Planning to jet off this summer with easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2 or TUI? Before you load up your hand luggage with snacks and drinks, it’s worth knowing that not everything is allowed onboard. From hot drinks to certain food items, budget airlines have clear rules in place and breaking them could mean binning your goodies at the gate.
Why are some food and drink items banned?
Airline restrictions aren’t just about being strict, they’re largely down to safety, security, and passenger comfort. Liquid limits at airport security are well known, but onboard policies also aim to prevent spills, reduce strong odours, and avoid potential allergic reactions in a confined cabin space.
There are also post-Brexit rules to consider, particularly when flying from the UK to EU destinations.
What food items are banned on easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, and TUI?
While policies are broadly similar across UK budget airlines, there are a few key differences to keep in mind.
easyJet
easyJet allows passengers to bring their own food onboard, but with some important restrictions:
- Hot drinks are not permitted unless purchased after security and securely sealed.
- You cannot consume your own alcohol during the flight.
- Meat and dairy products cannot be taken from the UK into the EU.
- Cold snacks and non-alcoholic drinks under 100ml are allowed, though strong-smelling or messy foods are discouraged.
Ryanair
Ryanair follows a similar approach with slightly stricter rules on hot items:
- Hot food and hot drinks are not allowed onboard at all.
- Drinking your own alcohol is prohibited.
- Meat and dairy products are banned on EU routes.
- Cold snacks are permitted, but anything likely to spill or disturb other passengers is best avoided.
Jet2
Jet2 enforces some of the strictest food and drink rules among UK airlines:
- All hot food and hot drinks are banned from being brought onboard.
- Passengers cannot consume their own alcohol.
- Meat and dairy products are not allowed on EU flights.
- Cold snacks are generally fine, but messy or pungent items are discouraged.
TUI
TUI’s policy largely mirrors the others, with a small exception for families:
- Hot food and drinks are not permitted, except for baby milk, which crew can warm onboard.
- You cannot drink your own alcohol.
- Meat and dairy products are banned when travelling to the EU.
- Cold snacks are allowed, but perishable or strong-smelling foods are not recommended.
What food can you bring onboard
Despite the restrictions, there are still plenty of snack options you can take with you. Most airlines allow:
- Cold, pre-packaged snacks like crisps, cereal bars, and biscuits
- Fresh fruit and simple sandwiches (subject to destination rules)
- Non-alcoholic drinks under 100ml through security
- Food and drinks purchased after airport security
- Baby food and milk (in larger quantities, though security checks may apply)
While bringing your own snacks can save money, it’s important to follow the rules to avoid delays or having items confiscated. When in doubt, stick to simple, cold snacks and you’ll be good to go.
