Millions of Britons are set to travel abroad this summer, but many remain unaware of strict food and drink restrictions imposed by airlines and border authorities. While carriers like easyJet, TUI, Ryanair, and Jet2 allow passengers to bring snacks onboard, rules vary significantly regarding hot food, hot drinks, alcohol, and certain products.
EasyJet permits passengers to bring food into the cabin, but liquid or semi-liquid items such as soup, yoghurt, custard, and sauces are subject to airport security liquid restrictions. Hot drinks are allowed if purchased beyond security and carried in a secure, lidded cup. However, individual countries may impose their own import restrictions, so travellers should verify regulations at their destination.
Ryanair allows passengers to bring their own food and soft drinks, but hot drinks are prohibited, and personal alcohol—including duty-free purchases—cannot be consumed onboard. Only alcohol served by the airline may be consumed. Jet2 enforces some of the strictest rules, banning hot food and hot drinks for safety reasons, and reserving the right to refuse items with strong odours that may affect fellow passengers.
TUI passengers on long-haul flights of seven hours or more receive meals and drinks included in their ticket price. On shorter routes, food and drinks are available for purchase. While passengers may bring their own food, cabin crew cannot refrigerate or heat it, except for baby bottles. Personal alcohol consumption is also prohibited.
Beyond airline policies, border control rules apply separately. Travellers from the UK to the EU face restrictions on meat and dairy products, including ham sandwiches, cheese sandwiches, sausages, yoghurt, and milk products, to prevent the spread of animal diseases. Similarly, the UK restricts certain meat and dairy imports from EU nations. Passengers are advised to consult the latest government guidance before travelling.
