tsa travel with injectable medication

UponArriving

TSA Medication Rules for Flying on Planes [2024]

Traveling through airport security can already be a pretty nerve-racking experience.

But when you are also worried about getting your necessary medical items through security and onto a plane for a flight, it can be even more anxiety inducing. Luckily, there are some pretty lenient TSA rules and guidelines when it comes to flying with your medication.

In this article, I will tell you everything you need to know about TSA medication rules and flying on a plane with medication . I’ll go over the rules for things like prescription medications, pills and liquid medication and other situations like over the counter (OTC) drugs. 

Table of Contents

What are the TSA rules for flying with medication on a plane?

TSA will generally allow you to travel with your medication but there are some restrictions that you need to be aware of, especially if bringing medical liquids. Below, I will go through some of the most common restrictions that might apply to you and tell you how you can go about them when flying with medication. 

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Does TSA have a limit on the amount of medication I can bring on a plane?

TSA does not have a limit on the amount of medication that you can bring on a plane whenever the medication is in solid form, such as pills . So if you have a need to travel with multiple bottles of pills then you should not be limited to a certain amounts of pills or bottles. 

If you have an outrageous amount of medication on you then you might be subject to additional screening. However, in many cases as long as they can x-ray your medication they will not require you to undergo additional screening.

If you do not want your medication exposed to the x-ray machine then just let the TSA agent knows this and they will allow you to go through a different type of screening (note that this could take more time and require you to open up all of your bottles).

Note: Medical Nitroglycerin medicines are allowed.

Related: Can TSA Ask About Your Medical Condition?

What are the TSA rules for traveling with liquid medication on a plane?

If you are not aware, TSA has a rule that forbids you from bringing in liquids than can’t fit in 3.4 ounce containers. Also, these containers must fit into a quart size bag (typically a clear Ziploc bag).

This is known as the “TSA 3-1-1 rule” and you will be required to remove the bag from your carry-on unless you have TSA Pre-Check (which I highly recommend). 

TSA does not enforce the liquids rule for medically required liquids (and gels and aerosols) . They also don’t require you to put your medically necessary liquids into a liquids bag.

However, they do have some limitations on liquid medication.

They require you to only bring “reasonable quantities” and state that the liquids rule exemption only allows certain items to be carried on the aircraft when the item is declared and it is:

• Required during your flight and/or at your travel destination;
• Not available at the airport in the sterile area (after the screening checkpoint) and/or;
• Not available at your travel destination.

Reasonable quantities for your trip

When you are bringing your liquid medications through security the TSA 3-1-1 rule does not apply. Instead, TSA will allow you to bring in “reasonable quantities for you trip.” This is a subjective definition so there is going to be room for agent discretion. 

Therefore, try not to go too far with your liquid medications if you think that you might be bringing in an unreasonable amount. It is a very good idea to have a clear stated purpose for why you need that quantity of liquid medication. And it might even be a better idea if you have a signed doctor’s note explaining why you need that much medication.

It could probably help your cause if you can explain your dosage requirements in relation to the quantity of medication you are bringing. For example, if you require 10g of medication per day and you are bringing 100g with you on a ten day trip, that makes total sense.

But if you require 10g of the medication per day and you are bringing 3,000g with you for a weekend trip that could be a different story….

At some point TSA added more clarity to this rule when they stated that the medication would need to not be available at the airport in the sterile area (after the screening checkpoint) and/or not available at your travel destination.

I don’t really like this rule because essentially a TSA agent could force you to throw out a large bottle of NyQuil just because it would be available at an outrageous price within the airport. Also, sometimes it’s difficult to know whether or not something will be available at your destination so it is just smart thinking to bring it with you. Nevertheless, those are the rules.

Notify the agents 

TSA also states that you should notify the TSA agent about your liquid medication before you go through security screening.

Personally, I have flown with liquid medication many times before and have never notified TSA about it nor have they given me any push back (there’s a prescription on the medication bottle).

Even though that is how I have done it in the past, I would recommend disclosing your medication just to make things easier. This is especially the case if you’re traveling with accessories associated with your liquid medication such as freezer packs, IV bags, pumps, and syringes.

If TSA does notice your liquids or you tell them about them, the medically required liquids will be subjected to additional screening that could include being asked to open the container. They might pour the substance into another container, test out a small sample of the medication, or swab it for explosives .

So just be prepared to pop the top if you are asked to. 

Note: You will not have to put your liquid medications into a Ziploc bag.

Related: Can You Bring CBD on a Plane? (TSA Rules)

How to pack medication for a flight in a carry-on or checked bag

TSA will allow you to bring your medication onto a plane via carry-on or checked baggage.

Obviously, you will not have access to your checked baggage when you are flying in the plane so if you are in doubt about whether or not you might need access to your medication, then I highly recommend that you pack it in your carry-on. 

Plus, remember if your checked bag containing your meds gets lost your medication is also lost.

If you bring your medication as a carry-on you should not be required to show or declare that you are bringing medication, unless you are bringing liquid medication or certain other types of medical instruments like syringes.

(Some travelers inform the TSA agents about all medications they are bringing but that does not always seem to be required in my experience.)

When packing pills or medication I would try to keep them organized in a clear plastic bag just to make things easy at all times.

Try to pack that bag in an easily accessible area within your carry-on so that you can quickly retrieve it if you need to declare or allow inspection for any of your medications.

Also, it’s a good idea for your medications to be labeled to facilitate the security process. (Labeling your meds is not required but it is recommended by TSA.)

When packed in a carry-on and going through a security checkpoint your medication can undergo a visual or X-ray screening (you can choose).

Does TSA require pills to be in a prescription bottle ?

Believe it or not TSA does not require your pills to be in a prescription bottle or to show them a copy of your prescription. The catch is that states have different laws regarding how you can legally travel with prescription items.

Some states might require you to carry your pills and a bottle with a prescription and therefore it is always a good idea to keep your pills in a bottle with a prescription label if possible or at least keep the prescription with you if you are using a pill container/organizer. 

Also, many countries have very strict rules on prescription medication so be sure to keep up with the latest laws before departing the country. Some might require you to submit a letter from a physician and some countries such as those in the Middle East have very strict laws regarding bringing in certain types of medications.

It is not very difficult to find stories about US tourists getting locked up abroad in prison for bringing medications through the airport.   Read more about traveling internationally with medication here.

One interesting thing about prescriptions is that if you forget your ID you can actually use your prescription labels to help verify your identity.

Tip: Ask your pharmacist for extra containers with your name and the medication information on them if you want to carry smaller amounts of drugs with you.

What are the TSA rules for flying on a plane with injectable medication?

You are allowed to travel with injectable medication on a plane. You may also bring unused syringes  when they are accompanied by injectable medication. You must declare these items to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection. TSA also recommends, but does not require, that your medications be labeled so it’s a good idea to go with their recommendation. 

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What if I need to keep my medication refrigerated when flying? 

If you need to keep your medication refrigerated you can use “ice packs, freezer packs, gel packs, and other accessories” to keep your medication cool. You will need to present these at the screening checkpoint in a frozen or partially-frozen state.

It would be a good idea to do a “test run” to see how long your packs can stay refrigerated, especially if you are going to be dealing with a long layover or flight. Some airplanes may have refrigeration but I would not count on that.

Does TSA allow over the counter medication on a plane?

TSA will allow you to bring over the counter medication on a plane, which means you’ll be fine to bring along things like: Tylenol, Advil, Aleve, ibuprofen, etc. Just remember that the rules pertaining to liquids will apply to OTC drugs unless they are medically necessary.

I always advise people to put their medication in a clear plastic bag just to make things easier when making your way through airport security.

Related: Does TSA Check For Arrest Warrants?

What about flying with other items?

If you have questions about bringing other types of items through TSA airport security screening (like food or alcohol), make sure to check out the articles below: 

• Bringing food through an airport 
• Bringing alcohol through an airport
• Bringing gun cases through an airport 

Yes, prescription medication is allowed on planes.

No, your medication does not have to be in the original bottle. However, it’s usually a good idea to have a prescription on hand just in case you’re questioned about the medication.

It’s best to be upfront about bringing medication through TSA, especially because TSA is pretty flexible about what medications you can bring through and all medication must be screened. If you are trying to sneak illegal drugs through TSA security you could be referred to law enforcement.

Yes, you can bring your pill organizer on a plane with your pills inside.

TSA does not require you to show your prescription so it could be possible to bring someone else’s prescription meds with you on a plane. However, it’s a good idea to make sure you are complying with state laws regarding prescription drugs when traveling. In some cases, it may be illegal to possess controlled substances prescribed to someone else.

Yes, cough syrup will be considered a liquid so you should “declare” it when going through TSA, especially if it is above 3.4 ounces.

Yes, you can bring testosterone gel on a plane. While you may not need your prescription it never hurts to bring it along.

TSA states used syringes are allowed when transported in Sharps disposal container or other similar hard-surface container. Unused syringes are allowed when accompanied by injectable medication. You must declare these items to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection.

As you can probably tell, TSA rules regarding medication are actually pretty lenient. They allow you to bring an unlimited amount of pills and solid drugs and they don’t even require you to show or disclose that you are bringing those drugs through the airport and onto the plane. 

They also will allow you to go above the liquids rule if you are willing to allow them to inspect your drugs if necessary. And they don’t even require you to show your prescription for drugs. Therefore if you are planning to travel through the airport with your medication you may not have as difficult a time as you may have imagined. 

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

16 comments

Does the TSA have an official form where a person could list all his/her medication and have it signed by a doctor to insure the traveler is not harassed or blamed for bringing in drugs that are not prescribed?

I’m travelling to Dublin by aeroplane and I take over the counter co codomal painkillers for my back am I allowed these in my luggage

I’m trying to find out if I can put my medication and a seven day pill container and not take the original prescription bottles with me. We will be leaving from Dayton Ohio, stopping in Charlotte North Carolina, and ending up in Texas. I don’t want to do the wrong thing and end up not being able to take any of my medication with me! We are leaving in two days so I’d appreciate a quick answer. Thank you so much.

Chances are you will be fine without the pill bottles. But it is always a good idea to have your prescription on you just in case.

Did you get through the airports okay without the prescription bottles? I am going from Missouri to Maine soon and can’t seem to find any definite information on whether or not I need to carry the original prescription bottles or not.

I take 11 prescriptions daily, so I put my pills in a 8-day travel medication wallet that has small ziplocks for each day. I also get the pharmacy to print out my prescription list for me. I have been doing this for several years and have never been asked about my medication or to show prescriptions. I travel with a cpap and am only asked to unzip the case so they can see the cpap. This past summer, they did take and test my 8-oz bottle of hand sanitizer and gave it back. There was no problem though. I also take a frozen bottle of water without a problem. It may melt slightly, so I drink that and replace the cap.

I’m a nurse traveling to the USA to visit my sister and was wanting to take over Botox with me to inject as mmmmm as her birthday gift. Is this allowed

I will soon travel to Thailand With injectable medications. They need to stay colds too, I will obtain an insulin travel pack and bring it through in my carry on luggage and inform the TSA officers about it ahead of time. I can also do a pre TSA check in? SO they know I am coming with the meds? I will have doctors note, prescription too. The meds need to be kept cold too.

I will be traveling to Ireland next year and have both prescription and over the counter vitamins. Do I need to make a list of these items to present. I wanted to divide them by day since I will be gone for 2 weeks, but if I need to bring the bottles I can.

Hi there, for the vitamins you probably don’t need the bottles but having a list or the labels could help w/a difficult TSA agent.

For the prescription meds, I would also try to bring the prescription. But you should be fine to bring your pills in a pill organizer if that’s what you have.

Hi I have to take can Fexofenadine , and have to wash with Hydromel Cream lotion this only comes in a plastic pump bottle will they let me go through with these.

Can I bring opened bottles of OTC meds and can they be in my carry on or go into my checked bag?

Yes, and they can go in either one.

Can I bring my anxiety medication in my pocket for the plane ride 2 klonpins or 2 Xanax in my pocket through the tsa security?

If going through the full body scanner, you won’t be able to because it will trigger the alarm. Best to keep them in your bag.

can I fly with perscribed gummies?

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How to Travel with Syringes & Injectable Medications?

If you’re using injectable medications, you may wonder if you can legally travel with them. Fortunately, the short answer is yes, of course! Whether by airplane, car, train, or boat, thousands of people with chronic diseases travel daily with injections, syringes, needles, and even electronic medical devices.  

However, there are a few rules you must be aware of. Traveling with medications both nationally and internationally does require a bit of preplanning and organization. So, here's what you should know before traveling with injectable drugs!

Related article : How to find travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions?

Prefer visual learning? Dive into the video below!

TSA, Syringes, and Liquid Injectable Medicines

When traveling with injectable medicines, people's primary concern is TSA rules about sharps and liquids . But whether you’ve been prescribed i nsulin for diabetes , Mounjaro , Ozempic ,  Aimoivig for your migraines, growth hormone injections , EpiPen for allergies, rheumatoid arthritis injections like Humira , Enbrel , or any other injections, you’re allowed to fly with it and take all your medical supplies on board.

Related article : TSA regulations for diabetics with insulin and medical supplies

Can you bring syringes on a plane?

Yes, you can bring syringes on a plane, as long as they're for medical purposes and properly packed and labeled. 

According to the TSA guidelines for travelers with medical supplies , there are a few special instructions for syringes and needles. First, you’re supposed to declare these items at security checkpoints.

Then, it specifies that: “ unused syringes are allowed when accompanied by injectable medication ," while you must carry used syringes in a sharps disposal container. If you do not have any sharps container for your next flight, ask a pharmacy or use any similar hard-surface closed container. 

However, most people traveling with syringes don't really follow these instructions in practice. We probably should not say it, but you could actually carry your medical needles as you would carry them to go to the nearby supermarket, especially if you're flying to a local USA destination. TSA officers are so used to these items that they rarely check or ask questions.

Related article : Traveling with insulin needles on a plane

TSA, injections, and liquid medicines

Injectable drugs are liquids. You may wonder if you can bring them on board and if they count for your total 3.4 oz/100ml allowed liquids. Fortunately, they don't. The liquid restrictions for airplane travel do not apply to medications.

You can take more than 100ml of liquid medications on the plane. However, you're supposed to declare it to a TSA office and be able to justify any quantity larger than 3.4 oz/100ml total. That can be done by showing a medical prescription or a doctor's letter specifying the dosage you're using and a return ticket to justify the length of your trip.

Once again, this is the theory. While we encourage you to have all documents ready (better safe than sorry!), chances are you won't be asked to show anything at the airport.

Related article : How To Travel With Medication Internationally?

Can you pack syringes in checked luggage?

Legally, you can pack your medical syringes in your checked luggage, both used and unused. 

However, if your syringes are prefilled and contain your medicine, we recommend you don't. Hazardous temperature and atmospheric conditions in the hold could damage your treatment. Besides, bags get lost sometimes, if not often!

People traveling with medicine should pack any drug, medical device, or accessory in their carry-on.

Related article : How to Travel With Refrigerated Medications?

Can X-ray machines damage medications?  

Most medications, including liquid drugs, are not affected by the radiation emitted by airport security screening machines (X-rays) or metal detectors.

The airport machines generate low-power radiation, and the exposure length is only a few seconds, which isn't enough to damage any medications or other liquid substances you may carry in your luggage. 

However, electronic medical devices such as insulin pumps, pacemakers, ICDs (implantable cardioverter defibrillators), or others may be affected by X-ray machines. When in doubt, consult with the manufacturer and ask if your device can safely go through x-ray machines, metal detectors, or 360 full-body scanners.

Inform the security agents about any medical device you have on you or in your checked luggage, and remember that you always have the right to request a pat-down search instead.

Related article : Can insulin pumps go through X-ray & Metal detectors at the airport?

How to Travel with Injections and Syringes? 

First, rest assured that you're not the only one traveling with liquid medicines or injections, and there's no particular difficulty to it. But you must plan ahead to ensure your medicine stays safe and protected while transported or shipped. That implies packing it properly and keeping it cool if it's temperature-sensitive. 

Related article : A list of medicines that require refrigeration

Packing injections and syringes for travel

Whether contained in vials, prefilled pens, or prefilled syringes, injectable medications are "breakable" and must be transported with caution. Avoid shaking them too much and dropping them on a hard floor. If yours is contained in vial glass containers, you should purchase a silicone vial protector for your next trip.

Silicon vial protectors are 100% shatterproof!

Travelers with medicines are requested to keep them in their original containers with a readable label, so they're easily identifiable by customs agents. Depending on your destination, but especially if you're crossing international borders, you should bring a medical prescription and sometimes a doctor's letter.

Keeping injectable medication refrigerated

Numerous injectable medications are biological drugs extremely sensitive to heat and storage conditions. That makes it an extra challenge when traveling.

If you’re traveling with refrigerated drugs, you must ensure they stay within the recommended temperature range.

Naturally, always keep them in the shade and away from sunlight, never leave them in the car, and put them in a fridge as soon as you arrive at your destination.

Most people traveling with refrigerated medications use a medical-grade travel cooler like the ones from 4AllFamily. They're specially designed to keep sensitive drugs refrigerated even when you don't have access to electricity, like during an outdoor trip or an airplane journey.

Have you traveled with syringes and injectable medications recently? Have you experienced any trouble? Or was it just fine like it should be?

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The information presented in this article and its comment section is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns or questions you may have.

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Everything you need to know about traveling with medication

While getting to travel is an incredible opportunity, it doesn't always come without some annoyances.

In addition to ongoing COVID-19 testing requirements and restrictions, you also have to deal with packing — in particular, how to pack medication you might need on the trip. After all, the last thing you want during a getaway is to run out of prescription medication (especially if you're stuck someplace due to a positive coronavirus result) or come down with a nasty head cold without access to over-the-counter medications.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

That's why it's essential to know certain key details when hitting the road with medications in tow . To find out the best way to be prepared for your vacation, TPG spoke with Dr. Julian Klapowitz of Travel Medicine Consultations, who shared everything you need to know about traveling with medication.

Should I pack my medication in my carry-on bag?

The short answer is yes; that way, you don't risk losing essential medicine in your checked luggage. In fact, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention specifically recommends carrying your prescription medication.

"If I give someone three months of malaria pills, I still tell people to put everything in their carry-on," said Klapowitz. "That way, it doesn't accidentally get lost. Plus, the luggage storage area of the airplane can be freezing. So, anything liquid — like insulin — may end up frozen."

How much medication am I allowed to bring?

Generally speaking, 30 days' worth of medication is acceptable pretty much everywhere. If it's more than that, a doctor needs to provide a note, and you should also have the original prescription, according to Klapowitz. Just allow for extra time at security if you have larger amounts of pills or liquid medicine that doesn't fall into traditional TSA guidelines.

When traveling internationally, the quantity issue really boils down to the types of medications allowed in your destination.

What if I'm traveling for an extended period?

The same answer from above pretty much applies here.

"If you're traveling for more than 30 days, try to have the medication you will need for the entirety of the trip," said Klapowitz. "But, again, those larger quantities will require a doctor's note and original prescriptions to prove the need to travel with that amount."

How do I get medication abroad?

If you don't have enough medicine to get you through an entire vacation or are stuck needing something abroad, there are ways to get medication. Interestingly, the U.S. is more strict regarding many medications than many other countries where you can purchase antibiotics, blood pressure medications and a variety of other pills over the counter.

But, in some destinations, counterfeit medications are a major problem.

"You should be fine to walk into a pharmacy or doctor's office in places like Western Europe and know it's safe," said Klapowitz. "If you're somewhere that's not as reliable, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They should be able to get you in touch with reputable doctors and pharmacies."

Are there destinations that have medication restrictions?

Yes, some destinations do have medication restrictions. For example, Japan doesn't allow certain allergy and sinus medications, and types of inhalers are illegal. Plus, travelers to the United Arab Emirates have ended up in prison because the country has strict narcotics laws.

"Before traveling internationally, check with the foreign embassy of your destination to make sure your medicines are allowed in that country," said Klapowitz. "If it is banned, talk with your doctor about possible alternatives. Or, if you plan to travel with it, be sure all medication is in the original bottle.

"You should also have a doctor's letter explaining the condition and need for the specific restricted medication and an original prescription," Klapowitz added. "Of course, it's not guaranteed you'll be allowed to keep it, but it certainly increases your chances."

Which medications are often restricted?

The most common banned substance is narcotics. "If somebody is thinking about taking codeine, Percocet, Vicodin or methadone, I usually advise to see if it's possible to travel abroad without them," said Klapowtiz.

"The same is true for some regulated psychotropic medications like Adderall and Ambien. But always do your research on the specific destination."

How can I travel with a restricted medication?

Unfortunately, sometimes the answer is that you just can't travel with restricted medication.

But, countries will have a variety of rules — i.e., allow 30-days' worth — so it's important to contact the embassy to see what's allowed. "

Again, if you plan to travel with a restricted medication, be sure you have the documentation to back it up, and everything is clearly labeled," said Klapowitz.

What if my medication is liquid?

If traveling domestically, liquids are allowed so long as they adhere to the TSA's 3.4-ounce rule and fit in a quart-sized bag.

The TSA will allow you to travel with more than that amount, but you must declare the liquid medications to TSA officers at security for inspection.

"The same is basically true for international destinations, so long as it's not a banned substance," said Klapowtiz. "Just be sure to have the original prescription and doctor's note, and leave time for extra security checks."

Can I bring syringes?

Usually, bringing sharp, pointy objects onto a plane isn't allowed. But, some medicines require the use of syringes or needles.

"If you have diabetes, for example, have the same documentation as you would for a restricted medication," said Klapowitz. "Unused syringes and needles are allowed when accompanied by the medication, prescription and doctor's note."

Are there medications I should always bring with me when I travel?

"I always recommend bringing Tylenol, Motrin or Advil for pain and fever, and Imodium for mild diarrhea," said Klapowitz.

"You should also consider taking an antacid if the local diet doesn't agree with you. Then, for anybody who gets motions sickness , pack Dramamine."

In addition to those standard medications, Klapowitz suggested bringing any OTC medications you commonly use.

Taking Your Prescription Drugs Through Airport Security

Many travelers who take prescription drugs worry about bringing their medications onto airplanes. While it is true that every item brought onto an airplane must be screened, you should be able to bring prescription drugs on your flight without difficulty.

Rules for Taking Prescription Drugs Through US Airport Security

In U.S. airports, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows passengers to bring prescription drugs and other medically required substances, such as water or juice, with them onto the airplane. You may place medications in 3.4 ounce (100 milliliters) or smaller containers in a one-quart size clear zip-top plastic bag along with your other personal liquid and gel items. If your prescription medications come in larger containers or bottles, you will need to pack them separately in your carry-on bag. You must declare each medication to the security officer when you arrive at the airport security checkpoint . Permitted items include:

• Prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplies, such as saline solution for contact lenses
• Water, juice, "liquid nutrition" (such as Boost), and gels that are necessary for a passenger with a medical condition or disability to consume during the flight
• Bone marrow, transplant organs, and other life-sustaining materials
• Mastectomy products and other cosmetic or medical augmentation items that contain gel or liquid
• Breast milk and baby formula
• Frozen gels or liquids (ice packs) required to cool medications, life-sustaining materials, or disability-related items

At the Airport Security Checkpoint

When you arrive at the security checkpoint, you, your travel companion or a family member must declare your medically necessary liquid and gel items to a security screening officer if these items are in bottles or containers larger 3.4 ounces. You can tell the screening officer about your prescription drugs or present a written list. You may wish to bring doctor's notes, original prescription bottles or containers, and other documentation to make the screening process go more quickly.

You will need to present your medically necessary items, including prescription drugs, separately to the screening officer. The screening officer may ask you to open your bottles or containers of medically necessary liquid for inspection and testing. This testing may include pouring liquids into alternative containers or examining small amounts of the liquids. If your medically necessary liquids cannot be opened or X-rayed, you will still be able to bring your liquids with you, but you will probably have to undergo a pat-down screening, so you should plan to get to the airport early.

You will still need to remove your shoes during the screening process unless you have a medical condition or disability that prevents you from doing so, wear a prosthetic device, or are over 75 years old. If you do not remove your shoes, expect to have them inspected and tested for explosives while you are wearing them.

Packing Your Prescription Drugs

While the TSA suggests that you carry only the prescription drugs and medical liquids you need during your flight in your carry-on bag, travel experts recommend that you take all doses of the medications and medical supplies you will need for your trip with you in your carry-on bag  if at all possible. Unexpected delays during your trip can leave you without enough medication because you cannot access your checked baggage until you reach your final destination. In addition, prescription drugs and medical supplies occasionally disappear from checked baggage en route, and today's computerized prescription ordering systems make it difficult and time-consuming to obtain additional medications when you are far from home. It is easier and safer to bring all of the prescription medications and medical liquids you will need on your travels with you in your carry-on baggage, even if you must undergo additional screening at the TSA checkpoint.

You are allowed to bring ice packs to keep medications and liquid medical supplies cold as long as you declare the ice packs to your screening officer.

If you need more information about packing your prescription medications or presenting them to the screening officer, contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours before your flight.

International Screening Information

Several nations across the globe work together to establish and maintain consistent and effective airport security screening procedures. This means that you can pack all your small liquid and gel items in your zip-top bag and use the same bag almost anywhere you travel.

What to Do if You Experience a Problem at the TSA Checkpoint

If you experience problems during your security screening, ask to talk with a TSA supervisor about your prescription medications. The supervisor should be able to resolve the situation.

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Everything You Need to Know When Flying With Medicine — Including What to Do If It Gets Lost

Including how to pack medicine effectively and the TSA rules you need to know.

Preparing for a trip should be part of the fun. After all, you get to plan outfits and make a  packing list that matches all your activities. You get to plot out every moment of your adventure to come and even lay out a cozy outfit for the plane ride to get there the night before. However, if you’re someone who takes regular medication, you know there is at least one major stress point to preparing to travel: Figuring out just how to pack it. 

From questions about prescription refills to TSA requirements, and right down to how much space you have in your luggage, packing medication for a trip can be tricky. But don’t stress too much, as we’ve got all the answers you’re looking for. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medication. 

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Ensure you have refills available

Dr. Scott Kaiser , a family physician and geriatrician at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California, shared with  Travel + Leisure  that travelers should confirm they have available refills on any essential medications before   they leave for their trip. If they don’t, he suggested they call their doctor to request refills before departure, so it will be easier to fill a prescription during your trip if needed.

“When traveling, as with many things in life, it’s all about preparation—especially being prepared for the unexpected,” he said. 

Kaiser added, because packing and preparing for travel can be stressful – and that stress can interfere with our memory – checklists and reminders are extremely helpful. “Either good old-fashioned paper or electronic reminders and alarms on your smartphone or other devices can be a lifesaver,” Kaiser said.

Always pack medication in carry-on luggage

Nobody anticipates their  luggage getting lost or delayed , but as the U.S. Department of Transportation reported,  191,624 bags were “mishandled”  in February 2022 alone. Rather than risk your medication becoming a part of this statistic, always carry it in your carry-on bag. Trust me — I am one of those 191,624 mishandled bag owners. 

My mother, who lives with Parkinson’s, regularly flies to stay with me in New York City. She requires a significant amount of medication. However, it’s always placed in her bag, my sister’s, or mine. But following a last-minute  flight cancelation  and rerouting, my sister asked the gate agent to check our mom’s carry-on bag, believing this would help lessen the stress on our mom. Given the rush, my sister forgot to remove medication from our mom’s carry-on bag, and, lo and behind, this would be the day her bags would be left behind in Boston. So please, do as I say, not as I do. 

Bring extra medication just in case

Just like you should always place medication in carry-on luggage, you should also always bring more medication than you anticipate needing. For example, we organize my mother’s medicine in a seven-day compartmentalized pill box, one for each day of the week. But, to ensure she can stay longer if she wants or needs, we pack a few extra days, so we’re never scrambling to fill (or stretch) essential medications. Need a hot tip? Buy a  second, seven-day pill box  to easily store your extra meds and keep things organized. 

Understand TSA rules

The Transportation Security Authority (TSA) is famous for its  liquid rules  and security checks. But, Daniel Velez, a spokesman for the New England Region with the TSA, explained that airline passengers may always bring medically necessary liquids, medications, and creams in excess of 3.4 ounces (or 100 milliliters) in their carry-on bag.  

He added, the TSA “strongly recommends that passengers clearly label their medication to facilitate the screening process.”

The TSA also compiled a helpful  Disabilities and Medical Conditions page  along with a  Traveling with Medication  video that should answer any lingering questions you may have. 

What to do if your medication is lost

If your medication is lost or delayed during transit, immediately file a lost baggage claim with your airline before leaving the airport. Save the claim ticket (and take a picture of it), as you’ll need this to follow up on your claim.

If you have refills available on your medications (and you should, because you confirmed that before your trip, right?), you can transfer prescriptions to a local pharmacy, particularly if you use a chain like Walgreens or CVS. If you don’t have refills available, you’ll need to call your prescribing doctor.

Keep in mind that some medications cannot be issued without a new prescription. In this case, pharmacists will usually refer patients to a local urgent care facility. If the medication cannot be refilled for another 30, 60, or 90 days, you may have to call your health insurance provider to request an early refill authorization. Again, avoid this by checking in with your doctor before your travels, or at the very least, have all these numbers (your doctor, your insurance, and the number of a local urgent care) saved in your phone before take off, just in case. Because, as the saying goes, “luck favors the prepared.” 

Related Articles

What Can I Bring With Me on the Plane

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.

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Traveling Abroad with Medicine

Many international travelers carry medicines with them to treat acute or chronic health problems. However, each country has its own laws related to medicines. Medicines that are commonly prescribed or available over the counter in the United States might be unlicensed or considered controlled substances in other countries. While rules vary by country, there can be serious consequences if you violate the laws at your destination. The consequences may include:

• Authorities taking away your medicine
• Penalties, including jail or prison time

Before Travel

Check with your destination’s  embassy and embassies of countries that you have layovers in to make sure your medicines are permitted.

• Many countries allow a 30-day supply of certain medicines, but also require the traveler to carry a prescription or a medical certificate from their health care provider.
• If your medicine is not allowed at your destination, talk with your health care provider about alternatives and have them write a letter describing your condition and the treatment plan.
• You may also want to check the  International Narcotics Control Board  website that provides general information about narcotics and controlled substances, for countries that have information available, for travelers.

Check CDC’s destination pages for travel health information . Check CDC’s webpage for your destination to see what vaccines or medicines you may need and what diseases or health risks are a concern at your destination.

Make an appointment with your healthcare provider or a travel health specialist  that takes place at least one month before you leave. They can help you get destination-specific vaccines, medicines, and information. Discussing your health concerns, itinerary, and planned activities with your provider allows them to give more specific advice and recommendations.

• If you plan to be gone for more than 30 days, talk to your health care provider about how you can get enough medicine for your trip. Some insurance companies will only pay for a 30-day supply at a time.
• If you are a traveling to a different time zone, ask your health care provider about any changes to taking your medicine. Medicines should be taken according to the time since your last dose, not the local time of day.
• Find out how to safely store your medicine while traveling and check whether it needs refrigeration. Keep in mind that extreme temperatures can reduce the effectiveness of many medicines.

Prepare a  travel health kit   with items you may need, especially those items that may be difficult to find at your destination. Include your prescription and over-the-counter medicines in your travel health kit and take enough to last your entire trip, plus extra in case of travel delays. Pack medications in a carry on in case your luggage is lost or delayed.

• Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. Ensure that they are clearly labeled with your full name, health care provider’s name, generic and brand name, and exact dosage.
• Bring copies of all written prescriptions, including the generic names for medicines. Leave a copy of your prescriptions at home with a friend or relative in case you lose your copy or need an emergency refill.
• Ask your prescribing health care provider for a note if you use controlled substances, or injectable medicines, such as EpiPens and insulin.

Buying Medicine Abroad

Counterfeit drugs  are common in some countries, so only use medicine you bring from home and make sure to pack enough for the duration of your trip, plus extra in case of travel delays. If you must buy drugs during your trip in an emergency, see CDC’s Counterfeit Drugs page.

More Information

• CDC Yellow Book: Avoiding Poorly Regulated Medicines
• Travel Smartly with Prescription Medications (US Department of State)
• Traveling with Prescription Medications (US Food and Drug Administration)

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How to Make Sure You Travel with Medication Legally

Traveling with medication — even prescription drugs — isn’t as simple as packing it. Here’s how to stay on the right side of the law, anywhere you go.

By Tanya Mohn

Travelers often pack medications when they go abroad, but some popular prescription and over-the-counter ones Americans use for things like pain relief, better sleep, allergies and even the common cold are illegal in some countries.

The United Arab Emirates and Japan, for example, are among the most restrictive nations, but many ban or restrict importing narcotics, sedatives, amphetamines and other common over-the-counter medications.

Most travelers won’t run into problems for carrying small amounts for personal use, said Katherine L. Harmon, who oversees health analysis for iJET International , a travel risk management company. But noncompliance can result in confiscation,(which could, in turn, have severe medical consequences), deportation, jail time, and even the death penalty. “Does it happen a lot? No. Could it? Yes,” Ms. Harmon said. “Consumers need to understand this and how it might adversely impact them before they book that awesome trip to an exotic location.”

She shared a few tips to keep you on the right side of the law, whatever you take and wherever you roam.

Laws vary by country and there is no central, up-to date repository, so Ms. Harmon suggests consulting your physician, travel medical insurance company, or local pharmacist four to six weeks before traveling. “When you inquire about your shots, ask about medications. Odds are they may not know off the top of their head, but they have the resources to find out.”

She also suggests checking with the embassy of your destination country. The State Department website lists foreign embassies in the United States, and their contact information. It also lists insurance providers that offer overseas health coverage. Comparison websites Insure My Trip and SquareMouth can help assess those insurance plans, if they’re necessary.

Label and Pack Your Medication Properly

Carry all of your medication — even vitamins and supplements — in their original, clearly marked containers or packaging in a clear plastic bag in carry on luggage. Make sure the name on the prescription, the medicine container and your passport (or one for the recepient of the medication) all match. If you lost the product information insert, ask the pharmacist to print a new one for you.

Also, check the Transportation Security Administration’s website for up-to-date rules and regulations on packing and carrying your medication when you depart. The standard rules for liquid carry-ons don’t apply to medications in liquid or gel form, but you need to inform the T.S.A. when you pass through security so they don’t confiscate it .

Obtain and Carry Necessary Documentation

Keep copies of your original prescriptions, if you can . Better yet, obtain a letter on official letterhead from your physician that lists the medicines you need and why they were prescribed. Ideally, you would get this translated to the language of your destination country, so it’s easy to read.

For some medication and specialized equipment used to administer them, some countries require documents to be submitted to government officials well in advance of your arrival. Ms. Harmon, for example, was questioned at the Singapore airport once for entering with an EpiPen, but she had prior authorization allowing its transport.

Know the Names and Amounts of Active Ingredients

The documentation you carry should also indicate the generic and chemical names of the active ingredients, which determines permissibility, not brand names.

For example, the active ingredient in Benadryl, diphenhydramine, is banned in Zambia in over-the counter products. In Japan, it is allowed only if the amount in a tablet or injection is limited. However, a typical 25 milligram tablet of Tylenol PM in the United States exceeds the 10 milligram maximum amount in a tablet you can bring into Japan. Some countries restrict the overall total amount of an active ingredient an individual traveler can legally import, which may impact longer stays.

Reduce or Substitute Medication

In countries where a medication is allowed, but its amount is capped, reducing your dosage or switching to another available medication is the best way to stay compliant. Allow enough time beforehand to ensure the smaller dose or new medicine works effectively, and consider making the switch before your trip to give yourself time to adjust.

Some medications can be used for several diagnoses. Hormones used for birth control may also be used to treat excessive menstrual bleeding, Ms. Harmon said. “Doctors need to get creative sometimes. Substitutions can allow authorities to accept the drug as a medical need rather than going against the country’s religious or moral code.”

Reassess Your Travel Plans

Parents with a child doing well on Adderall for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder who prefer not to make adjustments on the fly, or a student with bipolar disorder may want to consider vacation or study abroad locations where the medications they rely on for mental health are not banned or restricted.

“Viewpoints on treatment and diagnoses can vary widely,” Ms. Harmon said. “Western Europe and North America understand that brain chemistry is often at the root of these problems. But some countries, like Russia, do not consider mental health challenges as medical problems and often treat them criminally.”

I need information about traveling with medication

We strongly suggest that you bring all your medication onboard in your carryon bag or personal item. If you opt to check your medication with your checked baggage, be sure to inform the Customer Service Agent or Skycap at the ticket counter. 

Medications needed for a disability do not count toward bag limits if they’re packed separately from other personal items.  

If you are traveling on an itinerary that includes an overnight connection, you will not be able to access your checked baggage during your layover. If your carryon bag must be checked because of space constraints, remove your medication and keep it with you.  

At the airport  

Needles and syringes used to inject medications are allowed past the security checkpoint if they're packed with the medication for which they’re needed. 

If you have questions or concerns about transporting medication or medical supplies through a security checkpoint, explore the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security screening procedures on the  TSA website .   

Onboard the aircraft  

Our planes aren't equipped for the storage of refrigerated medications, so plan accordingly. If you use a needle or syringe while onboard, alert a Flight Attendant so we can provide a disposal container.  

All planes are equipped with a first-aid kit, containing common over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Our Flight Attendants will offer OTC medication to you if the need arises. However, Flight Attendants will not physically administer medication—whether from the first-aid kit or that you bring with you. If this type of care is needed during the flight, consider traveling with a ticketed caregiver or personal care attendant.  

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Home Health Can You Bring Testosterone on a Plane?

Can You Bring Testosterone on a Plane?

• By Lauren Bedosky
• Medically Reviewed by Kristen Fuller M.D.
• February 28, 2024

As if travel wasn’t complicated enough already, taking a trip when you have a medical condition that calls for regular injections only adds to the headache. You may wonder, “Can I bring my syringes on an airplane?” And, “How can I be safe about it?”

We’ve got you covered with this handy guide to traveling safely with syringes.

Why Travel With Syringes?

Lots of males have to account for injectable medications in their travel plans, including those with diabetes, HIV/AIDS, migraines, multiple sclerosis, high cholesterol, and—of course—those taking testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

What is TRT? It’s a prescribed course of treatment for men who don’t produce a healthy amount of testosterone on their own. The medical term for this condition is hypogonadism, but you may know it as “low T.” As T levels naturally drop about 1 percent per year beginning around the age of 30, hypogonadism tends to be more common among older men. That said, more than one out of four men over the age of 30 have low T .

When testosterone levels drop too low, you can experience a range of unpleasant side effects, including [ 1 ]:

• Low sex drive
• Moodiness and irritability
• Loss of muscular strength
• Trouble concentrating and remembering things
• Erectile dysfunction
• Increased body fat
• Infertility

To combat these side effects and get testosterone levels back to a healthy range, doctors often recommend testosterone replacement therapy.

TRT can be given through a variety of methods, but many men up their T by self-administering testosterone injections every 10 to 14 days [ 1 ]. If you’re in that camp, you may need to pack syringes when you travel, though it will always depend on where you are in your treatment schedule and how long you’re traveling.

Can You Travel With Syringes?

As syringes play a central role in many therapies—including TRT—you are absolutely allowed to travel with them. We’ll get into some safety practices shortly, but for now, let’s quickly review what you need to know if you’re planning to bring syringes on an airplane.

You can pack syringes in either your checked or carry-on bag. However, there are some requirements to understand if you opt to carry on [ 2 ]:

• The syringes have to be accompanied by your injectable medication
• You must declare the syringes and medication to TSA officers at the security checkpoint so they can inspect them; let the agent know about your injectable medication and separate your supplies from your other belongings before screening starts
• Your medications don’t have to be labeled, but taking this extra step beforehand may speed up the security process

How To Self-Administer Testosterone Injections

Once You Start Testosterone Therapy Can You Stop?

What happens at tsa screening with your trt prescription.

It’ll be helpful to have your medications and syringes in a clear plastic bag that you remove and place in plain view within the TSA bin. It wouldn’t hurt to include a copy of your prescription in that bag, too, but this isn’t a requirement. You can tell the TSA agent that you’ve got a prescription medication that includes syringes, too.

The TSA, per its posted regulations regarding medications , may opt to swab your vials:

“TSA officers may test liquids, gels or aerosols for explosives or concealed prohibited items. If officers are unable to use X-ray to clear these items, they may ask to open the container and transfer the content to a separate empty container or dispose of a small quantity of the content, if feasible.”

How Do You Explain TRT Vials and Syringes to Unfamiliar TSA Agents?

In short, you don’t have to educate the agents on testosterone replacement therapy. In instances like this, it can be helpful to show a copy of your prescription for testosterone and the accompanying syringes. All you need to state is that it’s a prescribed medication and that should suffice.

Tips for Traveling Safely With Syringes

First, be sure to include these items on your packing list:

• As many syringes as you’ll need while you’re away (consider packing an extra syringe or two just in case)
• A travel-sized sharps disposal container*
• Your medication (labeled to expedite the security process)

*A sharps disposal container is a receptacle made of puncture-resistant plastic with leak-resistant sides and bottom and a puncture-resistant lid. These are used to safely dispose of used syringes and other sharp devices people use to manage their medical conditions. They come in a variety of sizes, including smaller travel sizes. You can generally find FDA-cleared sharps containers at pharmacies, medical supply companies, health care providers, and online [ 3 ]. More info on sharps disposal containers can be found here [ 4 ].

You’ll have to remove your unused syringes and medication from your carry-on so they can be screened separately at the security checkpoint. To make things easier, pack your supplies in a clear, sealable plastic bag.

How to Dispose of Syringes

It doesn’t matter if you’re at home, at the office, or on the road, it’s essential to dispose of your used syringes safely. If you don’t, you risk injuring other people and spreading infections that can cause serious health conditions. The most common infections that spread via used syringes are hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV [ 3 ].

Never place loose syringes in hotel or public trash cans or recycling bins, and don’t flush them down the toilet [ 3 ]. To get rid of your used syringes safely, immediately put them in your sharps disposal container.

What to Do If You Poke Someone With Your Used Syringe

Should you accidentally poke someone with your used syringe, help them wash the exposed area with soap and water immediately. Then, get them medical help right away by calling a nearby hospital [ 3 ].

SHOP TRT PREP

 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15603-low-testosterone-male-hypogonadism,  https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/unused-syringes, https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/consumer-products/safely-using-sharps-needles-and-syringes-home-work-and-travel, https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safely-using-sharps-needles-and-syringes-home-work-and-travel/sharps-disposal-containers.

Free Testosterone Levels vs. Total T — High vs. Low vs. Normal

9 Testosterone Myths Debunked (Plus 5 Facts That’ll Surprise You)

No, Masturbating Isn’t the Enemy of Your Gains

Does Ashwagandha Really Increase Testosterone Levels?

What Are Normal Testosterone Levels By Age?

How to Legally Buy Testosterone Online

The Edge is Hone Health’s editorial operation. Hone is an online clinic that helps people optimize their hormones. As part of your subscription and as medically indicated, physicians prescribe medications, and recommend supplements that are delivered to you from the comfort of your home.

Hone-affiliated medical practices are independently owned and operated by licensed physicians who provide services using the Hone telehealth platform. For more information about the relationship between Hone and the medical practices click here .

Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Our content is intended for informational purposes only. Recommendations on information found on The Edge do not infer a doctor-patient relationship. Hone Health provides no warranty for any information. 

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So you finally got TSA pre-check. Here's how to avoid being the most annoying person in line and get through fastest.

• TSA PreCheck is an airport-security express lane that can save you time while traveling.
• It's especially handy during the summer travel season when airports are busier with long lines.
• Gilbert Ott, a travel expert, said that these etiquette tips can keep you from holding up the line.

TSA PreCheck can save you so much time in airports, especially during the summer — the TSA reports that 2024 will see the busiest summer travel season yet.

The season will kick off Memorial Day weekend, when the TSA predicts that upwards of 18 million people will travel through airports around the US between May 23 and May 29. TSA checkpoints will likely screen more than 3 million people per day later in the season, according to the agency  — breaking current records on summer travel.

In the TSA PreCheck line, pre-screened travelers can go through security quickly without taking off their shoes or removing electronics or liquids from their carry-on bags . It costs $78 to enroll for five years, but you can get the service essentially for free through credit cards such as Capital One Venture, Capital One Venture X, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Delta SkyMiles, and American Express.

In November 2023, the TSA reported that more than 17 million Americans have TSA PreCheck.

Gilbert Ott, who says he flies more than 200,000 miles a year and has been blogging about flying for the past decade, told Business Insider that the express airport-security lane makes his life easier. Ott's blog, called God Save the Points , covers everything from airline news and flight reviews to travel tips and money-saving hacks, such as how to best use credit-card points. 

"I spend too much time in airports. As much as I may love them, sometimes the less time I spend in them, the happier I am," Ott said. "So the quicker I can get through and just be on a plane, the better."

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While the TSA PreCheck line is often full of frequent fliers , those who are new to the program, which requires a background check, may not be as savvy when it comes to security etiquette, especially during the busy holiday rush. Ott said this can cause the line to move slower, but he shared his best tips for TSA PreCheck travelers.

Pre-strip before you even get to the airport

Pre-stripping is removing everything you may need to take off at security, from big jackets to the contents of your pockets, before you get there.

"When I go to the airport, I take my belt off before I get there. I have it in my backpack , knowing I'll put it on as soon as I get through PreCheck," Ott told BI. "So keep the jewels and the watch in your bag. Then, when you get to the other side of security where you're not holding people up, you can do the glamour."

Ott said this process will make people move through the line quicker. 

"My routine is somewhere along the lines of comfy jeans, a T-shirt or hoodie, and then a bomber jacket," he said. "Essentials like my phone and passport go in my bomber jacket pockets while I wait in the queue so that when I step up to the scanners, my jacket is off, pockets are empty, my bags go on the trays, and off we go."

Leave the flashy shoes in your bag

TSA PreCheck passengers aren't required to take off their shoes. But in Ott's experience, passengers who wear fancy loafers or shoes with buckles or studs often get stopped because they set off the scanner. 

"The main thing is metal, either as part of the shoe or in the boot or heel of the shoe," Ott said. "Ceramic and rubber are usually fine. Basically, sneakers tend to always work."

Be ready before it's your turn

When you first get in line, Ott recommends having your boarding pass and identification out before it's your turn to show them. That way, you won't spend time searching for these documents while others wait behind you. 

If everyone followed Ott's advice, he said he thinks we'd all get through security faster. 

"If you think of the 20 seconds it takes somebody to do this very basic thing, and you'd multiply that by 50,000 people going through an airport's screens a day, you could pretty much just walk through an airport without stopping," Ott told BI. "We can all have a better time."

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Can I bring this on a plane? Weird stuff TSA will let you fly with from antlers to hookahs.

Look, we don’t know what you get up to on vacation, but if you find yourself with some interesting items to shove into your luggage at the end of your trip, make sure they’re TSA-approved.  

Whether you’re on your way home from Wizarding World or an archaeological excursion, chances are you might wonder if some of your related items and souvenirs can be packed in your checked bags or carry-on.  

Or maybe you’re just curious about what sorts of things your fellow passengers could be hiding in their luggage. 

Either way, here’s a list of some items TSA allows airline passengers to fly with that may not usually accompany your travel itinerary:

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Antlers can be packed in carry-ons or checked bags. If you want them in a carry-on bag, make sure they are packed in something that can fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.  

Artificial skeleton bones  

Went to a museum on vacation? Collecting supplies for an art project? Just want artificial skeleton bones for any other completely-normal-not-suspicious reason? TSA doesn’t care!  

These are allowed in both carry-on bags and checked bags.  

Axes and hatchets  

If your worst nightmares include fellow passengers going all “Freddy vs. Jason” in the cabin, rest assured these are not allowed in carry-on bags.  

But TSA does let you travel with them in checked bags.

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Biological specimens  

Some of you may have dreams of becoming the next Dr. Frankenstein. Or maybe you just really enjoy looking at crawling critters in test tubes.  

Whatever floats your boat, TSA lets passengers bring non-infectious biological specimens in preservative solutions in carry-on bags and checked bags if special instructions are followed.  

No more than 30 mL of free liquid solution in each inner packaging and nor more than 1 liter in the entire outer package can be present, according to FAA regulations.

Bowling equipment  

Bowling competitions are a pastime for plenty of people, and if this happens to be one of your favorite hobbies, you’re in luck.  

TSA allows bowling balls to be transported in carry-on and checked bags. Bowling pins are allowed only in checked bags, because they are considered items that could be used as a bludgeon. 

Bows and arrows

While modern society hasn’t yet morphed into the dystopian world of “The Hunger Games” novels by Suzanne Collins, there’s no reason you can’t let your inner Katniss Everdeen shine.  

TSA allows bows and arrows in checked bags only, though, so you will have to prove your archery skills to other flight passengers another time.  

Cattle prods  

Have you ever heard of the saying “when pigs fly”? That’s because farmhands have been flying on planes for years, and apparently some with cattle prods in tow.  

Cattle prods are not allowed in carry-on luggage but can be packed in checked bags.  

Compressed air guns  

Compressed air guns, including paintball markers, can be carried in checked baggage only and must have the compressed air cylinder detached.  

Cooked meat, seafood and vegetables (without liquid)  

Much to the probable dismay of other passengers, if you wish to travel with cooked meat, seafood or vegetables, TSA allows these items to be packed in carry-on bags and checked bags. 

Be sure to pack everything securely and cross your fingers you don’t end up with any flight delays. Also note that food items often trigger secondary bag checks at TSA checkpoints, so make sure to leave yourself extra time if you're bringing snacks or a meal aboard.   

If you see these peeking out of the bag of your fellow traveler, don’t worry. Crampons are traction devices used for walking on firm snow and ice.  

All of you adventurers out there will be happy to hear that TSA allows these in checked bags and carry-on bags with special instructions.  

Cooking gadgets  

If your beloved blender or bread machine has to follow you to every Airbnb, TSA won’t be squashing your joy anytime soon.  

Blenders can be packed in carry-on bags with special instructions and checked bags.  

Bread machines can be packed in both carry-ons and checked bags, along with waffle irons and tortilla presses.  

Foam toy sword  

This one goes out to all the parents who have experienced the stress of asking a child to part with a newfound emotional support toy. 

If your kid’s latest obsession happens to be a foam toy sword, TSA lets passengers travel with these in carry-ons and checked bags.  

Formaldehyde solution  

Formaldehyde solutions of less than 10% are not restricted as hazardous materials.  

According to TSA, formalin is typically 35% to 40% formaldehyde by volume, so a solution that is less than 25% formalin would be less than 10% formaldehyde and not restricted.  

If this is on your packing list, leak-proof packaging with absorbent material is strongly considered.  

This is allowed in carry-on bags if less than or equal to 3.4 ounces/100 mL or in checked bags following special instructions. 

Fresh eggs  

We’re not sure how fresh packed eggs would be after a two-hour layover in a random airport, but if this sounds like something you wish to encounter in your future, TSA has given you the green light.  

It might sound like we’re cracking a joke, but fresh eggs are allowed in carry-on bags and checked bags.  

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Handcuffs  

In case handcuffs are a travel necessity of yours, TSA does not mind you traveling with these in carry-on bags or checked bags.  

But please, don’t pull a “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” act of vigilante justice at your departure gate. Airport police can handle that.  

Harry Potter wand  

Potterheads, get excited. Harry Potter wands are allowed in carry-on bags and checked bags.  

And now that our interest is piqued, we’re dying to know which Harry Potter house TSA belongs to ... 

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There’s no place like home, filled with all your personal belongings and knickknacks just the way you like ‘em.  

If your home sweet home happens to include a hookah, TSA allows passengers to travel with these in carry-on bags and checked bags.  

Lightsaber s 

A note about lightsabers on the TSA website says, “May the force be with you,” so it’s safe to say TSA is all for airline travelers being prepared to cut down enemies from other galaxies and deflect blaster bolts.  

Lightsabers are allowed in both checked bags and carry-on bags.  

Live aquatic items  

Can’t leave your love of the ocean behind? TSA won’t make you.  

Live coral and live fish can be packed in carry-on bags in a clear transparent container. They must be inspected by a TSA officer.  

Live lobsters are allowed in checked bags, but traveling with them in carry-on bags is airline-specific.  

Be sure to keep your lobster friend in a clear, plastic, spill-proof container. It will be checked by a TSA officer. 

Magic 8 ball  

A fortune teller could’ve told you this, but Magic 8 balls are only allowed in checked bags.  

According to the TSA website, officials asked the Magic 8 ball about being packed in a carry-on and were told “Outlook not so good!” 

Nunchucks  

If you’re waiting for an airport-wide flash mob choreographed to “Kung Fu Fighting” by Carl Douglas, it just might happen, and thankfully TSA wants you to be prepared.  

Nunchucks, along with other martial arts weapons like throwing stars, are allowed in checked bags only. You better hope the flash mob breaks out before you hand over your luggage.  

Parachute s

It’s important to always be prepared, and if your lifestyle warrants a parachute as a necessity, TSA lets you travel with these in carry-on bags and checked bags following special instructions.  

Parachutes must be packed separately from other baggage and will be inspected at your end destination. TSA suggests adding 30 minutes to your recommended airline arrival window to accommodate parachute protocol. 

Plant parents, your beloved children are allowed in both carry-on bags and checked bags.  

But please, for the sake of other passengers, try not to spill soil when putting your plants in the overhead cabin. 

Slingshot  

Looking for some real life “Angry Birds” action? TSA lets passengers travel with slingshots in checked baggage only. 

Snow globes  

Did Grandma and Grandpa give you another snow globe as a gift from their travels?  

Snow globes are allowed in checked bags or carry-on bags if they are less than or equal to 3.4 ounces/100 mL. This is about the size of a tennis ball.  

Snow globes in carry-ons must fit into a one-quart sized resealable plastic bag, which passengers can only bring one of.  

Sabers (also spelled “sabre”), a type of backsword with a curved blade, are allowed in checked baggage only.  

Fans of light cavalry from the early modern and Napoleonic periods who wish to travel with a saber should remember to sheath their swords and securely wrap them to prevent injury. 

Other swords, including fencing foils and other cutting or thrusting weapons, are allowed following the same safety measures outlined above. 

Tattoo equipment  

Save your friends from the horror of another wonky stick-and-poke and opt for packing your real supplies next time you're flying out for a friend get-together.  

Tattoo guns are allowed in both carry-on bags and checked bags following special instructions. Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries should be in carry-on baggage. 

Tattoo inks can be transported in checked bags or in carry-ons if less than or equal to 3.4 ounces/100 mL. 

Contributing: Zach Wichter

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at [email protected] .