As holidays approach and summer looms, millions are gearing up for overseas travel.
However, for those who rely on medication, figuring out whether to pack pills in hand luggage or hold suitcases can be a source of stress. Travellers are advised to carry enough medication for the flight and potential delays in their cabin bag to prevent loss or damage.
While all airlines permit passengers to carry essential prescriptions, there are rules regarding quantities and types of medication that travellers should be aware of. Airport staff may need to open containers to screen liquids at security checkpoints. Medical equipment is screened separately, reports the Daily Record.
It's also recommended to check embassy guidelines for your destination to stay updated on their medication regulations. This can be done via the embassy's website.
Here are some rules from different airlines about travelling with medication.
Ryanair
Ryanair allows passengers to bring medical equipment on board free of charge, in addition to a small personal bag, subject to pre-clearance by their Special Assistance Team.
This includes as much liquid medicine as needed for the flight duration, which doesn't have to fit into the transparent bag required for other liquids. However, it must be ready for inspection at airport security.
Ryanair has stated that passengers wishing to bring or use a Special Medical item on board must contact the airline for approval and authorisation.
easyJet
easyJet, on the other hand, advises passengers to pack medication in their hand luggage where possible, especially if it is needed during the flight. The airline also asks passengers to check with their doctor or pharmacist if their prescription contains a controlled drug, due to strict laws in some countries.
If travelling with medicine that contains a controlled drug, passengers are advised to check the embassy rules for the country they're travelling to, as well as entry requirements. Proof of ownership of the medication, either through a prescription or a doctor's letter, is required.
A letter from a healthcare practitioner confirming the medication is prescribed and necessary to bring on board is only required for certain items.
TUI
TUI has issued advice for passengers carrying medication or medical equipment in the aircraft cabin. They require a doctor's letter or prescription confirming that the medication belongs to the passenger and that the equipment is necessary during the flight.
Liquid medication larger than 100ml can be taken through security with a doctor's letter. If medicines are packed in hold luggage, TUI advises packing them separately and states they will not count towards the standard cabin baggage allowance.
However, the bag must not exceed the maximum dimensions of allowed cabin baggage. TUI also allows passengers to carry insulin or pen injection devices in hand baggage without a medical certificate, but this must be declared at check-in.
Insulin should always be packed in cabin baggage rather than hold luggage due to potential low temperatures in the hold.
Jet2
Jet2's policy allows passengers to bring 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 recommends carrying essential medications for the duration of the trip in hand luggage. These must be clearly labelled with the passenger's full name, healthcare provider's name, generic and brand name, and exact dosage.
