Introduction
When planning air travel, one of the biggest questions people have is what snacks they can bring on the plane. Are closed snacks allowed? Can you bring your favorite candy? In this article, we’ll explore the rules around bringing closed snacks on a plane and provide you with the ultimate guide to TSA-approved snacks.
The Ultimate Guide to TSA-Approved Snacks
First things first – what exactly is a TSA-approved snack? These are snacks that are allowed through TSA security and can be brought on board a flight. Examples of TSA-approved snacks include:
- Pre-packaged, unopened snack items such as chips, cookies, and crackers
- Fruit that is not sliced, such as whole apples or bananas
- Travel-sized containers of condiments and dips
- Beverages that are purchased beyond the security checkpoint
Navigating the Rules: What Snacks Can You Bring on a Plane?
The TSA has guidelines about what items are permitted and prohibited in hand luggage. This includes food items. Some food items cannot pass through security checkpoints at all, while others are allowed in limited quantities.
If you’re wondering whether a specific food item is allowed on a plane, the best way to verify is to check the TSA’s official website. As a general rule, most pre-packaged, unopened foods are allowed.
Packing Your Carry-On: Closed Snacks and the TSA
Now, let’s talk about closed snacks. The term “closed snacks” refers to pre-packaged snacks that are unopened and sealed. Examples would be a bag of chips or a package of cookies. Closed snacks are different from other food items, like fruits or sandwiches, that might need to be opened or exposed in order to consume them.
When packing closed snacks, it’s important to make sure they are clearly identifiable as food items. You can do this by keeping them in their original packaging or by placing them in clear plastic bags that are clearly labeled.
The Dos and Don’ts of Bringing Snacks on a Flight
There are some common mistakes to avoid when packing snacks for air travel. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t bring anything smelly or messy. This includes strong-smelling foods or anything that can easily spill or stain.
- Do bring non-perishable items. Foods that can be stored at room temperature are the safest option for air travel.
- Don’t bring anything too big. Snacks should be small enough to fit in your carry-on and not take up too much space.
- Do check the TSA’s guidelines before you pack any items. This will help you avoid having to throw away any food items at the security checkpoint.
Tips for Packing Snacks for Air Travel
If you’re looking for some ideas of what to pack for your next flight, here are some suggestions:
- Trail mix
- Dried fruit
- Granola bars
- Pretzels
- Fruit cups
- Crackers and cheese
- Veggies and hummus
- Protein bars
For longer flights, consider packing more substantial items like sandwiches or wraps. Just be sure to follow the guidelines for bringing perishable items on a plane.
Flying with a Sweet Tooth: Can You Bring Closed Candies on a Plane?
If you have a sweet tooth, you may be wondering if it’s possible to bring candy on a plane. Good news – closed candies are generally allowed on a plane! However, there are some restrictions you should be aware of.
The following types of candy are allowed:
- Hard candy, like lollipops or mints
- Chocolates and candy bars
- Wrapped candies, like Starbursts or Skittles
The following types of candy are not allowed:
- Gel-like sweets, like gummy bears or jelly beans
- Anything with a liquid or gel center, like chocolate with a liquid filling
- Candy in non-approved packaging, like a zip-lock baggie
Conclusion
Bringing closed snacks on a plane is possible and easy, as long as you follow the TSA’s guidelines and pack properly. By sticking to non-perishable, non-messy, and TSA-approved items, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite snacks in the air.
