9 Easy Snacks to Take Through Airport Security Without Getting Arrested While Traveling

If you are anything like me, you probably find yourself second guessing what you can actually take through airport security. It’s good to have a plan when you’re traveling to ensure your trip will soar. We all understand and abide by the obvious no guns, no fireworks, no “sharp-pointy-things” rules. But, food just seems like one of those things that you’re never quite sure what you can and cannot take. So, what can I take through airport security? Well, I’m glad you asked! Here are nine easy snacks that you can take through airport security without getting arrested.

As many of you travel to your next destination wedding or maybe to Spark Conference (hint hint), we wanted to share some easy snacks that you can feel confident taking through the airport.

You can bring your own food from home to eat in the airport & on the plane.

The TSA’s only restrictions on food are:

• All food must go through the X-ray machine. Do NOT bring food to the security checkpoint unwrapped.
• Food must be wrapped or in a container. Unpeeled natural foods like fruit are okay, but half-eaten fruits must be wrapped. (according to the TSA Website)
  

Here are some snacks you can easily take through security:

1. Sandwiches – (wrapped)
2. Fruit – (Bananas, Apples, Oranges, etc.)
3. Firm Cheese – (wrapped)
4. Granola Bars
5. Pretzels
6. Cookies
7. Pastries
8. Gum
9. Chips

There are some weird things you can’t take past security, so beware of the liquid and gel-like items you may be tempted to take with your food.

An Example –

An unwrapped cheeseburger with fries and a big container of ketchup would not be allowed past security because;

a) The food is not wrapped.

b) Ketchup is a gel.

Finally, there are a few things to steer clear of bringing with you on your trip. Keep these at home, or prepare to let the TSA enjoy them on their next break.

Don’t take these through security:

• Salad Dressings
• Oils & Vinegars
• Salsa (don’t dance through security either)
• Jams & Jellies
• Wine, Liquor, Beer
• Maple Syrup
• Gravy (white or dark)

The truth is, there is never a guarantee that some rogue TSA agent won’t give you a hard time trying to take those delicious apples or pretzels to your gate. However, according to the letter of the law, you’re allowed. If you find a TSA agent that needs some extra Showiteer Love, make their day with a smile (you know we love Hugs, but maybe TSA agents don’t) and maybe your best joke.

We would love to hear from you guys in the comments. Let us know if you have had any issues with these, or any other snacks. 

We also really hope that your next trip will be to Arizona for Spark Conference! This is our own conference for photographers, graphic designers and creative entrepreneurs. If you have a serious need to travel more, we’ve put together a list of creative and design conferences to check out this year.