Insulin, Injections, and Syringes
Allowed
Allowed in cabin with proof of medical need. Needles must remain capped until use.
Quick answer
Airlines understand chronic care. They simply want proof that the syringes belong to you and that you know how to handle sharps safely. A one-page doctor letter or prescription usually settles the matter.
Insulin and many biologics prefer temperatures between 2â8°C. Carry a compact cooler bag with gel packs (declared as medical exemptions). Crew may allow storage in the galley fridge on long-haul flights, but they arenât obligated, so plan for self-reliance.
Used needles must go into sharps containersâask the crew for one. Never toss them into seat pockets or lavatory bins; doing so can injure cleaning staff and invites fines.
Documents & packing
- âDoctor letter/prescription stating the condition and required medication.
- âInsulated case with ice packs (frozen solid at security).
- âSeparate pouch for sterile syringes with original packing.
During the journey
- âDeclare the kit at security; officers may swab it, then return immediately.
- âDose discreetly and dispose of sharps using airline-provided containers.
- âCarry extra needles and insulin in case of delays or temperature excursions.
Needle and medicine handling
| Item | Cabin | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Insulin pens | â With document | Store in insulated pouch |
| Loose syringes | â | Keep capped and in original sleeves |
| Sharps disposal | Crew-managed | Ask for biohazard container |
Do this
- â Carry double the insulin units you needâone set near your seat, another backup in carry-on.
- â Use travel-friendly pen needles; they take up less space and stay sterile.
- â Note time zones to adjust dosing schedules accurately.
Avoid this
- â ď¸ Donât leave uncapped needles on tray tables or seats.
- â ď¸ Donât store insulin in the overhead bin during hot weather; keep it under the seat where airflow is better.
- â ď¸ Avoid packing sharps in checked baggageâtemperature swings and loss risk are high.
FAQ
Q. Can I carry glucagon auto-injectors?
Yes. Treat them like other emergency medsâkeep packaging and prescription handy.
Q. Do gel packs need to be frozen?
Ideally yes. Security may swab them but typically allows them when clearly tied to medical use.
Q. What about insulin pumps?
Wear them through security but inform officers. Some pumps shouldnât go through X-rayârequest pat-down inspection instead.
Tips before you fly
- âď¸ Set medication alarms on your watch to stay on schedule across time zones.
- âď¸ Carry sugar tablets or snacks for hypo treatmentâdeclare them if semi-liquid.
- âď¸ Store digital copies of prescriptions on your phone and backup drive.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines â simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.