Last Updated: June 15, 2026
Summer travel season is here, and if you've priced airport food lately, you know the struggle is real. A sad sandwich and a bottle of water can easily run you $20+. The solution? Pack your own snacks.
At StackCart in Granby, MA, we've helped countless travelers stock up for summer adventures. This guide covers everything you need to know about TSA-approved snacks.
Understanding TSA Snack Rules
The 3-1-1 Liquid Rule
Liquids must be 3.4oz or less, in 1 quart-sized bag, 1 bag per passenger. But many foods are surprisingly fine!
What Counts as Liquid?
Limited to 3.4oz: Nut butters, yogurt, hummus, salsa, dips
No limit (solid foods): Cheese, crackers, chips, nuts, candy, bars, fruit, sandwiches, cookies
Ultimate TSA-Approved Snack List
Chips and Crunchy Snacks
Kettle chips, Pringles, SunChips, Pirate's Booty, Veggie Straws, Popcorners
Nuts and Trail Mix
Planters, Blue Diamond, Emerald, Kind Nut Bars - protein-packed and don't need refrigeration
Protein and Granola Bars
CLIF, KIND, RX, Nature Valley, LARABAR, Perfect Bars
Crackers and Cookies
Goldfish, Annie's, Wheat Thins, Ritz, Oreos, Biscoff
Fresh Fruit
Apples, oranges, bananas, grapes, berries - hydrating and healthy
Dried Fruit
Raisins, dried mango, dates, fruit leather - concentrated energy
Jerky and Meat Snacks
Jack Link's, Chomps, Epic - high protein, travel well
Candy and Chocolate
M&Ms, Twizzlers, Swedish Fish, gummies, dark chocolate - instant mood boost
Sandwiches and Wraps
PB&J, deli sandwiches, wraps - real meals without airport prices
Snacks by Flight Length
Under 2 hours: 1 bar, 1 bag nuts, 1 fruit
2-5 hours: 1 sandwich, 2-3 snacks, something sweet, gum
5+ hours: 2 substantial snacks, 4-5 lighter options, electrolyte packets
Budget Breakdown
Airport prices: Small chips $4.99, Bar $3.99, Water $4.99, Sandwich $12.99
StackCart prices: Chips $1.29, Bar $1.50, Sandwich $5 homemade
Average savings: $25+ per trip. Family of four? That's $100+ saved!
Special Diets
Gluten-Free: Enjoy Life cookies, Siete chips, Larabars, fruit
Vegan: That's It bars, GoMacro, Hippeas, dark chocolate
Keto: Cheese crisps, pork rinds, nuts, Quest bars
Flying with Kids
Toddlers: Cheerios, squeeze pouches, soft crackers
Young kids: Goldfish, fruit snacks, sandwiches cut into shapes
Tweens: Let them pick, variety packs, gum for ear pressure
International Travel
Consume fresh produce before landing. Commercial, sealed snacks are usually fine. When in doubt, declare it!
FAQ
Can I bring a sandwich? Yes! Sandwiches are solid food, no restrictions.
What about peanut butter? Jar form is liquid (3.4oz limit). Sandwiches or squeeze packets work.
Best for long flights? Protein plus carbs for stable energy. Avoid excessive salt.
Pre-Flight Shopping List
Protein bars, nuts/trail mix, fresh fruit, crackers/chips, something sweet, gum, empty water bottle, hand wipes
Stock Up at StackCart
Stop by StackCart at 77 West State St in Granby, MA before your trip. Single-serve packs, variety bags, healthy options, travel containers - perfect stop on your way to Bradley International Airport!
StackCart - 77 West State St, Granby, MA 01033. Safe travels and happy snacking!