Gate-side grab at Hudson by Terminal 1 security
Just past the main security checkpoint in Terminal 1, Hudson is the quick stop for snacks, drinks, and last‑minute basics before Southwest boards another full 737. You’re in and out in under five minutes if you know what you want, which matters when boarding starts 30 minutes before departure.
Hours usually run from early morning departures around 4:30–5:00 a.m. through the last evening banks near 9:00–10:00 p.m., so you can hit it on both 6:00 a.m. and late‑night flights. It’s post‑security, so prices are airport‑standard: expect $3–4 for bottled water, $4–6 for chips or candy, and $10–15 for simple travel accessories.
Stock is the usual Hudson mix: bottled drinks, grab‑and‑go snacks, packaged sandwiches, plus phone chargers, basic toiletries, and Houston souvenirs with “HOU” and “Space City” printed on them. If your Lightning cable dies at gate time, this is the closest reliable spot for a replacement under $30. For food, stick to sealed snacks you can stash in a backpack for a 2–3 hour flight.
Lines spike right after TSA opens new lanes or when two or three Southwest flights board from nearby gates within 20 minutes. If you see a school group headed toward your gate, hit Hudson before them or you’ll add 10 minutes of waiting. Tip: buy water and snacks here once for your whole connection; prices inside Hobby are similar at every stand, so no need to shop around.