Homemade Food, Fruits, and Dry Snacks
Dry vegetarian or non-vegetarian snacks allowed in cabin; oily curries and gravies must be checked.
Dry snacks, sandwiches, and cut fruits are fine in cabin as long as they aren’t greasy or liquid-heavy. Curries, chutneys, and gravies fall under the 100ml liquid rule and should go in checked baggage.
When allowed vs. when not
âś… When it's allowed
- •Use stackable stainless or BPA-free containers with tight lids.
- •Line boxes with parchment to absorb oil residue.
- •Pack a small trash bag to collect used tissues and cutlery.
đźš« When it's NOT allowed
- •Don’t pack foods with bones or skewers that can be considered sharp.
- •Don’t carry soups or sambar unless frozen solid; they will be treated as liquids.
- •Avoid packing loose powders without labels; customs may suspect narcotics.
International customs at your destination may restrict meat, seeds, or dairy even though Indian security has no objection to carrying homemade food out of the country.
Dry coconut (copra) is prohibited in cabin baggage due to fire risk, regardless of how it's packed.
Food acceptance guide
| Food type | Cabin | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dry snacks | âś… | Wrap in foil or steel boxes |
| Liquid chutney | ❌ | Counts as liquid >100ml |
| Pickles (sealed) | ⚠️ | Allowed in checked baggage |
Frequently asked questions
Can I carry non-veg items?+
What about baby snacks like mashed banana?+
Do spices and powders have quantity limits?+
Related guides
Related rules
Power bank in flight
Not allowed in checked baggage.
Laptop in cabin/check-in
Cabin strongly recommended; checked baggage only if fully powered off and padded.
Mobile phone in check-in
Technically allowed but discouraged. Phones must be switched off if checked in.
Camera (DSLR)
Allowed in cabin. Pack heavy tripods or light stands in checked baggage.
Dry cells & spares
Allowed in cabin if individually protected. Not allowed loose in checked baggage.
Smart luggage
Allowed only if the lithium battery is removable. Battery must be in cabin when bag is checked.
Official references
DGCA guidelines — simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.