Many travelers with severe allergies often wonder if they can fly with their EpiPen, especially since it contains a liquid medication and involves an injection mechanism and needles. The good news is that you can, and indeed should, bring your EpiPen on a plane to ensure you're prepared for any allergic emergencies while traveling.
Let's delve into more details, covering everything from TSA regulations regarding EpiPens to essential packing tips and best practices for flying with an EpiPen.
Related article: Traveling with EpiPen: What to Know Before You Go!
Can You Bring an EpiPen on a Plane?
Yes, you absolutely can-and should-bring your EpiPen on a plane. Remember that it's essential to have your EpiPen accessible at all times, not just for compliance with airport security and airline regulations but, more importantly, for your own safety.
Related article: EpiPen Carrying Cases: Benefits, Features, and Recommendations!
Pack EpiPen in Your Carry-on
EpiPens must be packed in your carry-on luggage to ensure that they are available during the flight in case of an emergency allergic reaction.
Never pack your EpiPen in your checked luggage. The extreme temperature and atmospheric conditions in the cargo hold could damage the medication (epinephrine) or the injection mechanism.
If you're flying with multiple EpiPens, ensure that all are in your carry-on and not in checked luggage.
Additionally, we recommend keeping your EpiPen in a pocket or under the seat in front of you rather than in the overhead bins, which may not always be accessible throughout the flight.
Related article: TSA: Traveling with Injectable Medications, Needles, and Syringes.
TSA Rules for EpiPen
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recognizes the importance of travelers having access to necessary medications, especially emergency life-saving treatments like EpiPens.
Therefore, even though EpiPens contain a liquid, they are exempt from the TSA's standard rules on liquids in carry-ons.
According to the TSA, you're allowed to bring "larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip, but you must declare them to TSA officers at the checkpoint for inspection".
Taking Your EpiPen Through Airport Security
Here are some things to consider when going through airport security with EpiPens:
- Inform the TSA officer: Let them know you have an EpiPen. You can tell the officer discreetly or present a TSA notification card which explains that you have medications with you.
- Request a visual inspection: If you prefer, you can ask the TSA officer to visually inspect your EpiPen instead of going through the X-ray machine. This is particularly helpful if you're concerned about X-ray effects, although the TSA assures that X-rays do not affect medications.
- Pack smartly: Keep your EpiPen in an easily accessible part of your carry-on so you can quickly show it to TSA officers. It may be helpful to have a doctor's note or prescription label with you, although it's not mandatory (see below).
EpiPen Travel Letter
When flying domestically within the United States, there is no specific documentation required to bring an EpiPen on a plane. However, ensure that the medication labels are clearly visible so TSA agents can quickly verify what it is during the screening process.
While not mandatory, carrying an EpiPen travel certificate can facilitate a smoother screening experience. You can download one for free here and ask your doctor to fill it out before your departure.
For international flights, it is recommended to carry a copy of your EpiPen prescription or a doctor's letter that outlines your severe allergy condition and your need to carry EpiPens with you at all times. It can be invaluable if you need to explain your medical needs during an emergency or to airline or airport staff in other countries where language barriers may exist.
Besides, having this documentation readily available can also aid in receiving prompt and appropriate care should you suffer an anaphylactic reaction while on the plane.
Related article: EpiPen Expiration: Understanding the Risks and Best Practices.
More Tips for Flying with EpiPen
While having your EpiPen on hand is the most crucial part of flying with severe allergies, here are a few additional tips and best practices to ensure a smooth and safe journey:
Before Departure
- Label your EpiPen: Make sure your EpiPen is clearly labeled with your name and contact information.
- Check your EpiPen expiration date. Like any medication, epinephrine expires. So, make sure to check your EpiPen is not close to expiring before you travel. Check the expiration date well in advance and replace the EpiPen if necessary to guarantee that you have a fully effective medication on hand throughout your trip.
- Always bring a backup. Accidents, loss, malfunction, or deterioration because of heat, can happen unexpectedly, especially when traveling. Always pack an extra EpiPen in a separate location, such as a different bag or pocket, to ensure that you have a spare ready in case your primary EpiPen is used or becomes inaccessible.
- Brief your travel companions. Know the symptoms of your allergic reactions and brief your travel companions on how to use the EpiPen if you are unable to do so yourself.
- Request special meals in advance. If your allergies are food-related, contact the airline ahead of time to notify them about your severe allergy and request special meals that meet your dietary needs. Most airlines are happy to accommodate these requests but typically require notice at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight.
- Check for airline specific policies. While TSA guidelines are consistent, some airlines have specific policies regarding the handling of medical equipment and medications. Check with your airline before flying to avoid any surprises.
- Check for country-specific regulations. EpiPens are known and used worldwide, so you should not have any problem traveling abroad. But different countries may have varying rules regarding the import and use of medications like epinephrine. Before you travel, research the regulations of your destination country to avoid any legal issues at customs or during your stay.
- Secure travel insurance. Obtain travel insurance that includes coverage for medical treatments related to allergies and provides for emergency medical evacuations if necessary. Make sure your policy covers the regions you'll be traveling to and any specific activities you plan to undertake, as well as EpiPen replacements while abroad.
- Learn how to communicate about your allergy in multiple languages. If you're traveling internationally, know how to communicate your allergy in the local language. Allergy translation apps or cards can be invaluable in these situations.
Related article: How to Get Travel Insurance for Pre-existing Medical Conditions?
While on the Plane
- Keep your EpiPens cool. If you're traveling to or from a hot climate, consider using a cooling pouch to keep your EpiPen at room temperature. Avoid placing it near heat-emitting items like laptops or in direct sunlight.
Remember that EpiPens must be stored at a controlled room temperature between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Temporary excursions between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) are permitted, but exposures to temperatures outside this range, especially extreme cold or heat, should be avoided to maintain epinephrine effectiveness.
Related article: How to Store Your EpiPen: Tips for Keeping Your Lifesaver Effective!
- Communicate with flight attendants. Once on board, immediately inform the flight attendants about your allergy and where you keep your EpiPen. This awareness will enable them to respond quickly and effectively in case you need assistance during the flight. Some airlines may even make announcements to other passengers to refrain from consuming certain allergens, like nuts, if your allergy is particularly severe.
- Wear a medical ID bracelet. Always wear a medical ID bracelet or carry a card that states your allergy and the fact that you carry an EpiPen. This can be crucial in receiving prompt and appropriate care in case of an emergency, especially if you are unable to communicate.
- Avoid airline blankets and pillows. If you have dust or other allergies, avoid using airline-provided blankets and pillows as they may not be hypoallergenic and could trigger allergies. If you are sensitive to circulating air, which can spread allergens, adjust the overhead air vents to minimize exposure.
- Carry your own safe snacks. Bring your own food that is safe for you to eat, especially on longer flights where meal service is provided. This reduces the risk of accidental exposure to allergens.
By following these guidelines and preparing adequately, you can travel safely and stress-free, even with severe allergies. Remember, preparation is key to a smooth and enjoyable journey! Your EpiPen is fragile, make sure to pack it securely and keep it consistently at the right temperature so it stays effective for when you need it the most!
We'd Love to Hear From You!
Let's Connect and Share Experiences! Do you have any tips, questions, or personal stories about flying with an EpiPen? We would love for you to share them in the comments below. Your experiences could provide invaluable guidance and reassurance to other travelers with severe allergy. Help us build a resourceful network of support!
