Yes, you can absolutely bring sealed potato chips on a plane, and they are one of the best travel snacks due to their light weight. According to TSA guidelines in 2026, solid food items are permitted through security checkpoints in both carry-on and checked luggage. While the "seal" isn't strictly required by security, it is highly recommended to prevent the chips from spilling or going stale. One interesting scientific phenomenon to watch for is that the air trapped inside the bag will expand as the plane reaches cruising altitude because the cabin pressure is lower than the pressure at sea level. This can cause the bag to puff up like a small balloon, and in rare cases, a very tightly sealed bag might even pop. To prevent a "chip explosion," some travelers poke a tiny pinhole in the bag before boarding. As long as your chips are not liquid-based (like a tub of dip, which must follow the 3.4-ounce rule), you are free to snack away at 35,000 feet.