Insulin on a Plane - Medication, Needles and Airport Security
How to travel with insulin: liquid-medicine exemption, needles, documentation and airport-security screening.
Short answer
Insulin is essential medication. Keep it in the cabin with the accessories and medical documentation you need; check any cooling equipment or battery-powered devices with the airline.
Carry-on baggage
Solid medicines are generally allowed in the cabin. Essential liquid medicines can be exempt from the standard 100 ml rule when needed during the journey.
Checked baggage
Medicines can generally also travel in checked baggage, but anything you may need during the journey is safer to keep with you.
Airport security
For liquid medication or medical equipment, security may ask for additional screening or evidence that the item is medically necessary.
Check your departure airport
General rules are not always enough. Liquid limits and screening procedures can differ by airport, so check the airport you are actually flying from.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring insulin on a plane on a plane?
Yes, but the exact rule depends on whether it is in carry-on or checked baggage. For carry-on the answer is: with restrictions.
Can insulin on a plane go in carry-on baggage?
Solid medicines are generally allowed in the cabin. Essential liquid medicines can be exempt from the standard 100 ml rule when needed during the journey.
Are the rules the same at every airport?
General rules are not always enough. Liquid limits and screening procedures can differ by airport, so check the airport you are actually flying from.