Yes, you can take medication on a plane in both carry-on and checked bags, but keeping it in your carry-on is highly recommended, even for liquids exceeding the standard limit, as you must declare medically necessary liquids and gels to TSA officers for screening. Keep medications in their original labeled containers, and for international travel or controlled substances, carry a doctor's note or prescription copy, and check destination country rules.

Do you have to show pills at airport security?

You can generally take most medications in your hand luggage, including liquids, tablets, and capsules. However, liquids over 100ml require a prescription or doctor's letter to show proof they are for personal use.

Do I need a letter from my doctor to fly with medication?

If you don't have the original container, bring a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor explaining your condition and why you need this medication. Travel with no more than you need for your personal use during your stay. A rule of thumb: Bring no more than a 90-day supply of medication.

Can I put my pills in a Ziploc bag on a plane?

A: Medications should be packed in your carry-on baggage to ensure accessibility. Place them in a clear, resealable plastic bag if they are liquids or gels and ensure they are easily accessible for inspection.

How do I show my prescription at the airport?

If you need proof that medication you are bringing is prescribed by the NHS there, you can either:

1. Show your NHS App prescriptions screen at the airport.
2. Login to your NHS account and print off your medication list.
3. Take a print out of your medication provided by your pharmacy when you collect your medication.

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How many pills can you carry-on a plane?

You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It's highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.

Should I carry a copy of my prescription?

Keep medications in their original packaging with the prescription label visible. Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your healthcare provider explaining your need for injectable or infused medication. This is especially important for international travel or if you use controlled substances.

Should I inform the airline about my medication?

Yes, you should inform the airline/TSA about your medication, especially liquids or injectables, by declaring them at security for special screening, keeping them in original labeled containers in your carry-on, and having a doctor's note for international travel or controlled substances to avoid issues. You don't need to tell the airline or TSA about pills in solid form unless asked, but always carry them in your carry-on, not checked bags, and be prepared for extra screening. 

Do I have to declare prescribed medication?

Carry a copy of a prescription and/or a letter from your doctor describing the medicine you are taking and the quantity you are bringing with you. Travel with an adequate supply of the medicines that you will need for your stay.

What are the new TSA rules?

New TSA rules for 2025-2026 focus on stricter ID enforcement (REAL ID deadline May 7, 2025), tighter restrictions on lithium batteries (carry-on only for power banks), and clearer guidelines for items like food and electronics in carry-ons, while maintaining the 3-1-1 liquids rule but potentially speeding up screening with new scanners. Travelers should prepare for increased scrutiny on items like cordless hair tools, powders, and electronics, with a push for uncluttered bags and declaring certain items like large liquids or batteries for better safety.

Can I take ibuprofen when flying?

NSAIDs (non- steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs) and analgesics acetaminophen (Tylenol) aspirin (Bayer's) ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) naproxen (Naprosyn) Advil PM, Tylenol PM (Most “PM” medications contain diphenhydramine) Most OTC pain meds are safe to fly as long as the underlying condition is acceptable.

How do I prove what my medication is?

The numbers, letters, or other text that you see on a pill are its “imprint code,” a feature that helps you identify it. The FDA requires most OTC and prescription drug tablets and capsules to have an imprint.

Where should I put my medicine when flying?

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.

What medications are not allowed on a plane?

Psychiatric or Psychotropic medications, (even when used for something other than a mental health condition) including but not limited to:

• antidepressants (certain SSRIs may be allowed – see SSRI policy)
• antianxiety drugs – e.g.: alprazolam (Xanax)
• antipsychotics.

Do I need proof of prescription to fly?

You will need to prove your medication is yours, either with a prescription or a letter from your doctor.

Can I carry medication in my purse on a plane?

It is recommended that medication be clearly labeled to facilitate the screening process. You may bring medically necessary liquids, medications and creams in excess of 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in your carry-on bag. Remove them from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings.

Can I have unmarked pills in my carry-on?

You can bring any medication with you in your carry-on bag. Never place medication in a checked bag, even if you don't need it during your flight. If you're asked to gate check your carry-on bag, remove your medication before giving your bag to an agent.

Do I need to take my phone out of my bag at airport security?

Carry-on Baggage Screening

Here's what to expect when taking your carry-on bag through security screening next time you fly. You will be asked to remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening.

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