This simple travel tip gets you a free meal on your next flight
As air travel costs rise due to inflation, many travellers are on the hunt for ways to save where possible.
Given that in-flight snacks and light meals usually range between $5- to $10 each, the food expenses can quickly accumulate, particularly for longer trips.
In light of this, Melie, a social media user, has shared a simple ‘tip’ that allows travellers to enjoy a warm meal at no additional cost—bringing your own instant cup noodles onboard!
‘Why spend $5 on instant noodles when you can bring your own for free?’ she said.
Melie's ‘cup ramen travel hack’ provides a direct and simple way to enjoy a warm, cost-free in-flight meal. Here’s how she usually does it…
‘Step 1: Pack instant noodles into your bag.’
‘Step 2: Ask [the] flight attendant for hot water.’
‘Step 3: Put the flavouring onto your noodles.’
‘Step 4: Pour your “not-so-hot” hot water in’
‘Step 5: Cover the lid and wait patiently while other people look at you and your cup ramen with jealousy.’
In short, bring your own instant noodles, get some hot water, and there you have it—a ‘free’ meal on the plane.
Some praised the idea, while others had reservations.
One person said, ‘I'd do this but they rarely clean the water cookers.’
Another agreed, ‘Airplane tap water will make you sick .’
Others also pointed out that the water used is the same as that in in-flight tea or coffee and should be safe to drink.
5 simple steps to the cup ramen travel hack. Video source: TikTok (@melies.vie)
However, if the water's been boiled, how risky can it be?
While boiling water does kill most germs, it doesn't get rid of all impurities.
So, if you're thinking about eating instant noodles on a flight, remember that there's still a risk, especially for those with sensitive stomachs.
It's always a good idea to weigh the risks before deciding if it's the right choice for you.
Can you take instant noodles on a plane?
Instant noodles, including ramen, are generally free from animal byproducts, which makes them suitable for travel.
While they have a ‘soupy consistency’, they are dry and solid when packaged. Therefore, you can comfortably pack them in either checked luggage or your carry-on.
How to safely travel with instant noodles
If you choose to bring instant noodles onboard, here's another ‘tip’ to make sure they're packed safely:
When hunger strikes mid-flight, ask the flight attendant for boiling water. Pour this into your flask, wait for about 5-7 minutes, and you have a meal ready to enjoy.
For a more detailed walkthrough, check out this instructional video below.
Easy prep-ahead noodle lunches. Video source: Nifty
If your cup noodles come with a liquid sauce or flavouring, check the airline's liquid policy.
Please note that some airlines may have specific restrictions on certain items or foods, so it's always best to confirm beforehand.
Members, how do you feel about this travel tip? Would you consider having instant noodles onboard to cut costs? Do you have other strategies to minimise spending during flights? Share your insights in the comments below!
Given that in-flight snacks and light meals usually range between $5- to $10 each, the food expenses can quickly accumulate, particularly for longer trips.
In light of this, Melie, a social media user, has shared a simple ‘tip’ that allows travellers to enjoy a warm meal at no additional cost—bringing your own instant cup noodles onboard!
‘Why spend $5 on instant noodles when you can bring your own for free?’ she said.
Melie's ‘cup ramen travel hack’ provides a direct and simple way to enjoy a warm, cost-free in-flight meal. Here’s how she usually does it…
‘Step 1: Pack instant noodles into your bag.’
‘Step 2: Ask [the] flight attendant for hot water.’
‘Step 3: Put the flavouring onto your noodles.’
‘Step 4: Pour your “not-so-hot” hot water in’
‘Step 5: Cover the lid and wait patiently while other people look at you and your cup ramen with jealousy.’
In short, bring your own instant noodles, get some hot water, and there you have it—a ‘free’ meal on the plane.
Some praised the idea, while others had reservations.
One person said, ‘I'd do this but they rarely clean the water cookers.’
Another agreed, ‘Airplane tap water will make you sick .’
Others also pointed out that the water used is the same as that in in-flight tea or coffee and should be safe to drink.
5 simple steps to the cup ramen travel hack. Video source: TikTok (@melies.vie)
However, if the water's been boiled, how risky can it be?
While boiling water does kill most germs, it doesn't get rid of all impurities.
So, if you're thinking about eating instant noodles on a flight, remember that there's still a risk, especially for those with sensitive stomachs.
It's always a good idea to weigh the risks before deciding if it's the right choice for you.
Can you take instant noodles on a plane?
Instant noodles, including ramen, are generally free from animal byproducts, which makes them suitable for travel.
While they have a ‘soupy consistency’, they are dry and solid when packaged. Therefore, you can comfortably pack them in either checked luggage or your carry-on.
How to safely travel with instant noodles
If you choose to bring instant noodles onboard, here's another ‘tip’ to make sure they're packed safely:
- Use an insulated food flask or mug.
- Place all dry ingredients inside including the noodles, vegetables, sauces, and spices.
- Check that the flask's lid is secure.
- Don’t forget your cutlery.
When hunger strikes mid-flight, ask the flight attendant for boiling water. Pour this into your flask, wait for about 5-7 minutes, and you have a meal ready to enjoy.
For a more detailed walkthrough, check out this instructional video below.
Easy prep-ahead noodle lunches. Video source: Nifty
If your cup noodles come with a liquid sauce or flavouring, check the airline's liquid policy.
Please note that some airlines may have specific restrictions on certain items or foods, so it's always best to confirm beforehand.
Key Takeaways
- Social media user Melie has shared a travel hack on how to get a free meal on a flight—bringing cup noodles and requesting hot water.
- Melie detailed the steps for this in-flight cup noodle method on social media.
- The comments section was divided between praising the idea and expressing concern over hygiene, specifically the cleanliness of flight water cookers and aeroplane tap water.
- Despite some concern, others pointed out that the water used would be no different from water used in in-flight tea or coffee, suggesting that the water should be safe to drink