
If you are planning to travel with a FreeStyle Libre sensor, you may be wondering how to navigate airport security. It is recommended that you carry a doctor's letter that confirms your medical condition and any necessary treatments and medications, including the use of a sensor. This can be useful at airport security and during your travels. When passing through security, you should notify the officer if you are unsure about the type of scan you will be subjected to, and you can request an alternative screening method if necessary. While the FreeStyle Libre sensor can be exposed to airport metal detectors, it should not be exposed to x-ray or millimeter radio-wave scanners, as this may damage the device.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Exposure to common electrostatic (ESD) and electromagnetic interference (EMI) | Safe |
| Exposure to airport metal detectors | Safe |
| Exposure to airport scanners (x-ray and millimeter radio-wave) | Not safe |
| Exposure to full-body scanners | Not safe |
| Requesting an alternative screening method | Possible |
| Carrying a doctor's letter | Recommended |
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What You'll Learn
- The Freestyle Libre sensor can be worn through airport metal detectors
- It should not be exposed to x-ray or millimeter radio-wave scanners
- If exposed to x-ray, the sensor may malfunction
- Request an alternative screening method if in doubt
- It is recommended to carry a doctor's letter when travelling with the sensor

The Freestyle Libre sensor can be worn through airport metal detectors
However, the Freestyle Libre sensor should not be exposed to some airport scanners, such as x-ray and millimeter radio-wave scanners. If you are unsure about the type of scanner you are about to pass through, you should notify the security officer and request an alternative screening method. This could be a pat-down check, for example.
It is recommended that you carry a doctor's letter that confirms your medical condition and any treatments or devices you are using. This may be useful at airport security, and you should keep it on you or in your hand luggage. Many airports also provide ''Hidden Disabilities' lanyards, which can be used to discreetly indicate that you may need additional support.
You should also be aware that you will not receive alarms or glucose readings while your phone is in airplane mode, unless you enable Bluetooth.
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It should not be exposed to x-ray or millimeter radio-wave scanners
If you are wearing a FreeStyle Libre sensor, it is recommended that you do not expose it to x-ray or millimeter radio-wave scanners. This is because the x-ray waves can cause the sensor to stop working properly. Instead, you should ask for an alternative screening method, such as a pat-down check.
It is important to notify the security officer prior to proceeding through the airport security checkpoint and request another type of screening. You may also need to explain what a CGM is and that the sensor filament is inserted under the skin.
To facilitate this process, it is recommended that you carry a doctor's letter that confirms your medical condition, treatment method, and any necessary medications, including the use of a sensor. This letter can be useful at airport security and other locations during your travels, such as pharmacies. Additionally, many airports in the UK provide 'Hidden Disabilities' lanyards at their customer service desks, which can discreetly indicate to staff that you may require assistance.
While the FreeStyle Libre sensor can be safely exposed to common electrostatic (ESD) and electromagnetic interference (EMI), including airport metal detectors, it is important to avoid certain airport scanners to ensure the proper functioning of your medical device.
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If exposed to x-ray, the sensor may malfunction
If you are wearing a FreeStyle Libre sensor, it is recommended that you do not pass through full-body scanners at airport security. This is because the FreeStyle Libre sensor should not be exposed to X-ray or millimeter radio waves, which are included in some full-body scanners.
To avoid removing the sensor, you may request an alternative screening method from the security officer before proceeding through the airport security checkpoint. You should inform the security personnel that you have diabetes and are carrying your supplies onboard. You may need to explain any medical devices attached to you and that they cannot be removed. In such cases, a pat-down check can be requested for yourself, and a hand check for your medical supplies and spares.
It is also recommended that you carry a doctor's letter that confirms your medical condition, treatment methods, and any necessary medications, including the use of a sensor. This letter may be useful at airport security and other situations during your travel.
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Request an alternative screening method if in doubt
If you are unsure about the type of security scan you are passing through, it is recommended that you notify the security officer before proceeding through the airport security checkpoint. You may also request another type of screening. For instance, you can ask for a pat-down check instead.
It is also advisable to carry a doctor's letter that confirms your medical condition and any necessary treatments and medications, including the use of a sensor. This letter can be useful at airport security. You can also keep a letter from your diabetes care team. Additionally, many airports in the UK provide 'Hidden Disabilities' lanyards at their customer service desks, which can discreetly indicate that you may need assistance.
It is worth noting that the FreeStyle Libre reader and sensor can be exposed to common electrostatic (ESD) and electromagnetic interference (EMI), including airport metal detectors. They can safely go through these scanners when packed in luggage, carry-on, or in the security tray. However, they should not be exposed to some airport scanners, such as X-ray and millimeter radio-wave scanners.
Therefore, if you are unsure about the type of scanner you will be passing through, it is best to notify the security officer and request an alternative screening method.
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It is recommended to carry a doctor's letter when travelling with the sensor
It is recommended to carry a doctor's letter when travelling with the Freestyle Libre sensor. This letter should outline your medical condition, treatment, and any medications or devices needed. This can be useful at airport security, as well as during your trip. For example, if you need to explain your medical devices to security personnel, a doctor's letter may help confirm the necessity of your Freestyle Libre sensor.
Additionally, you should inform security personnel that you are carrying diabetes supplies, including any medical devices attached to you. You may also need to explain what a CGM is and that the sensor filament is inserted under the skin. If you are unsure about the type of security scan you will be passing through, notify the security officer and request an alternative screening method if necessary.
It is important to note that Freestyle Libre sensors can be safely exposed to airport metal detectors and passed through security trays, carry-on luggage, and checked luggage. However, they should not be exposed to some airport scanners, such as X-ray and millimeter radio-wave scanners, as these can cause the sensors to malfunction.
To summarise, carrying a doctor's letter when travelling with a Freestyle Libre sensor is recommended as it can provide verification of your medical condition and needs. This letter can be helpful at airport security and throughout your travels. Additionally, it is important to be proactive in communicating your medical device usage to security personnel and requesting alternative screening methods if needed.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can wear your Freestyle Libre sensor through airport security. However, you should not pass through full-body scanners as they may include x-rays or millimetre radio waves, which can cause the sensor to malfunction. Instead, notify the security officer and request an alternative screening method.
Advise the security personnel that you have diabetes and are carrying your supplies onboard. You may need to explain any medical devices attached to you and that they cannot be removed.
You can request a pat-down check. You may also request that your medical supplies, including any spares, be hand-checked.
It is recommended that you carry a doctor's letter that confirms your medical condition, how it is treated, and what medications are needed. You can also request a letter from your diabetes care team. Keep this letter on you or in your hand luggage.











































