4 Foods You Should Never Eat on a Plane, According to Etiquette Experts

Imagine that you’re buckled into your plane seat, and the traveler next to you opens their tray table. They reach down to their carry-on and bust out a sandwich. If you’re anything like us, thoughts start swirling as fast as the plane is flying. It could be perfectly inoffensive—say, a hummus and veggie stack—or it could be something that could make the rest of your flight quite fishy. (We’re looking at you, tuna salad.) 

Since an airplane is such a self-contained space, it’s important to be cognizant of how the aromas and ingredients might affect others around you, explains Nick Leighton is a New York City-based co-host of the weekly etiquette podcast, “Were You Raised By Wolves?”

“The most important etiquette rule on an airplane is that you’ve got to stay within your bubble. Physically stay within your bubble. Sounds need to stay within your bubble. And, of course, smells need to stay within your bubble,” Leighton says.

It’s definitely your right as a passenger to bring food on board, be it from home or a restaurant. Most airlines don’t serve “real” meals anymore, so it’s very wise to pack some type of snack or meal before hopping aboard so you can arrive at your destination with some gas in the tank, adds Jacqueline Whitmore, a former flight attendant who is now an etiquette expert and the founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach, Florida.

“What if your plane gets stuck on the tarmac for hours and you get hungry? For this reason, it’s definitely smart to pack your own snacks. Don’t rely on the airline to feed you,” Whitmore says.

4 Commandments of Eating on a Plane, According to Etiquette Experts

Packing food is a “do,” true, but it’s important to choose carefully as you select your fuel. 

“Remember that the airplane is a confined, shared space. Being mindful of aromas and mess will make the flight more pleasant for everyone,” says Jules Martinez Hirst, owner of Etiquette Consulting Inc. in Los Angeles, California.

Ahead, our etiquette experts reveal how to ward off the hangries without impacting your fellow travelers’ flight. 

You shall not nosh on smelly foods.

As we hinted to earlier, a food’s aroma is one of the most critical considerations. As a general rule, opt for “foods that are easy to eat, mess-free and not overly aromatic,” Hirst says.

Neutral-smelling, easy-to-eat foods (we have a list for you below) are all terrific candidates for acting as your co-pilot, Whitmore says. On the flip side, steer clear of tuna sandwiches, hard-boiled eggs, stinky cheeses, garlic- or onion-rich meals, as well as fish and seafood. Even something like the salmon jerky you can score at the airport kiosk can be extremely aromatic.

Whitmore reinforces that “strong smells linger in a confined cabin.” Also keep in mind that foods can potentially be smelly in other ways, Hirst adds: “Try to avoid any foods that may be gas-inducing, like beans, broccoli and cauliflower.”

Skip messy menu items.

Messy foods can be a nuisance for your fellow passengers and the flight attendants, Hirst notes—especially if you don’t have a stack of napkins. 

“Foods that require assembly or are complicated to eat in close quarters are also best to save for later,” Leighton says. “For example, this isn’t the time for moules frites.”

Items like ribs, powdered donuts, croissants, sloppy joe sandwiches, nachos, chili dogs, and spaghetti with red sauce are also best to savor at your destination instead of at your plane seat.

You shall not introduce any potential allergens.

Etiquette is all about being considerate of others, Whitmore clarifies, and others’ safety is paramount. 

Not only could your menu aggravate other travelers, but it could also potentially put them at risk. About one in 10 Americans has a food allergy. Not all food allergies are triggered by inhaling particles of a food, however, it’s certainly not worth the risk since some individuals can react this way. If you bring a bag of peanuts or a packet of peanut butter along, for instance, keep it in your bag until you’re in an area with more open air.

Remember not to overindulge.

Speaking from experience as a former flight attendant herself, Whitmore confirms that the air on planes is extremely dry. After making your way through security, fill your reusable water bottle and sip from it often. If you do choose to order from the bar menu, proceed with caution, 

“Overindulging in alcohol can be a nuisance in itself, plus alcohol can dehydrate you and amplify the effects of the altitude,” Hirst says. “Staying hydrated will make your flight much more enjoyable.”

The Best Airplane Foods to Pack

Now that we know what’s off the table in terms of airline eating, let’s fill your luggage with a stack of expert-approved ideas. Here are some of the best foods to eat on an airplane:

• Dried or fresh fruit
• Crackers, chips, or pretzels
• A cheese stick 
• A meat and cheese snack pack
• Hummus and vegetables
• A muffin
• Chocolate or candy
• A grain salad
• A deli sandwich
• A granola or protein bar
• An instant oatmeal cup (ask the flight crew for hot water)