How to Save Money on Airline Meals

Years ago airline meals were routinely offered at no extra cost to airline passengers. But airline travel has changed considerably over the years, which has affected airline passengers' travel experiences. A lot of services that were once offered free of charge now incur a fee, including airline snacks and meals on certain flights. How can you save money on airline meals?

Pack Your Own

Packing your own snacks and meals will save you a lot of money during your travels, starting with your outbound flight. Check with your airline to make sure there are no restrictions on the types of food you can take with you onto the plane, such as meats and other products. Remember that on your way back you will need to exercise the same caution. For example, California residents are allowed to take fruit with them as they fly out of the state, but they will not be allowed to bring fruit back into California on their way home. Penalties can be severe if you break the rules, even unknowingly, so make sure you know what you are doing.

Eat Before Boarding the Plane

If you have a short flight ahead of you, try to eat a meal before your flight takes off so that you will not have to put up with a grumbling stomach during your journey. That way, you are less likely to give in to temptation and spend a small fortune on snacks offered on the plane. Avoid food that is full of empty calories, such as donuts and cake, and fill up on foods that are rich in fibre or protein, so that you are not hungry again within an hour or two of eating.

Eat Complimentary Meals on Long Haul Flights

Airline passengers who are booked onto a long haul flight will usually receive complimentary meals throughout their flight, which can include two or more meals until they reach their destination. If you have a 15-hour flight ahead of you, make sure you eat during your flight so that you do not end up buying expensive snacks to curb hunger pangs.

Staying awake for meals can be a challenge during long haul flights. If you plan to sleep, speak with a flight attendant to find out when meals will be served and then set your phone alarm or alarm clock to wake you up in time to eat.

Airline meals and snacks can be very expensive if you are not prepared. But you can cut the cost of airline meals by packing your own food, eating before boarding the plane or by making the most of complimentary meals that are offered during long haul flights.