Can You Bring an EpiPen on a Plane?

Can you bring an EpiPen on a plane?

Yes, you can bring an EpiPen, an epinephrine auto-injector, on a plane in your carry-on bag. It is a medically necessary medication, so according to TSA, it is permitted through the checkpoint, and although it contains liquid medication and a needle, it is allowed as a medical device and injectable medication, exceeding the standard liquid restrictions. You can bring the EpiPen through security to keep it accessible in case of an allergic emergency during travel. It is a good idea to keep it in its original labeled packaging or case, which helps identify it, and to declare it to the security officer. Because a severe allergic reaction can occur at any time, having your EpiPen accessible in the cabin is important, and the rules are designed to allow exactly that.

How is an EpiPen screened at security?

At the checkpoint, tell the security officer that you are carrying an EpiPen or epinephrine auto-injector before your belongings are screened. The device is allowed, and keeping it in its original packaging or a labeled case helps the officer identify it quickly. The EpiPen may be subject to additional screening, and if you prefer it not be handled in a certain way, you can discuss alternative screening with the officer. Because it is a recognized medical device containing injectable medication, officers are accustomed to screening it. Declaring it clearly and having it easily accessible in your carry-on, rather than buried in your bag, makes the process quick. You should not check your EpiPen in the hold, since you need it within reach at all times.

Why should you keep an EpiPen in your carry-on?

You should always keep your EpiPen in your carry-on, on your person or in an accessible bag, rather than in checked luggage, because a severe allergic reaction, or anaphylaxis, can happen suddenly and requires immediate treatment. If your EpiPen were in a checked bag, it would be inaccessible during the flight and boarding, when you might need it most, and checked bags can also be lost or delayed. The cabin also avoids the temperature extremes of the cargo hold, which could affect the medication. Keeping the EpiPen within reach means you or someone assisting you can use it right away in an emergency. For these reasons, your EpiPen belongs with you in the cabin throughout the journey, ready to use if a reaction occurs.

What are tips for flying with an EpiPen?

A few precautions help when flying with an EpiPen. Carry at least two auto-injectors if that is what your doctor recommends, since a severe reaction can sometimes require more than one dose, and keep them accessible in the cabin. Store them in their original labeled packaging or a protective case to identify them and shield them from temperature extremes and damage. Declare the EpiPen to the security officer at screening. Consider carrying a doctor's note or prescription, which can be helpful, especially for international travel where rules may differ. Inform your travel companions or the cabin crew if appropriate, so others can help in an emergency. Be mindful of your allergy triggers during the flight, such as certain foods. Consult your doctor before traveling about managing your allergy and medication while flying.