TSA + Type 1 Diabetes: What to Prepare Before Takeoff

Like most things in life with type 1 diabetes (T1D), traveling requires a little extra preparation. Getting through airport security can be hectic and stressful enough as it is—adding T1D devices and supplies takes it to a whole new level. 

If you’re going through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints while living with T1D, this guide covers what to know and prepare for before lining up at airport security, so you can enjoy your travels and feel calm about your management in a new place.

Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)

The first thing you should know is that it’s always acceptable to travel with your insulin pump and/or continuous glucose monitor (CGM). You have the legal right to wear your medical devices through TSA checkpoints. 

• Still, there’s one important thing you should keep in mind: insulin pump and CGM companies cannot guarantee that their devices will continue to work if they are put through an X-ray machine or an airport body scanner.

While many people with diabetes (PWD) report no issues with body scanners, others report insulin pump malfunctions or CGM disconnection. When wearing a tubed insulin pump, some people choose to detach the device and put it in their carry-on to send through the X-ray machine. You should make a decision based on your comfort level. Talk it through with your doctor, family or T1D peers if you want a second opinion.

If you don’t want to test your luck, take these steps:

1. Say something: Notify a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) within your security line that you are wearing a medical device.
   
2. Get manually checked: Instead of going through the airport body scanner, walk through the regular metal detector with your device(s) or ask a TSA agent for a manual pat-down. If you ask for a pat-down, you can typically choose to receive it in the general TSA checkpoint area or in a TSA screening room.
   
3. Get your device swabbed: You might undergo an Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) test while walking through airport security with your pump or CGM. This is a standard precaution, so don’t worry. You will test negative because you’re just wearing a medical device. A TSO will run a swab over the palms of your hands and, sometimes, your medical device, then place that swab into a machine to test for traces of explosive material.
   
4. Give yourself extra time: Remember to give yourself some extra time before boarding and arrive early at the airport if you plan to go through this process. Most busy airports recommend that passengers arrive at least two hours before their flight boards—so you might plan for two and a half hours. Again, it’s up to your comfort level. You get to decide! Smaller airports may advise far less time, so be sure to read up on yours before you drive there. Most airports will typically list wait times. Whatever the case, because of these extra checks, it may take a little longer for you to get through the TSA checkpoint.

Insulin

Insulin is always allowed in your carry-on bags, whether in vials, pens or other forms. Freezer packs and other accessories to keep your insulin cool are also permitted, but be prepared to explain them, as not all TSA agents are familiar with them.

• Non-negotiable: Never put your insulin in checked baggage. Always carry it with you in case of lost luggage, and because severe changes in pressure and temperature can compromise it.

After flying, inspect your insulin before using it. Discard it or call your doctor if it looks damaged. Signs of damaged insulin include cloudiness (for insulin types that are usually clear) and color changes.

Needles, syringes and lancets

Needles and other insulin delivery devices are permitted on airplanes. Although not required, carrying a prescription, a letter from your doctor or a pharmaceutical label for your supplies with you is recommended in case there are any questions. This is especially helpful when traveling internationally.

Other diabetes supplies

Don’t forget that other diabetes supplies are temperature-sensitive and should also be kept in the cabin to avoid damage from extreme temperatures in the baggage hold. Temperature regulations should be listed in each product’s description. 

Pack these supplies in your carry-on:

• CGM sensors
• Ketone strips
• Blood sugar test strips
• Glucagon and fast-acting low snacks

TSA allows PWD to carry quick sugar in liquid or gel form to treat lows (hypoglycemia), even if it’s more than 3.4 ounces. You can always bring glucose tablets, candy and other sugary solid foods. Glucagon kits—both nasal spray and injectable—are allowed if they are in your prescription-labeled containers.

Read up on international airport policies and regulations

If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to read up on the latest policies, regulations and support systems for PWD abroad. Airport policies vary from country to country. This is where having a  doctor’s note with you can especially come in handy. Some PWD have reported issues abroad with carrying insulin back home, for example. It never hurts to have extra safeguards in place. Do your homework so you can enjoy your trip and rest easy!

Get a TSA notification card before you travel

Feeling stressed about explaining your medical condition and needs at airport security? You can print a TSA Disability Notification Card before you travel. Give it to a TSO to inform them of your medical needs and the supplies you’ll bring. It’s not required, but having this card with you might make your life easier and alleviate some unnecessary (but understandable) stress.

Use TSA Cares to reduce travel stress with T1D

Need extra help or feeling nervous about going through security? Contact TSA Cares and a Passenger Support Specialist who can help you right there. They can give the TSA a heads-up about when you’ll arrive and what kind of help you need. Call the TSA Cares USA hotline at 1-855-787-2227 about 72 hours before your flight to make sure a supervisor is ready to assist you.

Don’t let diabetes stop you from traveling

While flying with diabetes can feel overwhelming, if it’s your heart’s desire to see the world or a new part of the country, don’t let it stop you. There are many ways to make exploring new places more manageable when you live with it. It may take a little trial and error and lived experience to feel certain about traveling with T1D, but the more you do it, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become.

In no time, you’ll be prepared at the airport and present for your wildest adventures. That’s what every T1D adventurer deserves!

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