Can I bring eye drops on a plane in 2024?

Can I bring eye drops on a plane in 2024?

Yes, you can generally bring eye drops on a plane. When traveling with liquids, including eye drops, it’s important to be aware of the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) regulations in the United States, as well as any specific regulations of the airline and country you are traveling to.

Here are some general guidelines for bringing eye drops on a plane:

TSA Regulations:
- In the U.S., the TSA follows the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on bags. Each passenger is allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, gels, creams, and pastes in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. Eye drops are considered liquids.
Carry-On Bag:
- Place your eye drops in the quart-sized resealable plastic bag with your other travel-sized liquids. This bag should be removed from your carry-on during the security screening process.
Prescription Medication:
- If your eye drops are prescription medication, it’s a good idea to bring the prescription or a note from your doctor. This can be useful in case security personnel or customs officials have any questions.
Non-Prescription Eye Drops:
- If your eye drops are non-prescription or over-the-counter, they are still subject to the 3-1-1 rule, and you should follow the guidelines for liquids in carry-on bags.
International Travel:
- When traveling internationally, be aware that different countries may have varying regulations regarding the transportation of liquids. Check the specific rules of the country you are visiting to ensure compliance.
Special Considerations:
- If you have specific concerns or questions about bringing eye drops, especially if they are part of your medical needs, you may contact the airline or TSA in advance for clarification.

Always check for the most up-to-date information and guidelines, as security regulations can change. It’s advisable to review the TSA website or contact the airline for any specific details related to your travel.

Traveling by plane can be stressful, especially if you rely on certain medications to keep you comfortable and healthy. Eye drops are a must-have item for those who suffer from dry or irritated eyes. But can you bring eye drops on a plane?

In this article, we will explore the regulations surrounding bringing eye drops on a plane, including TSA guidelines and international restrictions. So let’s get started!

Can I bring eye drops on a plane?

If your eye drops are okay to bring on a plane, you shouldn’t have any problems. But there are rules about what you can and can’t put in your carry-on bag regarding drinks. Some flights ask passengers to report any liquids or medicines exceeding 3 ounces.

Others ask people to list any prescription drugs they are taking. So, to sum up, yes, you can bring an eyedrop on a plane without a medical license. There are a few other ways to bring eye drops on board if you’re worried about getting caught with illegal drugs. One choice is to buy eyedrops already packaged at the airport where you’re going.

You can also buy generic forms of well-known eye drops with brand names online. These choices may be cheaper than buying regular brand-name eye drops and won’t set off TSA security alarms. You could also put your eyedrops in a plastic bag that can be closed again. But remember that TSA officers might not like that plan.

So, if you decide to pack your own, try to find a method that only involves a little water. Also, don’t bring dry eyedrops on the plane because they can irritate the eyes if they get in them.

Do eye drops count as liquid TSA?

Before we get into the rules about bringing eye drops on planes, let’s look at the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquid rules. The 3-1-1 liquid rule says containers of liquids, pastes, creams, or aerosols must be less than 3.4 oz (100 ml) and fit inside a quart-sized bag. Each person is only allowed one quart-sized bag of liquid.

But this rule doesn’t apply to medically necessary things like eye drops or contact lens solutions. They can be bigger than 3.4 oz. and shouldn’t be kept in a quart-sized bag. Most containers for eye drops already hold less than 3.4 oz.

Even if they do, you can still bring eye drops through the TSA security checkpoint, and they won’t be counted as a normal liquid. Just ensure the eye drops are easy to get to and tell the TSA officer that you have them in your bag.

Here’s a picture from the TSA’s website.

Eye drops and the TSA rules
They added a note that may need clarification for many tourists (less than or equal to 3.4 oz or 100 ml is allowed).
I also looked at their social media to find out what was happening.
I would like to know if the 3-1-1 liquid rule applies to eyedrops and makeup.
The TSA’s answer to the question of whether eye drops must follow the 311 rule

AskTSA’s customer service told me that eye drops could be in my carry-on bag and be more than 3.4 oz. They don’t have to be in my quart-sized liquid bag, though. Solid lipsticks are also fine and can be worn anywhere.

Can you take eye drops in checked baggage?

There are no limits on how many eye drops you can pack in your checked bag, but it could be a better idea. the answer from the TSA about putting eye drops in checked bags. It is because things can go missing from checked bags, or your bag can get lost. So it’s best to keep all drinks in your item.

Yes, you can typically bring eye drops in your checked baggage when flying. Unlike carry-on restrictions, checked baggage has fewer limitations on liquids. However, it’s still advisable to take some precautions:

Pack Securely:
- Ensure that your eye drops are securely packed to prevent leakage. Placing them in a sealed plastic bag or using additional packaging can help protect other items in your luggage.
Prescription or Doctor’s Note:
- If your eye drops are prescription medication, it’s a good idea to carry the prescription with you or have a note from your doctor. While this is not a strict requirement for checked baggage, it can be helpful in case of any questions or if you need a refill during your travels.
International Travel:
- If you are traveling internationally, be aware that different countries may have their own regulations and restrictions. It’s important to check the specific rules of the country you are visiting to ensure compliance.
Quantity Limits:
- Even though checked baggage allows for a greater volume of liquids compared to carry-on bags, it’s still advisable to consider reasonable quantities. Excessive quantities of liquids may be subject to scrutiny.

Always check for the most up-to-date information and guidelines, as airline and security regulations can change. If you have specific concerns or questions about bringing medications or other items in your checked baggage, you may contact the airline or relevant authorities for clarification.

Can I take eye drops on international flights?

Yes, eye drops are generally allowed on international flights. But it’s important to check with the company you’re flying with and the rules of the country you’re going to since some countries may not let you bring certain kinds of liquids or medicines with you.

You should also put the eye drops in your carry-on bag and ensure they are in a container that meets the airline’s size and number rules for liquids.

How Do You Travel With Eye Drops That Need Refrigeration?

If you need to bring eye drops that need to be kept cool, you can bring a small portable cooler or gel packs. You can also freeze ice packs and put them inside the cooler before your flight. But you can always call your company and ask if they can help. Also, keep your eyedrops cool while you’re flying. If the plane has a refrigerator, you can ask the flight staff to store your eye drops.

Traveling with eye drops that require refrigeration can be a bit more challenging, but it’s certainly possible with some planning. Here are some tips for traveling with refrigerated eye drops:

Check with the Manufacturer:
- Consult the manufacturer of the eye drops for specific storage and travel instructions. They may provide guidance on the allowable temperature range for a short period.
Use a Cooler or Insulated Bag:
- Invest in a small travel cooler or insulated bag that can maintain a cool temperature for an extended period. There are travel-sized coolers available that are designed for medications that need refrigeration.
Gel Packs or Ice Packs:
- Pack the eye drops in the insulated bag along with gel packs or ice packs. Be cautious not to make direct contact between the medication and the ice packs. Place a cloth or barrier between them to prevent freezing.
Temperature Monitoring:
- Consider using a temperature-monitoring device to ensure that the eye drops stay within the required temperature range. Some devices are designed to track the temperature of medication during travel.
Traveling by Car:
- If you’re traveling by car, maintaining a cooler with the eye drops inside is more manageable. Ensure the cooler is well-insulated and pack it strategically to minimize temperature fluctuations.
Air Travel:
- If you’re flying, call the airline in advance to inquire about their policies regarding carrying refrigerated medications. Some airlines may have specific guidelines or accommodations for passengers with medical needs.
Notify Security:
- When going through airport security, inform the security personnel that you are carrying medication that requires refrigeration. They may provide guidance or make allowances to ensure the proper storage of your medication.
Hotel Accommodations:
- If you’re staying in a hotel, inquire about the availability of a refrigerator in your room. Most hotels can provide a small refrigerator upon request for medical purposes.
Travel with Documentation:
- Bring any necessary documentation, such as a note from your doctor or the prescription, to explain the need for refrigeration. This can be helpful if you encounter any challenges during your journey.
Check Local Pharmacies:
- In some cases, it might be possible to purchase a small quantity of the eye drops at your destination and keep them refrigerated locally.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific medication and travel plans. Additionally, check with the airline, transportation providers, and accommodation services for any specific requirements or accommodations they can offer.

Conclusion

Passengers can take toiletries such as toothpaste, hair gel, and shampoo if they are in containers of 3 ounces or less and are stored in a single quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag. They can also take any amount of saline solution, eye drops, and medicines onto planes.

If you’re wondering if bringing eye drops on a plane is okay, the answer is yes—as long as they are in your carry-on luggage. However, there are some things you need to keep in mind when packing and transporting your eye drops.

Make sure to put them in a container that won’t leak, and check with customs to see if you can bring them into the country you’re going to. If you’re going on an adventure trip, buy a compact medical fridge like the 4AllFamily 72-Hour Medicine Cooler to keep your medicine cool.