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Can you bring your own food on Hawaiian Airlines?

If our complimentary meals (regular, vegetarian, vegan or gluten free or child) do not meet your specific dietary needs, we welcome you to bring your own meals on board.



Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food on Hawaiian Airlines, but you must navigate strict USDA agricultural regulations. If you are flying to Hawaii, you can bring almost any prepared food (sandwiches, chips, etc.), but fresh fruits and vegetables are prohibited to prevent the spread of invasive species. If you are flying from Hawaii to the U.S. Mainland, the rules are even stricter: all your bags must pass through a USDA agricultural inspection before you reach the gate. Most fresh produce (including pineapple unless specially pre-certified) and certain flowers are banned. Commercially packaged "souvenir" foods like Macadamia nuts or Kona coffee are perfectly fine. Because Hawaiian is one of the few airlines that still provides complimentary meals in Economy, most people bring only snacks, but having your own meal is a great "backup" for pickier eaters.

People Also Ask

How strict is Hawaiian Airlines with carry-on size? It's best to be safe and ensure your carry-on bag can fit under the seat in front of you, and not exceed 9 x 14 x 22 inches (23 x 36 x 56 cm) or weigh more than 25 pounds (11 kg).

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The 3-1-1 liquids rule limits your carry-on liquids, gels and aerosols to a maximum of 3.4 ounces (or 100 ml) per container. All containers together must fit inside a resealable quart-sized bag and one bag is permitted per person. In short, the 3-1-1 rule stands for 3 ounces, 1 bag, 1 person.

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To prevent the spread of invasive pests and diseases, APHIS inspects all passenger bags moving from Hawaii to the U.S. mainland, Alaska, and Guam. APHIS officials perform the inspection at the airport prior to your departure. Please be prepared to open and close your own bags.

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Yes, you may pack food in your carry-on or checked bag, but remember all food must undergo x-ray screening. Foods that are liquids, gels, or aerosols must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule. TSA officers make the final decision on whether certain items are permitted into the secured areas of the airport.

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Common Items from Hawaii NOT ALLOWED into the U.S. Mainland or Alaska
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables, some exceptions are those listed below as permitted.
  • Berries of any kind, including fresh coffee berries and sea grapes.
  • Cactus plants or cactus plant parts.
  • Cotton and cotton bolls.
  • Fresh flowers of jade vine, and Mauna Loa.


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Foods you can't pack in your carry-on
Think: creamy cheeses, liquid chocolate, liquid coffee, creamy dips and spreads, gravy, honey, hummus, ice cream, jam, jelly, juice, syrup, peanut butter, salad dressing, sauce, salsa, soda, soup and yogurt.

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Wear loose-fitting clothing that cover your arms and legs, but can be rolled up. Clothing that includes natural fibers like cotton, feel most comfortable. I normally wear long trousers that can be rolled up and snapped into capri length. Andy sometimes wears hiking trousers with zip-off legs.

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