Am I allowed to bring my diabetes supplies with me on the plane?
Yes. TSA specifically states that diabetes-related supplies, equipment and medications, including liquids, are allowed through the checkpoint once they have been properly screened by X-ray or hand inspection. Passengers should declare these items and separate them from other belongings before screening begins.
What are some general tips as I prepare to travel?
- Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours prior to flight
- Review TSA's website for travel updates
- Download My TSA Mobile App
- Whenever possible, bring prescription labels for medication and medical devices (while not required by TSA, making them available will make the security process go more quickly)
Consider printing out and bringing an optional TSA Disability Notification Card. - Pack medications in a separate clear, sealable bag. Bags that are placed in your carry-on-luggage need to be removed and separated from your other belongings for screening.
- Keep a quick-acting source of glucose to treat low blood sugar as well as an easy-to-carry snack such as a nutrition bar
- Carry or wear medical identification and carry contact information for your physician
- Pack extra supplies
- Be patient with lines, delays, and new screening procedures
What are some examples of items that are permitted through security?
- Insulin and insulin loaded dispensing products (vials or box of individual vials, jet injectors, biojectors, epipens, infusers and preloaded syringes)
- Unlimited number of unused syringes when accompanied by insulin or other injectable medication
- Lancets, blood glucose meters, blood glucose meter test strips, alcohol swabs, meter-testing solutions
- Insulin pump and insulin pump supplies (cleaning agents, batteries, plastic tubing, infusion kit, catheter and needle)—insulin pumps and supplies must be accompanied by insulin
- Glucagon emergency kit
- Urine ketone test strips
- Unlimited number of used syringes when transported in Sharps disposal container or other similar hard-surface container
- Sharps disposal containers or similar hard-surface disposal container for storing used syringes and test strips
- Liquids (to include water, juice or liquid nutrition) or gels
- Continuous blood glucose monitors
- All diabetes related medication, equipment, and supplies
Do I need to have my prescription with me?
While TSA does not require you to have your prescription with you, having it may expedite the security screening process if you are subject to additional screening.
What if my insulin, liquids, and gels are more than 3.4 ounces?
- Despite the general rule prohibiting passengers from bringing most liquids and gels through security, people with diabetes may take their insulin, other medications such as Smylin, Byetta, and Glucagon, and other liquids and gels, including juice and cake gel, through TSA checkpoints, even if they are in containers greater than 3.4 ounces.
- Although TSA does allow multiple containers of liquid or gel to treat hypoglycemia, as a practical matter you may want to consider alternative forms of carbohydrates, including glucose tablets, hard candy, or raisins.
- All medical liquids in containers greater than 3.4 ounces must be removed from your carry-on luggage and declared to TSA. They should not be placed in the quart-sized zip-top bag used for non-medical liquids.
- Under normal conditions, insulin can safely pass through X-ray machines at airport terminals. If you have concerns about X-rays, you can request hand inspection.
- Also, insulin never should be placed in checked baggage. It could be affected by severe changes in pressure and temperature. Inspect your insulin before injecting each dose. If you notice anything unusual about the appearance of your insulin or you notice that your insulin needs are changing, call your doctor.
Getting ready for your summer travel and wondering can you take prescription medication on a plane?
Whether you have a chronic health condition, regularly deal with migraines, or just want to be prepared, the question has likely come up as you plan your packing list.
But don’t worry – we’ve created a short guide for traveling with medications both domestic and international. In addition, we cover some best practices for where and how you should pack any medications you decide to take on your trip.
Can you take medicine on a plane?
Yes, you can take medicine on a plane. If you are traveling abroad, however, it’s critical to check if your specific medication is legal in the region you are traveling to. Each country has its own regulations around medicines and carrying illegal narcotics can have serious consequences. You can use this resource from the International Narcotics Control Board to view the latest information from your destination country. Alternatively, you may contact the U.S. embassy in the country you are heading to before you leave.
If it turns out that your prescription is illegal or not allowed in your final destination, you will need to talk with your doctor beforehand to discuss potential alternatives.
It’s also always good practice to travel with a doctor’s note and/or copy of your prescription as a safety precaution. This can prevent potential issues with law enforcement. Plus, it will help if you need to visit a pharmacy for an emergency prescription while traveling abroad.
Just make sure all copies list your name as it appears on your passport.
Can you bring prescription drugs in your carry-on?
Yes, you can bring prescription drugs in your carry-on or in a checked bag. If you take the medication daily or need it in case of emergency, you should always opt for the carry-on route to have it with you at all times. In fact, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends this and allows all medically necessary medicine and equipment onboard as long as it is screened.
Can you travel with over-the-counter medication?
Yes, you can travel with over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, contact lens solution, and Nyquil, among others. However, if you are taking liquid over-the-counter medication with you in your carry-on, you will need to ensure it is in a liquid container of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller. Be proactive and check the specifications of what your airline allows before you start packing.
How To Fly with Medication
If you’re flying with medication, there are a few guidelines and best practices you should follow. These tips will help you pass through security screening easily and ensure you have everything you need throughout the duration of your trip.
How to pack your medications for airline travel
- Always pack your medications in a carry-on bag. This will help you avoid misplacing them and ensure that your medication is always with you when you need it.
- Keep your medications in their original bottles with labels. This will ensure authorities can easily verify the medication and your prescription if necessary.
- If you are traveling with medically necessary liquid or gel items over 3.4oz, bring it to the attention of the TSA agent when you reach the security checkpoint. This includes breastmilk, liquid nutrition, and juice. Have these items easily accessible in your carry-on. You will need to show them to the TSA agent and they may need to undergo additional screening.
- Travel with a written prescription or note from your doctor for your medications.
- If you use a pill organizer, consider taping it shut to ensure none of your pills fall out during travel.
- Pack enough medication for the duration of your trip and then some. It is good to have extra in case you’re delayed or misplace a dose.
Flying with Medication
Many people need to fly with their medication. Doing so shouldn’t be a problem as long as you follow the instructions set forth by the TSA. This includes flying with prescription pills as well as prescription liquids and gels and other medically necessary items.
If you follow these tips, traveling with both over the counter and prescription medication is simple. However, whether you’re crossing state lines or traveling abroad it’s always important to check the regulations surrounding your medication at your destination before you go.
For more free health tips, resources, and news, subscribe to our weekly newsletter or if you have questions about pharmacy delivery send us an email at .