Eating on the plane: Can I take my kebab with me? What is allowed with snacks and drinks

The choice of in-flight catering often leaves a lot to be desired - so it's no wonder that many passengers want to bring their own food. But what is actually allowed? Can you pack a kebab? Or a Tupperware container with home-cooked food? And what about drinks? In this article, we clarify what is allowed in hand baggage - and what is not.

Can I take food with me in my hand luggage?

Yes, solid foods are generally permitted in hand baggage. This includes

sandwiches and sandwiches
kebabs, wraps, burgers
Fruit and vegetables
Sweets and snacks
Home-cooked food in Tupperware containers
As long as it is not liquid or semi-solid food, there are hardly any objections from security.

Important:
Strong-smelling food (such as a kebab with onions or a hard-boiled egg) can disturb fellow passengers. The rule here is: be considerate!

What about liquids or soups?

The well-known 100 ml rule applies here:

Liquids, creams or gels may only be carried in containers of up to 100 ml - and no more than 1 liter in total per person.
This also applies to yogurts, spreads, soups or sauces in Tupperware containers.
Liquids must be transported in a transparent, resealable 1-liter bag.
Tip: Solid foods are less complicated - anything that flows is more critical.

Drinks in hand baggage: what is allowed?

• Before the security check: No drinks allowed (except for babies or for medical reasons).
  After the security check: Drinks may be purchased and taken on board.
  Exceptions apply to duty-free purchases in sealed bags with a receipt.
  Bottles containing more than 100 ml of water, cola or similar will be confiscated at security.
  
  

Special features for international travel

For flights outside the EU, you should find out in advance whether certain foods may be imported into the destination country.
Example: Fresh fruit or meat products may not be imported into some countries (e.g. USA, Australia) - not even in hand luggage.

Alternative: Order special on-board meals

If you want to be on the safe side, you can book special meals (vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free, etc.) in advance with many airlines.
Especially on long-haul routes, this is often free of charge and much better than the standard menu.

Conclusion

Yes, you can take your kebab with you - but without onions please 😉. Solid food in hand luggage is generally not a problem. Stricter rules apply to liquids and drinks. If you are prepared, you can also enjoy yourself above the clouds - according to your own taste.