If you haven’t taken the time to review current TSA regulations, you may not realize that you can carry food with you on an airplane. Not only can you carry it, it can be in opaque containers larger than 3.5 ounces.
I have carried nuts, fruit, tuna, muffins and boiled eggs. I place the loose items in Tupperware® containers. I purchase tuna in a pouch. I peel the boiled eggs and place them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper in a reused sour cream container.
For ease at the X-ray machine, I put all the containers in a gallon zip top bag that I remove from my carryon and place in the plastic tub along with my shoes. I have never been detained, searched, or asked for explanation because of the food.
Carrying gluten-free snacks has several benefits. Perhaps the most important is that having a gluten-free item within reach keeps me from being tempted to grab the first thing I see when my plane lands late, I am starving, and I have to scramble to make my connection. Another benefit is that I don’t have to pay the inflated prices charged by many airport vendors. I can also enjoy a snack on the aircraft along with the other passengers even when the airline doesn’t offer an acceptable option.
My greatest concern isn’t always whether I will be able to find a gluten-free snack or meal. Because I am hypoglycemic, my greatest concern is often whether I will be able to find a gluten-free snack or meal before I go too long without food. Having the option of carryon food eases this concern so I can feel good about planning as much travel as much as my budget and schedule will allow.
If you have been hesitant to plan a trip involving airline travel, there’s no need to limit yourself. Get those bags packed and have a great trip!
From the TSA website:
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/editorial_1667.shtm
“All food must go through the X-ray machine. Do NOT bring food to the security checkpoint unwrapped, as shown in the image on the right.
Food must be wrapped or in a container. Unpeeled natural foods like fruit are okay, but half-eaten fruits must be wrapped.”
