Jet2, TUI, easyJet and Ryanair rules on taking medicines on flights

As the Easter holidays approach and summer looms, millions are gearing up for overseas trips.

However, for those who rely on medication, figuring out whether to carry their pills in hand luggage or pack them into hold suitcases can be a source of stress. Travellers are advised to pack medication, certainly enough for the flight and any potential delays, in their cabin bags to prevent loss or damage.

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

Airport personnel may need to open containers to screen liquids at the security checkpoint. Medical equipment undergoes separate screening, 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 by visiting the embassy's website.

Below are the rules from various airlines concerning travelling with medication.

Ryanair

Ryanair states that passengers can bring their 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 required for the duration of the flight, and it does not need to fit in the transparent bag required for all other liquids. It should be ready for inspection at airport security.

The budget airline advises that if you wish to bring or use a Special Medical item on board, you should contact them. They will assess your request and provide authorisation to carry the item if approved.

easyJet

easyJet states that there is no need to provide a letter from your doctor or healthcare practitioner if medication is packed in your hold luggage. However, they recommend packing your medication in your hand luggage where possible, particularly if it's medication you may need during the flight.

They also advise passengers to consult with their doctor or pharmacist if their prescription contains a controlled drug, as some countries have stringent laws regarding these medications. Controlled drugs are those subject to high levels of regulation due to government decisions, such as Diazepam, Lorazepam, Codeine or Tramadol.

They suggest that if you need to travel with medicine containing a controlled drug, you should check the embassy rules for the country you're travelling to, as well as the entry requirements before you fly.

You will need to prove the medication is yours, either with a prescription or a letter from your doctor.

A letter from your healthcare practitioner, confirming the medication is prescribed to you and is necessary to bring on board, is only required if you are bringing any of the following items on board:.

TUI

TUI advises that if you'll be carrying medication or medical equipment with you in the aircraft cabin, you'll need to bring a doctor's letter or a prescription with you.

This should confirm that the medication is yours, and the equipment is needed during the flight. Liquid medication larger than 100ml can be taken through security if you have a doctor's letter.

If you're putting medicines in your hold luggage, TUI recommends packing them in a separate bag and states it will not be counted within your standard cabin baggage allowance. However, the bag may not exceed the maximum measures of allowed cabin baggage.

TUI also indicates that you can carry insulin, or a pen injection device in your hand baggage during your flight without a medical certificate, but passengers must declare this at check in.

Insulin should always be packed in your cabin baggage rather than your hold luggage as it can be inactivated if carried in the hold due to low temperatures.

Jet2

When flying with Jet2, you can bring essential medications in your hand luggage, but liquid medications over 100ml require a doctor's letter and must be in the original container. You also need to declare needles, syringes, and insulin pens to security and cabin crew.

Jet2 suggests carrying essential medications for the duration of your trip in your hand luggage.

They must be clearly labelled with your full name, health care provider's name, generic and brand name, and exact dosage.

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