Let’s face it. Long gone is the time where we use to get little goodie baskets of food during an airplane flight without even sitting in first class. Oh, how I miss those PB&Js and cheese and cracker snack packs. I looked forward to those food baskets, and when they started disappearing, my grandma used to make me my own food baskets to take on the airplane. #loved

Nowadays, as a college student who goes to school in North Carolina, Raleigh-Durham International Airport has become one of my favorite places to explore food before I board the plane all the way back to New Jersey. If you ever are at RDU or have a layover there, be sure to check out these places.

1. Jason’s Deli

RDU

Photo courtesy of Jason’s Deli on Facebook

I honestly have to say that this is one of my favorite places to grab a sandwich, and whenever I’m at RDU, I make sure to grab one. The best part is that you get a free bag of chips with your sandwich. What could be better than that?

2. California Pizza Kitchen

RDU

Photo courtesy of California Pizza Kitchen on Facebook

While North Carolina certainly isn’t California, having pizza made with fresh ingredients like locally grown vegetables and a freshly cracked egg makes me feel like I’m under the California sun. This is definitely not your typical airport food.

3. Five Guys

RDU

Photo courtesy of @fiveguys on Instagram

Craving grease? Sometimes you just need a cheat meal once in a while. Beefy burgers with melting cheese, bacon, a juicy slice of tomato, and a side of french fries will for sure keep you satisfied.

4. Bruegger’s Bagels

RDU

Photo courtesy of brueggers.com

Maybe you’re taking an early morning flight and breakfast food is the only thing your stomach can handle. Even if that isn’t the case, and you just love breakfast, Bruegger’s Bagels is the place to be. Whether you like a savory or sweet bagel or a bagel sandwich, there are so many options that it’s going to be hard to just choose one.

5. Starbucks

RDU

Photo courtesy of Starbucks on Facebook

While you maybe thinking #basic, you’re wrong. Not only can you get a dirty chai tea latte, but you can also get savory sandwiches as well as little pastries that look like they came from Paris. And you know what? Sometimes a little familiarity is good when you’re traveling to a new place.