Short answer: yes, you can usually bring solid food on a plane in your carry- on, but liquids, gels, and certain items are restricted by security rules. The exact allowances depend on your departure country, the airline, and the destination, especially if crossing borders like the USA, where stricter rules may apply. What to consider
- Solid foods: Most solid snacks (granola bars, crackers, nuts, fruit, sandwiches with solid fillings) are generally allowed in carry-on bags. Expect possible checks or disclosures if a item looks unusual or if it’s near security thresholds.
- Liquids, gels, and spreads: Items like liquids, yogurts, sauces, dips, spreads, honey, and peanut butter must comply with liquid rules. In many jurisdictions, liquids in carry-on must be in containers of 100 milliliters (3.4 ounces) or less, and all containers must fit in a single quart-sized bag. If you want to carry larger amounts, consider placing them in checked baggage where permitted, or consuming them before security.
- Airport and airline variations: Some airlines or airports may have stricter or special rules about foods, especially for international flights, flights to the United States, or in-cabin service policies. It’s wise to check your airline’s baggage policies and the security guidance of the departure and arrival airports.
- Special foods: Baby or medical foods are often allowed and may be exempt from typical liquid rules when you declare them at security, but you’ll still need to observe the general safety guidelines.
Practical tips
- Pack solid foods securely: Use resealable containers or sturdy packaging to minimize spills and mess.
- If carrying liquids or semi-liquids: Keep them in the 3-1-1 compliant format where applicable, and consider consuming or transferring to smaller containers before travel.
- Plan for customs: Some destinations have stricter rules about bringing fresh produce, meat, or dairy. Check destination import restrictions to avoid issues on arrival.
If you’d like, share your origin and destination, whether you’re carrying any liquids, and if there are any dietary needs. A quick, tailored checklist can be prepared based on those details.
