Key takeaways

Insulin and other diabetes supplies are often packed in carry-on luggage to avoid exposure to extreme temperatures in the cargo hold.
The cargo hold of an airplane can reach freezing temperatures, which can damage insulin and render it ineffective.
Informing transportation security officers about diabetes and medical supplies is a common step during screening.
A doctor’s letter and prescriptions may be helpful, particularly for international flights, although they may not be required for domestic travel in some countries.
Packing additional supplies beyond the expected amount for the trip can be a consideration for potential travel delays or loss.
Some manufacturers state that insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) may be affected by X-ray scanners. A visual or manual inspection may be requested as an alternative.
Keeping medications and supplies in their original packaging with prescription labels visible is a common practice.

Why Special Considerations Are Needed for Air Travel

Traveling with diabetes supplies involves considerations related to three main factors: temperature, security regulations, and potential travel disruptions. Insulin is a protein, and its structure is sensitive to extreme temperatures. If it freezes or gets too hot, its effectiveness may be compromised. The cargo hold where checked baggage is stored is not temperature-controlled and can expose insulin to freezing conditions.

Airport security protocols include limits on liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags. Medically necessary liquids like insulin are often exempt from these limits. This exemption typically involves declaring these items to security personnel for inspection. Devices like insulin pumps and CGMs are sophisticated electronics, and some manufacturers advise against exposing them to X-ray or full-body scanners, which may lead to alternative screening procedures.

Real-world scenarios

Travel situations can vary, and understanding a range of possibilities can help set realistic expectations.

Typical scenario: A person flying domestically packs their insulin, syringes, test strips, and CGM sensors in a clear bag inside their carry-on. At the security checkpoint, they inform the officer they have diabetes supplies. The officer may ask to see the supplies, visually inspect them, and then allow the person to proceed. The process adds a few minutes to their screening time but is otherwise uneventful.

Scenario with minor anxiety: Someone traveling with an insulin pump for the first time feels nervous about the security process. They tell the agent about their pump and request a manual inspection. The agent performs a pat-down and swabs their hands and the device for explosives residue. The traveler feels a bit stressed by the extra attention but understands it is a standard procedure and passes through without issue.

Scenario with a disruption: A traveler’s flight is canceled, and they are rebooked on a flight for the next day. Because they packed additional insulin and pump supplies, they have enough to cover the delay without needing to find a local pharmacy in an unfamiliar city. The extra supplies can provide a buffer against the uncertainty of a travel disruption.

Risk factors and what may help

Signs of Compromised Insulin or Supplies

It is useful to know the signs that insulin or other equipment may have been damaged during travel. Clear, rapid-acting insulin that appears cloudy, has clumps, or contains crystals may be compromised. Similarly, if NPH insulin, which is typically cloudy, shows clumps or frosting on the vial after being gently rolled, it could be a sign of a problem.

For devices, visible damage to a glucose meter, insulin pump, or CGM reader is a clear sign of a problem. If a device fails to turn on or shows persistent error messages after a flight, it may have been damaged. Unexpected blood glucose readings after using a new vial of insulin that traveled with you could also be an indirect sign that the insulin’s effectiveness was affected.

How Supplies Are Screened at Security

At an airport security checkpoint, diabetes medical supplies can be separated from other belongings and placed in a bin for screening. Informing a security officer about medically necessary liquids and devices is a part of the standard screening process for these items.

Insulin and other liquid medications typically undergo visual inspection and may be tested for explosives. These medical liquids are generally not subject to the same volume restrictions as other carry-on liquids. For insulin pumps and CGMs, a manual inspection can be requested as an alternative to sending them through an X-ray machine or a full-body scanner, in line with some manufacturer recommendations. This process may involve a pat-down and a swab test of the device and hands.

What this means in everyday life

Understanding the context of travel rules may help reduce uncertainty. Regulations for medically necessary items are in place to accommodate travelers with specific health needs. Awareness of the options for carrying insulin and for screening medical devices can be part of the travel preparation process. For some, the logistics of packing diabetes supplies can become a routine part of a travel checklist, similar to packing passports or other important items.

Red flags: when to seek medical advice

This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Situations that may prompt individuals to seek assistance include running out of supplies or suspecting that insulin has been damaged during travel. A local pharmacy or clinic may be a source of information on obtaining supplies. Persistently unexpected blood glucose levels or a malfunctioning medical device, such as an insulin pump, are other examples of situations where individuals may consult with their healthcare provider or a local medical professional.

Why people get confused

Confusion often arises from the sheer volume of information available and the differences in rules between airlines and countries. One person’s experience shared online may not reflect official policy. For example, while a doctor’s note is not officially required by the TSA for domestic U.S. travel, some airlines or international destinations may have different policies, leading to conflicting advice. Furthermore, the discretion of individual security agents can lead to varied experiences, causing uncertainty for travelers. People may search for clear, definitive answers on information platforms like Lifebetic, but the reality of travel often involves navigating these slight variations.

Here’s the part most people miss:

A point of potential confusion can involve the screening of insulin pumps and CGMs at security. While much focus is on insulin, the electronic devices themselves have specific considerations. Some device manufacturers recommend avoiding X-ray machines and full-body scanners due to a potential risk of electronic damage. Security agents may not be familiar with every device’s specific guidelines. An available option is to request an alternative screening. This is a standard part of security protocols for certain medical electronics, based on manufacturer guidelines.

Label scanner: what to check in 10 seconds

Before packing, a quick check of your supply labels can prevent issues during travel. This is an educational checklist, not a medical assessment.

Medication Name: The name on the vial or pen can be compared to the prescribed medication.
Expiration Date: The use-by date on insulin, test strips, and sensors can be checked to ensure they are valid for the duration of the trip.
Insulin Type: The label indicates the type of insulin (e.g., rapid-acting vs. long-acting).
Concentration: The insulin concentration (e.g., U-100) is noted on the label.
Pharmacy Label: An intact and legible original pharmacy label with the user’s name is often kept with the medication.

Questions to ask your healthcare provider

What documentation is commonly suggested for traveling internationally with diabetes supplies?
How are significant time zone changes discussed in relation to insulin timing?
What are the known considerations for insulin storage during long travel days?
Are there general resources for locating a pharmacy or clinic in another country?
What do manufacturer guidelines state about my specific pump or CGM model and airport scanners?

Frequently asked questions

What is the general guidance on the amount of insulin one can carry on a plane?Transportation security agencies like the TSA allow a “reasonable quantity” of medically necessary liquids, including insulin, in carry-on luggage. This amount is not strictly defined but is generally understood to be sufficient for the trip, with consideration for potential delays.

Are insulin pumps and CGMs typically allowed through airport security scanners?While these devices are allowed through security, some manufacturers advise against putting them through X-ray machines or full-body scanners. It is an option for travelers to inform the security officer about their device and request a manual inspection.