A Southwest Airlines employee and TikTok creator known as @brandithecsa is reminding travelers that they do not need to purchase pricey airport meals before boarding. In a June 27 video that has garnered more than 122,000 likes, she explains that passengers are permitted to bring their own food through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints.
Solid Food Is Generally Allowed
The creator opens the clip with a direct statement that sets the tone for the discussion:
“If you want to bring a whole charcuterie board through TSA, you can.”
She notes that travelers frequently ask whether food can clear security, and her answer is a clear yes. She also confirms that ice can be brought through checkpoints. The creator highlights exceptions for medical and infant-related needs, such as water required for medication and milk for an infant.
Commenters Share Their Own “Wildest Hauls”
Following her tip, the comment section filled with examples of meals passengers have successfully transported. The list ranges from breakfast burritos and pizza to whole cakes and large quantities of tamales. Specific mentions include:
- A full charcuterie box and tacos
- Five cheesecakes from New York
- A whole Chicago-style pizza
- A 5-pound brisket from Texas
- 12 dozen tamales
- A whole muffuletta sandwich from New Orleans
- A Chicago pizza flown to Northern California
One commenter summed up a common habit:
“I make breakfast burritos before every flight!”
Consistency Matters: The Liquid, Gel, and Paste Rule
While solid foods typically pass without issue, the consistency of certain items can trigger additional restrictions. Foods such as peanut butter, yogurt, and mashed potatoes may be classified as liquids, gels, creams, or pastes. These items fall under the TSA 3-1-1 rule, meaning they must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less to be carried through security in a carry-on bag.
Expect Possible Additional Screening
The creator also cautions that bringing food does not guarantee a breezy walk through the checkpoint. Officers may ask travelers to remove food items from bags for separate screening, and some products may receive extra inspection. Commenters corroborated this:
- One traveler recalled TSA officers unwrapping an entire burrito during screening.
- Another reported a store-bought, sealed pudding being confiscated.
Bottom Line for Travelers
The overarching message is that passengers do not automatically have to leave homemade or purchased meals at home. The key factors to keep in mind are food consistency and the possibility of additional screening. Planning around those two points can save money and let you enjoy your preferred meal at 30,000 feet.
