Emergency Survival Food for Airports: Why You Need It
Airports are one of the busiest places in the world and with the increasing number of travelers and frequent flyers, it is important to be prepared for any emergency. In such situations, emergency survival food can be a lifesaver. In this article, we will discuss the importance of emergency survival food for airports, what airlines provide in emergencies, types of emergency survival food available, tips for preparing your own emergency survival food, healthy eating options in airports, and much more.
Emergency survival food is an essential item for anyone who travels frequently, especially for those who fly long distances or to remote destinations. In an emergency situation, such as a flight delay, cancellation, or unexpected layover, access to food and water can be limited. Having your own emergency survival food can help you stay hydrated, nourished, and healthy until the situation is resolved.
The Reality of Emergency Situations in Airports
Airports are not immune to emergencies, and with the increasing number of travelers, the likelihood of an emergency situation occurring is also increasing. Here are some statistics on airport emergency situations:
- In 2019, there were more than 25,000 flight cancellations in the US alone due to weather and other factors.
- In 2018, more than 200,000 flights were delayed or cancelled across Europe due to air traffic control strikes, bad weather, and other factors.
- In 2017, the number of reported medical emergencies on US airlines was 18.4 per 1 million passengers, which amounts to more than 44,000 incidents.
These statistics show that emergencies can happen at any time and being prepared is crucial.
Importance of Being Prepared for Emergencies
In an emergency situation, such as a natural disaster, terrorist attack, or even a simple flight delay, access to food and water can be severely limited. This can be especially dangerous for people with medical conditions that require regular access to food and water. Having an emergency survival food kit with you can help you survive until the situation is resolved.
How Emergency Survival Food Can Help
Emergency survival food can help you stay nourished, hydrated, and healthy in emergency situations. These kits are designed to provide you with the necessary nutrients and calories to keep you going until help arrives. Most emergency survival food kits contain a combination of dehydrated or freeze-dried food, water, and other essentials such as first aid supplies, flashlights, and blankets.
In the next section, we will discuss what airlines provide in emergencies.
What Airlines Provide in Emergencies
When it comes to emergency situations in airports, airlines have their own protocols in place. Here is what airlines typically provide in emergencies:
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In-Flight Emergencies: In the event of an in-flight emergency, such as a medical emergency or an unexpected turbulence, airlines have trained professionals onboard who are equipped to handle such situations. In these situations, flight attendants may provide basic first aid, oxygen, and other medical supplies.
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Ground Delays: In the event of a ground delay, airlines are required by law to provide passengers with food, water, and access to restrooms. However, according to a user discussion on Airliners.net, the amount of food and water provided may not be enough for long delays, and passengers may have to wait for extended periods before receiving assistance.
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Diversions: In the event of a diversion, where a flight is diverted to another airport due to weather or other factors, airlines may provide passengers with a small snack pack that contains basic food items such as granola bars, crackers, and water. The amount of food provided may not be enough for long delays, and passengers may have to wait for extended periods before receiving assistance. As per a user on Airliners.net, airlines may have arrangements with diversion airports, and alcohol on international flights must be secured on the ground.
Importance of Carrying Your Own Survival Food
While airlines are required to provide passengers with basic necessities during emergencies, it is important to remember that these supplies may not be enough for long delays or in situations where access to food and water is limited. Carrying your own emergency survival food can help you stay nourished and healthy until help arrives. According to Aviation Survival, emergency survival food kits contain a combination of dehydrated or freeze-dried food, water, and other essentials such as first aid supplies, flashlights, and blankets, providing the necessary nutrients and calories to keep you going until help arrives.
In the next section, we will discuss types of emergency survival food available for airports.
Types of Emergency Survival Food Available for Airports
When it comes to emergency survival food for airports, there are several types of products available on the market. Here are some of the most popular types:
Survival Rations and Water Packs
According to Aviation Survival, survival rations and water packs are the most common types of emergency survival food available for airports. These packs contain dehydrated or freeze-dried food and water, with prices ranging from $0.50 to $6.50 per pack. Some popular brands include Revere Survival and Datrex.
Meal Replacement Bars and Drinks
Meal replacement bars and drinks are another popular option for emergency survival food. These products are designed to provide a complete meal in a single serving and come in a variety of flavors. Some popular brands include Soylent, Huel, and Clif Bars.
Freeze-Dried Meals
Freeze-dried meals are a convenient and easy-to-prepare option for emergency survival food. These meals come in pouches and can be prepared by adding hot water. Some popular brands include Mountain House and Wise Company.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Emergency Survival Food
When choosing emergency survival food for airports, there are several factors to consider:
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Nutritional Value: Look for products that provide a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.
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Shelf Life: Choose products that have a long shelf life and do not require refrigeration.
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Portability: Look for products that are lightweight and easy to carry, as you may need to take them with you on the go.
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Taste: While taste may not be the most important factor in an emergency situation, it is still important to choose products that you will actually eat and enjoy.
In the next section, we will discuss tips for preparing your own emergency survival food.
Tips for Preparing Your Own Emergency Survival Food
While there are many options for emergency survival food for airports, preparing your own food can be a cost-effective and customizable option. Here are some tips for preparing your own emergency survival food:
Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods
When preparing your own emergency survival food, it's important to choose foods that are nutrient-dense and provide the necessary vitamins and minerals to sustain you. Some good options include:
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Dried fruits and vegetables: These are lightweight and have a long shelf life, making them a great option for emergency food.
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Nuts and seeds: These are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
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Canned meats and fish: These are a good source of protein and can be stored for long periods of time.
Store Your Food Properly
Proper storage is essential for ensuring that your emergency survival food stays fresh and safe to eat. Here are some tips for storing your food:
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Use airtight containers: This will help to prevent moisture and air from getting in, which can cause your food to spoil.
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Store in a cool, dry place: Heat and humidity can cause your food to spoil more quickly, so it's important to store your food in a cool, dry place.
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Rotate your food: Make sure to rotate your food on a regular basis to ensure that nothing goes bad before you have a chance to use it.
Consider Your Dietary Restrictions
If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, it's important to consider these when preparing your own emergency survival food. Some things to consider include:
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Food allergies: Make sure to avoid any foods that you are allergic to.
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Vegetarian or vegan diets: If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, make sure to choose foods that meet your dietary requirements.
Make Sure to Include Water
In addition to food, it's important to make sure that you have access to clean, safe drinking water during an emergency. You can store water in containers or purchase water filtration systems to ensure that you have access to safe drinking water.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your own emergency survival food can be a great way to ensure that you have access to nutritious food during an emergency. By following these tips, you can create a stockpile of food that will keep you nourished and healthy until help arrives.
Healthy Eating Tips for Airports
While emergency survival food is an important consideration for airports, it's also important to maintain a healthy diet while traveling. Here are some tips for healthy eating in airports:
Prepare Food in Advance
One of the best ways to ensure that you have access to healthy food while traveling is to prepare your own food in advance. This can include packing meals and snacks in reusable containers and bringing them with you on your trip. Some good options include:
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Sandwiches: Make your own sandwiches with whole-grain bread, lean protein, and plenty of veggies.
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Fruit and vegetables: Pack fruits and vegetables that are easy to eat on the go, such as apples, bananas, baby carrots, and cherry tomatoes.
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Trail mix: Make your own trail mix with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and whole-grain cereal.
Make Smart Restaurant Choices
If you do need to eat at a restaurant in the airport, there are still ways to make healthy choices. Look for restaurants that offer:
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Healthy options: Choose restaurants that offer healthy options such as salads, grilled chicken, and vegetable dishes.
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Smaller portions: Look for restaurants that offer smaller portions or consider sharing a meal with a friend.
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Water: Instead of sugary drinks, opt for water or unsweetened tea.
Avoid High-Sugar and Fried Foods
When choosing food in airports, it's important to avoid foods that are high in sugar and fried foods, which can leave you feeling sluggish and tired. Some foods to avoid include:
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Candy and sweets: These foods are often high in sugar and provide little nutritional value.
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Fast food: Fast food is often high in calories, unhealthy fats, and sodium.
Specific Recommendations
AlexMaclin.com offers some specific recommendations for healthy eating in airports, including:
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Chik-Fil-A: Choose the grilled chicken sandwich or the grilled chicken nuggets, and pair it with a side salad or fruit cup.
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Moe's/Qdoba/Chipotle: Choose a burrito bowl with brown rice, black or pinto beans, grilled chicken or steak, and plenty of veggies.
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Starbucks: Choose a latte with almond milk and a piece of fruit or a protein box with a hard-boiled egg, cheese, nuts, and fruit.
Final Thoughts
By following these tips, you can maintain a healthy diet while traveling through airports. Remember to pack your own food, make smart restaurant choices, and avoid high-sugar and fried foods.
Other Considerations for Emergency Preparedness in Airports
In addition to emergency survival food and healthy eating tips, there are other factors to consider when it comes to emergency preparedness in airports.
Stay Calm and Cooperative during Flight Delays or Cancellations
Flight delays and cancellations can be frustrating and stressful, but it's important to stay calm and cooperative during these situations. Some tips for dealing with flight delays or cancellations include:
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Stay informed: Use frequent flier programs and airline apps to provide real-time updates and re-booking options.
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Be prepared: Have a backup plan for accommodations and transportation in case your flight is cancelled.
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Stay polite: Remember that airline employees are doing their best to accommodate everyone, and staying polite can go a long way in getting the help you need.
Consider Travel Apps for Information
Travel apps can be a great resource for information on flights, rental cars, and accommodations. Some popular travel apps include:
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Google Flights: This app allows you to search for flights and compare prices.
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Kayak: This app allows you to search for flights, rental cars, and accommodations in one place.
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HotelTonight: This app allows you to search for last-minute hotel deals.
Final Thoughts
Emergency preparedness in airports is an important consideration for any traveler. By taking the time to prepare emergency survival food, maintain a healthy diet, and stay informed during flight delays or cancellations, you can ensure that you are prepared for any situation that may arise. Remember to stay calm and cooperative, consider travel apps for information, and have a backup plan in place in case of emergencies.
Stay Prepared for Emergencies in Airports
Traveling can be stressful, and unexpected emergencies can make it even more so. By taking the time to prepare for emergencies in airports, you can ensure that you are ready for any situation that may arise.
From emergency survival food to healthy eating tips and other considerations, there are many ways to prepare for emergencies in airports. Here are some key takeaways from this article:
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Emergency survival food: Consider purchasing pre-packaged emergency survival food or preparing your own food in advance.
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Healthy eating tips: Pack your own healthy food, make smart restaurant choices, and avoid high-sugar and fried foods.
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Other considerations: Stay calm and cooperative during flight delays or cancellations, consider travel apps for information, and have a backup plan in place.
Remember, emergencies can happen at any time, so it's important to stay prepared. Check out our other great content for more tips on emergency preparedness and travel safety.
Stay safe and happy travels!
FAQ
Question: Who should consider packing emergency survival food for airports?
Answer: Anyone who travels frequently or lives in an area prone to natural disasters.
Question: What types of emergency survival food are available for airports?
Answer: Pre-packaged options such as Revere Survival products or homemade options like sandwiches and trail mix.
Question: How can I ensure that the emergency survival food I pack for airports is safe to eat?
Answer: Pack non-perishable items that won't spoil, like dried fruit, nuts, and granola bars.
Question: What if I have dietary restrictions or food allergies?
Answer: Look for pre-packaged options that cater to specific dietary needs or prepare your own food in advance.
Question: How can I maintain a healthy diet while traveling through airports?
Answer: Pack your own healthy food, make smart restaurant choices, and avoid high-sugar and fried foods.
Question: What should I do in case of a flight delay or cancellation?
Answer: Stay calm and cooperative, use frequent flier programs and travel apps for updates, and have a backup plan in place.
Question: But isn't packing my own food too much hassle?
Answer: While it may take some extra effort, having emergency survival food on hand can provide peace of mind and ensure your well-being in case of an emergency.
