As the Easter break approaches and summer looms, millions of people are gearing up for holiday season.

However, for those who rely on medication, figuring out whether to pack their pills in their hand luggage or hold suitcase can be a source of stress.

Travellers are recommended to carry their medication, at least enough for the flight and any potential delays, in their cabin bag to prevent loss or damage, reports the Daily Record.

While all airlines permit passengers to travel with essential prescriptions, there are regulations regarding the quantities and types of medication that travellers should be aware of.

Airport personnel may need to open containers to screen liquids at the security checkpoint. Medical equipment undergoes separate screening.

It's also suggested that you consult embassy guidelines for your destination to stay informed about their current rules on medication. This can be done by visiting the embassy's website.

Below, we've outlined the policies of various airlines concerning travelling with medication.

Ryanair

Ryanair allows passengers to bring their medical equipment on board free of charge, in addition to their small personal bag, subject to pre-clearance by their Special Assistance Team.

This includes as much liquid medicine as required for the duration of your flight, which does not need to fit into the transparent bag used for other liquids. However, it must be ready for inspection at airport security.

The budget airline has stated that passengers wishing to bring or use a Special Medical item on board must contact them for approval and authorisation.

easyJet

easyJet has clarified its policy regarding medication, stating that there is no need for a doctor's letter if medication is packed in hold luggage. However, they recommend packing medication in hand luggage, particularly if it may be needed during the flight.

The airline also advises passengers to consult their doctor or pharmacist if their prescription contains a controlled drug, due to strict regulations in some countries. Controlled drugs include medications such as Diazepam, Lorazepam, Codeine or Tramadol.

For those travelling with medicine containing a controlled drug, easyJet suggests checking the embassy rules of the destination country and entry requirements before flying. Proof of ownership of the medication, either through a prescription or a doctor's letter, is required.

A letter from a healthcare practitioner confirming that the medication is prescribed and necessary to bring on board is only required if certain items are being brought on board:

  • Liquids that exceed 100ml
  • Sharp objects such as needles
  • Oxygen cylinders and concentrators
  • Any medical equipment that may be considered as dangerous goods in the aircraft cabin. Check with easyJet for a full list.

TUI

TUI has issued guidance for passengers travelling with medication or medical equipment. They advise that a doctor's letter or prescription is required if these items will be carried in the cabin, confirming that the medication belongs to you and the equipment is necessary for the flight.

Liquid medication exceeding 100ml can pass through security with a doctor's letter.

For those storing medicines in hold luggage, TUI recommends packing them separately, assuring passengers that this bag won't count towards their standard cabin baggage allowance, provided it doesn't exceed the maximum dimensions of permitted cabin baggage.

TUI also clarifies that insulin or pen injection devices can be carried in hand luggage without a medical certificate, but must be declared at check-in. Insulin should always be stored in cabin baggage rather than hold luggage due to potential inactivation from low temperatures in the hold.

Jet2

Jet2's policy allows essential medications in hand luggage, but liquid medications over 100ml require a doctor's letter and must be in the original container. Needles, syringes, and insulin pens must be declared to security and cabin crew.

Jet2 advises carrying essential medications for the trip duration in your hand luggage, clearly labelled with your full name, healthcare provider's name, generic and brand name, and exact dosage.