my favorite easy travel snacks into one ultimate packing list for your carry-on bag and I’ll walk you through my process for what to consider when selecting the best snacks to bring on a plane.

easy travel snacks

How to Pack Easy Travel Snacks for your Carry-On Bag

Depending on the length of my trip I usually bring a variety of snacks intended to carry-on a plane. I consider these easy to pack snacks, snacks that travel well, and also snacks that fall into the healthy(ish) convenience food category following these guidelines: 

  • Food I can’t find at my final travel destination

Drink Mixers

  • Airport Snacks (snacks to bring on a plane and at the airport terminal)
  • Emergency snacks (for when I’m super hungry)
  • Perishables
  • Non-Perishables
  • Sweet Treats/Comfort Items

These categories might look a little different for you but it helps to determine what you might need at least a week before your trip so that you have time to shop around. This will also help to keep your trip planning a little less stressful so that you can spend your time concentrating on the last minute things you need to do before you go out of town.

To verify what easy travel snacks you can and cannot carry on flights check out TSA’s security guidelines and the rules of each country for International flights. Keep in mind that TSA considers foods like yogurts and cooked oatmeal as “gels” and they will be confiscated at security (I learned this the hard way). For any other liquids review the guidelines but generally speaking most liquids and gels are allowed if they are less than 3.4oz/100 ml.

How to Transport your Easy Travel Snacks

My last consideration for packing easy travel snacks are the containers the food will travel in. For the most part I lean towards things that are easy to dispose of like foil, wax paper, plastic baggies, and repurposed takeout containers. However, in consideration of the environment I often try to lean to more sustainable options if I can, such as: silicon bags, collapsible cups, collapsible bowls, insulated containers, and beeswax paper. 

The con to these items is you will have to carry them in your luggage throughout your trip. But the pro of these items is being environmentally responsible, having a vessel you can reuse throughout your trip for something else, and some of these containers can keep your snacks from getting crushed, hot, or cold (triple bonus). 

I like Stasher Bags and Zip Top Bags for a reusable bag option. Both of these brands are super durable, always hold up really well for traveling, and are great to repurpose for other easy travel snacks on a trip. 

Silicone Bags

Stasher Reusable Silicone Storage Bag, Food Storage Container, Microwave and Dishwasher Safe, Leak-free, Bundle 4-Pack Small, Clear

Stasher Bags

These are great reusable bags for packing your travel snacks on the go.

Zip Top Reusable Food Storage Bags | Full Set of 8 [Teal] | Silicone Meal Prep Container | Microwave, Dishwasher and Freezer Safe | Made in the USA

Zip Top Bags

We love these bags for items that can’t lay flat! The structure of the bag makes it easy to carry your snacks and keep them from being crushed in your carry-on luggage.

Collapsible bowls have also been one of my favorites for eating things like oatmeal on the go and pre-made meals I might travel with (in an effort to clean out my fridge before I head out of town). I also like these collapsible cups from Stojo to make drinks portable and they don’t take up much room. If you have space for something bigger I like using the Snack Swell thermos containers for some travel foods on my trips since its a small insulated container to keep food hot or cold.

Bowls and Cups

STOJO Collapsible Bowl - Lilac, 36oz - Reusable Silicone Bowl for Hot and Cold Food - Perfect for Travel, Meal Prep, To-Go Lunch, Camping & Hiking - Microwave & Dishwasher Safe

Stojo Collapsible Bowl

We are loving the STOJO Collapsible Bowl. This holds 36oz and is a reusable silicone bowl for hot and cold food which makes it perfect for travel, meal prep, to-go Lunch, camping, and hiking. This is also microwave & dishwasher safe.

S'well S'nack Stainless Steel Food Container - 24 Oz - Azure Forest - Double-Layered Insulated Bowls Keep Food Cold for 8 Hours and Hot for 6 - BPA-Free

S’well S’nack Food Container

We love the S’well S’nack Stainless Steel Food Container. It’s 24 ounces and great for holding food you are traveling with that you want to keep hot or cold. This will keep your food for 8 Hours Hot for 6 Hours Cold.

S'well S'nack Stainless Steel Food Container - 10 Oz - Peppermint Tree - Double-Layered Insulated Bowls Keep Food Cold for 10 Hours and Hot for 4 - BPA-Free

This is a smaller version of the bigger S’nack by S’well Food Container. Its 10oz and has Double-Layered Insulated walls to keep food and drinks cold for 10 hours and hot for 4 hours!

STOJO Collapsible Travel Cup With Straw- Eucalyptus, 16oz / 470ml - Reusable To-Go Pocket Size Silicone Cup for Hot and Cold Drinks - Perfect for Camping and Hiking - Microwave & Dishwasher Safe

Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup

This collapsible travel cup comes with a straw and holds 16oz of liquid. Its reusable and pocket size for hot and cold drinks making it perfect for travel, camping, and hiking. Like the other Stojo products its microwave and dishwasher safe.

If you are traveling with any items that must stay at a colder temperature these PackIt Freezable pouches are a great option to transport your food. The PackIt Freezable pouch has groundbreaking cooling technology that includes freezable gel that is permanently built into the bag so that you don’t need to deal with separate ice packs.

To start collapse the bag flat and freeze in the freezer overnight until you are ready to use it. You can add any of the easy travel snacks that are perishable items in this post to store in this bag. You can also keep this item throughout your trip for other easy to pack snacks.

PackIt Freezable Snack Box, Rainbow Sky, Built with EcoFreeze Technology, Collapsible, Reusable, Zip Closure with Buckle Handle, Great for All Ages and Fresh Snacks on the go

PackIt Freezable Pouch

This is our favorite travel product for traveling with items that are perishable and need to remain cold like yogurt and cheese. Simply pop the pouch in the freezer the night before your trip and it will keep your perishable snacks at the correct temperature for a few hours. This collapsible and folds up and comes in many colors!

My last favorite sustainable travel item is reusable wax paper. I like using the Bee’s Wrap brand. It takes a bit to get used to if you normally use regular wax paper. If you have a few baked goods, sandwiches etc. to carry while traveling it comes in handy to reuse a few times and store it completely flat in your carry on bag.

Bee's Wrap Reusable Beeswax Food Wraps Made in the USA, Eco Friendly Beeswax Food Wrap, Sustainable Food Storage Containers, Organic Cotton Food Wraps, Assorted 3 Pack (S, M, L), Honeycomb Pattern

Bee’s Wrap

This Bee’s Wrap is an assorted 3 Pack great sustainable option. It’s plastic and silicone free reusable beeswax in 3 sizes great for traveling with sandwhiches.

PackIt Freezable Snack Box, Black, Built with EcoFreeze Technology, Collapsible, Reusable, Zip Closure with Buckle Handle, Perfect All Ages and Fresh Snacks on the go

Freezable Pouch

PackIt® Freezable Snack Bag, Polka Dots, Built with EcoFreeze® Technology, Foldable, Reusable, Zip Closure, Perfect for Babies, Kids, Adults of all Ages, and Fresh Snacks on the go

Freezable pouch

Small Cooler Bag Freezable Lunch Bag for Work School Travel,Leak-proof Small Lunch Bag,Small Insulated Bag For Kids/Adults,Freezer Lunch Bags,Freezable Snack Bag,Mini Lunch Bag Fit For Yogurt

Order of Operations For Your Easy Travel Snacks

If you are planning to take some snacks to the airport for future travel plans my suggested cheat sheet of how to go about eating your easy travel snacks includes a simple order of consumption:

  • Eat your perishable items first (for obvious reasons)
  • Pack napkins and/or wet wipes (these are not always available as you are on the go)
  • If you are bringing whole fruit wash these items before you get to the airport and use your napkin or paper towel as the vessel to carry the item (it also doubles as a napkin as you eat your fruit)
  • Pack some travel utensils (for any snacks that require some deep diving or for complete meals)

Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes, Fresh Scent Wipes | Travel Wipes Case, Antibacterial Wipes | 20 ct. Travel Size Wipes (10 pack)

Travel utensil set

Reusable Travel Utensils with Case, 4 Sets Wheat Straw Portable Cutlery Set Chopsticks Knives Fork and Spoon for Lunch Box Accessories, Camping Flatware Sets for Daily Use or Outdoor

Portable utensil set

TO GO WARE Repeat Bamboo Utensil Set - Cayenne (Red), 1 EA

Bamboo utensil set

My favorite snacks to bring on a plane.

Below is an easy travel snack list I’ve compiled of my favorite airport (and TSA) friendly snacks. I’ve grouped the items into perishable vs. non-perishable categories since I often will travel with a few perishable items that I strategize to eat first and then work my way through the rest of my snack stash either on the trip or eat other items during a longer flight to tide me over until I reach my destination. 

Perishable Easy Travel Snacks

For perishable easy travel snacks I always tend to pack food that can last a while at room temperature. Regardless of the length of your flight you’ll want items that won’t go bad in case it takes a while to get through security or to the airport (we’ve all been there!). Or even worse if your flight is delayed (done that!). On my list I usually include:

Cured Meats and Deli Meats

This includes salami, pastrami, pepperoni, ham, and turkey. These are great options because they can travel well at room temperature for short periods of time.

I think everyone loves cheese (even us lactose intolerant folks) and it travels well for short periods of time at room temperature. Some of my favorite cheese options are the Babybel Gouda Semisoft Cheeses. I like these because they have their own carrying case with the wax they are packaged in which qualifies the product as easy travel snack in my book.

My next favorite is Trader Joe’s Tapas cheese (it’s amazing! Grab it if you have a TJs near you). This includes several slices of three types of cheese including: Iberico, Cabra Al Vino (a.k.a. “ Drunken Goat “), and Manchengo. I really enjoy how the flavors in this set are so different and it feels very fancy while you are enjoying them.

easy travel snack trader joe's tapas sampler

Boiled Eggs

Boiled eggs are one of the best snacks for traveling. I typically boil eggs once a week so I’ll grab 2-4 for a flight or whatever is left over in my fridge for the week (this is also a good way to clean out your fridge before you head out of town). You can also purchase eggs that are already boiled from almost any local grocery store for an easy travel snack on an airplane.

Another fun option for hard boiled eggs is from a brand called Perfectly Peckish which sells hard boiled eggs in packs with a fun crunchy dip. Their selection includes:

  • PECKISH Snackable Eggs & EVERYTHING Dip
  • PECKISH Snackable Eggs & FRIED RICE Dip
  • PECKISH Snackable Eggs & RANCHEROS Dip
  • PECKISH Snackable Eggs & SALT & PEPITAS Dip
  • PECKISH Snackable Eggs & RANCH Dip

Check out their store locator to find a store that sells these near you .

good travel snacks for airplane

Crackers and/or Bread

I personally can’t have cheese and cured/deli meat without crackers or bread! These are easy to transport and can be stored at various temperatures which make them a great addition to your carry-on bag for an easy snack pairing (and crunch)!

Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers, Fine Ground Sea Salt Snack Packs - Gluten Free, Vegan, Healthy Snacks, 4.9 Ounce (Pack of 3)

I love fruit for an easy snack that travels well. The fruit that travels the best are apples, bananas, oranges, kiwi, and grapes. I like these fruits because they have their own “skin” which can serve as its own carrying case so that they don’t get squashed (thanks mother nature!).

For oranges you can even pre-slice these and add them to a travel container or baggie to eat right out of the peel (or peel them later). And for kiwi I like slicing these in half and using a spoon to scoop out the insides for easy eating. If you have never tried Golden Kiwi its a real treat (they taste like a cross between a mango and a strawberry)!

Putting It Together

Combining these items also creates a nice balance for traveling to ensure you have enough protein, fat, and carbohydrates for fuel while on the go. You can also pair the meats, cheese, and crackers or bread and make a makeshift sandwich in a pinch (great easy travel snack idea!). You can also grab some pre-made snack boxes for a perishable option to take through security.

Non-Perishable Travel Snacks

My favorite non-perishable easy travel snack list is a bit longer. I group these by foods I might eat on the plane or at my final destination as I get hungry or peckish.

I eat oatmeal almost daily when I’m home for breakfast so it’s an item I always travel with especially internationally since it’s not something that all countries will provide for breakfast. It’s also a really nice snack on a plane since you just need water to make it. You can use one of the collapsible bowls or cups I mentioned above as the vessel to make these in or any disposable cup at the airport. I typically use the McCann Irish Oatmeal brand because it’s very hearty as a travel snack or the Unsweetened Individual Oatmeal packets from Trader Joe’s .

McCann’s Regular Instant Irish Oatmeal, 11.85 ounce, 12 Packets

Bringing nuts on a flight can be controversial so be sure to read your airline’s individual rules regarding what is allowed. I like going for the individually portioned nuts that are completely sealed in case I can’t eat them on a particular flight due to restrictions or nut allergies. If that’s the case I can always have them as a snack at my final destination.

My favorite nut options for an easy travel snack include: 

  • Macadamia Nuts
  • Trail Mix (for something different)

Emerald Nuts, 100 Calorie Variety Pack, 18 Count

Crunchy Snacks

Personally I’m a big fan of crunchy snacks in general but definitely when I travel. I think it’s nice to have a variety of items on hand. For this category I pack:

I usually air pop popcorn and bring it in my reusable silicon bag for trips. Did you know that you can air pop popcorn in a brown paper bag in the microwave? I also like these individually wrapped White Cheddar Popcorn bags from Smartfood .

Smartfood Popcorn, White Cheddar, 0.625 Ounce (Pack of 40)

Peanut Butter Crackers

I also like bringing Peanut Butter Crackers as easy travel snacks for my final destination. These have saved me many times while traveling to have something to tide me over until my next meal.

Lance Sandwich Crackers, Toasty and Toastchee Peanut Butter, 40 Ct (Pack of 2)

There’s something nostalgic about Chex Mix that just makes it a travel staple! I use to have these all the time as a kid on trips. I usually will grab the individual baggies for my carry-on bag.

Chex Mix Classics Snack Mix, 1.75 Ounce (Pack of 30)

I also always grab Cheez-Its for a fun crunchy cheesy snack.

Cheez-It Cheese Crackers, Baked Snack Crackers, Office and Kids Snacks, Variety Pack, 17.72oz Box (20 Pouches)

Moon Cheese

These are a newer to me product. I saw them once at Starbucks and then purchased them last year from Target and I’m a fan! These are little cheese balls that come in different flavors. If you like cheese and something with a crunch you’ll like these little cheese balls as a snack.

Moon Cheese Variety Pack of 5, 1 of each (Cheddar Believe It, Oh My Gouda, Garlickin Parmesan, Get Pepper Jacked, White Chedda Black Peppa) GF, High Protein, Low Carb, Keto Friendly, 100% Real Cheese

Anytime I think of pretzels I think of that Seinfeld episode “these pretzels are making me thirsty” but they still make for a great easy travel snack!

Snyder's of Hanover Mini Pretzels, 100 Calorie Individual Packs, 36 Ct

Veggie Straws

Veggie straws are the perfect easy travel snack to take on the go! They are both crunchy and salty which you is always needed on the road.

Sensible Portions Garden Veggie Straws, cheddar cheese,cheese, Snack Size, 24 Count

Marinated Vegetables

This might be an odder pick but eating vegetables on the go is hard so I love this option. POSHI Vegetable Snacks offers a marinated steamed portable snack option. If you like pickled vegetables you will like these! Plus you can add a little fiber to you day while in transit.

POSHI Marinated Vegetables Variety Pack | Asparagus, French Beans, Cauliflower, Artichoke | Keto, Vegan, Paleo, Non GMO, Gluten Free, Gourmet, Healthy, Fully Cooked (12 Pack)

Snack Olives

If you’ve never had olives while on an airplane you are missing out! Something about eating olives at 42,000 feet cruising in the air is a totally different experience. I like buying these Olives to Go from the grocery store and Trader Joe’s also sells individually packed Olive packs which are so yummy. I was inspired to add Olives to my easy travel snack list after having the Mediterranean Travel Snack box on a United Flight which has a great mix of olives, bruschetta, hummus, and chocolate almonds as a great snack mix.

Mario Camacho Foods Pitted Snack Olives, Variety Pack, 1.05 oz Pouches (Pack of 12)

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is a really fun easy travel snack! My favorite picks are dried apples and mangoes. They make such a sweet treat and they are also crunchy (or chewy).

Bare Baked Crunchy, Apples Fuji & Reds, 0.53 Ounce (Pack of 16)

When traveling with dips always choose brands that are shelf stable so that they can fall into the perishable category. If you go this route you should plan to consume the entire package in your trip since they will need to be refrigerated once opened.

Mezete Tahini Rich Hummus Assortment, 100% All-Natural Dips and Spreads, Ready to Go Vegan Dip, Shelf-Stable with No Preservatives and Requires No Refrigeration, 7.5 Ounce (Pack of 6)

Something Sweet

Honey stinger organic waffles.

Honey Stinger Organic Waffles are sweet yummy waffles that double as a healthy(ish) treat. These pack really easily in your carry-on or a day pack on your trip and make them one the best snacks for traveling.

Honey Stinger Organic Waffles - Variety Pack – 16 Count – 4 of Each Flavor – Energy Source for Any Activity – Honey, Vanilla, Salted Caramel and Cinnamon – in Original Bee The Bear Box

Brownies & Cookies

Brownies and Cookies fall into a comfort item category for me. It’s nice to always have a sweet treat on hand but also something you are familiar with. I like the Nature’s Bakery brand Brownies and old faithful Nabisco Cookies like Oreos.

OREO Original, OREO Golden, CHIPS AHOY! & Nutter Butter Cookie Snacks Variety Pack, 56 Snack Packs (2 Cookies Per Pack)

Fruit Snacks

Pink panda/snack owl.

I recently discovered a new brand called Pink Panda which offers high fiber fruit snacks. Why high fiber fruit snacks? Because fiber is such a hard micro nutrient to consume when you are traveling and I like that these snacks trade the sugar for fiber when it comes to carbohydrates in the snack. These come in two varieties: Astro Blasters and Treasure Chews. I’ve had both and think they taste yummy (you’d really never know there is no sugar in these)! And it’s only 90 calories for the entire bag.

If you are interested in trying out this new brand use our code “BREADANDBUTTERPANDA10” for 10% off if you order directly on their website . Pink Panda fruit snacks are also available on Amazon below.

Snack Owl Vegan Sour Gummy Candy – Gluten Free, Low Calorie Candy - Guilt Free & Delicious Healthy Gummy Snacks - (Sour Nova)

Smart Sweets

I’ve been eating SmartSweets for years! They are similar to the Pink Panda brand but I’m not really sure which I like more. These are also high fiber fruit snacks and I really enjoy them for traveling. My favorites to date have been the Sour Blast Buddies and the Peach Rings.

SmartSweets Low Sugar Variety Candy Pack, 1.8oz (8 Pack) - For Kids & Adults

Other Fruit Snacks

As you can tell I really love fruit snacks! My other favorites for travel and just as a general comfort item are Gushers and Fruit by the Foot. I also really like fruit leather and the “That’s It” brand is a great option for something healthy(ish) when it comes to fruit snacking.

Fruit Bars Snack Gift Box (20 Pack) - 100% Natural, Gluten-Free, Vegan Fruit Snacks Variety Pack

Honey Stinger Energy Chews

Honey Stinger Energy Chews is an organic candy that’s great to chew and eat before, during, or after activity (especially when flying if your ears ring at high altitudes). It has multiple carbohydrate sources including glucose, fructose, maltose, sucrose.

Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chew Variety Pack | 3 Pack each of Fruit Smoothie, Pomegranate Passionfruit and Cherry Blossom | Gluten Free & Caffeine Free | 9 Count (Pack of 1)

I discovered this candy while on vacation in Hawaii. I think the best way to describe these are somewhere between candy and a gummy since they are chewy. I like Mango as my favorite flavor. Amazon offers a variety box if you want to check these out.

Hi-Chew Assorted Combo with Two 3.5-oz Packs including Tropical and Original

Protein Snacks

Protein is always hard for me to get in even when I’m not traveling so I always like to bring some protein snacks with me just in case. These are really great to cure hangry when you need some  stabilizing energy.

Pepperoni Sticks

These are new to me but I started eating Pepperoni sticks last year as a quick snack when I was out doing errands. That makes them perfect for an easy travel snack! The two brands I’ve liked so far are Vermont and Applegate Naturals. To me the flavors of these taste the most neutral for dried meat and come in a casing so it’s easy to eat and move on to the next thing.

Snack Sticks by Vermont Smoke & Cure – Uncured Pepperoni – Turkey – Healthy Meat Protein – 1oz Jerky Sticks – 24 count carton

Protein Bars

Protein Bars can sometimes leave an aftertaste in my opinion so there are not too many tasty ones that have a balanced calorie to protein ratio. My favorite pick so far as been Barebells Protein Bars which come in a variety of flavors and have 20 grams of protein per bar. I’ve been able to find these on Amazon and at Trader Joe’s so far. If you don’t typically like protein bars give these a try for something a bit different.

Barebells Protein Bar - Salty Peanut

Protein Powders

I like to travel with protein powders that are individually wrapped since protein is often difficult to fit in when on the go. Most protein powder servings will have at least 18 grams of protein which is a great boost to hold you over until your next meal.

You can mix your protein powder in with some bottled water at the airport. As a great hack you can also find a bistro, Starbucks, or Dunkin Donuts in the airport and request a milk of your choice in a bigger cup to add your protein powder for an easy travel snack.

Clean Simple Eats Chocolate Brownie Batter Whey Protein Powder, Natural Sweetened and Cold-Processed 20 Grams of Protein (30 Servings)

Collagen Peptides

I’m also a big fan of collagen peptides! Collagen is not a complete protein but it works well in a pinch to supplement other sources of protein for the day. It’s not completely tasteless but the flavor isn’t too strong. I prefer to dissolve these packets in water or hot coffee while traveling. They come in individual sticks which make them easy to transport. Collagen is also really great for nail and hair growth and has really helped my joints.

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder Supplement Travel Packs, Hydrolyzed Collagen for Skin Hair Nail Joint - Dairy & Gluten Free - 10g per Serving - Zero Sugar - Unflavored (20ct per Box)

Granola and Fruit Bars

Something about granola bars are so nostalgic to me and I love to bring them as an easy travel snack. They travel really well on planes and are also great for in your day bag at your final destination.

I like the Nature Valley, Made Good, and Nature Bakery brands.

Nature's Bakery Gluten Free Fig Bars, Raspberry, Real Fruit, Vegan, Non-GMO, Snack bar, 1 box with 6 twin packs (6 twin packs)

Peanut Butter

Again, a controversial pick for travel since usually peanuts are not allowed on all flights but I must have peanut butter with me as a basic comfort food while traveling! If I can’t have these on the plane I just eat them at my final destination. I like the JIF To Go Natural Peanut Butter cups that come individually packaged and will eat them as is, or with something I buy at the airport for some extra fat and protein. My second pick is the Justin’s Honey Peanut Butter brand which comes in a packet making it one of the best snacks for traveling.

JUSTIN'S Classic Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Spread Squeeze Packs, 1.15 Ounce (10 Pack)

Dehydration is real when you travel! I have two easy solutions to stay hydrated when you are on the go. These are not exactly an easy travel snack but they will come in handy while on the go.

I recently started using GoHydrate this spring as a way to stop my leg muscles from cramping and get my water levels up. GoHydrate is a water enhancer which makes it a great option if you are not particularly a fan of drinking water. I started thinking that this would also be excellent for travel due to the individual packets which make them great for on-the-go. GoHydrate provides almost instant hydration by delivering 5 electrolytes immediately to your body. Those electrolytes are: calcium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorous, and potassium.

This water enhancer also provides 40%+ of the recommended daily Vitamin D dose that most of of are deficient in due to sitting inside so often. To use GoHydrate just pour the pre-packaged stick into 20-24oz of water and drink. If you’d like to order GoHydrate I suggest ordering their mixed 10 stick sample box or their 30 stick sample box to see which flavor you like before stocking up on their 30 box sets of one flavor. My favorite flavors so far have been Lemon Citrus , Kiwi Strawberry , and Fruit Punch if you need a flavor recommendation.

GoHydrate Electrolyte Drink Mix - A Naturally Flavored, Sugar Free, Hydration Powder (Mixed, 30 Count (Pack of 1))

True Honey Tea

We found this brand True Honey Tea at a farmers market last year and its been our favorite tea! Based in Virginia these are tea bags that have honey granules already in the tea. We really like the Earl Gray (add some half and half to make a London Fog) and also the Peppermint tea for a really great non perishable travel snack.

True Honey Rooibos Tea Bags - Honey Crystals Blended in Every Sachet - Decaf Red Rooibos Tea - All Natural Organic Herbal Caffeine Free Tea Bag 24 Count

My next favorite drink mixer to travel with is from Cusa Tea . This brand was recommended to me by a friend who uses them while hiking. The best part is you don’t have to walk around with a wet tea bag once you prepare your tea. The flavors Cusa Teas has are unreal. I started with their Iced or Hot Variety Pack and the flavors are so delicious, truly premium tea with no sugar or artificial ingredients. I’ve tried this both in iced and hot tea and they work great. You can use these just by ordering hot water while on at the airport, on the plane, or at your final travel destination. 

If iced tea is more your style I’ve used them in even room temperature water (though cold water is better) and they dissolve no problem with no grainy stuff at the bottom. They are not sweetened so if you like sweet tea I suggest adding a sugar packet or something like Truvia to lightly sweeten the drink. My favorite flavors so far have been Blueberry Chrysanthemum and Hibiscus Rose . I recommend starting with the variety pack so that you can figure out which flavor you like before committing to an entire pack.

Cusa Tea & Coffee | Herbal Tea Variety Pack | Premium Caffeine Free Instant Tea | Hot & Iced Tea with No Added Sugar (10 Single Servings)

I typically buy a large water bottle once I get through security to keep with me in the airport and on the plane. If you don’t like buying water I suggest traveling with a stainless steel water bottle that you can fill up at the airport and throughout your trip. Our favorite travel options include Swell , Iron Flask, Yeti, and Stanley water bottles as great options that close.

Travel Water Bottles

S'well Stainless Steel Traveler - 20 Fl Oz - Azurite - Triple-Layered Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug Keeps Coffee, Tea and Drinks Cold for 36 Hours and Hot for 15- BPA-Free Water Bottle

S’well Stainless Steel Traveler

This S’well Stainless Steel Traveler is 20 Fl Oz and is Triple-Layered Vacuum-Insulated to keep Coffee, Tea and Drinks Cold for 36 Hours and Hot for 15 Hours.

Stanley IceFlow Stainless Steel Tumbler with Straw - Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle for Home, Office or Car Reusable Cup Leakproof Flip Cold 12 Hours Iced 2 Days (Alpine) , 30oz

Stanley IceFlow Tumbler

Stanley IceFlow Stainless Steel Tumbler with Straw is a Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle for Travel, the Office or a road trip. Its a reusable cup with a straw Leakproof Flip. The Stanley IceFlow will keep your drink cold for 12 Hours or Iced for 2 Days. This comes in various colors!

YETI Rambler 26 oz Bottle, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with Chug Cap, Seafoam

YETI Rambler Bottle

The YETI Rambler Water Bottle holds 26 oz of liquid and is vacuum insulated with a Chug Cap.

Which Easy Travel Snacks Are Your Favorites?

What easy travel snacks do you like to bring on your trips ? Did I miss any easy to pack snacks that you would recommend? Keep these travel snacks in mind for your next trip to beat hangry.

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This post is perfect timing! We’re taking the family to Disney World in two weeks and I have “travel snacks” on my to-do list! I love the high fiber gummy options, my little one struggles while we travel, so these will be perfect! Oh, and I have both the Emerald Nut Packs and the Nature’s Bakery bars as my car snacks, they are perfect, so I never have to hit the drive-thru!

Disney World sounds so fun! Yes, any sort of extra fiber on a trip makes things so much easier for all of us. And in candy form even better. I hope you get to try them 🙂 -Monica

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17 Healthy Airplane Snacks You Can Bring Through TSA

Published September 23, 2019

Written by:

good travel snacks for airplane

Jessie Beck

Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home...

Fred Perrotta

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

Woman looking at pastries

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Table of Contents

Can you bring your own snacks on an airplane? Yes, absolutely!

To avoid spending money on expensive airport food and make sure you have lots of healthy options while flying, bring your own DIY snacks and food packed in your carry on or personal item .

For health-conscious and budget-savvy travelers, there’s even more motivation to pack your own airplane snacks. Bringing food from home helps you avoid unhealthy choices at the airport, saves money, and gives you something to look forward to on your flight. 

You don’t have to be a master chef to level up your in-flight food game, either. Many of our favorite in-flight snacks are quick to make and easy to pack. If you’re not sure where to start, these packable, healthy, airplane food ideas will keep you and your travel crew satiated.

Can You Bring Snacks on a Plane?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks from home as long as they’re TSA compliant. Spreadables, like peanut butter, and liquids, like yogurt, must follow the standard 3-1-1 liquid rule . 

Read the Travel Toiletries Packing List for more details on carry on liquid rules.

Foods you purchase after the security checkpoints at the airport do not need to follow the 3-1-1 rule. As long as you’re buying it at the airport, you can enjoy all the in-flight hummus and coconut water you want.

TSA Food Rules: What Snacks Can You Bring on a Plane?

When we talk about food that’s not allowed on an airplane, we’re actually talking about food that’s not allowed through TSA. As mentioned above, you can bring solid foods like chips, crackers, sandwiches, and pasta through TSA in your carry on , but anything liquid or spreadable will have to follow the 3-1-1 rule. So, a 1.15 ounce squeeze pack of Justin’s nut butter is fine, but a four ounce tub of yogurt will be thrown out.

Once you’re past security, this rule no longer applies, and you can bring liquids and spreadables of any size purchased in the airport. So, yes, you could technically bring a sixteen ounce bowl of soup on your flight from the Panera Bread at the airport.

The TSA’s snacks page states:

Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked baggage.

Common foods you can’t bring through airport security include:

  • Any liquid (e.g., yogurt, juice, coconut water) over 3.4 ounces
  • Any paste (e.g., peanut butter, hummus) over 3.4 ounces

If you have questions about a specific food item, check TSA’s foods page .

What Snacks Can You Bring on an International Flight?

For international flights, there are no restrictions on what you can or cannot bring on the flight. However, at some borders, there are restrictions on what you can or cannot bring into the country. For example, Australia has strict regulations on what travelers can bring past customs and will confiscate any fresh produce or homemade meals you have in your luggage.

If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to eat your food in-flight so you don’t get it tossed at the border. If you want to pack something just in case you’re hungry, but aren’t sure if you’ll eat it, go for a packaged snack like crackers or a protein bar.

Snacks Not to Bring on a Plane

While technically allowed, you should also avoid smelly foods and allergens as a courtesy to your fellow passengers. For your own sake, skip messy foods you could easily spill.

Foods to avoid bringing on an airplane include:

  • Smelly foods like tuna
  • Allergens like peanut butter or any peanut-based snack
  • Liquids that are likely to spill and harder to get through security due to size limits

Also, a word about yogurt. We all know it’s a good last-ditch breakfast option when your airport has few healthy options, but it has a tendency to explode when you open it at high altitudes. If you choose to bring yogurt on your flight, open it veerrrry slowly to escape an in-flight disaster. The same goes for anything else that feels pressurized at altitude.

good travel snacks for airplane

The best airplane snacks are un-messy, un-stinky food you can enjoy at room temperature, like dried fruit or a sandwich. If you’re bringing anything from home, make sure it’s TSA compliant, and won’t stink up the cabin.

If you’re not sure what to bring, use this list of healthy, packable airplane snack and meal ideas. Even the most amateur chef can pull off these recipes.

Healthy, Packable Meals (with Recipes)

If you have the time and motivation, make one of these healthy, easy-to-pack airplane meals before you hit the road.

Blueberry Oatmeal Breakfast Cookie (Vegan, Dairy-Free)

For a quick, in-flight breakfast that won’t get smashed, explode, or cause a mess, reach for one of these nutrient-rich and antioxidant-filled blueberry oat breakfast cookies.

Banana Bread (Vegetarian)

Banana bread is another packable airplane breakfast option. For health-conscious travelers, choose a whole-wheat recipe that uses coconut oil instead of butter. Whatever you don’t pack, you can freeze until you’re back from your trip.

Chickpea Salad (Vegan, Dairy-Free)

This easy lunch recipe also works as a make-in-advance airplane meal. The salad is healthy, TSA-approved, and doesn’t need to be reheated. Plus, the recipe is flexible: toss in some feta cheese or cucumbers to make this meal your own.

Chicken and Vegetable Wrap (Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Options)

Wraps are one of the best sandwiches for flights. For a healthy option, make this chicken and vegetable-filled version from the New York Times. If you’ll be on a long flight, skip the lettuce to avoid a wilted mess at mealtime.

Fruit, Vegetable, and Cheese Bento Box (Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, and Dairy-Free Options)

Fancy-looking but simple to make, a DIY snack pack is a versatile and easy-to-pack homemade airplane snack. Simply cut up a variety of fruits, cheeses, veggies, and meats. Throw in a few crackers or a piece of bread if you’d like.

Grapes and blueberries are good options for fruits. For cheeses, stick to something low-odor and hard, like parmesan. For meat, go for a dried salami, which is preserved and doesn’t need refrigeration. 

Kale Chicken Salad (Gluten-Free Option)

Salads, the world’s go-to for a healthy meal that’s still tasty at room temperature, are another good airplane food option. To make sure your salad isn’t a mushy mess by the time you board, keep your dressing in a separate (smaller than 3.4 ounce) container. Also, opt for a heartier green like kale, shaved brussels sprouts, or cabbage, which won’t wilt like lettuce or arugula.

Cold Asian Noodles (Gluten-Free and Vegan Options)

You’re an intrepid eater, so why not give your airplane food an international twist with an Asian-inspired cold noodle dish? Sesame soba noodles are a simple classic, but if you want more ideas, check out Brit+Co’s line-up of cold noodle dishes.

Vegan Pasta Salad (Vegan)

For vegans and omnivores alike, recipes like this creamy vegan pasta salad from Love and Lemons are a great food option for air travel . Not only is it delicious, but meat and dairy-free dishes don’t require refrigeration. Even if you don’t end up eating it until halfway through a long flight, it’ll keep.

Chickpea Pan Bagnat (Vegetarian)

A French picnic classic, the pan bagnat is an easy and delicious make-in-advance sandwich option that actually gets better (not sad and soggy) the longer it sits. However, the original recipe has tuna, a major airplane no-no. Instead, try this vegetarian twist with chickpeas to make one of the best sandwiches for long flights.

good travel snacks for airplane

Airplane Snacks

For short flights or just-in-case-I’m-hungry moments, toss one of these healthy airplane snacks in your bag.

  • Dried fruit: Unlike real fruit, you can’t crush these babies. If you’re crossing time zones, go for dried berries. Target (Good & Gather) and Trader Joe’s both have good options without added sugar. I’m partial to Target’s dried mango and pineapple.
  • Popcorn: The perfect accoutrement to your in-flight movie binge.
  • Almonds: A protein-filled snack to keep you feeling full for longer.
  • Crackers: Go for a healthier whole-wheat option that’s great for kids and adults.
  • Fruit and veggie slices: Pack a bag of snap peas, apple slices, or any other fruit or veggie you love. 

There are also a few snacks you can make with hot water from the drink service.

  • Miso soup : For a warming, in-flight snack, bring a packet of instant miso soup. Just be sure to keep your cup ¾ full, or use a thermos with a lid to avoid any turbulence-induced soup burns.
  • Instant oatmeal : Grab a packet of oats or throw some quick oats in a thermos with your favorite toppings.
  • Instant noodles : Choose a low-sodium instant noodle, since salty foods exacerbate the dehydration caused by air travel. Again, keep your bowl or food jar only ¾ full.

How to Pack Snacks for an Airplane

With most homemade airplane meals, your food is only as portable as its container. When packing your carefully crafted sandwich, salad, or noodles, make sure to choose a leak-proof container that will keep your food intact. 

good travel snacks for airplane

Vremi Collapsible Food Container ($20)

Vremi’s line of collapsible containers is leak-proof and will keep your food safe in transit. After you’ve finished your snacks, the container collapses flat so you can stash it in your bag without it taking up as much room as traditional Tupperware.

good travel snacks for airplane

Zojirushi Food Jar ($28+)

Japanese brand, Zojirushi, makes an affordable but high-quality line of thermoses and food jars designed to keep your warm food warm and cold food cold. If you prefer sturdier Tupperware or want to keep your food hot or cold in transit, use Zojirushi’s food jar to transport your pasta, salads, or snacks.

good travel snacks for airplane

Stasher Bags ($8+)

Use a reusable, silicone bag from Stasher to transport your sandwich, pretzels, dried fruit, or any other snack you’d normally toss into a Ziploc bag. These bags pack even smaller than collapsible Tupperware and can be reused during your travels or on your return flight home. Like Bee’s wrap, they’ll also help you create less trash while you travel.

good travel snacks for airplane

Bee’s Wrap ($15+ for 3)

Unlike foil or plastic wrap, you can wash and reuse these natural, beeswax-covered wraps — a plus for eco-friendly travelers who want to reduce the amount of trash they create on the road. Use them to transport sturdier foods, like sandwiches or carrot slices, and pack them on the outside or top of your bag.

good travel snacks for airplane

Humangear Spork ($4)

If you’re bringing a dish like noodles or salad, you’ll need a utensil. Toss one of these petite, BPA-free sporks by Humangear  in your bag, instead of disposable forks and spoons from airport stores. Go for the titanium spork ($14) for an upgrade.

good travel snacks for airplane

Snow Peak Chopsticks ($38)

Prefer chopsticks with your noodles? Grab a pair of portable chopsticks from Snow Peak . Made from high-quality stainless steel and bamboo, these chopsticks break in half when not in use and, when put together, form a full-sized chopstick. They’re expensive compared to the $4 spork but incredibly well-made and designed to last. My partner, Jon, has been using his for over ten years.

Snacks on a Plane

You can eat healthier while saving time and money by packing your own foods and snacks in your personal item . Just make sure your food:

  • Follows TSA’s 3-1-1 rule : Spreadables, liquids, and liquid-ish foods like hummus, yogurt, and nut butter must be in 3.4 ounce containers or smaller.
  • Tastes good at room temperature : Consider sandwiches, cold noodles, and salads.
  • Isn’t smelly or messy to eat : Just say no to in-flight tuna.

When packing airplane snacks, consider using eco-friendly collapsible Tupperware, beeswax wraps, silicone sandwich and snack bags, and camping sporks you can reuse throughout your travels.

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The 15 Best Travel Snacks of 2024

RXBar Protein Bars Variety Pack is always a wise choice to have in your bag.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

good travel snacks for airplane

In This Article

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Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

Seasoned travelers know that purposeful packing extends down to your edible extras. “There’s nothing wrong with planning for a bit of indulgence, but you want to prioritize bringing along snacks that will fuel you and help you feel your best,” says registered dietician Amy Gorin, MS, RDN, and owner of Planet Based with Amy in Stamford, Connecticut.

Taking her advice to heart, we focused our best travel snack recommendations on key features like the number of grams of protein, added sugars, and fiber to help control blood sugar levels and sustain energy; how easy the snack is to pack; and the perishability. In our perishability ratings, snacks that can stay fresh for months without any refrigeration are labeled “low,” those that will need to be refrigerated after opening to stay fresh are labeled “medium,” and snacks that will need to be temperature controlled at all times are labeled “high.” 

RXBar Protein Bars Variety Pack grabbed our best overall spot since they pack a protein punch, have a wide selection of flavors (particularly when it comes to satisfying chocolate enthusiasts ), and are made with just a few simple ingredients. These snacks are also rough and tough and can easily fit into everything from your carry-on to your pocket. Whether you’re looking for a low-calorie, travel-friendly snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, one that falls in line with a specific dietary restriction, or just something to keep your energy levels up, we’ve got you covered.

Best Overall

Rxbar protein bar variety pack 6 flavors.

They pack a punch of protein and travel well. 

Some flavors are bigger winners than others.

RXBars are an easy and palatable way to quickly sneak in heaps of filling protein — without a ton of filler. Most bars give you around 5 grams of fiber, 12 grams of protein, and only 220 calories or less. You’ll find exactly all the ingredients listed on the front of the package, no added sugars or flavorings. These chewy bars get their protein from egg whites, their sweetness from dates, and their staying power from hearty nut fats. RXBars also rely on simple, straightforward ingredients like cocoa and real fruit for their flavors. 

RXBars are shelf-stable for 10 months after the manufacturer dates listed on each package, and they're compact enough to toss into your suitcase, hip pouch, purse, backpack, or pocket. If you’re new to RXBar or just like variety, we recommend going with one of their variety packs, like this six-flavor collection from Amazon that covers some of their most popular offerings like vanilla almond, blueberry, and a selection of chocolate-based fan faves. However, you can also find chocolate-only variety packs and nine-flavor packs with more niche flavors like apple cinnamon, coffee chocolate, and maple sea salt. 

Gorin also highly recommends their plant-based versions, which pack 10 grams of plant protein (made from gluten-free oat and nuts) and 4 grams of fiber into just 210-calorie bars. 

The Details: Dairy-free, vegetarian, gluten-free, some vegan flavors | Low perishability

Rhythm Superfoods Kool Ranch Kale Chips

The ingredients are all things we’d find in our own kitchen. 

Kale chips can easily get crushed in luggage and bags.

Rhythm Superfoods Kool Ranch Kale Chips are slowly dried to retain the kale’s natural vitamins and then seasoned with easily recognizable ingredients like garlic powder, white pepper, onion dill weed, and apple cider vinegar (for that ranch tang!). The fact that they are suitable for several different types of dietary restrictions means they’re also an inclusive bet to bring on group trips (that is, unless you don’t want to share). The 2-ounce bags equal two servings but still only have 260 calories and zero cholesterol (take that, Doritos!). You’ll also snag just 6 grams of carbs and 2 grams of sugar along with a surprising 5 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber per serving. Just be careful when you pack them — these “dried-not-fried” chips are brittle and can easily get crushed. 

The Details: Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free | Low perishability

Best Vegetarian

Harvest snaps mixed multipack.

These delicious snacks go over well with all ages. 

Easy crushability makes them less convenient to pack.

Gorin says Harvest Snaps are the travel snack that is always in her carry-on. She recommends the Harvest Snaps Mixed Multipack for its individually-packaged servings of “fun flavors” such as Lightly Salted, Tomato Basil, and Crunchy Loops Sour Cream & Onion. She points out that the first ingredient is veggies. “In the Lightly Salted, for example, the first ingredient is green peas. In the snack pack, you get a good amount of protein and fiber, which will keep you fuller for longer,” she says. We love that these are not only gluten-free and vegetarian but also a healthy crowd-pleaser for all ages. We just wish we didn’t have to worry about them getting crushed in our bags before we dig in. 

The Details: Vegetarian, gluten-free | Low perishability

Best Dried Fruit

Rind snacks chewy dried fruit.

These dried fruits come skin included.

They're expensive considering they are technically just fruit.

Rind Snacks didn’t reinvent the dried fruit, but they’ve reintroduced it in a nutritious and delicious way. Scan the label and you’ll just find fruit, nothing else. Like most dried fruit, these snacks have a high carb and sugar count, but rest assured there is no added sugars — it’s all nature’s candy, here. Thanks to the inclusion of the fruits’ cores, rinds, seeds, and skins, there’s a good amount of fiber in each pouch, too. Leaving the skins on also adds an unexpected extra dose of flavor and varies up the texture, which sets them apart from other dried fruit snacks on the market. We also love the variety of fruits, some of which aren’t usually your first go-to when choosing a dried fruit, like kiwi or persimmon. The only downside is that it’s hard not to finish them in one sitting — which can become a pricey habit. 

The Details: Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo | Low perishability

Best for Long Flights

Backpacker’s pantry chicken larb.

Backpacker’s Pantry

It's a classic (and delicious) Laotian dish made available on-the-go.

You’ll need a fork or spoon to eat this. 

Dehydrated meals are perfect when only a substantial snack will do the trick — or the in-flight meal just isn’t cutting it. They're lightweight and easy to pack, making them perfect for hiking, road trips , and long plane rides. All you need is some hot water and a fork or spoon and — voila! — you’ve got a hot snack. This Backpacker’s Pantry Chicken Larb is a take on the national dish of Laos and gives tired tastebuds a much-appreciated zap of tang and slight spice. It’s a welcome departure from the usual dehydrated meals menu. Bonus, we love that it’s spreading the national dish of Laos to travelers who may otherwise never have the chance to try larb. Just remember to pack a fork or spoon in your bag along with this snack packet. 

The Details: Gluten-free, dairy-free | 10-year shelf life

Best Hot Snack

Bulbhead yummy can potatoes.

You can use it at home, too!

Baked potatoes can get messy.

A bundled-up baked potato may not be your first choice for bringing with you on a trip, but Gorin swears by this “fantastic snack.” She says that a medium baked potato has 4 grams of plant-based protein and is a good source of fiber, both of which will keep you satiated. With the Yummy Can Potatoes, you can make a no-fuss, perfect baked potato in minutes right before you head out the door. “Wrap it in aluminum and bring it with you,” she says. “Plus, it takes awhile to eat, making it a fun snack to enjoy while watching an in-flight movie.” Don’t forget to pack a fork — and napkins. 

The Details: Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo | High perishability

Best for Digestion

Sunsweet ones california prunes.

These individually wrapped prunes easily fit into your bag or pocket. 

Eating too many prunes may cause diarrhea. 

It’s no secret traveling can make some of us a bit irregular between the high altitudes, travel anxiety, and new surroundings. This is why we recommend bringing a little wing snack with you on our trips, and dietician Gorin agrees. “I never travel without prunes,” she says. These individually packaged prunes are a good way to casually snack and keep your body moving. Throw a couple in your travel bag to snack on or even just add them as fruit in your breakfast. These prunes are pitted (so you don’t have to worry about broken teeth) and contain 3 grams of fiber per serving. Studies show eating around three to five prunes a day will help keep you regular thanks to the high fiber nature of this fruit. Gorin adds that daily prunes can also help prevent bone loss, too. Just start slow and don’t eat more than five a day; too many prunes can cause too much movement (and nobody wants to deal with that while traveling). 

The Details: Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free | Low perishability

Best Protein Treat

Skinnydipped snack attack minis variety pack.

They truly taste like an indulgent treat.

The chocolate may melt in warmer weather and environments.

SkinnyDipped Almonds quickly became one of our travel snack staples. In each tasty pack, you’ll get 2 grams of protein, good nut fat to keep you full, and a completely crave-able flavor (the deep cocoa taste of the dark chocolate is our favorite). This variety pack comes with 25 perfectly portioned 60-calorie mini packs — eight Dark Chocolate Cocoa, five Super Dark + Sea Salt, and six each of Lemon Bliss (a yogurt-covered version) and Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter. These delicious nuggets are free from preservatives, so they’ll only last around three months even unopened. Hot tip: They can also melt into a gooey mess at higher temperatures, so consider how (road trip?) and where (to the desert?) you’re traveling before packing this snack.

The Details: Gluten-free | Medium perishability

Best for Your Sweet Tooth

Unreal dark chocolate almond butter cups.

Your sweet tooth will barely even notice the swap.

The bump in ingredient quality translates to a higher price. 

Minimizing added sugar in your snacks is one way to keep your travel snacks on a more healthful track. Gorin says this doesn’t mean you need to deprive your sweet tooth completely, but she does recommend opting for snacks that use “real” sugar such as honey, maple syrup, and cane sugar. UnReal’s Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cups are a wise swap for classic peanut butter cups since they contain less sugar, offer a little bit of protein and fiber, and contain healthy fats. This also helps you stay fuller longer. Plus, they’re a safe choice for anyone with a peanut allergy. However, all these extra points add up, so expect to spend a bit more on these clean peanut butter cups than the usual. 

The Details: Vegan, gluten-free | Low perishability

Best for People With Diabetes

Justin's almond butter squeeze pack.

The small, individual packages pack and travel well. 

These are most effective when paired with a high-protein food. 

Keeping blood sugar levels under control is key for a person traveling with diabetes. Gorin notes that slowing the digestion of the carbs eaten will help to prevent a spike in blood sugar levels. “That can either look like choosing a food that contains fiber, protein, and/or fats (in addition to carbs),” she says, “or it can mean pairing a carb-rich food with a food that features those nutrients.” Justin’s Classic Almond Butter Squeeze Packs are an ideal good-fat snack without too much sugar that you can squeeze into your mouth directly from the single-serve package or onto something like protein-rich Greek yogurt. Don’t have diabetes? Carrying a few packs of this nut butter in your suitcase, carry-on bag, or pocket is still a great way to help keep you satiated and energetic between travel day meals. 

The Details: Gluten-free, vegan | Low perishability

Best Gluten-free

Love corn fab four variety pack.

They’ve got a satisfying crunch and pop of flavor. 

The snack packs are a little small. 

Gluten-free folks who grew up in the Corn Nuts era will definitely appreciate the satisfying crunch and flavor choices in the Love Corn Fab Four Variety Pack. Each pack comes with five bags each of Sea Salt, BBQ, Habanero, and Salt and Vinegar. These perfectly crunchy corn puffs aren’t packed full of protein or fiber like most of the picks on this list, but they are made with non-GMO ingredients and have way less sodium than the O.G. corn snacks. Plus, there’s nothing wrong with snacking for snack’s sake — it’s one of the perks of travel. We just wish these Love Corn snack packs were a little bit bigger (thank goodness there’s 20 of them.) 

The Details: Gluten-free (certified), vegan | Low perishability

Epic Provisions Keto-friendly Bar Variety Pack

It’s a solid hit of pure animal protein. 

This variety pack has two spicy flavors. 

Beef jerky ain’t got nothing on these Epic Provisions protein bars. If you’ve never had an Epic bar before, get started with this keto-friendly pack that lets you taste chicken, beef, and venison varieties. You’ll get 10 to 13 grams of animal protein in each bar, single-digit carbs, and a good amount of fat to fill you up and keep you full. Ingredients are simple: just non-GMO meats and spices. Less salt means less bloating, and simple ingredients means cleaner snacking. The individually wrapped bars hold up in most packing situations and without refrigeration, making them an ideal snack for car trips, hikes, camping, or even day tours. Fair warning, though, this particular variety pack is full of half Beef Jalapeno and Chicken Sriracha, so if you’re not into spice, you may want to check out another variety.

The Details: Gluten-free, paleo, keto | Low perishability

Best Subscription Snack Box

Bokksu snack box.

It gives travel vibes, even if you’re not going anywhere. 

People with dietary restrictions or allergies may have limited things they can eat in the boxes.

Bokksu boxes are filled with curated and themed Japanese snacks, teas, and candies that are hard (or impossible) to find outside of Japan . The boxes are shipped from Japan, giving you a little dose of travel vibes, even if you don’t have a trip in the works. Choose your subscription length: either three, six, or 12 months — you’ll get a new box each month, but subscription fees are billed quarterly. Gorin is on board with Bokksu boxes, too, noting that the box contains up to 25 portion-controlled snacks that are perfect for tossing in your bag for a trip. While not knowing exactly what is coming in your next box is part of the fun, there’s a drop in value for people living with dietary restrictions or allergies (though the company does send an allergen list with each box). 

The Details: Varies | Low perishability

Best Snack Pack

Duke’s smoked sausages and cheese crisps.

These meat-and-cheese packs give grown-up, shelf-stable Lunchable vibes. 

There are no options for vegetarians or vegans. 

These conveniently packaged snack packs feature plump smoked pork sausages and 100 percent real cheese crisps. One pack provides travelers a filling serving of satiating double-digit grams of protein and fat, all with less than 1 gram of carbs. We like to think of them as better-tasting and travel-friendly Lunchables for grown-up palates. These snack packs come in either original sausage flavor with cheddar cheese crisps or, for those who like a little kick, Hatch chile flavored sausages with asiago crisps. Both packs are gluten-free, but they are not dairy-free or suitable for vegans and vegetarians. You’ll need to refrigerate any uneaten sausages after opening. 

The Details: Gluten-free | Low perishability

Best Veggie Chips

Sensible portions veggie straws screamin’ hot.

They are a feel-good, taste-great alternative to Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. 

They contain little or no protein or fiber and are high in sodium. 

Move over, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos , these spicy veggie straws are a healthier way to scratch the fiery itch while traveling. Made from non-GMO vegetables like potatoes, spinach, beetroot, and carrots, Sensible Portions Veggie Straws have up to 30 percent less fat than regular potato chips. We love how crunchy and airy they are and that a serving equals about 38 straws. Are these the healthiest snacks on the list? No, but they are a more nutritious alternative to other similar snack foods, so we’re counting it as a win. Each bag has about four servings, so be sure to seal it between snacking to keep these straws from going stale. 

The Details: Dairy-free, gluten-free | Medium perishability

Tips for Buying Travel Snacks

Purchase the right snacks for your type of trip.

Consider your mode of transport, packing options, and destination when choosing your travel snacks. For example, if flying internationally, many countries will not allow meat products through customs. Avoid choosing snacks that are easily crushed or need to be kept cool, if planning a hiking excursion. 

Don't forget about cleaning up

Remember, whether you’re just snacking while in transit or on a long weekend camping trip , you’ll need to be able to properly dispose of any waste from your snacks. Choose snacks that have easy cleanup. Bonus points if they have recyclable packaging. 

Keep taste and lasting satiation top of mind

Gorin recommends looking for snacks that will not only taste good but have staying power. Snacks that are high in protein, healthy fats, and fiber are best for helping to keep you full and give you energy while you travel. A good source of protein will provide roughly 10 percent of the recommended 50 to 60 grams of daily protein. 

Read product labels

To make sure you’re getting a healthy and hearty snack that will keep the gas burning throughout your travel day, Gorin says to look for minimal added sugar (5 grams or less) plus at least 5 grams of fiber and/or protein. “Many products don’t contain this amount of fiber and protein,” she says, “do look for at least one or the other."

Yes, you can bring your own snacks on a plane as long as they comply with the TSA rules where applicable. Keep in mind any cooling packs will also need to comply with security limits (i.e., gel freezer packs need to be under the allotted liquid amount, even when frozen).

Insulated coolers are the best and easiest way to keep your food either hot or cold while traveling. Cold packs, heat packs, and dry ice are not advised, particularly if traveling by plane. 

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For this story, Katherine Alex Beaven sourced recommendations and tips from a registered dietician about which snacks are the best for travel and what to look for when shopping for travel snacks. As a veteran traveler and someone with celiac disease, Alex also shared her tried-and-tested best snacks for travel. While researching travel snacks, we spoke with registered dietician Amy Gorin , MS, RDN, owner of Planet Based with Amy in Stamford, Connecticut.

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Travel Fashion Girl

These are the Best Airplane Snacks to Pack for Long Flights

Packing , Packing Tips

best-airplane-snacks

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Airplane food (or no food at all) can take a flight from bad to worse. Whether you’re a picky eater, follow a strict diet, or hate the idea of going hungry, follow our readers’ recommendations for good airplane snacks so you know exactly what to pack!

Note: please read product labels for all airplane snacks in advance to ensure you are not allergic to the ingredients.

Airplane Food Ideas

Table of contents.

Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:

I’m in search of packable foods that don’t require refrigeration and that I can take from the U.S. into Canada in a carry-on. I won’t have a fridge or microwave in my room and I’m not sure if I’ll have hot water. A tight schedule of events for the conference I’m attending prevents me from having much time to seek out food from grocery stores in-country and a tight budget has motivated me to get creative with meals and snacks.

Many readers ask us, “can you bring snacks on an airplane?” The answer is yes, but not all food makes for the best travel snacks. Our readers share their recommendations for what snacks to bring on a plane.

byo-food-ideas-for-long-flights

Veggicopia Dips Variety Pack

Hummus and Crackers

Hummus and crackers is one of the best food to pack for long flights. While hummus is usually refrigerated, there are alternatives, including shelf-stable versions and hummus powder.

One reader says, “I bring single serving-size shelf-stable hummus and pack that with crackers.” Another adds, “I pack hummus powder and dried bean dip. Just add hot water from your hotel coffee maker or ask a flight attendant!”

byo-food-ideas-for-long-flights

GoPicnic Ready-to-Eat Meals Tasty Favorites Variety Pack

GoPicnic Boxes

A number of readers rave about  GoPicnic boxes  . These small, individual-sized snack boxes are delicious, nutritionally balanced, all-natural ready-to-eat meals that come in handy picnic boxes. No refrigeration, preparation, or heating required! If you’re looking for healthy snacks for long flights, these fit the bill.

One reader says, “My favorite travel snack is GoPicnic boxes,” while a second says, “I second GoPicnic boxes! They’re fantastic.” A third says, “I love these for the plane! They come in many different varieties and each are unique and delicious. They are packaged in such a way that the crackers or chips will not be crushed, and the meats do not need to be refrigerated. The box opens in so that you can lay it right on the tray and see everything inside. I take these on every trip.”

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

byo-food-ideas-for-long-flights

Nut Harvest Nut & Fruit Mix

Dried Fruit and Nuts

Like peanut butter and jelly, fruit and nuts go hand in hand. Several readers recommended mixed nuts, trail mix, and dried fruit strips. All of them are available in individual sized packets, making them easy to stuff into your carry-on.

You can also make your own trail mix for DIY airplane snacks. Combine nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate nibs or something sweet for the perfect combination of salty and sweet.

byo-food-ideas-for-long-flights

Nuts and Spices Variety Pack

Granola Bars

Like dried fruits and nuts, granola bars are a great snack for giving you a boost of energy. One reader says, “I usually just throw in some Kind bars in my bag,” while another reader recommended Nature Valley cereal bars.

Keep a few different granola bars in your bag so you can grab and enjoy them at any time. Look for those that have several grams of protein to keep you feeling full longer. Along with Nature Valley and Kind, we also love Luna and Clif bars.

byo-food-ideas-for-long-flights

World Gourmet Quinoa Ready To Eat Meal

World Gourmet Quinoa Meal Pots

Like the GoPicnic packs, these meals from World Gourmet are ready to eat anywhere and at anytime. While you can heat them up, you can also eat them as-is.

One reader says, “These are so great for travel! Yummy, healthy, and you don’t have to heat them up. Every flavor I have tried is delicious. It’s nice to have a real meal instead of a snack.”

byo-food-ideas-for-long-flights

Maple Almond Butter Squeeze Packs

Peanut Butter and Almond Butter Packets

While a peanut butter and jelly sandwich may be tricky to pack and keep fresh, packets of peanut or almond butter are easy to take on long flights. One reader says, “I like to bring crackers and small peanut butter or almond butter packs.”

Justin’s is an organic brand that offers individual-sized packets of peanut butter and several types of almond butter, including a delicious maple almond butter.

byo-food-ideas-for-long-flights

Quaker Real Medleys Oatmeal

Instant Oatmeal Bowls

Several readers recommend instant oatmeal as they’re easy to pack and make for a great meal when you want to eat more than a granola bar or snack. One reader says, “I like to bring instant oatmeal for a quick breakfast and as healthy snacks for airplane travels.”

While you do need hot water, you can ask a flight attendant for hot water if you’re on a plane, or use the coffee maker in a hotel room.

byo-food-ideas-for-long-flights

Rubbermaid Easy Find Lids Food Storage Container

How to Pack Airplane Snacks

Our readers also shared their tips for packing snacks for flights, recommending  Tupperware and Ziploc bags. Freezer-size Ziploc bags are great for combining all of your snacks. Add your Tupperware or Ziploc bags to a packing cube in your personal item so that you can have easy access to your snacks when you get hungry.

With Tupperware, you can take it with you in your day pack for days out if you want to save money and avoid eating out. They’re also great for separating airplane snacks for toddlers.

A spork can also come in handy, or you can always carry around a disposable plastic spoon I you opt against these travel products. This is a must have essential in my pack but it may not be in yours!

What are your  favorite airplane snacks ? Share in the comments below!

For more airplane essentials, please read:

  • What to Wear On A Plane
  • What To Do on a Long Flight
  • How to Alleviate Back Pain During Flights
  • How to Survive Long Flights Over 20+ Hours

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Hope you liked these ideas for snacks for long flights. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Pilar

If you take a Justin’s packet on any flight TSA will bomb swipe search each packet do to it having a foil lining which will set off the alarms. Take it from me who has had each packet of my Justin’s Peanut Butter searched

Alex

Hi Pilar, thank you for sharing this with us! ?

Sunjar Kumar

My favorite snack I pack in Tupperware is Keema Matta and paratha . I also like a good sardine in easy open cans.

Hi Sunjar, thank you for sharing! Happy travels!

Nida

Instead of premixed peanut butter, I pack peanut butter powder.

Kay

Can you take these on a plane in your carry on?

Hi Kay, thank you for your comment! Yes you should be able to take these on a flight with you but it is always best to check with your airline directly first! 🙂

Carrie

I have to say, I love tuna, but if someone opened up a can or pouch of tuna on the plane…ugh! The whole plane would smell like tuna! Maybe best to make and eat your tuna salad in the terminal 🙂

Hi Carrie, thank you for sharing!! 🙂

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30 Healthy Travel Snacks For Flying

Business Travel Life

Healthy travel snacks that are easy to pack!

Packing your own food for the airport may sound like a silly thing to do. Most corporate travelers are able to expense their meals, so why bother bringing your own?

There are many reasons to consider packing at least a few healthy travel snacks on your next trip. Any seasoned traveler can share a horror story about a time they were stuck on a plane, on the tarmac for up to three hours with limited water and no snacks. If you travel enough, this scenario is bound to occur and you will be thankful to have a snack while you are stuck.

good travel snacks for airplane

Packing your own healthy snacks will also help you resist the temptation to buy something unhealthy at the airport (remember-you are flying to work, not on vacation). If you are traveling with a daily per diem, avoiding overpriced airport food provides more money for you to enjoy a nice dinner when you arrive at your destination (hello Morton’s!).

Most importantly, if you have committed to staying on track with your diet or following a specific meal plan, packing your own healthy travel snacks ensures you will stay on track.

healthy travel snack

Healthy Travel Snack Ideas

  • Fresh Fruit (firm fruit is best like a whole apple, so it will not get smashed)
  • Bars ( protein bars , fruit/nut bars , natural fruit bars or granola bars )
  • Dried Fruit
  • Pretzels (in a sealed container or bag to avoid getting smashed)
  • Popcorn Chips ( Popcorners  or Popchips )
  • Crackers (healthy cracker like Mary’s Gone Crackers )
  • Protein Powder in a shaker bottle (add milk or water post security or in-flight)
  • Dry oatmeal cup (add hot water post security or in-flight)
  • PB&J Sandwich or Wrap
  • Nut butter *
  • Seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, etc.)
  • Granola or healthy, low sugar cereal
  • Applesauce or fruit squeezes *

healthy travel snack

How To Pack Cold Travel Snacks

There are many ways to keep your food cold during travel. You can borrow your kid’s lunch box or pick up a small soft-sided cooler. Our recommendation is to maintain your professional look and travel in style with a 6 Pack Fitness Bag that features an insulated compartment to keep your food cold and additional space to carry your laptop.

healthy travel snacks for flying

Healthy Travel Snacks To Keep Cold

  • Cheese Sticks
  • Grilled chicken or turkey
  • Turkey or Ham Roll Up with Cheese
  • Sandwich or wrap
  • Grapes, berries or cut melon
  • Fresh cut veggies
  • Fresh fruit such as grapes or berries
  • Greek yogurt*
  • Homemade salad (add dressing to salad before security, it is considered a liquid)
  • Quinoa Salad

healthy travel snacks for flying (1)

Check out tips for packing cold food and remaining compliant with TSA regulations.

All items with a * are considered gel or liquid by TSA and will have to be 3.4 oz. or smaller and packed with your liquid items following the TSA 3-1-1 regulations.

Stylish Cooler Bags for Travel Snacks

Smelly travel snacks to avoid.

There is nothing worse than being exposed to a strong odor when you are trapped in an air sealed room like an airplane. Prior to packing your food, please keep your future seat mates in mind. Yes, fish is very healthy, but it is incredibly rude to eat fish on an airplane (tuna fish included). I am the first to understand the need to eat protein (fish, eggs, etc.) so just be courteous and eat the smelly food in the airport terminal before you board the plane.

Odorous foods to avoid eating in-flight:

  • Fish or Shell fish
  • Garlic or Onions (raw or cooked)
  • Strong smelling cheese (like Limburger or Silton)
  • Anything fermented (Sauerkraut/ Kimchee)
  • Cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower or broccoli)
  • Hard boiled eggs/ egg salad

Example DIY Airplane Meals

Breakfast : Greek yogurt + dry cereal

Snack : Grapes + nuts

Lunch : Turkey & veggie wrap/ sandwich + apple + granola bar

Snack : Fresh cut veggies + hummus

Dinner : 1 Bag of Pre-Mixed Salad + olive oil/dressing (add this at home & shake with lettuce, discard remaining liquid) + chopped vegetables +  rotisserie or grilled chicken (you can mix all of this in the salad bag to save space and avoid bring an extra container)

healthy travel snacks for flying

Meal Prep Guide for Home & Travel

If you are interested in learning how to prepare meals at home and during travel, our meal prep guide will teach you everything you need to know to get started!

meal prep guide for travel business travel life

Business Travel Life Meal Prep Guide Features:

  • Nutrition basics
  • Meal prep basics
  • Meal prep tools
  • How to meal prep at home
  • How to get food through TSA
  • How to meal prep during travel
  • Easy hotel meal prep ideas
  • 30 Healthy Travel Snacks
  • 4 easy meal prep recipes
  • Example meal plan
  • Weekly meal planning list
  • Delivered electronically so you can get started immediately!

Click here to download now!

What are your favorite snacks for travel? Please comment below!

healthy travel snacks

Business Travel Life

Business Travel Life is an online resource supporting the road warrior lifestyle. We give business travelers the tools they need to maintain their wellness and productivity when traveling. The topics we cover include business travel tips, travel workouts, healthy travel hacks, travel products, general travel tips, and industry trends. Our goal is to make business travel a healthier experience – and to make healthy travel practices more accessible to all road warriors.

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Kristina Portillo, CPT, MS

Kristina is the founder of Business Travel Life. Her love of fitness and travel unified to create a resource for business travelers and road warriors who want to take a healthier approach to business travel. She has traveled for business on and off for the past eight years. Kristina received a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Colorado State University and received her Bachelors of Arts in Business Marketing from Chaminade University of Honolulu.

International Travel Tips: How to Prepare for a Business Trip in South America

How to pack healthy food for air travel - tsa food rules and regulations.

You might think about editing this list and not including nuts or items with nuts. Many people are alergic to nuts and deserve to have a safe flight without fear of being exposed to something they are allergic to.

cool beans bruh

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The Best Healthy Travel Snacks You Can Pack in Your Carry-On

almonds_photo by chuttersnap via unsplash

Eating healthy and traveling may not always seem like they go together. And just looking around at the airport food options, it's no surprise why. It can often feel like the odds are stacked against you and your desire to be healthy.

Your greatest defense against the abundance of unhealthy temptations on the road are healthy snacks. Whether you pack them ahead of time or grab them on-the-go, strategic snacking can help keep you on track to meet your health and fitness goals anywhere in the world.

(Photo via Shutterstock)

When choosing snacks, focus on the nutritional value and the macronutrients to simplify the decision-making process. The foods you consume should provide you with vitamins, fiber, protein and healthy fats. Aim to limit things like carbohydrates and sugars, except in fruits and vegetables.

There are, of course, a few other things to consider when selecting snacks for air travel. TSA guidelines require that liquids carried on board aircraft be less than 3.4 fluid ounces, and this includes some foods (think: peanut butter and yogurt). You might also want to consider the smell of certain foods. While sardines, smoked salmon and tuna are great high-protein snacks, they are not the best thing to open on an airplane .

We've narrowed down the choices to three categories: protein, nuts and fruits and vegetables. All three will keep you energized and fill you up while you're on the road.

On-the-Go Protein

Protein is a macronutrient that does powerful things for our bodies, and numerous studies have shown that a high-protein diet will improve metabolic health and weight loss. Snacks that are high in protein will help you build muscle and strength, while keeping you full and reducing the likelihood of cravings and unhealthy snacking.

You know exactly what you're getting with RXBAR : the tasty, albeit very chewy bars have their ingredients printed in bold on the packaging. Typically egg whites, nuts and dates for sweetness. With all natural flavors and 12 grams of protein, it's a snack you can feel good about. (Try the chocolate sea salt one!)

Quest Bars also have a short list of ingredients, and there's no added sugar, though they do have a bit of an aftertaste. There's also a wide range of flavors — more than 20 that we know of — including Maple Waffle, Mocha Chocolate Chip, Rocky Road, Strawberry Cheesecake and Chocolate Peanut Butter. In addition to the variety, Quest also pack about 20 grams of protein in each bar.

With both an egg-white option ( Epic Performance Bars ) and the original grass-fed meat version — beef, pork, bison, even lamb and wild boar — Epic Bars are a great Paleo-friendly travel snack. Both contain approximately 12 grams of protein per bar and are gluten and soy-free.

EXO Protein Bars include an ingredient that might initially turn you off, but hear me out. Cricket powder is a great source of protein and there's no buggy taste! Plus, crickets are much better for the planet than more mainstream protein sources. They emit fewer greenhouse gases, use less water and require less space and food. EXO protein bars are now even available on some JetBlue flights.

Nuts are a great snack for traveling due to their small size and high concentration of healthy fats, protein and fiber. You'll feel energized and full, making it less likely that you'll indulge in unhealthier food options at the airport.

While many airlines offer a variety of nuts as an in-flight snack option, you can also plan ahead and pack your own. Sahale Snacks make all-natural nut blends that include almonds, cashews pecans, pistachios and peanuts, while also adding in dried fruits to sweeten things up.

(Photo via Shutterstock)

There are also nut butters, which are incredibly tasty, but the TSA considers them a liquid, so opt for travel-friendly packets. A personal favorite of mine is Justin's Almond Butter . Combine almond butter with apple slices or celery sticks, and you'll have a complete, healthy snack for your next flight.

Farm-to-Flight

When it comes to healthy snacking, you must consider the nutritional value of food. Long days in airports and hotels can make it difficult to get the proper vitamins and nutrients your body needs, so concentrate on eating fruits and vegetables throughout the day.

Bare Snacks makes fruit and veggie chips that taste great and contain few ingredients: basically just sliced and baked fruits and vegetables, with no additives or preservatives. Banana, apple, sweet potato, beet and carrot chips are just a handful of the options available.

Kale Chips are also a great option, and Rhythm Superfoods seasons theirs with tasty flavors. The chips are crispy and the ingredients are recognizable (seeds, spices, cane sugar, apple cider vinegar and, of course, kale).

You can also pack your own fruits and vegetables before you fly. Baby carrots, apples, bananas, oranges, strawberries and blueberries all make for convenient snacks and are loaded with vitamins, nutrients and fiber. Try putting them in a small container and packing them in your carry-on for your next trip. Just remember, some restrictions apply if you're flying internationally or between certain US territories (or states like Hawaii) and the mainland.

(Photo via Shutterstock)

The Bottom Line

Don't allow yourself to make bad food choices while traveling just because it may be more convenient. Plan for healthy snacking before you travel by packing food options that will satisfy your hunger while also fueling your body. Feeling great when you arrive at your destination is based largely on what you eat en route.

Chris Castellano is a travel fitness specialist and the founder of Fittest Travel . He recently self-published his first book, "Fit For Travel: Your Guide to Losing Weight and Feeling Great While Traveling."

25 Best Travel Snacks For Your Next Trip

These picks are approved by our registered dietitians and taste testers for your next adventure.

best travel snacks

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Grass Fed Original Beef Jerky Snack Sticks

CHOMPS Grass Fed Original Beef Jerky Snack Sticks

Blueberry Walnut Superfood Oatmeal

Purely Elizabeth Blueberry Walnut Superfood Oatmeal

Classic Peanut Butter Squeeze Packs

Justin's Classic Peanut Butter Squeeze Packs

Double Filled Energy Balls (6 Pack)

Frooze Balls Double Filled Energy Balls (6 Pack)

Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn (24 Pack)

LesserEvil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn (24 Pack)

Probiotic Prunes (4 Pack)

Mariani Probiotic Prunes (4 Pack)

Protein Bar Variety Pack (12 Pack)

UNiTE Protein Bar Variety Pack (12 Pack)

Breakfast Biscuits, Cinnamon Sugar (30 Count)

Sweet Loren's Breakfast Biscuits, Cinnamon Sugar (30 Count)

Baked Cheese Bites (12 Pack)

Whisps Baked Cheese Bites (12 Pack)

Pop Mmms (3 Pack)

Simple Mills Pop Mmms (3 Pack)

Ideal snacks for travel include ones that will keep in your backpack, purse or carry-on without melting or falling apart. If you're traveling by plane, you'll want to make sure the snacks are TSA-compliant , so no liquid or gel food items over 3.4 ounces. Most importantly, the best snacks should have a combination of protein and fiber to keep you fueled and satisfied. Try to aim for about four grams each of protein and fiber, and keep added sugar to a minimum (under eight grams is ideal per snack, which is the equivalent of two teaspoons). Always prioritize fresh produce when possible, since they offer a great combination of fiber and antioxidants to keep you feeling your best during your travels.

Fruits and vegetables also are packed with water, a smart way to stay hydrated during your trip. Hydration in general is the key to savvy travel — especially for long plane rides, so don't forget to bring an empty water bottle with you to fill after you go through security at the airport. Since the altitude is dehydrating, and turbulence/delays can make beverage service unpredictable, it’s worth the investment to buy a second, unsweetened drink at the airport. Pair that with these nutrient-dense snacks and you'll be sure to have a great vacation.

Made from sustainably sourced proteins, these convenient jerky sticks are a notch above from what you'll find at a traditional convenience store en route to your travel destination. The beef and venison varieties are 100% grass-fed and finished, and turkey options are free-range. Every CHOMPS option is hormone-free, antibiotic-free and has lower sodium counts than other options on the market.

Per serving (one stick): 90 calories, 6g total fat, 2.5g sat fat, 25mg cholesterol, 290mg sodium, 0g total carb, 0g fiber, 0g total sugars, 9g protein

Oats are an easy base for when you're at a hotel or during any travel experience. Ones that come in a convenient cup like this from Purely Elizabeth just require a bit of hot water that you can ask for on the airplane. While oats can be a great source of fiber and whole grains, flavored varieties tend to be very high in added sugar and void of any protein. That's why these cups are a top pick for us since they only have six grams of added sugar and pack in nine grams of protein from collagen, creating a well-balanced choice.

Per serving (one container): 230 calories, 5g total fat, 0.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 130mg sodium, 37g total carb, 5g fiber, 9g total sugars, 6g added sugars, 9g protein

Nut or seed butter packs offer a great dose of healthy fats and you can add them to crackers, cereal, oatmeal, fruit or other snacks you've packed (or simply enjoy them on their own). Bonus: Packs smaller than 3 ounces, like these ones, get the thumbs-up from TSA . They even pack in seven grams of protein too.

Per serving (one pack): 210 calories, 18g total fat, 3.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 25mg sodium, 6g total carb, 1g fiber, 2g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 7g protein

These energy balls are the perfect bite to stash in your purse or backpack for your trip. Made from dates, nuts and fruit, each bite has two freshly made fillings inside and is seriously satisfying. Flavors include caramel chocolate peanut butter, chocolate hazelnut, dulce de leche, lemon, peanut butter and jelly, raspberry dark chocolate and triple chocolate fudge. The tiny packs are great for travel.

Per serving (two balls, peanut butter and jelly): 126 calories, 6g total fat, 2g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 32mg sodium, 16g total carb, 2g fiber, 12g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 3g protein

Popcorn is a great volume-rich snack, meaning you can eat quite a bit of it for very little calories. It is also considered a whole grain and good source of fiber. Skip the movie theatre popcorn dripping in butter, and opt for air-popped or lightly oil-popped varieties. The convenient mini bags from LesserEvil are great to stash in your carry-on and are made with organic extra-virgin coconut oil.

Per serving (one bag): 50 calories, 3g total fat, 2.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 7g total carb, 2g fiber, 0g total sugars, <1g protein

Between lengthy travel plans and a new environment, keeping things regular can be a challenge. That's why our dietitians suggest having some prunes on hand during any trip. Prunes have a slew of health benefits , and research suggests that prunes are as effective as over-the-counter products to help with constipation. We especially love these prunes from Mariani that add in probiotics for additional gut health and immune support to keep you healthy during your trip and beyond.

Per serving (five to six prunes): 100 calories, 0g total fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 26g total carb, 3g fiber, 16g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 1g protein

Protein bars can make for an easy travel snack, but not all of them are created equal (some mimic the nutrition facts of a candy bar more than anything else). We like these gluten-free bars from UNiTE that are nutrient-dense and made with dates, nut butters and whey protein. The churro flavor was a tester favorite and packs in 10 grams of protein and five grams of fiber at under 200 calories.

Per serving (one bar, churro): 190 calories, 9g total fat, 1g sat fat, 35mg cholesterol, 70mg sodium, 19g carb, 5g fiber, 9g total sugars, 7g added sugars, 11g protein

We can't get enough of these sweet breakfasts biscuits that come in convenient packets of three and are made with better ingredients than others on the market. One serving makes for a light breakfast on-the-go or a layover snack, and is packed with 19 grams of whole grains, 4 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber and five B vitamins. Plus, the biscuits are gluten-free and come in blueberry, cinnamon sugar, and chocolate flavors.

Per serving (one pack): 200 calories, 8g total fat, 3g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 180mg sodium, 32g carb, 3g fiber, 11g total sugars, 11g added sugars, 4g protein

Bringing perishable foods like yogurts and cheese sticks might not be possible during your travels, but you'll get the best of both worlds with these baked cheese bites from Whisps that are shelf-stable. Whisps first ingredient is protein-packed cheese and each bite is super crispy and satisfying with a whopping 13 grams of protein per serving. They come in a few fun flavors as well and were a family-friendly hit in taste tests.

Per serving (23 crisps, parmesan): 150 calories, 10g total fat, 7g sat fat, 30mg cholesterol, 350mg sodium, 1g carb, 0g fiber, 0g total sugars, 13g protein

Looking for something to crunch on mid-flight? These bite-sized popped crackers are baked and made with 1/3 cup of vegetables per serving like organic butternut squash. They have a cheesy flavor and are light and airy. Throw some in a handy reusable snack bag that you can refill all trip long.

Per serving (44 crackers): 140 calories, 5g total fat, 1g sat fat, 5mg cholesterol, 280mg sodium, 21g carb, 1g fiber, 1g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 2g protein

Natural Delights Medjool Date Strips with Tajin

Medjool Date Strips with Tajin

Who knew that fresh Medjool dates and Tajin chili lime seasoning would pair so well together? This snack offers a unique flavor profile for sweet and spicy lovers, and the simple ingredient list is one to rave about. "Loved the spicy flavor. A flavorful snack and good for on the go," one tester said.

Per serving (one pouch, six pieces): 100 calories, 0.5g total fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 340mg sodium, 22g carb, 3g fiber, 19g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 1g protein

Prevail. Grass Fed Beef Jerky (4 Pack)

Grass Fed Beef Jerky (4 Pack)

Our dietitians are fans of this jerky from Prevail since it is 100% grass-fed and grass-finished beef jerky and is free from fillers and additives. Taste testers appreciated its tender texture and balanced flavor since it is cherrywood smoked and seasoned with organic spices. Most importantly, it has lower sodium and sugar counts than competitors, so you won't get bogged down on your trip. And with 12 grams of protein per serving, it's perfect to keep you fueled on those long rides in the car.

Per serving (one ounce, original): 70 calories, 1.5g total fat, 0g sat fat, 30mg cholesterol, 280mg sodium, 5g total carb, 0g fiber, 4g total sugars, 12g protein

Jackson's Sweet Potato Chips (15 Pack)

Sweet Potato Chips (15 Pack)

A top performer in our potato chips taste test , these sweet potato chips from Jackson's come in perfectly sized snack packs for travel. They are made with premium avocado oil and cooked low and slow to maintain the stability and integrity of the oil's healthy fats. The brand uses non-GMO heirloom sweet potatoes , and while the sea salt is the healthiest options, the flavored choices are truly delicious.

Per serving (one ounce): 150 calories, 9g total fat, 1g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 150mg sodium, 16g total carb, 2g fiber, 3g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 1g protein

Junkless Chewy Granola Bars, Chocolate Chip (24 Bars)

Chewy Granola Bars, Chocolate Chip (24 Bars)

An upgraded version of your favorite chewy granola bar, this snack is actually significantly lower in sugar than other brands and is free from high-fructose corn syrup or sugar alcohols. Made from simple ingredients, we love the soft and chewy texture of the bar and that it has no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. "Nice and chewy with just the right amount of chocolate chips to peanut butter," one taste tester said.

Per serving (one bar): 130 calories, 3.5g total fat, 0.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 22g total carb, 2g fiber, 5g total sugars, 3g protein

Biena Roasted Chickpea Snacks, Sea Salt (10 Pack)

Roasted Chickpea Snacks, Sea Salt (10 Pack)

Crispy chickpeas are the perfect protein-packed snack to keep in your carry-on that won't crumble or fall apart. Of course you can make them on your own , but a pre-made pack like this is extra convenient for travel. We love that each portable pouch offers a filling combination of eight grams of both fiber and protein per serving.

Per serving (one pouch): 140 calories, 3.5g total fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 20g total carb, 8g fiber, 1g total sugars, 8g protein

Sweet Nothings Nut Butter Bites (6 Pack)

Nut Butter Bites (6 Pack)

Wholesome and delicious, these disc-shaped, organic bites feature a chewy outer shell of dates, oats and flaxseed wrapped around a nut butter filling with all-organic, no-added-sugar ingredients. Free from gums, stabilizers, preservatives or artificial flavors, each package offers up to four grams of plant-based protein. The bite size treat is perfect for tiding you over at the end of your flight.

Per serving (one package, oatmeal raisin): 145 calories, 5g total fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 70mg sodium, 23g total carb, 3.5g fiber, 15g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 4g protein

Siete Grain-Free Mexican Shortbread Cookies

Grain-Free Mexican Shortbread Cookies

Skip the oversized cookies at the airport and pack a few of these seriously delicious Mexican Shortbread cookies from Siete. Made with a lightly sweetened blend of almond flour and pecan pieces with a dash of cinnamon, testers couldn't believe that each cookie only has one gram of sugar. The grain-free treat has a crispy texture and won't fall apart in transit either.

Per serving (five cookies): 150 calories, 9g total fat, 5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 120mg sodium, 17g total carb, 1g fiber, 5g total sugars, 5g added sugars, 1g protein

Second Nature Antioxidant+ Protein Smart Snack Mix (12 Pack)

Antioxidant+ Protein Smart Snack Mix (12 Pack)

Trail mix is a favorite travel snack since it always keeps well and is also resistant to crumbling in your bag. These portion-controlled packets from Second Nature are great for stashing for a road trip or flight. We especially love the flavor combination in the antioxidant mix, and the filling fiber and protein makes this a smart choice. Plus, it doesn't have any chocolate chips like many other mixes which may melt in your bag in transit.

Per serving (one package): 250 calories, 17g total fat, 2.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 60mg sodium, 21g total carb, 4g fiber, 13g total sugars, 5g added sugars, 8g protein

RIND Snacks Straw-Peary Skin-On Dried Fruit (3 Pack)

Straw-Peary Skin-On Dried Fruit (3 Pack)

This chewy whole fruit medley is packed with dried strawberries bursting with jammy flavor, bosc pears and sweet fuji apples. Our dietitians love that RIND maximizes nutrition and minimizes waste by taking upcycled fruit that would otherwise go to waste, retaining their nutrient-rich peels and gently drying them into snackable slices. Plus, dried fruit like this keeps really well when traveling.

Per serving (1/2 cup): 140 calories, 0g total fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 33g total carb, 5g fiber, 15g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 1g protein

RXBAR Chocolate Lovers' Protein Bars Box (10 Bars)

Chocolate Lovers' Protein Bars Box (10 Bars)

When it comes to simple ingredient lists, it doesn't get much better than RXBAR. These tasty bars come in a wide variety of flavors and are loaded with 12 grams of protein thanks to nutrient-dense egg whites. Plus, they are a good source of fiber too — the combo of protein and fiber can help keep you full for longer on those lengthy road trips and train rides. Our registered dietitians point out that these delicious bars are sweetened with dates for binding purposes and contain no added sugar.

Per serving (one bar): 210 cal, 9g total fat, 2g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 260mg sodium, 23g carb, 5g fiber, 13g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 12g protein

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The 21 Best Plane Snacks to Pack for Long Flights

The only list of the best airplane snacks you need for a better flight: healthy snacks, vegan ones, or what kids and babies can eat on the plane.

Thomas Busson

Thomas Busson

Plane snacks - one of the essential components for an enjoyable and satisfying long flight, yet so often overlooked.

You race through airport security and either forget your plane snacks entirely or grab an overpriced and underwhelming packet of M&M’s.

That’s not going to keep you going for your 3 hour flight, is it? And with all the nervous energy that air travel brings, sugar isn’t going to improve the situation.

Then, you’re faced with the horror show that is snacks on a plane and in-flight meals. Both you and the flight attendant know that they’re a lot scarier than the 2006 film starring Samuel L Jackson.

So, perhaps it's a good idea to plan ahead, DIY or bring packable airplane food. It’s healthier, cheaper and cuts out the stress of last minute snack panic.

Keep reading to discover travel tips on the best airplane snacks there are! It’ll transform the way you travel.

But first, did you know that you can get more than a snack when your flight is delayed , cancelled, or overbooked?

With ClaimCompass, get compensated when your flight is disrupted

Can You Bring Snacks on a Plane?

Considering all of the other terrible options, you will be asking yourself, ‘Can I bring snacks on a plane?’ Well, thankfully, yes.

You can bring plane snacks on board in your carry-on luggage, however they must comply with airport guidelines.

Check out our guide on how to pack your carry-on luggage to make sure you don’t miss anything!

In the UK, you can pack all sorts of delicious cakes, pies, sandwiches, fresh fruit and vegetables (if you’re that way inclined).

But, unfortunately you’ve got to leave Grandma Mary’s pea and ham soup behind. This is  because foods with a high liquid content, like soups, stews and foods in sauces like pasta, won’t make it through security.

While you can bring your own snacks, foods like crisps, cakes and crackers must be wrapped up or in a container.

Additionally, although a whole piece of fruit is okay unwrapped, once you take a bite of your juicy, green apple, it’s got to be wrapped up.

These containers should also not exceed 100ml. And, don’t forget that the homemade blueberry jam you’ve made for your friend in Maine, also falls under these guidelines.

Similarly, in the US, food taken on board in hand luggage must comply with TSA guidelines.

This means solid foods like crisps, sandwiches, and even pasta can come on board. However liquids must comply with the 3-1-1 rule.

The 3-1-1 rule outlines that each liquid (strawberry yogurt, peanut butter, hummus) must be in a 3 .4 ounce container (or less), contained in 1 clear plastic bag, and you may have only 1 bag per passenger.

Which Snacks Shouldn’t You Bring on a Plane?

While not officially outlined in TSA or other airport guidelines, there are some snacks that you should steer well away from.

Anything that has a strong or unpleasant smell can be saved for a time when you’re at least 40-50 meters away from company and not in a confined space.

Messy, sticky and crunchy snacks or foods likely to spill should probably be left at home too. Doing this will help you avoid a bad atmosphere and uncomfortable, angry eye contact on the long flight.

Some of these foods include:

  • Fishy foods - your tuna sandwich may seem like a good idea now, but give it a few hours, your breath will stink and so will the cabin
  • Eggs - flying can be nauseating enough without someone bringing eggs into the equation. Scrambled, boiled or fried - its a no-no
  • Burritos and fajitas - these yummy wraps can be hard to eat without spilling filling everywhere, and a rumbling stomach can also produce unpleasant smells…
  • Peanuts - while they may not cause you any issues, other passengers could be highly allergic, so leave them at home to avoid a medical emergency
  • Yogurt - yogurt in a plastic container can be pretty lethal and will explode at high altitudes. Leave the redecorating to the professionals

Best Airplane Snacks

The best food to pack for long flights is tasty, healthy and easy to transport. You should also make sure that you bring travel snacks that will keep fresh when left at room temperature.

Healthy plane snacks

Healthy snacks don’t have to be boring, and there are a ton out there that are both yummy and easy to prepare.

Dried fruit

When people think of dried fruit, it’s often limited to raisins or bananas, but there’s a whole world of dried fruit out there. Dried pineapple, mango, peaches and pear are just some of the mouth-watering options available.

Quinoa or chickpea salad

A quinoa or chickpea salad is a satisfying and scrumptious snack to bring aboard. Not only will it curb your appetite for the long flight, but these plane snacks are also considered superfood. So, delicious and nutritious.

Protein bars

If you’re on your way to a conference and need to do some last minute prep, or you’re a student who needs to finish off an essay, protein bars are great sustenance. This chewy flight snack will keep your tummy happy and keep you focused for the long plane ride.

Crunchy cheese bites

For the cheese fans out there, why not pack some crunchy cheese bites? From Gouda to Pepper jack, they’re high in protein and an excellent source of calcium. These crunchy cheese bites are also the perfect accompaniment for a long flight, needing no refrigeration.

Gluten-free banana and chocolate-chip muffins

These moreish muffins are scrummy, low-fat, low-sugar and gluten-free. This means that they’re good for your cholesterol and guilt-free!

Popcorn is the perfect food for snacking. It’s light, easy to pack and once you start, it’s hard to stop! Don’t think that popcorn is just limited to the cinema either, take it to the skies.

In recent years, companies have brought out a range of flavours from aged white cheddar and sea salt to cookies and cream!

Organic jerky

Stuck for snack ideas? Try jerky!

It comes in all shapes, sizes and flavours. From chicken to buffalo, teriyaki to habañero there’s something for everyone, even non-meat eaters, with jerky made from soy curls and black beans!

Vegan snacks to take on a plane

With growing awareness of climate change, and the poor treatment of farmed animals, veganism is becoming more and more popular.

And, why shouldn’t it? These days there are so many fantastic vegan options to choose from, meaning you can eat well while doing your bit to save the planet!

Baked kale chips

These delectable little morsels are a delightful crispy alternative to potato chips. They come in a wide range of flavours, from tomato to vegan nacho cheese.

They’re also lower in fat than potato chips and are easy to make yourself! Just don’t crunch too loud!

Tofu Caesar wrap

A vegan Caesar wrap is just as good as it’s meaty counterpart and a great snack for healthy travel! Using vegan mayonnaise and a touch of Dijon mustard is the key to giving this tasty treat a kick.

Vegan dark chocolate brownies

You’re allowed to treat yourself from time to time, and vegan dark chocolate brownies are a fantastic treat to take on your travels.

Fudgey goodness with a gooey centre, they’ll make your flight just that little bit more luxurious.

Marinated lentils

Packed with protein, marinated lentils will keep you going on your long flight. Whether you throw in some coriander and fennel seeds, or garlic and chilli, you can be sure each mouthful will explode with flavour.

Vegan spiced chai bread

More of a cake than a bread, vegan spiced chai bread is the perfect accompaniment for your journey. Add a little almond butter, or peanut butter to take it to the next level.

Vegan tuna sandwich

While you probably shouldn’t bring your stinky tuna sandwich on board, a vegan tuna sandwich is just the ticket!

Replace the fish with tofu, add a little vegan mayo, your preferred seasoning and some pickles to make this top-notch long flight snack. Just have a mint afterwards.

Whole grain pita / veggies and hummus

As long as you make sure you comply with TSA guidelines, hummus (from the grocery store or homemade) with dippers is an excellent snack to have in your snack bag.

Make sure you eat this snack first though, as it’s only good for 2 hours at room temperature.

Plane snacks for babies and kids

Travelling on long flights accompanied by children is by no means anyone’s idea of heaven.

And kids, we get it. It’s boring, the airplane’s hot and stuffy, and you have way too much energy to sit in one seat for more than 30 minutes.

However, there are some great plane snacks that can make long flights, dare I say it... fun!

Check out other ways to make long flights fun for kids here !

Kids trail mix

Trail mix is easily transportable and filled with an array of nuts, fruit, pretzels and sweet treats. If you’re making it yourself, you can even include your kid’s favourites, perhaps marshmallows and cashews or maybe cheerios and sultanas!

Fresh fruit

This may not be your child’s favourite, but there are lots of ways you can make fruit fun and entertain them on the long journey.

You could make apple slices into fun shapes, or hide kiwi slices in little sandwich cakes topped with almond butter!

Granola bars

Granola bars are a good way of ensuring that your child won’t go hungry on a long flight.

Packed with yummy nutritional goodness like oats, almonds, sunflower seeds, these snacks will keep your child quiet...for a while.

Cereal or puffs

Cereal or puffs are great for babies and toddlers. Kid’s can pick them up easily and even have a little fun with them.

And remember, presentation is also important. Why not put the cereal in a bag and tie a colorful ribbon around it? Or, put colorful stickers on the packaging and personalize it by writing their name in bright colors!

Banana cookies

Kids love sweet things, however most of the time, the things they like will see them sent to the dentist with a filling! These banana cookies allow you to treat your child, while being in control of their sugar intake.

Use coconut oil, vanilla essence and a few chocolate chips for that sweet hit rather than packing them with sugar.

Organic animal crackers

Just as puffs and sliced fruit can be a surprisingly entertaining snack for kids, animal crackers can also bring a lot of fun to the flight.

Full of vitamins, and flavored with fruit juice, these little treats will keep a smile on their faces.

Honey and chai oatmeal balls

These snacks are a fantastic source of protein and fibre and taste just like cookie dough, without all the bad additives and artificial flavors.

Sweetened with honey, almond butter and dried fruit, they’re a great healthy alternative and will keep your kid’s tummy from rumbling.

Final words before the flight

Hopefully this blog has simmered your long-flight snack nerves! Plane snacks don’t have to be excruciatingly expensive and unsatisfying. They can be full of flavor, easy to prepare, and for the little ones, a source of entertainment.

Bringing snacks from home will ultimately save you time, money and disappointment!

And, if you’re one of the unlucky passengers whose flight is disrupted each year, those snacks will help you from pulling your hair out in frustration. They’ll also save you from spending a fortune while you wait for your plane to arrive.

Something to also bear in mind when preparing your snacks is how you will transport them. Opt for planet friendly packaging! This includes biodegradable ziploc bags, reusable lunch boxes , biopaper and beeswax wraps instead of cellophane or foil.

Head over to our guide and find out how to navigate flight delay compensation if you do find yourself stuck in the airport for hours!

Had a delayed, cancelled, or overbooked flight? You're going to need those snacks, but more importantly, you could get up to 600€ in compensation.

Dave's Travel Pages

Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

Best snacks to bring on a plane

These airplane food ideas will help keep away the munchies on your next flight. From healthy snacks to sweet treats, there's something for everyone.

Best snacks to pack when traveling by airplane

We all need airplane snacks!

Whether you're taking a long haul flight, or just a quick jaunt to your next destination, having some good snacks on hand can make all the difference. After all, airline food can be pretty lackluster to say the least!

In addition to airline food not being the greatest, many airlines no longer include complimentary meals in economy class (unless you're flying internationally). Which means you have to pay extra for the not so nice looking food they have on board. It's like being insulted twice!

A look at the Scoot inflight meal selection. We didn't think it was too badly priced overall.

(Actually, in all fairness, this Scoot menu when flying from Athens to Singapore looked pretty good! We had our own snacks anyway though).

So, in order to make your next flight a little more enjoyable, it's more important than ever to be prepared with your own food.

I've done this many times, including when I flew from Athens to Singapore on a budget airline!

I've rounded up some of the best snacks to bring on a plane, that includes healthy travel snacks as well as some of those little indulgences that make flying a bit more bearable. You might also want to check out my road trip snacks article for more ideas!

The Best In-Flight Snacks

There are a few things you should keep in mind when packing snacks for your flight. First, they should be easy to eat without making a mess. No one wants to be that person who's managed to cover themselves and their seat in food.

Second, they should be relatively compact so they don't take up too much space in your carry-on. You don't want to have to lug around a big bag just for your snacks!

And lastly, they should ideally not require refrigeration, particularly when taking long flights. Obviously this isn't a hard and fast rule, but it does make things a lot easier.

Related: Long Haul Flight Essentials

With those guidelines in mind, here are some of the best airplane snacks to bring along:

1. Nuts, Seeds and Dried Fruit

Nuts and seeds are the perfect in flight snack to bring on a plane because they're packed with protein and healthy fats. They'll help keep you feeling full and satisfied during your flight, without being too heavy or greasy.

And since they're small and lightweight, they won't take up too much space in your carry-on. You can buy ready made bags of mixed nuts and dried fruit, or make your own trail mix to take with you.

2. Granola Bars and Protein Bars

These types of bars are prefect snacks for long flights. They are well wrapped, don't need to be kept at any specific temperature, and will give you some much-needed energy.

It's always good to have a couple of bars tucked away in your carry-on. Even if you don't eat your granola bar during the flight, they make great snacks for afterwards when you're feeling a bit jet lagged and need something to tide you over until mealtime.

Related: How to prevent jet lag

Since living in Greece this last 7 years, I love taking olives as a healthy snack when bringing my own food on a plane. I have to say, they are one of the best snacks for long flights!

Olives are a great source of healthy fats, which are beneficial for your heart health. They're also high in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage. And lastly, olives are very filling, so they can help keep you satisfied during your flight. Oh, and they taste lovely too!

4. Pre-peeled carrots and cucumbers

These are another ‘go-to' when I want to being snacks. Best packed in a small Tupperware, they're filling, satisfying and easy to eat without making a mess. Carrot sticks and cucmbers go well with the olives mentioned above!

5. Chocolate Bars

While it's always better to eat healthy food whenever possible, why not treat yourself to a delicious chocolate bar while you're flying?

It's understandable if you want to indulge your sweet tooth while on your flight. And since chocolate bars are small and easy to pack, they make the perfect snack to bring on a plane. Just be sure to choose one with a high cocoa content for the health benefits.

6. Sandwiches

If you're bringing your own food, then sandwiches are a great option. They're filling, satisfying and relatively easy to eat without making too much of a mess.

Just be sure to wrap them tightly so they don't get squished in your carry-on. And if you're taking a long flight, it's best to choose a meat or cheese that doesn't need to be refrigerated.

7. Beef Jerky

Beef jerky is another great option for a protein-packed mess free snack. It's high in protein and low in fat, so it's perfect if you're watching your weight. Plus, it doesn't need to be refrigerated, so it's ideal for long flights.

Just be aware that beef jerky can be quite salty, so it's best to eat it in moderation. And if you have high blood pressure, you might want to avoid it altogether.

Fruit is always a good option, whether you're flying or not. It's packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber, and it's relatively easy to eat without making a mess. You'll not want to being fresh fruits that might get squished though such as bananas. Fruits like apples travel well, and hold up better in your bag for short periods of time.

Note: Some countries may have restrictions on what fruits you can bring in from other countries, so be sure to check before packing your plane snacks for international flights.

Related: Why do flights get cancelled

9. Hard Boiled Eggs

This might not be for everyone, but hard boiled eggs make a great snack. They're relatively easy to eat without making too much of a mess, but be sure to pack them in a container so they don't get squashed and you end up with egg covered carry-on!

What your fellow passengers may think to you bringing on board boiled eggs is another issue, but as long as you're prepared for some funny looks, go for it!

10. Cooked Meats

Cooked meats are another great option for a protein-packed snack for when you want to bring food on a plane. And like hard boiled eggs, they're relatively easy to eat without making too much of a mess. When bringing food like this on a plane, just be sure to pack it in an insulated container to keep it fresh if it's not got a sealed packet.

What food not to take on a plane

When you're thinking to bring snacks on a plane, it's also important to know what to avoid if possible. Here are some foods that are best left at home:

  • Instant Oatmeal or Instant Miso Soup – While some people have mentioned they asked a flight attendant for hot water, it's not always possible to get hot water on a plane.
  • Bananas – These never end well on a plane, as they only need the slightest knock and they bruise and split.

Related: Can I take a powerbank on a plane?

Tips on taking food items on to planes

Liquid drinks – Don't bring these from home, as you won't be able to get them through security. Once you have gone through airport security though, you can pick some up before boarding if there are small grocery stores in the departure area.

Pack food – Plan ahead and pack snacks and food you want to travel with into containers or small bags, that way they are easy to grab when you're feeling peckish on the plane.

Choose wisely – Be mindful of what foods you're choosing to take on the plane in a snack bag. If it's a long flight of more than a few hours, you might want to avoid anything that needs refrigeration or will go bad quickly.

Flying Scoot Athens to Singapore direct

Related: Pros and Cons of traveling by plane

FAQ – Taking Snacks On A Plane

If you're planning to bring along your own snacks when you next fly to save money or to eat more healthily, these commonly asked questions will come in handy:

What are some healthy snacks I can travel with in carry on?

Some healthy snacks that you can travel with in carry on include: Nuts and raisins, clif bars, dried fruits and veggies.

Can you take your own food on board a plane?

Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food on board a plane. However, there are some restrictions on what types of food you can bring depending on the country you're travelling to. It's best to check with the customs agency of the country you're travelling to before packing your snacks.

Can I pack baby food in my carry on?

Yes, you are allowed to bring baby food in your hand baggage. You may need to take them out to be scanned separately when going through airport security.

What is a filling snack for a flight?

Some good options for a filling snack for a flight include: beef jerky, fruit, hard boiled eggs, cooked meats, and nuts and raisins.

Can you take peanut butter on a plane?

Airline and security rules normally allow 100 ml of liquid or gel-like foods which include peanut and other nut butter.

Bringing your own snacks with you on the plane can make the journey more comfortable and less stressful. It's always better to go with a few healthy options when possible, but there are plenty of tasty snacks to choose from as well. Just be sure to check the rules and regulations before packing your snacks, so you don't end up with any surprises at the airport. 

Do you have any suggestions of airplane snacks for adults and kids? Leave a comment below!

  • Best travel packing checklist
  • Taking spices on a plane

Dave Briggs visiting an island in Greece

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clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

Snacks on the plane: Chefs share their favorite high-altitude bites

good travel snacks for airplane

The golden age of air travel, when the onboard meal was something to happily anticipate, is so far behind us it seems almost fictional. Unless you’re in business or first class, or on a long international flight, you probably won’t be served a meal. Some flights don’t even offer food for purchase, and if you don’t bring something to eat, you’ll have to sustain yourself on miniature bags of pretzels and a can of tomato juice. Don’t expect the airport restaurants or concession stands to save you, either. The options there are usually underwhelming and overpriced, and they risk making you feel worse upon landing.

The completely correct guide to eating and drinking on a plane

As a frequent flier, I’ve learned to pack something suitable to snack on for longer flights — something that keeps my hunger in check but doesn’t fill me up so much that I risk getting queasy if we hit turbulence or feeling uncomfortably bloated when I deplane. Now that we are traveling more as the coronavirus pandemic seems to wane, I wanted to switch up my snacking game. So, I turned to six pro chefs to find out what they bring. Follow this advice, and you’ll never be hangry at 35,000 feet again.

Level up your liquids

Always carry a durable water bottle. Many airports now have filling stations, usually near the water fountains, so you can fill up after passing through security.

But you don’t need to stop there. Pastry chef Paola Velez , co-founder of Bakers Against Racism and host of Food & Wine’s “Pastries With Paola” video series, likes to add Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier and Immune Support powder to her water. “It’s basically an energy drink,” she says. “It helps me stay hydrated and feeling good.”

If caffeine is your thing and you want to perk yourself up without standing in Starbucks or Dunkin’ lines, there are both iced tea and coffee powders. Civilized and Cusa make instant cold-brew coffee granules that transform simple H20 into eye-opening fuel. Of course, you can always bring bags of your favorite tea, coffee or chocolate beverage and ask for heated water on the plane.

Create bento boxes

For “Top Chef” star Bryan Voltaggio , chef of Thacher & Rye and Showroom in Frederick, Md., compartmentalized, covered bento boxes are key to successful in-air snacking. They allow him to arrange a variety of tasty bites and create a multitude of flavor combinations, which keeps snacking interesting over the long haul. “I’ll put together a selection of salumi, a couple of cheeses, crackers, pretzels and maybe some homemade hummus,” he says. “It’s whatever I’m in the mood for.”

Sandwiches satisfy

When the flight is longer than a few hours — such as a cross-country nonstop from D.C. to Los Angeles — Voltaggio carries something more substantial to sustain himself. A handmade sandwich offers a comforting taste of home that will satiate almost as much as a meal. His favorite combos include sunflower butter and cream cheese (“It sounds odd, but trust me,” he says); turkey with avocado and bacon; and chicken salad enlivened with mustard, chopped dill pickles and plenty of freshly cracked black pepper.

Gluten-free seeded breads are great for long flights, because they fill you up and are packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats and nutrients. Because the brick-like loaves are so dense, you don’t have to stop at sandwiches. Consider using them to make open-faced sweet or savory tartines. You can try nut butter and a little honey; roast turkey and Swiss cheese with mustard and mayonnaise; or ricotta topped with sliced cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, cracked pepper and Maldon sea salt.

Baller snacks

When he flies, Diego Oka , executive chef of La Mar by Gastón Acurio in Miami, is all about Japanese onigiri (seaweed-covered rice balls). His favorites come packed with miso-seasoned pork or umeboshi (salted Japanese plum). “They are meant to be eaten at room temperature, they come perfectly wrapped and they are convenient,” he says. “You can just throw them in a bag, and you don’t need utensils.”

Nuts about nuts

All the chefs are big fans of snacking on nuts. Because nuts are brimming with protein, they satisfy hunger for a longer period than other options. Velez loves cashews, especially in Larabar products. For Voltaggio, Marcona almonds are king, especially when tossed with Old Bay seasoning or rosemary snipped from his garden. When chef Nina Compton of Compère Lapin and Bywater American Bistro in New Orleans wants something sweet but still healthy, she’ll pick up a nut-rich Kind bar .

Salty goodness

If sodium is your weakness, a five-hour flight seems like the perfect excuse to crush a mega-size bag of Ruffles or a box of Cheez-Its. However, the chefs suggest slightly healthier salty snacks. Velez leans into PopCorners — triangular chips somewhat similar to popcorn — which come in three flavors: sea salt, white cheddar and kettle corn. Or she’ll bring along plantain chips, because she finds they help her feel full for a longer period than other chips. Voltaggio always packs a few strips of biltong (beef jerky). “I love chewy texture, and it has a little more fat to it, so it’s not dry,” he says. “Plus, it’s flavorful and has a lot of protein.”

Don’t forget fruit

A container of freshly cut fruit can be pure pleasure at cruising altitude, offering a hit of natural sweetness and hydration. Dried fruit may not pack the water content, but it still has plenty of fructose to help placate your sweet tooth. Velez always travels with Pure Organic layered fruit bars. “I’m hypoglycemic, so if my sugar level drops, I can quickly bring it back up,” she says.

Refreshing pico de gallo

Iliana de la Vega , chef and co-owner of El Naranjo in Austin and a James Beard Award finalist this year for Best Chef: Texas, makes fresh pico de gallo to sustain her on trips. Though you can use whatever fruits and vegetables you have on hand to make the salsa, she prefers large, easy-to-pick-up chunks of jicama, cucumbers, oranges, grapefruit, radishes, mangoes and pineapples. Quickly toss it all with salt and chili powder to taste, and pack lime slices to squeeze on when you’re ready to eat. “It’s refreshing and not heavy on your stomach,” she says. “And there’s no fork required. You can just reach in for a piece of whatever you want when you’re in the mood for it.”

Personalize your trail mix

Can’t make up your mind on whether to bring something salty or sweet? Craft an as-you-like-it blend of nuts, seeds, dried fruit pieces and small candies, such as M&M’s, chocolate chips or Reese’s Pieces. There’s a lot of protein for sustenance, and plenty of sugar for a quick rush.

Indulge yourself

Is a metal tube full of strangers cruising about 500 mph high above the Earth’s surface not your happy place? Give yourself something to look forward to by bringing a special treat to savor. Some of my favorites are Cretors caramel popcorn , a mixed bag of gummies from Sockerbit or a crunchy, salted-almond Toblerone bar .

Conversation starters

Especially when traveling alone, I’ll slip a few individually wrapped sweets, such as small bags of M&M’s or miniature chocolate bars, into my carry-on to share with my seatmates. I don’t always have the interest or time for conversations on long flights, but when I do, proffering a little goody creates an instant icebreaker. It can start a dialogue that gives me the opportunity to see a new perspective, hear an unusual story or simply have a moment of connection.

Get nostalgic

When she was growing up, Sara Bradley — a “Top Chef” star who owns Freight House in Paducah, Ky. — had a tradition of buying special snacks at the airport to celebrate her travels. She still purchases longtime favorites: everything spiced bagel chips, Twizzlers and a can of root beer, if she can find one at the airport. “Even if I’m on a stressful trip — I just have to fly somewhere, be there for a day, and then fly right back — those snacks chill me, because they take me back to being a kid.”

Spice up your life

Sometimes it’s not about the food you bring, it’s about how you season the food you get on your trip, whether during your flight or after. Compton always carries a little container of Jacobsen’s flaky salt and a bottle of Crystal hot sauce ; Voltaggio packs a tin of Maldon smoked sea salt . I usually carry a small spice kit with me, which includes tiny jars of Urfa biber chiles, merquén (Chilean smoked chiles), za’atar, MSG and truffle salt. All of these options can turn bland and boring dishes into ones with personality and pizazz.

Practice patience

Whatever you bring to nibble on, Voltaggio recommends restraining yourself. You don’t need a full meal. “What’s exciting about travel are the destinations I get to go, where I try new food, meet up with old friends and make new ones,” he says. “The snacks in between are just designed to hold me over until I get to my next great meal.”

Martell is a writer based in Silver Spring, Md. His website is nevinmartell.com . Find him on Twitter and Instagram : @nevinmartell.

good travel snacks for airplane

28 Healthy Snacks to Pack For Your Next Long Flight

Because soggy airport pizza is no way to start a trip.

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Epic Provisions Snack Strips or Meat bars

Snack Strips or Meat bars

Lauren Cadillac , Manhattan-based Registered Dietitian and Personal Trainer, is a big fan of EPIC’s Snack Strips or Meat Bars which are high in protein to keep you full throughout your flight. The best part? You can find them at some airports, just in case you forgot to pack them. 

Wonderful Halos California-Grown Mandarins

California-Grown Mandarins

These particular mandarins “are seedless and easy to peel, making them another simple grab-and-go option when you're heading to the airport,” says Lori Zanini, RD, CDE and creator of  ForTheLoveOfDiabetes.com . Not only that, but eating just two Halos will provide you with natural energy and half a day’s worth of vitamin C, she says. 

Gaea Packaged Olives

For a salty option, Keri Glassman, R.D., recommends packing olives. You can enjoy them on their own or include them in what she refers to as “mini meals” which can consist of olives and pairings like a small salad, a packet of tuna, “or a KIND bar that only has 4-5 grams of sugar per serving.” Just one thing olive-lovers, skip olive bar varieties which “are actually sitting in canola oil” and go for those stored in water and packaged in a glass jar or to-go container for a healthier option (like these Gaea olives she loves).  

Chopped Apples With Cinnamon and Almond Butter

Glassman takes her apples to the next level by chopping them up and topping them with cinnamon and almond butter. Not only is this a delicious way to fit some fruit into your trip, but it's also a simpler way to pack.

Pete & Gerry's Hard Boiled Eggs

“These are an easy addition because they are pre-peeled and ready to eat and much more nutritious than most other airport options,” says Zanini. Convenience aside, these eggs “are high in protein, organic, free-range, and certified humane” so you can travel with a full belly and a clear conscience.

Soozy's Grain-Free Muffins

If your idea of a great airport snack is less giant Toblerone and more muffins and croissants, Cadillac suggests Soozy’s Muffins. “Grain-free, gluten-free, certified paleo, these muffins are a much healthier choice than the muffins at the airport,” she says.

Frozen Grapes

Grapes not enticing for you on their own? Freeze them before your flight for a sweet and satisfying crunchy snack! Glassman recommends doing this and then popping them in a reusable on-the-go bag to keep them frozen for a few hours. “They will start to defrost, but will still be super cold for snacking,” she says.

Justin's Squeeze Pack

These packets of nut butter may not fill you up on their own but they're a great addition to crackers, fruits, and other snacks you may already have on hand. 

KIND Snack Bars

Last-minute packers, this one’s for you. The easiest thing you can do is reach for a granola bar. Glassman recommends KIND’s Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt bar. It’s her favorite “because they are made with real, wholesome ingredients like nuts, whole grains and fruit, plus the bar has only 5 grams of sugar,” she explains. 

Wholly Guacamole Classic Guacamole Minis

Avocado is a nutrient-dense food packed with healthy fats and antioxidants, says Glassman. She makes her own avocado mash at home using salt, pepper, lemon or lime, and garlic powder but if you’re not a fan of DIY, just toss some of Wholly Guacamole’s single-serve guacamole packs in your bag. “At 2 ounces each, they're totally TSA friendly. Plus, they pair so well with other nutritious snacks like crunchy veggies and whole grain crackers, so I feel encouraged to eat lots of healthy items while in-flight,” says Blechman.

Dang Unsweetened Toasted Coconut Chips

Even if you’re not jetting off to some tropical island, these coconut chips will make you feel like you’re in snack paradise. Not only are they super tasty but as Cadillac explains, “medium chain triglycerides from the coconut are great for brain function and sustained energy levels.” In other words, they’ll fill you up and help you ace that crossword puzzle you’re saving for the flight.  

Nature's Path Qi'a Superfood Organic Hot Oatmeal

We never thought to make oatmeal on a flight but it’s honestly a no-brainer. As Cadillac points out all you need to do is bring a packet with you, ask for a cup and hot water, and voila! A tasty, filling, and hot snack rich in fiber and “brain boosting omega threes” suddenly materializes.

Gimme GimMe Organic Roasted Seaweed Snacks

Cadillac packs seaweed snack on her trips because they’re “a low calorie treat that satisfies that salty crunchy craving.” But not only are they low-cal, they also pack a ton of vitamins and minerals such as as calcium, iron, magnesium, iodine zinc, and vitamins C and A! Potato chips who?

Dates With Almond Butter

“While it still satisfies that sweet tooth in the same way a candy will, dates are a real food that will provide you with vitamins and minerals compared to empty calories that you’ll get from candy,” says Glassman. Additionally, “the protein and fat from the almond butter will help satiate you” so you don’t feel the need to snack during your entire trip.

Light & Fit Two Good Mixed Berry Greek Yogurt

For a light snack that's still filling enough to hold you over until the concessions cart comes around, Blechman suggests Greek yogurt. "Right now I'm loving Two Good. The little cup has 2g of total sugar, 3g of carbs, 12g of protein and 80 calories." So, you'll save plenty of room for a fun meal when you land.

Wonderful Pistachios Wonderful Roasted & Salted Pistachios

“Pistachios are a good source of plant-based protein and nearly 90% of the fats found in them are the better for you mono and polyunsaturated type,” says Zanini. 

Horizon Organic Mozzarella String Cheese Sticks

“I am always looking for items that are individually wrapped because they’re so much easier to grab from the kitchen on my way out,” says Blechman. Her current go-to is Horizon organic string cheese for a good source of protein that easily fits in a personal bag or carry-on.

Sabra Classic Hummus Snack Dips

For a savory snack that’s indulgent without being unhealthy, Joy Bauer, MS, RDN, and health and nutrition expert for NBC’s TODAY show, recommends hummus cups, because they’re the perfect thing to accompany some fresh veggies like baby carrots, celery sticks, or bell pepper slices, she says. Or, if you're a carb-lover (who isn't?) enjoy the pita chips that come with most cups.

Finn Crisp Thin Rye Crispbread Original

If you're looking for yet another option to dip into your hummus or guac (another healthy go-to), Blechman recommends whole-grain crackers to stay on the more nutritious side. Her favorites (with or without hummus) are Finn Crisps.

Nourish Snacks Chewy Granola Bites

To satisfy your cravings for those Delta biscotti, Bauer suggests her very own Nourish Granola Bites in flavors like chocolate peanut butter, blueberry apple, and chocolate banana. The yummy snacks come in 1o oz single serve pouches as well as resealable 4 oz bags and are made with good-for-you ingredients like whole grain oats and chia, so they're filling, Bauer says.

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Healthy Airplane Snacks

Published: May 24, 2023 · Modified: Jun 28, 2023 by Marisa Moore ·

flat lay of peanuts in a jar, tangerines, water bottle, tea packet, fig bar and almond butter packets

Get the best healthy snacks for traveling by air plus non-perishable snacks for road trips and more. This dietitian-approved list of airplane snacks, travel-friendly snack recipes, and tips to pack food for the your next trip is just what you need to keep your healthy eating habits up on the road.

flat lay of peanuts in a jar, tangerines, water bottle, tea packet, fig bar and almond butter packets

These airplane snacks for adults will keep you help you eat healthier while traveling and keep you full on long days with unpredictable food options. Plus, taking your own snacks on the plane saves money. 

Going by car instead? Check out my ideas for healthy road trip snacks and road trip meals !

Easy Airplane Snacks

Whole fruit. Firm bananas, apples, and oranges are top picks for fruit. But you can also carry along rinsed and dried grapes and blueberries with a little forethought.

Fruit is a good choice for hydration and for an extra dose of vitamin C for the road.

SKIP: Cut melons. Keep cut melons refrigerated and eat within 1-2 hours otherwise.

Nuts. Almonds, pistachios, cashews, walnuts and other nuts are one of my favorite snacks to bring onboard a plane. Don’t wait for the flight attendants to pass them out.

Carry a small bag of your own to squash hunger when it strikes and keep blood sugar levels stable. You can also carry little packets of nut butter to enjoy on an apple or with crackers.

Seeds. Like nuts, seeds provide plenty of satisfying protein and fiber to help keep you feeling full as you go through the day. These are especially helpful if you’re traveling with kids or others who have a nut allergy. Try pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds to start.

Flatlay of jar of peanuts, tangerines, tea packets, water bottle, nut butter packets, bags of pumpkin seeds and pistachios

Dried fruit. Raisins and dried cranberries are common but you can also pack dried cherries, blueberries, mango, apricots and more for an energizing sweet snack.

Dried fruit tends to be high in fiber and iron. It’s a good addition to snack mixes, topper for oatmeal or on its own.

Dried vegetables. Freeze dried peas and beans, okra, carrots and other vegetables are a good option for a crunchy snack and boost of fiber.

Most “veggie” crisps and chips are not the same. Many are simply made with potato or rice flour and very little of the vegetables they claim to contain. 

TIP: Look for the vegetable to be listed as the first ingredient. Bonus points if it’s the main ingredient with only salt, other seasonings or oil listed after it. 

Puffed Beans and Peas. Look for chickpeas, lupini beans, fava beans and lentils. Many will be simply salted and others will be heavily seasoned with flavors ranging from barbeque and buffalo to garlic and herb.

Find these: Check the snack or gourmet foods aisle and end caps for baked peas, beans and lentils.

Trail mix . Pick up a bag of your favorite trail mix at the store or make your own. Include a combination of nuts, seeds and dried fruits, dried vegetables for a nourishing and delicious snack mix that can go from planes to a hiking trail.

Water. Yes. You can buy water in the airport but it’s expensive and a waste of plastic. Consider instead bringing a reusable water bottle to fill once you get through security and to use throughout your trip. 

TSA-Friendly, Healthy Snacks

Peanut butter is classified as a liquid according to the TSA. 

You can’t carry on a jar of peanut butter but you can carry peanut or almond butter squeeze packs . Those are usually just over 1 ounce – well under the 3.4 ounces of peanut butter the TSA allows in carry-on bags.

If you need a jar of peanut butter, put it in your checked bag – preferably with plenty of coverage to avoid any spills.

Yogurt is also considered a liquid. I found this out the hungry way a long time ago as I thought I’d eat my 5 ounce container of Greek yogurt at the gate. No. They took it. 

Other tricky foods limited to 3.4 ounces for carry-on include hummus and other creamy dips or spreads, salsa, jam and jellies.  

Check the full list of foods the TSA allows in carry-on and checked luggage before heading to the airport next time.

As you can see, there are plenty of options to take with you including the snacks I shared above and these travel-friendly recipes below.

Travel-Friendly Snack Recipes

If you have time to prep a few snacks, try these travel-friendly recipes.

Berry Oat bars with crumbs

Vegan Berry Oat Bars

These bars are one of the most popular recipes here and for good reason. They are made with oats, ground flaxseed, jam and just enough sugar for an easy snack bar that is mostly handoff to make. You can easily cool, slice and carry these for breakfast or a snack throughout your travel day.

Double Almond Baked Oatmeal Cups

These oat cups are perfect for an easy breakfast on the go. They freeze well and are perfect for a filling, slightly sweet snack on the way to the airport or on the plane. 

Prune Oatmeal Cookies Travel can be tough on the digestive system. These cookies might help. These cookies are held together with prunes which add natural sweetness plus sorbitol and phytonutrients which help support gut health.

Prunes can be a natural laxative too. So you might wait to eat these when you get to your destination!

Savory snacks can make you feel like you’re eating a meal. These are some good picks for travel.

Side view of air fryer chickpeas in a white bowl with beige napkin.

Crunchy Air Fryer Chickpeas Seasoned however you’d like, crispy chickpeas are a high protein and fiber rich snack that eats more like a meal. To keep them fresh and uncrushed longer, consider packing in a small glass jar if that doesn’t add too much weight to your bag.

Herbed Cheese Cookies These cookies can be made up to 3 days ahead, packed and enjoyed throughout your travel day or the day after.

Want more of a meal than a snack? This Mediterranean pasta salad , smashed chickpea salad or quinoa salad with apple cider vinaigrette are all great options to carry on the plane.

How to pack snacks for the plane

Prevent spills and keep your meals and snacks from being crushed in your bag with the right gear. These sustainable options can help make plane snacks perfectly portable for years to come.

This section may contain affiliate links.

stasher silicone bag with peanuts in shell inside

Get a variety of reusable snack bags – either silicone reusable storage bags or the more affordable reusable cloth snack bags and pouches . 

You can also protect and carry a sandwich or snack bars in reusable beeswax food wrappers .

Reusable zippered cloth snack bags

A reusable water bottle takes up a little room in your carry-on. But it’s a great way to stay hydrated especially on travel day. Most airports have filtered water stations available.

stainless steel food jar and bottle

Instead of spending $4 on a bottle of water or waiting a couple of hours or more for a half cup of water from the snack cart on the plane, consider taking your own bottle. Fill it up once you’re through security. Then use it to get water upon arrival in the hotel fitness center.

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The Best Snacks to Bring on a Plane (We Would Know)

Explorer Chick

June 15, 2022

Preparing for a flight can be a little stressful nowadays, especially if you are going overseas. Is your passport valid? Is your carry on the right size? Just how many liquids can you cram into a small clear bag to get past security? And is your new light mousse foundation counted as a liquid? All of this before you even think about travel snacks. Are you even allowed to bring snacks on a plane?

The short answer is yes, with some caveats which we will get into below. Seasoned travelers know that planning what plane snacks to take should be something you do way ahead of heading to the airport where you are far more likely to make last minute bad decisions when you are confronted by shelves of chocolate and candy and other sweet treats.

Plan a few healthy options for long flights and avoid being stuck with reheated airline food during your trip.

This post will give you some inspiration on how to prepare the best airplane snacks to stop that rumbling stomach, give you long burn energy instead of sugar spikes and drops and travel tips on what to avoid eating to help avoid fatigue and the dreaded high altitude bloat.

Healthy snacks to bring on a plane 

Healthy snacks to bring on a plane

Most people know that consuming salt equals water retention and potentially higher blood pressure but it’s best not to cut all salt out of the snacks you plan to consume on a plane because salt helps with hydration .

It’s vital to keep well hydrated when flying, especially during a long flight as low cabin pressure and the arid climate control onboard is not the best environment for your body and without good fluids and some salt you could soon feel itchy, cranky, lethargic and cold.

Pass on the alcohol, stick to plain water (buy or refill a water bottle AFTER airport security) and add in some healthy plane snacks to keep your body happy.

The easy to grab snack of choice for many are RX protein bars, Lara bars and Clif bars-all good healthy options available in many grocery stores and whole foods outlets like Trader Joe’s with some yummy flavours to choose from.

Chips are always an easy choice, but you can make it a healthy, allergy-friendly snack and bring pea protein chips , rice crackers, or freeze-dried fruits.

It’s actually easy to make your own granola bars and going DIY means you get to include all your fave flavours and you can make them vegan, gluten free, dairy free or whatever. Literally search “make your own protein bars” online for recipes to set your taste buds tingling. You could also blend your own trail mix for your next flight.

For a decent and ethical option check out vegan, GMO free and kosher Badabean snacks (crunchy roasted broad bean) and BobbySue’s nuts. Both brands offer great flavours and purchases of BobbySue’s nuts supports animal welfare charities.

Why you should bring your own snacks 

Why you should bring your own snacks

It makes sense to bring your own airplane snacks if you want to eat smart and save money. Pack ingredients to create your own graze board on that tray table and enjoy eating a filling snack which will help keep you healthy and happy for a few hours.

The big benefit of bringing your own food is that you know exactly what you are eating during your flight. This is especially important for anyone who has an intolerance, allergy, other health-related requirements or faith-based restrictions.

Which snacks you can bring on a plane

Which snacks you can bring on a plane

When thinking of airplane food ideas, bear in mind that you can’t bring just anything on a plane and there are even stricter rules on what goes in carry-on bags compared to hold luggage. So what food can you bring on a plane?

You can usually bring less solid foods to eat during a flight including coconut oil, nut butter, including peanut butter and almond butter but only in quantities up to 100ml/3.4 oz and they have to be included in your liquids allowance and carried through security in a clear bag.

You could also bring instant oatmeal or instant miso soup and ask your flight attendant for hot water to add when on board. Powders like hot choc can be tricky and you may be taken aside for a second inspection at the airport.

Smelly food is a no-no for air travel so leave that durian at home. In fact some fruits and veggies cannot be taken into the US or other countries and forgetting that apple at the bottom of your rucksack could land you a hefty fine.

As we’ve mentioned before liquids have to be in a 3.4oz container or smaller. Top tip – keep all food together to make the TSA check quicker and easier.

Here’s a quick list of some of the best food to pack to enjoy at high altitudes whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer savoury treats .

  • Pizza, wraps and sandwiches (choose high fiber options where possible).
  • Create your own pan bagnat (a supremely Instagrammable French tuna picnic sandwich) for a spectacular snack.
  • Fresh fruit like apple slices, and veggies, including salads with dressing in a 3.4-ounce container.
  • Peanut butter, cream cheese and dips, also in snack size containers
  • Cheese cubes or individually wrapped cheese portions
  • Deli meat, cured meats
  • Nuts, dried fruit, and gummy fruit snacks
  • Potato chips, pretzels and other packaged snacks
  • Dark chocolate and snack bars
  • Turkey or beef jerky
  • Crackers and bread sticks
  • Dried fruit like dried apricots, banana chips, raisins etc
  • Veg based sushi

How to bring snacks on a plane 

How to bring snacks on a plane

Nowadays you don’t have to save your old takeout containers to pack your picnic into although they are still a decent option if not still curry scented. Shop for cool reusables from bento boxes to beeswax wraps in a host of bright colors. You can also buy reusable silicone bags and snack cups.

Avoid bringing food that might require refrigeration or at least pack it into an insulated lunch bag. Bear in mind “room temperature” on an aircraft can vary wildly. Don’t forget knives, even blunt plastic ones, are not allowed in carry on so choose food you can eat with a fork and spoon, fingers or chopsticks.

Which snacks will you bring on your next plane ride?

Which snacks will you bring on your next plane ride

Have you got more ideas for a great snack? Do you have tips on what essentials to pack for long flights ? Share your inspo for healthy plane snacks on this Facebook group and share your recommendations. For more great ideas check out this post on hiking lunch ideas .

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Corrie Cooks US

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10 Best Airplane Snacks That Are Perfect For Long Flights

Posted: February 29, 2024 | Last updated: February 29, 2024

<p>Packing the right snacks for a long flight can make all the difference. From tasty treats that keep hunger at bay to healthy options that boost your energy, this list of 12 best airplane snacks ensures you're well-prepared for any journey. Say goodbye to bland airline food and hello to delicious, satisfying bites that make travel a breeze.</p> <p>AUTHOR: Saad Muzaffar</p>

Packing the right snacks for a long flight can make all the difference. From tasty treats that keep hunger at bay to healthy options that boost your energy, this list of 12 best airplane snacks ensures you're well-prepared for any journey. Say goodbye to bland airline food and hello to delicious, satisfying bites that make travel a breeze.

AUTHOR: Saad Muzaffar

<p>Many recommend packing some "good energy sources that are compact." Beef jerky, breakfast biscuits, and granola bars are a few options. One user swears by the belVita Breakfast Biscuits because they make you feel full while being easy on the stomach. Their favorite flavor is coconut, but there's cinnamon brown sugar, blueberry, and chocolate!</p>

1. Energy Bars

Many recommend packing some "good energy sources that are compact." Beef jerky, breakfast biscuits, and granola bars are a few options. One user swears by the belVita Breakfast Biscuits because they make you feel full while being easy on the stomach. Their favorite flavor is coconut, but there's cinnamon brown sugar, blueberry, and chocolate!

<p>The Subway sandwich chain became highly successful in part because of its marketing as not only a health food freshly made to order but as a weight loss remedy. Using a testimonial in their commercials from someone who lost weight eating their food, it was easy to fall for Subway's hype. While some sandwiches on the menu are undoubtedly healthy, others aren't, so choose wisely when eating there.</p>

2. Prepared Sandwiches

One member comments, "We always make ham, cheese, and lettuce sandwiches on premium bread like cheddar cheese bread or olive and rosemary bread." Another member recently took a whole sub sandwich with them on a plane. Initially, eating it felt like a bit much since everyone else was munching on their pretzels. However, they have no regrets, as it was a glorious experience.

<p>If you aren't fond of store-bought snacks, you can try out one member's approach. They usually make chocolate chip banana bread or pumpkin muffins and try to make sure whatever they bring isn't a prevalent allergen. You don't want to risk a medical emergency on a flight!</p>

3. Homemade Baked Goods

If you aren't fond of store-bought snacks, you can try out one member's approach. They usually make chocolate chip banana bread or pumpkin muffins and try to make sure whatever they bring isn't a prevalent allergen. You don't want to risk a medical emergency on a flight!

<p>One member likes making a charcuterie bento box, which typically contains sliced meats, crackers, cheese, fresh fruits, and nuts. Pair it with a salad and some salty, crunchy snacks for a holistic meal.</p>

4. Charcuterie Bento Boxes

One member likes making a charcuterie bento box, which typically contains sliced meats, crackers, cheese, fresh fruits, and nuts. Pair it with a salad and some salty, crunchy snacks for a holistic meal.

<p>For those with dietary issues, knowing that you can't rely on long-haul flights to have food that fits is essential. Hence, a user has figured out what works well for them. They bring a cold lunch pack containing a chicken salad wrap, sliced cheese, meats, olives, and veggies like celery, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and pepper.</p>

5. Low-Carb Options

For those with dietary issues, knowing that you can't rely on long-haul flights to have food that fits is essential. Hence, a user has figured out what works well for them. They bring a cold lunch pack containing a chicken salad wrap, sliced cheese, meats, olives, and veggies like celery, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and pepper.

<p>It shouldn't be surprising that fruits and vegetables are first on the list. They are some of the healthiest foods one can consume.</p><p>Fruits are healthy, nutritious, and quite delicious, as far as avocados are concerned! Several studies have shown that people who eat the most fruits are healthier than those who don't. They contain great nutrients that would help in anyone's weight loss journey.</p><p>Vegetables, on the other hand, are high in fiber and are also very filling. They also contain a lot of protein, making them perfect for weight loss. Although some people argue that fruits contain natural sugar, it doesn't change the fact that they are equally high in micronutrients. So, please help yourself to varieties of them.</p>

6. Mindful Packing

Many members reiterate the need to pack only as much as you need. Ensure not to bring too much food because customs in many countries can be strict about what fresh foods can be brought in. This also means avoiding fresh produce.

<p>Remember, don't bring eggs, onions, fish, or fermented foods when on a long flight. "And for the flights from Asia…hopefully, no one is eating durian." Be kind to your fellow passengers by not having stinky foods and opt for low-odor items such as sliced steak, avocado, berries, or macadamia nuts.</p>

7. Low-Odor Foods

Remember, don't bring eggs, onions, fish, or fermented foods when on a long flight. "And for the flights from Asia…hopefully, no one is eating durian." Be kind to your fellow passengers by not having stinky foods and opt for low-odor items such as sliced steak, avocado, berries, or macadamia nuts.

<p>Carrying a jar of peanut butter can get you in trouble, so make a sandwich instead. Grab a squeezy pack if you fear smushing it in your bag. It's an excellent solution for single-time uses. However, have a backup meal ready if someone on the flight has a severe peanut allergy.</p>

8. Peanut Butter Sandwiches

Carrying a jar of peanut butter can get you in trouble, so make a sandwich instead. Grab a squeezy pack if you fear smushing it in your bag. It's an excellent solution for single-time uses. However, have a backup meal ready if someone on the flight has a severe peanut allergy.

<p>If all else fails, a cup of Mike's Mighty Good instant ramen can save you the trouble. Alternatively, you can bring some instant miso soup and ask the flight attendant for a cup of hot water. It may be a simple meal, but it never goes wrong!</p>

9. Instant Foods

If all else fails, a cup of Mike's Mighty Good instant ramen can save you the trouble. Alternatively, you can bring some instant miso soup and ask the flight attendant for a cup of hot water. It may be a simple meal, but it never goes wrong!

<p>You can make a meal and freeze it to be fresh later. Many swear by frozen foods such as Uncrustables or cold pizza. Alternatively, you could do something simple like chicken and rice. Don't forget to pick up some sauce packets, plastic cutlery, and paper towels!</p>

10. Frozen Foods

You can make a meal and freeze it to be fresh later. Many swear by frozen foods such as Uncrustables or cold pizza. Alternatively, you could do something simple like chicken and rice. Don't forget to pick up some sauce packets, plastic cutlery, and paper towels!

Source: Reddit .

<p>Step into a time machine with your taste buds and journey back to the '60s and '70s, when dishes were as colorful and daring as the fashion. It's a trip to an era where the food was a mix of fun, fancy, and sometimes far-out. These retro dishes might not grace most tables today, but they hold a special place in the hearts of those who lived through the grooviest times</p> <p>AUTHOR: Veronica Booth</p>

10 Forgotten Dishes from the '60s and '70s That Deserve a Comeback

These retro dishes might not grace most tables today, but they hold a special place in the hearts of those who lived through the grooviest times.

Click Here For 10 Forgotten Dishes from the '60s and '70s That Deserve a Comeback

<p>Looking for ways to stretch your dollar further without sacrificing quality? Shopping at Costco can be a game changer, especially when you know what items to target for the best deals. From bulk buys to unexpected bargains, here are twelve cheap items that are always worth picking up at Costco.</p>

12 Cheap Costco Finds That Are Worth Every Penny

Shopping at Costco can be a game changer, especially when you know what items to target for the best deals.

Click Here For 12 Cheap Costco Finds That Are Worth Every Penny

<p>American food is famous for being big, bold, and sometimes, a bit strange to foreigners. Think about it: there are dishes here that mix sweet and salty in ways no one else does, or meals so big they could feed a family. Some of these foods are loved by Americans but might make visitors scratch their heads or even feel a bit queasy.</p>

12 American Foods That People From Other Countries Can’t Stomach

American food is famous for being big, bold, and sometimes, a bit strange to foreigners.

Click Here For 12 American Foods That People From Other Countries Can’t Stomach

<p>Many older folks reminisce about the past, often wishing for the return of things that modern life has phased out. From the simplicity of handwritten letters to the communal joy of drive-in movies, these are the items and experiences that hold a special place in their hearts. Here’s a look at twelve things older generations often miss and wish were still a part of today’s world, highlighting the charm and nostalgia of bygone days.</p>

12 Things Old People Wish We Still Had

From the simplicity of handwritten letters to the communal joy of drive-in movies, these are the items and experiences that hold a special place in their hearts.

Click Here For 12 Things Old People Wish We Still Had

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Trips With Tykes

50 Kid-Friendly Airplane Snacks

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: January 25, 2022

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Flying with kids can be challenging, but flying with hungry kids is downright daunting! Many airlines have quite limited on-board food these days, and much of it is expensive and perhaps not what a picky kid wants to eat. This means that if you want to avoid the overpriced airline snack boxes and soggy sandwiches, you really need to pack your own meals and snacks when traveling with kids.

What snacks please the kids and also travel well? After hundreds of in-flight hours with my kids at various ages and stages, I’ve had a lot of practice figuring out which snacks work and which don’t. If you need inspiration for packing snacks for your next flight, look no further!

Kid-friendly airplane snacks

(Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through links in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the bottom of this site.)

Tips for Snacking & Eating on Airplanes with Kids

Before diving into all the specific snack suggestions, let’s talk about the challenges you might face with kids and snacks on a plane. There are more logistics than you might realize if you don’t travel often.

1. Consider TSA Liquid Rules

When traveling with snacks in your carry on bag, you’ll have to successfully get them through the airport security checkpoints. A lot of parents don’t think about the fact that some foods like applesauce and yogurt technically are treated as “liquids and gels” for purposes of the TSA rules. That means they need to be in containers that are less than 3.4 ounces. Select carefully!

TSA Checkpoint Oakland Airport with Pre-Check and CLEAR Kiosks

If you are bringing drinks through security, the liquid rules of course apply there as well. Our family brings empty water bottles and fills them up at a water fountain on the other side. But if you need milk and juice for a younger child, that requires a little more preparation and most likely some extra security checks (Related: Tips for air travel with toddlers and milk .)

2. Pack Snacks to Minimize Spills & Messes

Messes are inevitable on airplanes with kids. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t at least try to minimize them for the sake of the flight attendants and airline employees who have to clean up the cabins.

With younger kids, a snack catcher style cup is an essential for serving bite sized snacks like Cheerios and goldfish so the entire snack doesn’t end up on the airplane floor.

You can also pack snacks in single serve Ziploc snack bags – either for distributing directly to your kids or to use to refill the snack cup. If you prefer a more environmentally-friendly version, Bumkins reusable snack bags are cute and inexpensive for travel.

I also have found traveling with snack-size bento boxes to work well, especially for serving several snacks together as a meal to my kids. The Yumbox MiniSnack box is durable with easy travel cleanup.

One more thing to pack to minimize messes – something to clean them up! We travel with napkins, a couple of paper towels, or even a small hand towel to wipe up the bigger spills. And I never board an airplane without an ample supply of wipes. WetOnes are perfect for wiping down sticky fingers and these travel sized Clorox wipes are essential for disinfecting tray tables (both before and after!).

3. Consider Durability and Spoilage

Before packing snacks for air travel, consider whether they are the kinds of foods that will do well in transit. Many of your child’s favorite things to eat at home just may not travel well.

In order to make my list below, snacks had to meet two important criteria: 1) not be too messy and 2) last for a long time without refrigeration. As much as my daughter loves strawberries and bananas, we rarely bring them on planes because the potential for messes or stains is just too high. Soft fruit gets squished and bruised.

There are some foods that need to be refrigerated but that can travel safely for several hours until the time that your child eats them – think cheese sticks, yogurt tubes, etc. If you pack these, just make sure you plan to serve them on the earlier side of a longer trip.

4. Stick with the Familiar

Air travel is not the time to try to expand a child’s picky palate. Pack snacks you know your family likes to eat already, so you aren’t in a situation where your child rejects the choices and is hungry or cranky. Familiar foods are also a safer bet, as you know they won’t do something like upset a sensitive toddler tummy.

5. Pack Plenty of Peanut-Free Choices

Peanuts and peanut butter are popular food choices on planes for many travelers because they provide filling protein options that don’t need to be refrigerated. But one important word of warning to keep in mind – on occasion, the airline you are traveling on may announce that your flight is peanut-free if someone with allergies is on board.

It happens rarely, but it is so important to pack variety of non-peanut snacks for situations like this. (I once found myself at 6 months pregnant on such a flight with nothing but a peanut butter sandwich and learned the hard way!). You really don’t want hungry kids and you REALLY don’t want to put someone with peanut allergies in a dangerous medical situation. Pack a variety of non-nut choices for flexibility.

6. Pack Extra Food for Flight Delays

Finally, always pack many more snacks than you think you might reasonably need. My kids often eat more on planes than they do at home, probably because they are bored and looking to pass the time.

And air travel is so unreliable that you never know when a simple 2 hour flight might turn into a full day of travel delays. You just can’t always count on airport food choices and airline-provided snacks to get you through a flight cancellation or delay. If you have plenty of extra snacks in your carry on bag, you’ll save your sanity on the food front at least!

40 (Mostly) Healthy Kid-Friendly Airplane Snacks

Airplane Snacks for Kids

So now let’s get onto some snack suggestions. Here are my top picks for kid-friendly airplane snacks that aren’t of the treat variety.

  • Annie’s Bunnies Crackers
  • String cheese
  • Babybel cheese
  • Wheat Thins
  • Mini bagels
  • Ritz Bits sandwiches (cheese or peanut butter)
  • Granola bars
  • Cereal bars
  • Fruit leather
  • Dried fruit pieces
  • Puffins cereal
  • Pouches of applesauce or similar (the smaller the better for TSA lines )
  • Baby carrots
  • Animal crackers
  • Mini muffins
  • Apple slices
  • Celery sticks with peanut butter or hummus (look for single-serve packets of hummus and peanut butter)
  • Turkey jerky
  • Clementines
  • Mini rice cakes
  • Hard boiled eggs
  • Graham crackers
  • Lara or Cliff bars
  • Rice crackers
  • Cheese quesadilla bites (refrigerate before your flight and most kids will eat them cold)
  • Gogurt (or other brand of) yogurt tubes (freeze beforehand if you aren’t going to eat right away)
  • Puffs (great for babies, but my older child loved stealing these snacks from her baby brother too)

Plus 10 Kid-Friendly Airplane Sweets & Treats

Packing a few treats and sweets is essential too. There are times on a stressful travel day where a little sugar rush can help get everyone through or bribery is needed – no judgment!

Sweets and Candy Snacks for Airplanes

  • M&Ms, Reese’s Pieces, or Skittles
  • Marshmallows
  • Gummy snacks/gummy bears
  • Bite size cookies (like Mini Chips Ahoy or Mini Oreos)
  • Jelly beans
  • Sweet tarts
  • Fruit loops
  • Fruit rollups
  • Rice crispy treats

 What are your favorite airplane snacks?  Share your thoughts in the comments.

Flying with kids? These 50 kid-friendly snack ideas will get your through your next airplane flight. Less mess healthy food choices (and a few sweets and treats) that work for road trips too.

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Tuesday 19th of March 2024

This helped me with a couple of ideas for my flight with my 1 year old in a couple of months. It's always nice to see what other mom's bring with them to make the trip easier and mess-free. On TikTok there is a couple of videos that were in my algorithm that mentioned a snack tackle box which I'm all for!

Monday 10th of August 2020

canned chicken salad with crackers or tuna salad, fruit snacks, I freeze the cheese sticks so they don't melt before eating. Flavored rice cakes are good also. Pringles pack well in a backpack and an empty Pringles can is a good place for mom's medications. I put them in snack size ziplocs and label a.m. and p.m. for the trip. Just have to be sure little hands don't get on those, but it is a nice disposable way to carry medications so that you don't have to have anything on the trip back like a pill case would be. This trip I'm also going to try taking a lunchable.

Monday 25th of September 2017

Great list! The first time I flew with our son he was 4 years old. We brought plenty of snacks to keep him busy. While the chips ahoy cookies were delicious, a piece ended up on the seat and when we exited the plane, I noticed melted chocolate chips stuck to his bottom and everything he had on his seat with him. Caution, don't bring chocolate!

I Flew Frontier Airlines... And It Was Just Fine - Trips With Tykes

Monday 19th of June 2017

[…] Pack Smart: Since you have done your research, prepare accordingly. Pack plenty of snacks for you and your kids and buy any drinks you might want in the airport beforehand to save money. […]

Monday 17th of April 2017

I was looking over the list does the babybel cheese need to be refrigerated?

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Which Airlines Have the Best Food and Drinks?

From bibimbap to ethiopian doro wat, handcrafted cheese to icelandic craft gin, these are some of the best food and drinks we’ve had at cruising altitude..

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A meal tray with five food items in an Air France business-class seat

Air France is among the airlines that is seriously upping its culinary game—especially in business class.

Photo by Jessie Beck

In-flight drinking and dining are in the midst of a massive rebirth following the pause in food and beverage services during the pandemic. From Air France linking up with renowned chefs to curate its premium meals, to Delta’s new food and wine options across its cabin categories, and Hawaiian Airlines’ island-inspired in-flight meals , carriers are finding new and innovative ways to tantalize our taste buds, which isn’t always easy to do at altitude.

“We cannot serve [seafood] that’s raw. So, how do you serve a raw oyster without serving a raw oyster? This is actually a slow-poached oyster, 165 degrees for about 30 or 40 minutes and then I do an escabeche style on them,” explains chef Molly Brandt of in-flight catering service Gategroup . In December, Gategroup, the largest airline caterer in the world, hosted a tasting at the company’s Seattle food preparation center. Brandt, who showcased dishes that included the aforementioned oyster shooter, a beautifully rich chanterelle mousse, a butternut-rutabaga okonomiyaki, and (my personal favorite) a teriyaki chicken loaf, was brought on board to present new and exciting recipes to airline clients that are looking to differentiate themselves from the competition—especially in an increasingly heated race to court and impress premium customers .

As airlines bring back their meal programs, snack options (both complimentary and paid), and drink menus en masse, the return of such offerings has been met with mixed reviews. For some (usually seated toward the front of the plane where most of the culinary innovations take place), it can be an exciting and rewarding part of the flying experience, while for others (often those in cattle class), it’s a reminder of just how disappointing airplane food continues to be.

But in 2024, the aim is to continually up the ante, regardless of where you are sitting, says Jens Kuhlen, president of Gategroup North America, which works with airlines that include Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic, Air France, and Air Canada. The goal is to be “innovative” in terms of designing in-flight meals and to present “what is hopefully not a boring meal when you are up in the air, regardless of which class you’re in.” Kuhlen notes that, in addition to culinary innovations, airline catering services like Gategroup are also striving to reduce their environmental impact by presenting more sustainable packaging, dishware, cups, and cutlery .

Despite a stereotypical disappointment that has plagued airplane food for years, most frequent travelers (ourselves included) have had at least a few great (memorable even) meals, snack items, or beverages at cruising altitude. Here are some of the in-flight food and drinks that have impressed AFAR editors and contributors the most.

Airlines with the best inflight food

Several Ethiopian dishes alongside some rolled-up injera

If you’re traveling business class on Ethiopian Airlines, you’ll get treated to a selection of traditional dishes and injera flatbread.

Photo by Linda Hughes Photography/Shutterstock

Ethiopian Airlines’ traditional Ethiopian spread in business

A welcome departure from most other business-class meals, Ethiopian Airlines rolls out an assortment of traditional Ethiopian meat and vegetable dishes alongside the iconic injera flatbread that is used to scoop it all up. This is definitely not your standard plated meal. For those seated in business (or what Ethiopian refers to as “Cloud Nine”), flight attendants bring out a cart loaded with rolls of the flatbread (and by rolls, I mean the sour, almost pancake-like injera bread rolled up in small spongy tubes) and large bowls of traditional saucy dishes such as the stew-like chicken doro wot . You can also add some vegetable side dishes to your colorful plate from a beyenatu spread that might include green beans, yellow split peas with turmeric, and spiced lentils. The smorgasbord of selections are then meant to be sopped up using torn-off pieces of injera bread just as you would do at a traditional Ethiopian restaurant. It’s a great introduction for those heading to Ethiopia, or one final taste of Ethiopian cuisine before heading home. — Michelle Baran, deputy editor, news

Overhead view of Korean Air's standard bibimbap in-flight meal

It’s rare to get a decent meal in economy—Korean Air’s standard bibimbap is the exception.

Photo by Dr. Victor Wong/Shutterstock

Korean Air’s bibimbap in economy

For me, eating economy-class airplane food is usually only reserved for moments of absolute emergency. I usually skip it entirely and just plow through my personal snack stash. But there has been one time in all my years of international travel that I was actually impressed with the back of the plane offering, and that was flying Korean Air and opting for the bibimbap. It’s a build your own adventure of rice, ground pork, and assorted veggies, which you stir together with the provided hot pepper Gochujang sauce (you add as little or as much as you want to reach your desired spice level) and bean paste. So fun, so simple, so delicious, so satisfying. And I’m not the only one who has noticed Korean Air’s standout meals. In December, the carrier was named as best for airline cuisine in Global Traveler’s annual reader survey , and Korean Air is continuing to innovate with a recently introduced vegan menu inspired by traditional Korean temple cuisine . —M.B.

Alaska Airlines' Signature fruit and cheese platter on an airplane tray table between a small box of water and a blue charging iPhone

Can you ever really go wrong with a solid cheese plate like Alaska Airlines Signature fruit and cheese platter?

Photo by Ingrid Barrenrine/Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines’ cheese plate

I’m not saying that my loyalty to Alaska Airlines stems from its Signature Fruit & Cheese Platter , but I’m also not saying that isn’t the reason. It doesn’t matter when the flight is—it could be a red-eye from Seattle to New York for all I care—I’m going to order the cheese tray. It includes two pieces of Tillamook’s Sharp Cheddar, a wedge of brie, two triangles of Beecher’s Flagship Handmade Cheese, five crackers, green and purple grapes, apple slices, and a Seattle Chocolate dark chocolate truffle. It’s reliable, has the perfect cheese-to-cracker ratio, and in a world of overpriced airline snacks, it’s surprisingly affordable at just $8.50.

For me, especially when paired with a glass of wine and an in-flight movie, it’s the perfect little luxury to kick-start a trip. And if you’re looking for a testament to how tasty and loved the trays are, consider this: The fruit and cheese trays are always offered as a complimentary business-class meal option, in addition to whatever else is on offer. And it’s usually what is snatched up first.

When it first landed on the in-flight menu, it was on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning that they could (and often did) run out of trays before reaching those seated in the back of the plane, which sometimes led to in-air meltdowns. Postpandemic, they’ve switched to a preorder system, where in-flight meals must be ordered through the app at least 24 hours before takeoff. Now, if I’m traveling alone, I’ll order two: One for myself and one to bring home to my partner, who feels just as passionately about the cheesy goodness as I do. — Bailey Berg, contributor

Salmon with baby carrots and green vegetables on a white plate with a pitcher of sauce adjacent

Air France recently tapped chef Dominique Crenn to create meals for long-haul business-class fliers.

Courtesy of Air France

Air France’s Michelin-backed business-class meals

Food is one of the areas where Air France really shines, which I recently got to experience during a flight in the French carrier’s newly updated business-class cabins . The in-flight menus are designed in collaboration with more than a dozen French chefs, including some names behind Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Dominique Crenn from San Francisco’s Atelier Crenn. Since it was a morning flight, I ordered a sizable brunch featuring an English muffin topped with salmon lox, in addition to a warm mushroom and spinach frittata, fresh fruit, and plain yogurt with granola. Toward the end of the flight, I was also served a light snack that included a savory, puff pastry dish, an almond financier, and more fresh fruit. A selection of packaged snacks, including a truly decadent gourmet chocolate bar, was served between meal services.

Those who are flying during dinner service can expect an even more exciting selection of dishes, which, depending on the day, could be a savory beef fillet with port sauce and carrots or a vegetarian risotto with artichokes and mushrooms. Naturally, the French airline also offers an excellent array of wine and champagne for business-class passengers, such as a refreshing 2021 Chablis Jean-Marc Brocard Vieilles Vignes De Sainte-Claire. — Jessie Beck, associate director, video and SEO

ANA’s first-class Japanese multicourse feast

A few years ago, I redeemed points for ANA’s magnificent first-class product called “The Suite” while traveling from New York to Tokyo. When it comes to the meal, passengers can select between a Western cuisine menu and a Japanese set menu, the latter typically heavier on the seafood. If you enjoy Japanese food and you’ve never had a set meal at 35,000 feet, you’ll be in for a treat. The meal was an over-the-top, multicourse feast that started with a delicate amuse bouche, followed by a selection of bite-size morsels, from simmered duck to deep-fried scallops to abalone and cucumber. Next, I was presented with a selection of fresh sashimi, including seared tuna and poached squid. And to cap it all off, I received my main course, a grilled, delicate Atlantic salmon, simmered beef with a red miso sauce, and accompaniments of steamed rice, miso soup, and Japanese pickles. The entire meal, from the elaborate presentation to the distinct flavors, was the perfect preview of upcoming culinary delights in Japan. — Chris Dong, contributor

Overhead view of green bowl containing seared tuna sashimi

ANA treats first-class passengers to a full-blown Japanese feast, including seared tuna sashimi.

Courtesy of Parco Chan/Unsplash

ANA’s vegan pasta in economy

In another vote for ANA’s food service, I have to give a nod to the vegan selection in economy. I’m not vegan, but a request for a vegetarian meal often gets routed as one. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised when I received a pasta with grilled mushrooms and leeks. The leeks were cooked enough to bring out their natural sweetness. A flavorful chickpea salad offered protein, which is often missing on vegetarian airline food. The fruit for dessert was perfectly ripe and crisp. — Sarika Bansal, editorial director

Austrian Airlines’ vegetarian service in business

Vegetarian meals on airplanes are even less inspired than standard meals. They come in two varieties: soggy pastas or greasy curries. So I was really impressed with how tasty, healthy—and appropriately sauced—the vegetarian service was in Austrian’s business class. The chef even came out and delivered the meal to me personally (or a guy in a chef’s hat, which is basically the same thing at 35,000 feet). Regardless, every course was delicious—and that’s by ground-based restaurant standards. I liked that the menu didn’t try to do anything especially complex or boundary-pushing, it just stuck to solid vegetable-based standards and executed them well. The meal started with a quinoa salad on top of surprisingly ripe tomatoes, progressed to a mix of grilled-just-right tofu and lightly seasoned vegetables, and finished with a berry cake in vanilla sauce. Whether you go for the vegetarian meal or not, don’t miss the Almdudler soda—the blend of herbs and elderflower is something of a classic in Austria. Also worth noting is that last year Austrian launched a new long-haul catering concept dubbed “Tastefully Austrian,” which includes a new Viennese coffeehouse service with coffees prepared directly in front of passengers and an accompanying dessert. And there’s also a separate cheese trolley.— Billie Cohen, executive editor

Icelandic gin and tonic on Icelandair, with closeup of mini bottle of gin and can of tonic next to glass of drink with lemon slice and small bowl of cheese crackers

Get an education in Icelandic gin courtesy of Icelandair.

Photo by Lyndsey Matthews

Icelandair’s gin library in the premium seats

I’m usually a ginger ale man when I’m flying—or Bloody Mary mix if I’m feeling really adventurous—but I was inspired to embrace my inner gin snob on a recent flight to Reykjavík in Icelandair’s Saga Premium cabin (Icelandair’s versions of business class). The drinks menu includes a “Gin Library” with a selection of spirits distilled on the island, and its blend of Nordic botanicals almost felt like an olfactory preview of what I’d be experiencing in a few hours: Ólafsson Gin, flavored with Arctic thyme, birch, and mountain moss; sweetly floral Himbrimi Old Tom Gin, with wildflowers and mountain honey; 64º Reykjavík Angelica Gin, which includes foraged angelica seeds alongside blueberries, rhubarb, crowberries, and caraway; and Glacier Gin, which is all about the pure Icelandic water, with notes of dandelion and bergamot. I tried a few, and they paired particularly perfectly with these little cheese crackers that come out as a predinner snack—and that I’ve been trying to find online ever since. — Nicholas DeRenzo, contributor

Venti Views/Unsplash

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The complete guide to bringing food on a plane

good travel snacks for airplane

Broadly speaking, you can almost always bring food on a plane. There are some limits and procedures to follow though, so it’s important to know all the rules before heading to the airport.

Types of foods allowed on a plane

You’ll be happy to know there are no specific food items that are banned on airplanes in the United States or by major US airlines. Similarly, food items are essentially unrestricted worldwide. What this comes down to is a question of which foods you can take through TSA versus which need to be packed in carry-on luggage . And that relies exclusively on whether your food items are completely solid. If not, they’ll need to comply with the TSA 3-1-1 rule of traveling in 3.4-ounce containers (or smaller), all sealed in one clear, zip-top bag of 1-quart volume or less.

Foods allowed on a plane

Specific food items are generally unrestricted on airplanes, either in your carry-on or in checked luggage. As mentioned above, the only true consideration is whether your food contains any liquid elements, in which case it must be packaged in containers that meet the TSA 3-1-1 rule if you prefer to carry it on.

Among the most amusing mysteries of TSA, the only announced exceptions to this rule are pizza, cake, and pie, which are TSA approved for carry-on even though they typically include some non-solid elements. They’ll need to be x-rayed for safety, though. To avoid repackaging partly liquid food items or recipes into several 3.4-ounce containers, simply check them instead.

Foods not allowed on a plane

Alcohol above 70% ABV (140 proof) is prohibited by TSA in both carry-on and checked luggage. Opened alcohol cannot be packed either, but alcohol between 24%–70% ABV (48–100 proof) is permitted up to 5 liters in checked luggage if it remains sealed. There’s no limit to the amount of sealed alcohol you can pack under 24% ABV (48 proof).

Packing food for air travel

Luggage for travellers is neatly arranged on the pristine airport terminal floor.

Packing food for air travel is primarily a matter of common sense. There are no specific requirements for how foods are packed, other than the 3-1-1 rule for those with liquid elements in your carry-on, so pack food as you would pack any other fragile item in your luggage.

Tips for packing food items securely

If you think it’s just a joke that baggage handlers are rough with luggage, guess again. Checked luggage is tossed, pushed, stacked, and abused throughout its journey. It’s key to protect any packed foods by using sturdy containers and cushioning them with clothes and other soft items, to keep them away from the edges of the suitcase. For carry-on, food should be presented separately to TSA, so pack your snacks and other foods at the top of your bag for easy access.

Appropriate containers for flying with food

Choose lightweight yet sturdy containers when packing food in your checked luggage or carry-on bags. Airlines can be strict with weight limits, so don’t waste your allowance on heavy containers. Still, it’s important to make sure your snacks and meals won’t be crushed by other items in your luggage by using flimsy packaging, like bags or flexible containers. Also, avoid breakable materials like glass whenever possible.

Avoiding leaks and spills

Avoiding leaks and spills in checked luggage and carry-on is essential for protecting your belongings, including the bag. Securely tighten all bottles, tubes, and containers, and consider taping them for additional security. Masking tape should travel in a checked bag — this is typically not allowed in a carry-on , as I learned the hard way. Painter’s tape is allowed in both bags and works just as well to keep containers sealed.

Finally, carefully surround any glass containers (like wine bottles) with as much soft clothing as you can and don’t pack them against the edge of a suitcase where they’re more likely to suffer from impact in transit. You can also check out these expert travel packing tips for more insights on perfecting your luggage.

Contain anything holding liquid in an additional plastic bag in case it breaks or leaks in transit.

International travel considerations

A young man stows his hand-carry luggage in the overhead compartment of an aircraft.

Typically, neither check-in agents nor TSA agents will be concerned with what specific foods are in your bag. But if you’re flying internationally, there are a couple of added considerations.

Customs and import restrictions for food items

While you’ll often be able to check your bag and board your flight regardless of what foods are inside, you may run into hiccups on arrival if you haven’t paid attention to your destination’s import laws, especially regarding foods. Agricultural products like meats, dairy, produce, seeds, and nuts are often banned from crossing national borders to prevent diseases and pests from affecting local goods. 

If you’re discovered attempting entry with prohibited foods like these, they’ll be confiscated and you may face additional consequences like fines, or even being denied entry yourself.

Tips for researching destination-specific rules

Happy young woman booking a hotel room while packing her summer suitcase for holidays

The best resource for understanding any country’s specific customs laws is its own website. For return trips to the United States, for example, consult the official U.S. Customs & Border Control guidelines for food , and seek the same from any country you visit, especially if you’re considering bringing agricultural foods. Most importantly, always declare all food when you arrive to avoid attracting fines or worse.

 In the US, you’ll never be fined for illegal foods if you’ve declared them, but you could face up to $10,000 in penalties if you’re found sneaking them in, even unwittingly. Just declare.

Additional regulations when traveling internationally

If you’re connecting through another country, you may be required to pass through a security checkpoint again before boarding your next flight. In this specific case, you may be subject to carry-on rules that differ from TSA’s, and food items may be subject to additional scrutiny. 

Because it’s often not possible to know exactly what another country’s practice will be when it comes to transporting and packaging food as carry-on, it’s safest to pack questionable foods in checked luggage during journeys with international connections. It’s unlikely that foreign regulations would differ significantly from TSA regulations regarding food, but it can happen.

Airline policies

A plane flying over an airport into the clear sky.

While you’ll need to pay attention to your airline’s carry-on and checked baggage requirements to determine which is best for your food needs, you won’t have to do much more based on airline alone. All major carriers in the United States permit any food packed in the appropriate bag (checked versus carry-on), except MREs (meals ready-to-eat).

These packets, traditionally made for emergency military rations, often have a self-heating component that airlines consider dangerous. Technically, TSA does not ban them and only advises you to check with your airline, but all major US carriers currently prohibit them. 

Other than that, you may need to be aware that you can’t carry fresh durian in most airports or airplanes in Southeast Asia, because of the fruit’s extreme odor, but this is not an airline-specific rule.

Some favorite routes

If you need a little inspiration of where to go with all your packed up foods and beverages, consider some of these popular routes.

On the East Coast cheap flights to New York can easily get you to The City That Never Sleeps, or cheap flights to Miami can have you basking in the sun of Southern Florida in no time.

To the west, check out these cheap flights to Los Angeles for spot some celebs, or these cheap flights to San Diego for idle afternoons in paradise. If you’re looking to bring your bites abroad, you can get to Europe quickly with these cheap flights to London .

How was this guide created?

I travel every week, averaging more than 100 flights per year, and I’ve taken plenty of food onboard for snacking and avoiding those sometimes-questionable inflight meals. I’ve also transported many food gifts around the world, frequently navigating customs both in the US and abroad. I’ve combined years of this frequent flyer experience with KAYAK’s expert tips and advice to create this guide so you can travel smoothly with your favorite foods, too.

Now that you understand how easy it can be to fly with your favorite foods, it’s time to put your skills to the test. KAYAK’s comprehensive flight guide delivers all the tips you need for planning and taking flights of every kind, so pack your favorite pizza and get going. Don’t miss the KAYAK Bag Measurement tool, which determines if your bags are size-compliant using only your phone’s camera. It’s as fun as it is helpful.

Flying with food FAQs

Homemade meals are allowed on planes, both in checked luggage and as part of your carry-on. If carrying on, be sure your homemade meal has no liquid elements (including pastes, creams, or anything not completely solid). If there are any liquids, it must be portioned and sealed in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces.

Many countries impose limitations on which food items you can bring into the nation. These are often agricultural products, including various meats, dairy, and nuts. Your luggage will rarely, if ever, be screened for this pre-departure. Instead, import concerns are addressed on arrival at customs, and violations can bring steep penalties.

You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and compliant foods onboard, but it’s not always necessary. Most airlines can accommodate a wide range of dietary restrictions if informed with enough notice, typically 24 hours in advance. Food allergies should always be reported to the airline when booking, and again to the flight attendant when boarding, so accommodations and precautions can be made.

Yes! You can bring frozen food on a plane in your carry-on luggage, under certain conditions. The food, along with any cooling accessories (like ice packs) must remain fully frozen at the time of TSA inspection. If there is any melting or visible liquid present the items will not be allowed to board with you.

For checked baggage, the only food item that is universally prohibited by major US airlines is an MRE. The self-heating element contained in many of these makes them a danger in the opinion of airlines, though TSA does not actually ban them. In carry-on, there aren’t specific bans on particular foods, but any food that is not completely solid will need to comply with the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids.

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  • Gifts for grown-ups

The 20 Best Gifts for Bridesmaids

A tote with a passport, thank you card and a purse charm next to it.

From childhood besties and college roomies to present-day confidants and future family members, your bridesmaids likely represent all of your life’s chapters. So finding a fitting gift to suit everyone is no small order.

To solve this gift-giving riddle, we enlisted the help of three experts: etiquette professional Elaine Swann , author and self-described professional bridesmaid Jen Glantz , and wedding planner Jove Meyer . All three warned against giving dust-collecting trinkets and uninspired doodads. Instead, Swann suggested prioritizing useful items that will still be relevant after the wedding bells chime. Do factor wedding-party gifts into your overall budget—especially if you have more than a few attendants. Here we list the very best items for your very best friends.

A jewelry keeper

Multiple Pottery Barn Quinn leather jewelry travel cases.

Pottery Barn Quinn Jewelry Travel Case

Made with embossed leather and a rose-gold zipper, this elegant jewelry case comes in seven colors with a monogramming option for an extra fee.

Buying Options

Whether or not your bridesmaids are traveling to your wedding, these elegant little jewelry cases are sure to come in handy. Available in two sizes (petite and small), the Quinn Leather Travel Case features soft pebbled leather and a rose-gold, brass-plated metal zipper. You can personalize each case by choosing from seven different colors (such as pink or black), and drop-shadow printed monogramming is available for a small additional fee. If you want to make the presentation extra festive, you could stuff the case with more goodies, like simple jewelry, a spa gift certificate, a handful of sparkly candies, and a note about what it means to you that each woman agreed to be your bridesmaid.

Silky-smooth waves

good travel snacks for airplane

Lilysilk Heatless Silk Curling Headband And Scrunchie Set

This overnight, heatless curling set, composed of a silk-wrapped curling rod and two scrunchies, unlocks shiny soft curls, sans a scorching iron.

Even if you’re paying for a professional stylist to give all your bridesmaids’ soft waves for your big day, they might delight in the LilySilk Curling Headband Set. A viral TikTok sensation, the set entails a long silk-wrapped foam curling rod and two scrunchies—a gem from the same brand that makes our favorite silk pillowcase. To use, twist sections of hair around the rod on each side, secure them with a scrunchie, and then sleep with it. Come morning, reveal soft, beachy waves. The heatless technique prevents hair damage and the smooth charmeuse silk keeps the curls glossy. If you really want to go all out, you can get them the full beauty set, which includes the curling headband, along with a silk charmeuse pillowcase and headcap.

A dress for all

A woman wears a white, blue-floral-print Hill House Nap Dress.

Hill House Home Ellie Nap Dress

With a ruched top and flowing bottom, this lovely dress, available from XXXS to XXL, is flattering on different body types and comes in range patterns to suit varying styles.

Your bridesmaids may already be stocked up on pashminas and monogrammed trinkets, but everyone needs another great dress, especially one with pockets. With an elasticated, smocked top and a long, tiered skirt, the Hill House Nap Dress —so-called because they are comfortable enough to snooze in—is flattering on all kinds of body types and comes in sizes XXXS to XXL. With more than 20 different patterns, there are plenty of choices to suit different styles: chic navy crepe, mixed tartan plaid, and dreamy pink floral. If you’re considering a casual or woodsy wedding, you could even make it the official bridesmaids’ dress—finally one they can wear again.

Prints charming

Three shorts sets of Jungle Print Pajamas in three different colors; red, white, and green.

Jungle Print Pajama Shorts Set

These affordable cotton sets have limited sizing, but the fabric is soft, the colors vibrant, and the seaming secure.

Getting ready is part of the fun. And your pictures will be all the better—and your bridesmaids all the happier—if everyone is matchy-matchy in Jungle Print Pajama Shorts Sets . These cotton sets come in three jungle-inspired prints, and though they likely won’t coordinate with your wedding colors, they will get worn again once the confetti settles. The short-sleeve tops have button-up fronts—ideal for disrobing after hair and makeup is done—and the shorts have roomy pockets. The size range isn’t particularly inclusive, and they do run a little snug, so size up.

Note to herself

A pink and orange color-blocked Papier Notebook on a table amongst other writing supplies.

Papier Hardback Notebook

Consider giving a special hardback notebook that can be customized with countless details, like monogramming and colors.

This Papier Hardback Notebook isn’t one of our top picks , but that’s because it serves a different function—namely, being a lovely and useful personalized gift. It features a two-tone hardback cover (available in several color combos) and monogramming at the top (in multiple colors, fonts, and sizes), so you can craft just the right vibe for each bridesmaid. And the 96 pages of lined, plain, or bullet-dotted paper will provide them plenty of creative space to keep track of all the wedding details (with no ink feathering or page bleed-through).

A person wearing a GLND Solo Gemstone Necklace loosely dangling from their neck.

GLND Solo Gemstone Necklace

This high-quality, elegant birthstone necklace comes with a handful of customizable options for gems, metals, and chain length.

A piece of jewelry is a lovely token for your maids on the big day, and this GLND Solo Gemstone Necklace falls into that elusive category of a high-quality yet strangely affordable gift. Select a chain metal (gold fill, sterling silver, rose gold fill, or 14 karat gold) and a length, and then outfit each one with a personalized gemstone. GLDN offers all of the traditional birthstones, plus a few other beauties like pyrite and black onyx. This simple and understated necklace goes well with strapless or V-neck bridesmaids dresses, and it’s sure to become a treasured everyday piece.

A morsel of style

A Coatt Morse Coded Bracelet.

Coatt Morse Coded Bracelet

This dainty personalized bracelet quietly broadcasts someone’s monogram with a series of gold or silver dots and dashes strung along a silk cord.

Elaine Swann said one of the best bridesmaid gifts she ever received was a pair of earrings that worked on the big day and for years afterward. With that in mind, we think these dainty Coatt Morse Coded Bracelets are simple, special, and sartorially versatile. Wirecutter editor Catherine Kast gave these to her very pleased bridal party in 2013, and she reports that her own is still holding up all these years later. At first glance, the bracelet simply looks like a series of metal beads. But for the ham radio aficionado, the long-short initials make it secretly personal. Customize it further with six different silk colors and dots and dashes forged in sterling silver or gold fill.

A custom care package

A peak of a mask and candies with the BoxFox box.

BoxFox offers hundreds of fancy, well-curated items at a one-stop online shop. But beware, the cost can add up quickly (as does the time you spend assembling it).

If selecting one large and suitably meaningful gift proves elusive, Jove Meyer suggests “a collection of smaller things.” We found Boxfox to be the most luxurious care-package service we tested . Choosing the contents will still take some time on a laptop, but that’s worlds quicker than crawling to boutiques, drugstores, and the UPS store to do it all yourself. To assemble a box, first filter by color—your wedding hues, perhaps. Then fill ’er up with a selection of luxe bath products, sweets, books, accessories, and paper goods. You pay per item, so keep an eye on the bottom line. Or opt for the pre-filled Bridesmaid box .

A custom tote

An L.L.Bean Boat and Tote bag and a small straw fedora on a beach towel at the beach.

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote, Open-Top

With its simple and durable design, this bag will last a lifetime. It’s also newly modern, thanks to an expanded range of strap colors and monogram options.

The durable and attractive L.L. Bean Boat and Tote is always a welcome gift—just resist the urge to emblazon it with your wedding hashtag. One of our standouts from testing , this bag is made of a heavyweight canvas, so it maintains its shape even when empty. But we think the tote makes a nicer gift when it’s brimming with snacks, books, or other extras. Choose each bridesmaid’s go-to color for the contrast-tone handles, and then add an embroidered name or initials (at no extra cost). Or, if you can be clever in fewer than 10 characters, some of your bridesmaids might appreciate an ironic inscription instead.

A chic passport cover

Someone holding a green Tusk Siam Passport Cover.

Tusk Siam Passport Cover

This elegant goatskin passport cover comes in 11 zippy color combos, and it won’t fade or scuff, even after years of traveling.

Elaine Swann said travel-related gifts are good bets for your attendants, since they’ll likely be traveling for work, pleasure, or even their next wedding in the near future. Tusk’s Siam Passport Cover is a thoughtful gift: It comes in bright colors, so it elevates the grind of crossing through customs and conveniently stands out in the dark recesses of a carry-on. Supervising editor Hannah Morrill has used this cover for several years, and she reports that it remains just as supple and clean-looking as it did on its maiden voyage. If your own wedding will take place abroad, consider giving this one well in advance of takeoff.

A heartfelt thank-you

good travel snacks for airplane

Rifle Paper Co.

The rambling, hand-illustrated florals from this Florida-based stationer have come to embody a certain millennial aesthetic.

good travel snacks for airplane

Crane Personalized Notes & Cards

This refined stationery offers formal features, such as colored borders and envelope liners.

The three experts we spoke with emphasized that, above all else, your gift should convey appreciation—and a heartfelt note is an excellent way to do just that. Rifle Paper Co. ’s thank-you-note offerings feel almost as special as an IRL bouquet, with gilded details and tangles of blooms. If your wedding aesthetic is slightly more formal, heritage stationery company Crane is highly endorsed by Wirecutter senior editor Courtney Schley. If you’re writing dozens of notes, a monogrammed set will feel more personal, and you could add printing or edging to reflect your wedding colors. For something a little less formal than Crane’s offerings, we also love (and recommend) Joy Creative Shop ’s extra-colorful sets, which have bigger monograms in brighter colors.

Self-care kit

Three colorful Lush bath bombs.

Lush Bath Bombs

The bath bombs from Lush “explode” as soon as they hit the water, filling your tub with long-lasting fragrance and skin-soothing oils.

good travel snacks for airplane

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

Lightweight and contoured, this mask comfortably fits a variety of face shapes, and it blocks light well (note that it’s best for those snoozing upright or on their back). The deep eyecups allow the eyes to flutter during sleep.

After months of wedding details, a weekend of travel, and one memorable night of backing it up and throwing them down, your loyal wedding attendants will be ready to recharge. Help them get started with a long, luxurious bath and some shuteye. Our favorite bath bombs from Lush will make their soak all the more soothing. Unlike other versions, a bath bomb from Lush detonates as soon as it hits the water, releasing the yummiest scents and prettiest color explosions. Our top-pick sleep mask , the Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask , has roomy, comfortable eye pockets that fully block light, no matter how early the day-after flight is. Complete their pampering pack by adding a favorite snack and a soothing sheet mask .

Photos for the fridge

A decorative wall covered with square photo magnets from Shutterfly, a great gift for groomsmen.

Shutterfly Photo Gallery Magnets

These vibrant photo magnets are a cinch to make, and they won’t fade or lift after years of livening up a fridge.

Your bridesmaids have seen you through more than just your wedding. Remind them of those other special moments with magnets featuring beloved memories. Shutterfly makes it easy: Upload photos directly, or pull them from social media accounts. In under a week, the site will mail the photos printed on sturdy magnets. If you have the magnets shipped to you, the 2-by-2-inch squares are small enough that you can get creative in your wrapping. Consider tucking them into a heartfelt card, bundling them in a pretty scarf, or slipping them between the pages of a great book.

Custom chocolate bars

An array of Tony’s Chocolonely custom chocolate bars.

Tony’s Chocolonely Custom Chocolate Bars

These tasty, ethically sourced chocolate bars come in five flavor combos—with nearly endless possibilities for customizable wrappers.

Most custom candy is cute on the outside and … waxy and nearly inedible on the inside. That’s not the case with Tony’s Chocolonely bars . These are our preferred chocolate bars, thanks to the superior flavor quality and the company’s ethical labor commitment . Happily, Tony’s Chocolonely bars become all the more gift-like with a simple customized wrapper . Upload your image, and then select colors, fonts, stickers, and photos for your wrappers. A group shot from the bachelorette party is one cute idea, or use a favorite snap of each bridesmaid from the start of your friendship. Shipping is $10 for any order up to $85; we think the price is well worth it, considering that these are both totally personal and entirely delicious.

A Min & Mon Charm of a person with fuzzy pink hair, attached to keys.

Min & Mon Charms

These whimsical leather characters readily perk up everyday accessories, such as purses and key chains.

The leather Min & Mon Charms are, well, simply charming. You’ll have a blast figuring out which one is best for each of your bridesmaids. Maybe octopus twins  for your maid of honor (with whom you’re practically joined at the hip) and a crowned squid for every queen in your life? We feel fairly confident that your bridesmaids won’t own one of these whimsical little charms, and they’ll take up almost no room in a suitcase. Even if some attendants aren’t the purse-wearing type, they’ll smile when they see one of these hanging from a carry-on or car mirror.

Coffee club

Three colorful bags of coffee from Atlas Coffee Club.

Atlas Coffee Club

Through monthly or bimonthly subscriptions, this coffee-delivery service offers beans from around the world, working with each region’s farms to finetune the brews.

Use promo code WCMARCH50, new subscribers only

Chances are good that your bridesmaids’ coffee orders vary as wildly as their opinions on the dress you’re having them wear. Wirecutter tested and enjoyed several coffee subscriptions , and for the wedding party with wanderlust, we think Atlas Coffee Club is the best. Each month’s delivery hails from a different country. And since the company works directly with local farmers, those beans are also more uniquely produced (for instance, one bag that editor Ben Keough particularly liked involved using anaerobic fermentation). Give bridesmaids a three-month subscription, and they can select the roast and grind preferences to suit their individual tastes.

A robe they’ll actually wear

Someone wearing a Natori Shangri-La Robe in the kitchen.

Natori Shangri-La Robe

This high-quality jersey-knit robe comes in a range of women’s sizes and several fun colors, and it feels light as air and fantastic to wear.

As cute as those de rigueur little satin robes are, Jen Glantz warns that your pals likely don’t need another one (they’re often given to bridesmaids on the big day to wear for getting-ready photos). Instead, consider a luxurious, full-length robe that your attendants can wear in the comfort of their own homes for years to come. Natori’s Shangri-La Robe is one of our top-rated robes from testing . The jersey knit feels as light and soft as a cherished college T-shirt, yet it holds up better: Our testers report that even after they’ve worn this robe for years, it remains as soft as the day they received it. The Shangri-La Robe is available in over a dozen colors and in sizes XS to XXL.

Hands-free!

Someone wearing a Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack.

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

A great combo of style and function, this pack can be stuffed with everything from a large wallet to a makeup kit—with room to spare.

An attractive, durable fanny pack is excellent for day-of organizing, and your lucky bridesmaids will have a stylish and functional bag for years to come. The Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack is a standout from our testing . While prepping on the big day, your attendants can use it to store phones, extra hair pins, and emergency sewing kits. Later on, they’ll appreciate the built-in card pocket, the key clip, and an elastic loop that’s just the right size for lip balm or gloss. The pack comes in several versatile colors, and, thanks to the adjustable straps, it can be worn ’90s-style (around the hips) or in a cool-kid cross-body style.

This article was edited by Hannah Morrill and Jennifer Hunter. Dorie Chevlen contributed reporting.

We love finding gifts that are unusual, thoughtful, and well vetted. See even more gift ideas we recommend .

Meet your guides

good travel snacks for airplane

Hannah Morrill

Hannah Morrill is an editor on Wirecutter’s style team, spearheading the gifts and beauty sections. For the past decade, she has worked as a freelance writer and editor for publications such as Allure, Elle, and InStyle, among others. She lives in Portland, Maine, with her partner and their two children.

good travel snacks for airplane

Mari Uyehara

Mari Uyehara is a staff writer for Wirecutter’s gifts team. She was previously an editor at GQ, Saveur, and Vice, and she won a 2019 James Beard Award for her column on American cooking in Taste. The daughter of a potter, she has long been a believer in the power of a well-made thing.

Mentioned above

  • These notebook and notepad picks offer a satisfying writing experience with different types of pens and pencils. The Best Notebooks and Notepads  
  • After five years of relaxing in the sand and playing in the surf, we’ve chosen the best picks to help you enjoy a perfect beach day. The Best Beach and Surf Gear: Towels, Totes, Coolers, and More  
  • We tested 14 of the best bath bombs, including DIY bath bomb kits and bath bomb gift sets, to find the best effervescent tub treats. The Best Bath Bombs Are Lush Bath Bombs  
  • A comfortable, well-fitting sleep mask blocks disruptive light, which can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. The Best Sleep Mask  
  • We found seven ultra-comfy women’s, men’s, and unisex robes in a wide variety of fabrics and styles. The Best Robes  
  • Cute and convenient, fanny packs securely transport your belongings as you travel hands free. We found five great ones to suit a range of styles and situations. The Best Fanny Packs  

Further reading

Some of the best gifts for teachers, including Expo markers, pencils, a water bottle, and chocolate.

The 31 Best Gifts for Teachers

by Alexandra Ballard and Wirecutter Staff

Teachers appreciate any heartfelt gesture from students, but you can also give them something for their classroom—or themselves.

Two Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controllers sitting one in front of the other, one in light pink and blue, one in dark pink and blue

The 20 Best Gifts for Gamers

by Wirecutter Staff

You needn’t be an avid gamer to give an avid gamer something incredible. Our gifts team has you covered, with a range of Wirecutter-tested accessories and our favorite games of the year.

A display of products for cats and cat lovers, including a cat tarot deck, cat water drinking fountain, a fish, catnip, and a FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool.

The 20 Best Gifts for Cats (and the Humans They Tolerate)

by Samantha Schoech and Mari Uyehara

True, your cat would likely prefer a cardboard box over any fancy gift. But you can still try! Here are our favorite finds for picky, precious felines and their human friends.

The Klipsch The One II speaker sits among a few tabletop objects, including an iPhone playing Spotify.

Great Gifts for Listening to Music

by Grant Clauser

Everyone loves music, so we researched and tested the best headphones, speakers, and audio gear to give as gifts.

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    LesserEvil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn (24 Pack) $17 at Amazon. Popcorn is a great volume-rich snack, meaning you can eat quite a bit of it for very little calories. It is also considered a whole ...

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    Best Airplane Snacks. The best food to pack for long flights is tasty, healthy and easy to transport. You should also make sure that you bring travel snacks that will keep fresh when left at room temperature. Healthy plane snacks. Healthy snacks don't have to be boring, and there are a ton out there that are both yummy and easy to prepare ...

  13. 11 Best Airplane Snacks for Long Flights

    Nekisia Davis' Olive Oil & Maple Granola. According to our resident Genius, Kristen Miglore, "This is going to be the best granola you've had in your whole dang life." So yeah, you're probably going to want to pack more than a few bags of this for your next flight. 3. Pan Bagnat: Le French Tuna Salad Sandwich.

  14. Best snacks to bring on a plane

    Related: Long Haul Flight Essentials. With those guidelines in mind, here are some of the best airplane snacks to bring along: 1. Nuts, Seeds and Dried Fruit. Nuts and seeds are the perfect in flight snack to bring on a plane because they're packed with protein and healthy fats.

  15. Chefs share the best snacks for travelers to bring on planes

    Snacks on the plane: Chefs share their favorite high-altitude bites. By Nevin Martell. April 7, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. EDT. If you're taking to the skies, stave off hunger by bringing tasty snacks ...

  16. Best Healthy Travel Snacks (Perfect for Plane or Road Trip)

    Whip up a batch stat before traveling next time! This recipe makes roughly 10 servings at 100 calories each with 5 grams of protein or 5 servings with 10 grams of protein. 4. Popcorn. Popcorn is a super snack for road trips because of the fiber and complex carbs, which means they'll keep you regular on those long drives.

  17. 15 Best Snacks You Can Bring on a Plane

    Rold Gold Tiny Twists Pretzels. Snyder's of Hanover Mini Pretzels. Happy Belly Mini Twist Pretzels. There you have them, the best snacks to bring on an airplane journey. Please do keep in mind that liquids or pastes (including yogurt, peanut butter, and hummus) must follow the 3-1-1 rule.

  18. 28 Healthy Travel Snacks for a Long Flight

    Light & Fit Two Good Mixed Berry Greek Yogurt. For a light snack that's still filling enough to hold you over until the concessions cart comes around, Blechman suggests Greek yogurt. "Right now I'm loving Two Good. The little cup has 2g of total sugar, 3g of carbs, 12g of protein and 80 calories."

  19. 7 Best Airplane Snacks, According to Dietitians

    Whole fruit. Shutterstock. Another convenient and affordable snack to bring on your flight is some tasty fruit. "I'm all about eating foods with lots of nutrients to help keep my immune system strong while traveling," says Goodson. "Whole fruits like apples, strawberries, grapes, and bananas provide me with the nutrients to stay healthy and ...

  20. Snacks on a plane: The best food to bring on a flight

    Snacks on a plane: The best food to bring on a flight. By Nevin Martell. Updated April 11, 2022 — 8.35am first published at 8.15am. Save. ... The golden age of air travel, when the onboard meal ...

  21. Healthy Airplane Snacks

    Fruit is a good choice for hydration and for an extra dose of vitamin C for the road. SKIP: Cut melons. Keep cut melons refrigerated and eat within 1-2 hours otherwise. Nuts. Almonds, pistachios, cashews, walnuts and other nuts are one of my favorite snacks to bring onboard a plane.

  22. The Best Snacks to Bring on a Plane (We Would Know)

    Cheese cubes or individually wrapped cheese portions. Deli meat, cured meats. Nuts, dried fruit, and gummy fruit snacks. Potato chips, pretzels and other packaged snacks. Dark chocolate and snack bars. Turkey or beef jerky. Crackers and bread sticks. Dried fruit like dried apricots, banana chips, raisins etc.

  23. 10 Best Airplane Snacks That Are Perfect For Long Flights

    Packing the right snacks for a long flight can make all the difference. From tasty treats that keep hunger at bay to healthy options that boost your energy, this list of 12 best airplane snacks ...

  24. 50 Kid-Friendly Airplane Snacks

    Familiar foods are also a safer bet, as you know they won't do something like upset a sensitive toddler tummy. 5. Pack Plenty of Peanut-Free Choices. Peanuts and peanut butter are popular food choices on planes for many travelers because they provide filling protein options that don't need to be refrigerated.

  25. 7 Airlines With the Best In-Flight Food and Meals

    In-flight drinking and dining are in the midst of a massive rebirth following the pause in food and beverage services during the pandemic. From Air France linking up with renowned chefs to curate its premium meals, to Delta's new food and wine options across its cabin categories, and Hawaiian Airlines' island-inspired in-flight meals, carriers are finding new and innovative ways to ...

  26. Can you bring food on a plane? In most cases, you can

    Packing food for air travel is primarily a matter of common sense. There are no specific requirements for how foods are packed, other than the 3-1-1 rule for those with liquid elements in your carry-on, so pack food as you would pack any other fragile item in your luggage. ... The best resource for understanding any country's specific customs ...

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    They've given you a lifetime of companionship, love, and support. Thank your life's leading ladies with these thoughtful and useful gifts.