I just returned from visiting our daughter at school in North Carolina.Traveling has changed so much since 9/11: heightened airport security coupled with a long list of what you can not bring through security, and the most recent mandate of wearing a mask from the moment you enter the airport until you exit the terminal as well as wearing your mask on the flight for the entire time you are in the air. The only exception is you may remove your mask while you drink and eat.
I have to admit, this new regulation caused me some distress as there is nothing less appealing to me than airplane food. I usually bring my own meal for the flight. Yes, you can take your mask “down” while eating, but I don’t think it’s permission to fine dine in the air.
If you are hungry (and depending on the length of your flight) here are some tips on the foods that are easy to eat on your flight.
Adjust your meal time. Don’t go to the airport hungry. Eat before your flight. For some, it may mean going to an airport lounge where they are serving to-go meals and you can safely eat before you board the plane.
Plan ahead. Pack your own sandwich that you can take through security and eat on the plan. A turkey sandwich is easy. Click here for a healthy recipe (I may eliminate the onion as the smell may be overpowering on the flight). For a vegetarian sandwich click here.
Snacks- I am not a huge fan of pre-packed store bought snacks (even though Trader Joes, Whole Foods and your local markets sell great brands) so I like to make my own. Love trail mix (nuts and dried fruit), cut hard fruit (apples, pears), grapes, hard cheese, cured meats and baguettes and crackers, peanut butter and jelly sandwich, protein bars, cut veggies (carrots, celery, jicama, edamame) and homemade muffins and cookies for your sweet tooth!
Don’t forget to pack your foods in disposable containers, bring napkins and wet-wipes and of course your hand sanitizer!
Fly smart and safe travels!
For more information, feel free to reach out to me at rachel@livehealthynyc.com