Food to go

Compact, dry things that need no cutlery: wraps, tortillas, filled baguettes, nut bars, or cut fruit and veg. Skip sauces and anything that leaks or smells strong in a closed car or train compartment.

With butter, hard cheese, or cured salami, easily half a day. Mayo, eggs, and soft cheeses are a two-hour ride at most — for longer trips, an insulated pouch or a frozen drink standing in as an ice pack does the trick.

Dry snacks with no liquids clear security fine: sandwiches, bars, dried fruit, or nuts. Leave anything aromatic or juicy at home so you don't bother your neighbors or spring a leak in your carry-on.

Put it in a rigid box or wrap it tightly in paper or foil so it keeps its shape. Pack delicate pastries and soft fruit separately so the rest of the bag doesn't flatten them.