Should you take pills out of your carry-on?

Yes, you should always keep your medication in your carry-on bag, not checked luggage, to avoid loss and ensure access, and you must take medically necessary liquids out for separate screening at the security checkpoint. While pills in solid form are generally fine in original or pill containers, keeping prescription labels on is best for identification, and you should declare any liquids or controlled substances to the TSA officer, according to the TSA.

Do I have to take medications out of my carry-on?

It is recommended that medication be clearly labeled to facilitate the screening process. You may bring medically necessary liquids, medications and creams in excess of 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in your carry-on bag. Remove them from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings.

Do pills have to be in original bottles when flying?

For domestic U.S. flights, the TSA doesn't require pills in original bottles; pill organizers are fine, but for international travel, it's highly recommended to keep them in original, labeled containers to avoid issues with foreign laws, plus carry a doctor's note and copies of prescriptions. Always carry solid medications in your carry-on, not checked bags, for easy access. 

Will TSA look through my pills?

Yes, TSA checks pills as part of the security screening, often via X-ray, but you can request a visual inspection if you prefer not to X-ray them; it's best to keep them in original labeled bottles, have a doctor's note, and carry them in your carry-on (not checked bags) for quicker screening and to avoid issues, though they generally go through fine, especially if labeled clearly. 

How to take pills through TSA?

You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It's highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.

How to Pack Medications for Travel | TSA Rules 2025 (Avoid THIS Common Mistake!)

What are the most common items confiscated by TSA?

Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes exceeding the 3.4-ounce (100-milliliter) limit are among the most frequently confiscated items. These include everyday products like water bottles, coffee cups, toothpaste, lotions, perfumes, and even duty-free alcohol without proper documentation.

What medications can you not fly with?

No medications are universally "banned," but highly regulated drugs (opioids, ADHD meds like Adderall, strong sedatives, marijuana/CBD), certain new drugs, and some potent over-the-counter meds (sedating antihistamines, some cough syrups) can be restricted or require doctor's notes/official permission for air travel, especially internationally, due to varying country laws and potential for impairment. Always check your destination's laws and carry documentation (prescriptions, doctor's letter) for controlled substances, and keep them in your carry-on. 

Do tablets have to be taken out at airport security?

You will be asked to remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. Common examples of these devices include laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles.

What not to bring through TSA?

Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in your checked bags if possible. TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.

Does TSA look for small amounts of drugs?

Accordingly, TSA security officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer.

Can you fly with pills in a Ziploc bag?

Only liquid medications (not pills) need to be in a clear bag. Medications don't count towards your limits so pack them separately. As long as you have a doctor's prescription, you can take any liquid medications, even those that are more than 100mls, in your carry-on luggage, but they must be in a clear ziplock bag.

Do I need a copy of my prescription when flying?

During travel

Travellers should carry a copy of their prescription together with a covering letter from their doctor. If supplies are needed whilst abroad, a pharmacy or health care provider should be consulted for advice.

Does TSA allow pill organizers?

Yes, the TSA allows pill organizers for solid medications in carry-on or checked bags, and you don't need to keep them in their original prescription bottles for domestic travel, but it's smart to keep a list of your meds and consider bringing original packaging for international trips, as some countries have strict laws. Keep liquids (over 3.4oz) separate and declare them, and always pack your meds in your carry-on for easier access and to prevent loss.
 

Do pills need to be in original containers when flying?

Packing Your Meds the Right Way

Keep in mind these other tips: Bring enough medicine for your whole trip. You may want to bring extra, in case your return is delayed. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) doesn't ask you to keep your medicines in their original prescription bottles.

Should I keep medication in carry-on?

Pack only what you need for the flight (plus some extra) in your carry-on. Put the rest of your medication in checked baggage.

What cannot go in hand luggage?

You can't bring weapons (guns, knives, bats), explosives, large liquids (over 3.4oz/100ml), flammable items (lighter fluid, large aerosols), or certain tools and self-defense sprays (mace, pepper spray) in your carry-on, with many items like firearms and ammunition restricted to checked bags only. Electronics with lithium batteries and medications are usually allowed but may require screening. 

Why should you not wear leggings on an airplane?

“The issue with leggings is the nature of the material,” Negroni told HuffPost. “You have a tight garment that is usually made from synthetic fibers, made from petroleum products, which is not something you want to wear on an airplane because the largest risk in a survivable air accident is fire.”

Can I take my phone charger in my carry-on?

Yes, you can take phone chargers (cables, wall adapters) in your hand luggage, but portable power banks (external chargers) must only be in your carry-on, not checked bags, due to fire risks, and often must be visible or easily accessible in the cabin. Standard wall chargers and cables are fine in either, but it's best to keep them in hand luggage for convenience and safety, while power banks with lithium-ion batteries are strictly carry-on only, with capacity limits (usually under 100Wh). 

What are the 5 biggest packing mistakes to avoid?

• Mistake: Not Creating a Capsule Wardrobe.
• Mistake: Not Using Packing Cubes.
• Mistake: Traveling With a Subpar Carry-on Suitcase.
• Mistake: Forgetting About the Power of a Personal Item Bag.
• Mistake: Not Having a Strategy for Toiletries.

What needs to come out of carry-on at security?

Liquids, gels and aerosols

You may have to take them out at airport security so they can be screened separately. Baby formula, milk (including breast milk), baby food, juice and liquid/gel medications larger than 3.4 ounces may be allowed on board, but they will have to be screened separately.

Where do I pack my tablet when flying?

Make sure all your battery-powered electrical devices are fully charged and will power on if requested by airport security. Remember to bring any chargers you'll need for your gadgets. Pack power banks and any device with a lithium battery in your carry-on luggage.

Can I bring all my medications in my carry-on?

We recommend that you pack all medication in your carry-on baggage and place it in an easy-to-access area. You will be asked to present all prescription and essential non-prescription medications to the screening officer for inspection.

What pills to take on a plane?

Medicines

• Antacid.
• Antibiotics, if prescribed by your healthcare professional, such as for travelers' diarrhea.
• Antihistamine.
• Antimalarial medicines, if prescribed by your healthcare professional.
• Antivirals, if prescribed by your healthcare professional, such as for influenza (flu)

Do you need proof of medication to fly?

Taking your prescription on your flight

You may need a letter signed by the GP stating what medication you are on and why you need it. This may come with a private fee. You will also need a copy of your prescription stating the generic name of your medication.