Flying can already be stressful, but bringing the wrong snacks or meals on board could make your journey uncomfortable—not just for you, but for everyone around you. In this guide, we break down 10 foods that are best left at home when you’re preparing for takeoff.
From pungent smells to messy mishaps, find out what could turn your flight into a travel nightmare. Whether you’re trying to keep your seatmates happy or avoid unexpected trouble with airport security, this is the ultimate “do-not-pack” list for stress-free air travel.
1. Bananas
Bananas may seem like a convenient, healthy snack, but they’re best avoided on planes. They can emit a strong odor that might disturb fellow passengers, especially in the confined space of an airplane cabin. Additionally, bananas ripen quickly, and their mushy texture can make them messy to eat while traveling. Opt for fruits like apples or grapes instead, which are less likely to cause a scene.
2. Chips
While chips are a popular snack, they are not ideal for air travel. The crunching noise can be disruptive to others, especially during quiet moments on the flight. Plus, the strong scent of chips may linger in the cabin, potentially annoying nearby passengers. Stick to quieter, less aromatic snacks like granola bars or fruit for a more considerate option.
3. Dairy Products
Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt should be avoided on planes due to their tendency to spoil at high altitudes. They can also produce unpleasant smells, making it uncomfortable for both you and your fellow passengers. If you’re craving something creamy, opt for non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or plant-based cheese, which are less likely to cause issues.
4. Curry or Spicy Foods
Spicy and curry-based dishes can have strong odors that are not only unpleasant but can also linger throughout the flight. The confined space of the plane magnifies these smells, which might make your fellow passengers uncomfortable. To avoid causing a disturbance, choose milder, more neutral foods like sandwiches or wraps, which are easier to consume without strong scents.
5. Soft-Boiled Eggs
Although eggs are a great source of protein, soft-boiled eggs can have a pungent smell that is particularly noticeable in the closed environment of an airplane. The smell can be offensive to passengers around you, and they may not appreciate the odor. If you’re looking for protein on the go, try hard-boiled eggs or nuts instead, which are less odorous and easier to eat discreetly.
6. Tuna or Other Fish
Fish, particularly tuna, is notorious for its strong, lingering odor. Eating fish on a plane can make the air around you unpleasant for other passengers, which is especially problematic in close quarters. If you’re craving a protein-packed meal, consider alternatives like grilled chicken or vegetarian options, which won’t cause such an aromatic disturbance.
7. Garlic and Onions
Garlic and onions are staples in many dishes, but their pungent aroma can be overwhelming in a confined space like an airplane cabin. The scent can linger long after you’ve finished eating, making it uncomfortable for those around you. Opt for foods with less intense aromas, such as fruits, nuts, or salads, to avoid offending fellow travelers.
8. Pastries with Cream Filling
Pastries like cream-filled donuts or éclairs may look tempting, but they are not the best choice for air travel. The cream filling can melt or leak, making a mess during the flight. Additionally, these types of pastries are often greasy and can leave a residue on your hands, which is hard to clean up in the limited space of an airplane.
9. Carbonated Drinks
While not technically food, carbonated drinks like soda or sparkling water should be avoided when flying. The bubbles can cause bloating and discomfort during the flight, especially if you’re prone to digestive issues. Furthermore, the fizz can lead to spills, which are hard to clean up in a cramped cabin. Stick to still drinks like water or juice for a more comfortable journey.
10. Jerky
Beef or turkey jerky may seem like a great travel snack, but it’s best left at home. The strong, often pungent smell of jerky can be off-putting to other passengers in the confined space of the plane. Additionally, jerky can be tough to chew, making it a less-than-ideal option for a relaxing in-flight snack. Instead, opt for softer snacks like protein bars or nuts that are easier to consume discreetly.
These 10 foods should be avoided when traveling by plane to ensure a more pleasant experience for both you and your fellow passengers. From strong odors to potential messes, these foods can cause discomfort during your flight. Stick to more neutral, easy-to-eat snacks for a smoother journey.
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