Little-Known Airport Snack Rule Offers Major Savings for UK Travellers
Holidaymakers embarking on early 2026 getaways to escape Britain's cold weather can significantly reduce their travel expenses by utilising a little-known airport rule regarding food. This approach addresses a longstanding issue faced by most travellers concerning the limited choices and high costs of airport meals and snacks.
The Costly Reality of Airport Dining
It is a familiar scenario for those flying abroad: meals, drinks, and snacks at airports typically carry much higher price tags than identical products found in regular UK shops. Many travellers have resigned themselves to paying these premiums, often spending a small fortune, particularly when travelling in groups. However, awareness is growing that these extra expenses can be avoided entirely.
On social media platform TikTok, user Fran (@Letsbefranc) highlighted this budget-friendly strategy for anyone hoping to travel more economically. "Buying food in the airport is so expensive, like £5 for a Pret sandwich," she explained. "You can bring your own food through security. I've got my own snack bag here." In her video, she showcased an assortment of treats prepared at home, completely bypassing the need for an overpriced airport meal. Fran also emphasised carrying a reusable water bottle to refill in the terminal, noting that "a bottle of water is easily £3 at airports and sandwiches can be about £5."
Widespread Surprise at Permissible Rules
Online travel discussions reveal that a significant number of travellers remain unaware that bringing your own food into the airport departure lounge is perfectly acceptable. This knowledge could prove transformative, especially for families flying with young children or individuals with specific dietary requirements.
People are often stunned to learn that very few restrictions prevent them from packing their own snacks for consumption in the terminal. While policies may have slight variations across different UK airports and internationally, the core principle generally holds true.
Official Guidelines on Packing Your Own Food
London Gatwick Airport provides clear guidance on its website regarding which items can and cannot pass through security checkpoints. For most solid food items, the procedure is straightforward.
A spokesperson stated: "You can carry cakes, fruit, vegetables, sandwiches and all solid foods in your hand luggage. Foods in sauces or with a high liquid content—such as sauces, pastes, soups, stews, jams, honey and other preserves—can be carried but must be in individual containers that do not exceed two litres in size."
The airport clarified that frozen foods of any kind are not permitted. Rules for drinks are separate, with "containers that can be sealed" typically allowed. "Items such as coffee cups or drink cans, which cannot be resealed, are not permitted through security and will need to be fully consumed or discarded before screening," the guidelines add. The exception is milk or sterilised water for infants; baby food, including paste, liquid, gel, or expressed breast milk, falls under a different regulatory category.
Travellers are always advised to check the specific food and snack policies of their departure airport ahead of time to ensure compliance. This simple, proactive step can lead to substantial savings and a more enjoyable, budget-conscious travel experience.
