Planning on flying with Southwest Airlines and wondering whether you can take some of your favorite foods or meals with you? You won’t be the first! Surprisingly, Southwest Airlines food policy is rather flexible when it comes to their allowance of a passenger bringing in some of his own food onboard. A frequent traveler or you are flying Southwest for the first time will find that understanding what’s actually allowed will make your journey easier and more enjoyable.
Can Passengers Bring Their Own Food on Southwest Airlines?
The short answer is yes. Southwest Airlines food policy is pretty simple and traveler-friendly: Passengers can bring their own food and beverages onboard. For those who have dietary restrictions, love homemade meals, or prefer not to indulge in the overpriced extras at the airport, this is fabulous news. But just to make sure that you get your food on board with no problems, there are some guidelines to follow about getting food past security.
Southwest Food Policy – TSA Rules for Bringing Food
Before we delve into Southwest Airlines food policy, let’s recall the TSA requirements. No matter which airline a passenger is flying with, each passenger has to comply with TSA rules about carrying any food or beverage:
Liquids and Gels: Soups, sauces, and yogurts are liquid foods that must follow the 3-1-1 rule of the TSA. Liquids are permitted in containers that are less than 3.4 ounces. These liquids must be packed into one quart-sized bag.
Solid Foods: Solid items comprise of sandwiches, snacks, fruits. They will be passed without any restraint.
Pack Wise: Make sure that all your food is packed such a way that it can be easily accessed by TSA agents if there is a need to do so. Clear plastic bagging is at times recommended, as this makes access easy.
Types of Food Allowed on Southwest Airlines
According to the Southwest Airlines food policy regarding food, some of the foods that are allowed aboard include;
Snacks: Chips, cookies, nuts, among many other dry snacks are very convenient to carry around and just what you will need to munch on while airborne.
Packed Sandwich or Wrap: Yes, bring one if you have special diet requirements.
Fresh Fruit and Vegetables: Good options include apples, bananas, and carrot sticks. International travel could be prohibited when arriving.
If you are a coffee or tea lover, be aware you cannot carry hot liquids on board Southwest. This means you can either consume the beverage before you board or enjoy their free in-flight ones.
Why Southwest Airlines Food Policy Is So Flexible?
The Southwest Airline has become leading with its customer-friendly policies. Their leniency on Southwest Airlines food policy is to provide comfort while flying to the passengers. The airline allows travelers to bring food and snacks to the aircraft in any quantities, so that people can enjoy some of the things around them. The reason why this Southwest Airlines food policy seems so lenient is that it gives a person the freedom to have his or her choice, restrictions, or needs during dining.
However, Southwest flights in general only have snack-type food on their flights, especially for shorter distances. Because of this, having the option to bring your own food gives passengers control over how their meal is when flying.
Southwest Food Policy for Long-Haul vs. Short-Haul Flights
Southwest is basically flying mostly regional and short-haul international routes. Because of this, they provide pretzels and other soft drinks complimentary but no meal will be served to you. On longer flights, though, it is best that you carry your own food if you want a more filling meal. In any case, you’d never feel like getting hungry even when you are in a long journey.
Quick Tip: For longer flights, packing a well-rounded meal, such as a sandwich and some fresh fruit, is often the way to go. Just be sure to keep any dips, sauces, or condiments within the TSA liquid guidelines!
What Food Options Are Provided by Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines food policy does offer light snacks as well as complimentary beverages, including:
- Light Snacks: Pretzels or peanuts are often provided on all flights.
- Non-Alcoholic: Coffee, water, juice, and soda free for all passengers aboard.
- Alcoholic: A small fee applies when alcoholic drinks are bought; a few beers, wines, and cocktails are available.
But if you are already accustomed to receiving a meal in flight on long flights, better bring your own when you fly with Southwest.
Important FAQs About Southwest Airlines Food Policy
- Can I bring my own snacks onto Southwest Airlines flights?
Absolutely, passengers can bring their own snacks onboard.
- Is there any restriction on the type of food I can bring?
No, other than it is a solid food and complies with TSA rules. Of course, it might be inconsiderate of other people to bring smelly or messy foods onboard.
- Can I bring coffee or tea on Southwest flights?
You can bring a hot drink through TSA, but you will have to consume it before boarding because of security restrictions.
- Is there food I am not allowed to bring onboard international flights?
Although Southwest Airlines food policy does allow you to bring food onboard international flights, always keep in mind that when entering a new country, there are customs restrictions.
- What if I bring along a large quantity of liquid food?
When items exceed 3.4 ounces, they cannot be taken through the security point at TSA. For that reason, I would consider bringing in solid foods.
Knowing the Southwest Airlines food policy can make your journey much smoother, and perhaps you will enjoy some favorite meals and snacks while flying. So, whether it is a short escape or a long-haul flight, carrying your own food helps you preserve your flexibility and freedom.
Are you looking to book a flight? Fly Travel Board can assist you in doing so from booking a flight to answering any of your questions about airline policies. Call us today at +1 (844) 539-5787 to book your next Southwest Airlines flight and enjoy traveling on your terms.
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