Lois Larson
Travelling with an insulin pump can be a stressful experience, especially when going through airport security. However, taking an insulin pump through airport security is quite common. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows diabetes-related supplies, equipment, and medication, including liquids, through checkpoints after proper screening by X-ray or hand inspection. Insulin pumps are designed to withstand common electromagnetic interference, including some airport security systems, but it is recommended to avoid X-ray screening. Here are some key things to know when travelling with a tandem insulin pump through airport security.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can Tandem insulin pumps be exposed to X-ray screening? | No, they should not be exposed to X-ray screening, including airport baggage X-ray machines. |
| What should be done instead? | Notify the security agent and request an alternate means of screening, such as a physical inspection or pat down. |
| Can they go through metal detectors? | Yes, they are designed to withstand common electromagnetic interference from airport metal detectors. |
| What should be done before going through security? | Notify the security agent in advance that you are wearing an insulin pump, as it will be detected during the screening process. |
| What documents should be carried? | Carry a printed copy of the "Flying with Your Tandem Insulin Pump" handout, your Airport Information Card, and proof of prescription, such as a pharmaceutical label. |
| Where should insulin be stored? | Insulin should be carried with you and not stored in checked luggage due to potential pressure and temperature changes. |
| What other supplies should be carried? | Carry diabetes-related supplies, equipment, medication, and liquids. Pack all supplies together in your carry-on bag. |
| What if there are difficulties at security? | Ask to speak to a Passenger Support Specialist, Supervisory TSA Officer, or the TSA Ground Security Commissioner. |
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What You'll Learn
Insulin pumps can go through metal detectors
Insulin pumps can be worn through airport metal detectors without causing harm to the device or triggering an alarm. However, it is important to notify security agents in advance that you are wearing an insulin pump, as it will be detected during the screening process.
Tandem Diabetes Care insulin pumps, for example, are designed to withstand common electromagnetic interference from airport metal detectors, but they should not be exposed to X-ray screening. This includes airport baggage X-ray machines and full-body scanners. Instead, you should disconnect at the infusion set site and request a physical inspection or pat-down.
Other manufacturers, such as Medtronic, also advise against exposing insulin pumps to X-ray machines or full-body scanners. If you choose to go through a body scanner, you must remove your insulin pump. To avoid this, you can request an alternative screening process, such as a pat-down.
In general, insulin and diabetes equipment should be carried in your hand luggage, as insulin should not be stored in checked luggage due to extreme temperatures that may affect its effectiveness. It is recommended to carry insulin in a medically approved cool bag, and to have a pharmaceutical label that clearly identifies the medication.
To facilitate the screening process, you can provide a printed copy of relevant documentation, such as the "Flying with Your Tandem Insulin Pump" handout or an airport emergency card, to the security agent. It is also advised to contact the airport in advance to understand their scanners and alternative screening methods.
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Insulin pumps should not go through X-ray machines
It is important to note that insulin pumps should not be exposed to X-ray screening or full-body scanners. This includes airport baggage X-ray machines. Insulin pump manufacturers advise against this due to potential damage to the device. Regulations allow passengers with insulin pumps to request an alternative security screening process.
When passing through airport security with an insulin pump, it is recommended to notify the security agent in advance and request an alternative means of screening. For example, you can disconnect at the infusion set site and request a physical inspection of the pump. It is important to disconnect at the correct site to avoid introducing air into the tubing, which could compromise insulin delivery.
Additionally, insulin pumps are designed to withstand common electromagnetic interference from airport metal detectors and can be safely passed through them. However, it is still advisable to inform the security agent that you are wearing an insulin pump, as it will be detected during the screening process.
To facilitate the screening process, it is helpful to provide a printed copy of relevant documentation, such as the "Flying with Your Tandem Insulin Pump" handout, to the security agent. It is also recommended to carry essential supplies, such as insulin, and clearly identify them. If you are carrying a spare insulin pump, it should be removed from your cabin bag before X-ray screening and handed to the security officer for inspection.
By following these guidelines, individuals with insulin pumps can navigate airport security safely and effectively, ensuring their medical devices remain functional and undamaged.
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Notify security agents about your insulin pump
It is important to notify security agents about your insulin pump before passing through airport security. This is because insulin pumps are subject to specific screening requirements. Insulin pumps are generally designed to withstand electromagnetic interference from airport metal detectors, but they should not be exposed to X-ray screening.
When going through airport security with an insulin pump, it is recommended to inform the security agent and request an alternative means of screening. For example, you can disconnect your insulin pump at the infusion set site and request a physical inspection or a pat-down instead of passing through a full-body scanner. Carrying documentation, such as a prescription or an airport information card, can also help facilitate the screening process and ensure that your insulin pump is properly accommodated.
To streamline the security process, it is advisable to place all diabetes-related supplies and equipment together in your carry-on baggage. This includes items such as insulin, syringes, needles, and glucose meters. Having these items organised and easily accessible can make it easier for security agents to inspect and screen your belongings.
Additionally, it is important to be aware of any specific regulations or requirements that may vary across different airports or countries. Checking with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) or the relevant authorities before travelling can help ensure that you have the most up-to-date information regarding insulin pumps and airport security. Being prepared and knowledgeable about the procedures can make your travel experience smoother and less stressful.
By proactively notifying security agents about your insulin pump, you can ensure that your medical needs are addressed while also complying with airport security measures. Remember to remain informative and cooperative throughout the process, and don't hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.
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Request an alternative screening process
If you are travelling with an insulin pump, you should be aware that you can continue to wear your insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) while going through common security systems such as an airport metal detector, as it will not harm the device or trigger an alarm. However, insulin pumps should not go through baggage x-ray machines or full-body scanners. To avoid removing your insulin pump, you may request an alternative screening process.
- Notify security screeners that you have diabetes, that you are wearing an insulin pump, and are carrying supplies with you.
- You can request a visual inspection of your insulin and other diabetes supplies rather than putting them through an X-ray. This inspection may include swabbing your insulin pump for explosives.
- Make sure to request a visual inspection before the screening process begins; otherwise, your supplies will undergo an X-ray inspection.
- Separate your supplies from your other property in a pouch or bag.
- You will be asked to display, handle, and repack your supplies during the visual inspection process.
- If you are asked to disconnect your insulin pump, make sure to disconnect at the infusion set site, not at the tubing connection (t:lock connector). Disconnecting at the t:lock connector could introduce air into the tubing, potentially compromising insulin delivery.
- You can also request a pat-down instead of a full-body scanner.
- You have the right to have this screening done in private with a witness of your choice.
- If you need assistance with screening, you may ask for a Passenger Support Specialist or a Supervisory TSA Officer.
It is important to note that travel rules are subject to change, so it is advisable to check with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) before travelling. You can find TSA information on their website or by calling their helpline numbers.
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Carry proof of your insulin prescription
When travelling with a Tandem insulin pump, it is important to carry proof of your insulin prescription. This is because insulin pumps and supplies must be accompanied by insulin, and insulin in any form or dispenser must be clearly identified. You should also be able to prove that you have diabetes and are carrying your supplies with you.
It is recommended that you take more cartridges and infusion sets than you would usually need, as well as additional rapid-acting insulin and a prescription, and long-acting insulin or a prescription. A written plan describing how to cover your insulin therapy with injections if you need to disconnect from your Tandem pump for a period of time is also a good idea. This backup plan should be discussed with your healthcare provider in advance.
If you are travelling outside of the United States or to locations where receiving shipments may be difficult, Tandem offers a Travel Loaner Program that allows you to borrow a backup insulin pump for the duration of your trip. This should be returned unopened or with an authorized return number, which you will need to receive in advance from Customer Technical Support.
It is also important to note that Tandem pumps should not go through baggage x-ray machines or full-body scanners. You should notify the security agent and request an alternate means of screening, such as a pat-down or physical inspection of your pump.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but it is recommended that you notify the security agent and request an alternative means of screening. Insulin pumps are designed to withstand common electromagnetic interference from airport metal detectors but should not be exposed to X-ray screening.
It is recommended that you provide a printed copy of the "Flying with Your Tandem Insulin Pump" handout to the security agent. You should also notify the agent that you are wearing an insulin pump, and request an alternative screening process that does not use X-ray.
It is important to always carry the Airport Information Card for your insulin pump system, as well as a printed travel checklist. It is also recommended to keep extra insulin pump supplies and to check your glucose more frequently while travelling.
It is important to notify the TSA officer that you have diabetes and are carrying your supplies with you. Insulin pumps and supplies must be accompanied by insulin, and insulin must be clearly identified. It is also recommended to pack all your supplies together in your carry-on bag.
