device-guides

Flying with EpiPens: Complete TSA, Airline & Storage Guide 2025

MedFly Safe Team
December 10, 2024
22 minutes
EpiPen epinephrine auto-injector with travel case and medical documentation for safe air travel

Essential guide for traveling with EpiPens and emergency epinephrine auto-injectors. Learn TSA rules, temperature storage requirements, prescription documentation, international travel regulations, and airline policies for safe EpiPen air travel.

Flying with EpiPens: Complete TSA, Airline & Storage Guide 2025

For individuals with severe allergies, traveling without an EpiPen is not an option. Whether you have life-threatening food allergies, insect sting allergies, or other anaphylaxis triggers, your epinephrine auto-injector must accompany you on every flight. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about flying with EpiPens safely and legally.

Understanding EpiPen & Epinephrine Auto-Injectors

What Is an EpiPen?

EpiPen Overview

  • Emergency medication delivering epinephrine (adrenaline) via auto-injector
  • Used to treat severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
  • Life-saving medication that reverses anaphylactic shock
  • Must be administered within minutes of severe allergic reaction
  • Prescription medication requiring doctor authorization

Common Epinephrine Auto-Injector Brands

  • EpiPen (Mylan/Viatris) - Most recognized brand
  • EpiPen Jr (child dose 0.15mg)
  • Auvi-Q (Kaléo) - Talking auto-injector with voice instructions
  • Adrenaclick (Amneal Pharmaceuticals) - Generic alternative
  • Symjepi (Adamis) - Prefilled syringe format
  • Generic epinephrine auto-injectors (various manufacturers)

Standard EpiPen Specifications

  • Adult dose: 0.3mg epinephrine
  • Pediatric dose (EpiPen Jr): 0.15mg epinephrine
  • Solution volume: 2ml (0.3mg) or 0.3ml (0.15mg)
  • Storage temperature: 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C)
  • Expiration: Typically 12-18 months from manufacture

Your Legal Right to Fly with EpiPens

TSA Medication Exemptions

TSA Liquid Medication Rule for EpiPens

  • EpiPens are EXEMPT from the 3.4oz (100ml) liquid limit
  • You can bring any quantity of EpiPens in carry-on luggage
  • No need to place EpiPens in quart-size baggie
  • Prescription label required (or doctor's note)
  • Must be declared at TSA checkpoint

Federal Protection Under TSA regulations (49 CFR 1540.111):

  • Passengers may bring medically necessary liquids exceeding 3.4oz
  • Epinephrine auto-injectors qualify as medically necessary
  • Airlines cannot refuse EpiPen transport
  • TSA officers must accommodate medical needs

Airline Policies

All Major Airlines

  • Must allow EpiPens in carry-on luggage
  • Cannot charge fees for medical devices
  • Cannot limit quantity of medically necessary EpiPens
  • Must accommodate allergic passengers (with limitations on guaranteeing allergen-free environment)

Your Rights ✅ Bring multiple EpiPens (typically 2+ recommended) ✅ Carry EpiPens in cabin (never check in luggage) ✅ Keep EpiPens in original packaging with prescription label ✅ Notify flight attendants of severe allergies ✅ Request allergen-free meal (if applicable)

TSA Screening Process for EpiPens

Preparing for Security Checkpoint

Before Security

  1. Place EpiPens in carry-on bag (easily accessible)
  2. Keep EpiPens in original packaging with prescription label
  3. Bring doctor's note if prescription label unclear (optional but helpful)
  4. Separate EpiPens from other items for easy viewing
  5. Have photo ID and boarding pass ready

At TSA Checkpoint

  1. Notify TSA officer: "I'm traveling with medically necessary epinephrine auto-injectors"
  2. Remove EpiPens from carry-on and place in screening bin
  3. EpiPens will go through X-ray screening
  4. TSA may conduct additional visual/physical inspection

TSA Screening Methods

X-Ray Screening (Standard)

  • EpiPens can safely go through X-ray machines
  • X-rays do NOT damage epinephrine medication
  • Most common screening method
  • No impact on medication effectiveness

Physical Inspection (Alternative)

  • You can request physical inspection instead of X-ray
  • TSA officer will visually examine EpiPen
  • May take longer than X-ray screening
  • Useful if you have concerns about X-ray exposure

What TSA Officers Check

  • Prescription label matches passenger name
  • Liquid medication appears legitimate (not tampered)
  • No signs of explosive material (explosive trace detection swab)
  • EpiPen appears to be genuine medical device

Common TSA Issues & Solutions

Issue: TSA Officer Unfamiliar with EpiPens

Issue: TSA Requests Removal from Protective Case

  • You can decline to remove EpiPen from carrying case
  • TSA can inspect carrying case separately
  • Physical inspection alternative available
  • Explain temperature sensitivity and need for protection

Issue: Questioned About Multiple EpiPens

  • Explain: "Medical best practice recommends carrying 2+ EpiPens for severe reactions"
  • Provide doctor's note if TSA persists
  • TSA cannot limit medically necessary medications
  • Request TSA supervisor if issue continues

Prescription & Documentation Requirements

What Documentation You Need

Minimum Requirements

  • Prescription label on EpiPen box (with your name)
  • OR doctor's letter/prescription (if EpiPen box missing)

Recommended Documentation

  • Doctor's letter describing allergy and EpiPen medical necessity
  • Prescription printout with your name, medication, dosage
  • Allergy action plan (school/work plan adapted for travel)
  • Emergency contact information
  • Health insurance card

Doctor's Letter Template (Recommended)

[Doctor's Letterhead]

To Whom It May Concern:

[Patient Name] is under my medical care for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to [allergens: tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, bee stings, etc.].

Due to this life-threatening condition, [Patient Name] must carry the following emergency medications at all times, including during air travel:

  • Epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPen 0.3mg) - Quantity: [2-4]
  • [Other allergy medications if applicable: antihistamines, inhaler]

These medications are medically necessary and must remain with the patient in the aircraft cabin. Epinephrine must be stored at room temperature (68-77°F) and cannot be checked in cargo holds.

In the event of a severe allergic reaction, [Patient Name] may require immediate administration of epinephrine. Flight crew should call for emergency medical assistance and prepare for potential medical emergency landing.

Please contact me at [phone/email] if you have questions regarding this patient's medical needs.

Sincerely, [Doctor Name, MD] [Medical License Number] [Date]

International Travel Documentation

Additional Documents for International Flights

  • Translated doctor's letter (destination country language)
  • Prescription with generic drug name (epinephrine, not just brand name)
  • Customs declaration form mentioning medication
  • Contact info for allergist at destination (if available)
  • International health insurance card

Country-Specific Requirements

  • Some countries limit medication imports (check embassy website)
  • Prescription medications usually allowed for personal use (30-90 day supply)
  • Declaration at customs may be required
  • Generic "epinephrine auto-injector" term recognized internationally

Packing EpiPens for Air Travel

Carry-On vs. Checked Luggage

ALWAYS Carry-On - NEVER CheckDo NOT pack EpiPens in checked luggage

  • Cargo hold temperatures can freeze or overheat EpiPens
  • No access to EpiPen during flight if checked
  • Risk of lost luggage leaving you without life-saving medication

Always Pack in Carry-On

  • Keep EpiPens with you at all times
  • Easily accessible during flight
  • Protected from temperature extremes
  • Available for immediate use if needed

How Many EpiPens to Bring

Recommended Quantities

  • Domestic short trips (1-3 days): 2 EpiPens minimum
  • Domestic long trips (1-2 weeks): 3-4 EpiPens
  • International travel: 4-6 EpiPens (limited access to replacements abroad)
  • Remote destinations: 6+ EpiPens (difficult to obtain emergency replacement)

Why Multiple EpiPens?

  • Single dose may not be sufficient (10-20% of anaphylaxis cases require second dose)
  • Backup if one EpiPen malfunctions or is accidentally discharged
  • Replacement may be unavailable at destination
  • Airlines recommend 2× expected quantity for extended trips

EpiPen Storage & Carrying Cases

Temperature Protection EpiPens must be stored at 68-77°F (20-25°C):

  • Avoid freezing (below 32°F/0°C) - damages medication
  • Avoid excessive heat (above 86°F/30°C) - degrades epinephrine
  • Never leave in car (temperature extremes)
  • Avoid direct sunlight exposure

Recommended Carrying Cases

  1. Insulated medication cases (FRIO, MediCool) - passive cooling via evaporation
  2. Hard-shell protective cases (EpiPen branded case, pelican-style)
  3. Soft pouches with belt clip (quick access, visible)
  4. Travel medication organizers (multiple compartments for EpiPen + antihistamines)

Best Practices ✅ Keep EpiPen in original box (clear prescription label visible) ✅ Use insulated case if traveling to hot climate ✅ Attach case to belt/purse for constant access ✅ Use brightly colored case (easy to locate in emergency) ✅ Include emergency contact info on case

What NOT to Do ❌ Store in airplane overhead bin (too difficult to access in emergency) ❌ Leave in seat-back pocket (could be forgotten) ❌ Pack loose in carry-on without protection ❌ Store in checked luggage (temperature extremes + inaccessible)

In-Flight Considerations

Notifying Airline & Flight Crew

Should You Notify the Airline in Advance? Optional but recommended for severe allergies:

  • Call airline special assistance line 24-48 hours before flight
  • Explain allergy and request allergen-free meal
  • Ask if "buffer zone" seating available (some airlines accommodate)
  • Request early boarding to wipe down seat area

Notifying Flight Attendants Recommended for safety:

  1. Discreetly inform lead flight attendant upon boarding
  2. State allergy clearly: "I have a severe peanut allergy and carry an EpiPen"
  3. Show flight attendant EpiPen location in your carry-on
  4. Provide brief instruction: "If I have a reaction, I'll use my EpiPen and need emergency medical assistance"
  5. Ask if airline can avoid serving allergen on flight (not guaranteed)

Flight Attendant Cannot:

  • Guarantee allergen-free environment
  • Police other passengers' food
  • Prevent passengers from bringing outside food containing allergens

Flight Attendant CAN:

  • Avoid serving specific allergen in snacks/meals (when possible)
  • Announce allergy to passengers (requesting cooperation)
  • Provide immediate assistance if anaphylaxis occurs
  • Administer airline's onboard emergency epinephrine (if trained and available)

In-Flight Allergen Exposure Risks

Common In-Flight Allergens

  • Peanuts/Tree nuts: Snack bags, trail mix, cookies
  • Shellfish: Some airline meals
  • Dairy: Milk, cheese, yogurt in meals
  • Wheat/Gluten: Bread, crackers, pretzels
  • Eggs: Breakfast meals, baked goods

Reducing Exposure Risk ✅ Wipe down tray table, armrests, seat belt with sanitizing wipes ✅ Bring your own safe snacks and meals ✅ Decline airline meals if allergen risk uncertain ✅ Wash hands frequently (avoid touching face) ✅ Consider wearing mask (reduces airborne allergen exposure) ✅ Request seat change if neighboring passengers have visible allergens

Using EpiPen During Flight

Signs of Anaphylaxis

  • Difficulty breathing, wheezing, throat tightness
  • Swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat
  • Rapid pulse, dizziness, fainting
  • Hives, itching, flushed skin
  • Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps
  • Sense of impending doom

If Anaphylaxis Occurs

  1. Use EpiPen immediately (don't wait - seconds matter)
  2. Call for help - "I need medical assistance! I'm having an allergic reaction!"
  3. Inject epinephrine into outer thigh (can inject through clothing)
  4. Lie flat with legs elevated (unless vomiting or difficulty breathing, then sit up)
  5. Prepare second EpiPen (may need second dose in 5-15 minutes)
  6. Take antihistamine (Benadryl/diphenhydramine) if able
  7. Alert flight crew - cabin crew will assess and call for medical professionals on board

After EpiPen Administration

  • Flight crew will call for medical professional passengers (doctor, nurse, paramedic)
  • Pilot may declare medical emergency and request priority landing
  • Ambulance will meet aircraft at destination or diversion airport
  • You MUST seek emergency medical care even if symptoms improve (biphasic reactions can occur 4-12 hours later)

Airline Emergency Medical Equipment

  • All commercial aircraft carry emergency medical kits
  • Some airlines stock supplemental epinephrine (in addition to passenger's EpiPen)
  • Flight attendants trained in basic emergency response
  • Medical professionals on board may assist if available

EpiPen Storage During Flight

Best In-Flight Storage ✅ Personal item under seat in front of you (immediate access) ✅ Insulated case to maintain temperature ✅ Visible/easily identifiable case (bright color)

Avoid ❌ Overhead bin (takes too long to access in emergency) ❌ Seat back pocket (could be forgotten or kicked) ❌ Checked luggage (inaccessible during flight) ❌ Window seat if EpiPen owner needs quick bathroom access

Temperature & Storage Considerations

Temperature Sensitivity of Epinephrine

Optimal Storage Temperature

  • Ideal: 68-77°F (20-25°C)
  • Acceptable short-term: 59-86°F (15-30°C)
  • Damaged by: Below 32°F (0°C) or above 95°F (35°C)

Effects of Temperature Extremes

  • Frozen epinephrine: Crystalized, ineffective, cloudy solution
  • Overheated epinephrine: Degrades rapidly, turns brown, loses potency
  • Optimal range: Clear, colorless solution

Visual Inspection Before each use, check EpiPen: ✅ Solution is clear and colorless ✅ No particles or cloudiness ✅ No brown/yellow discoloration ❌ Discard if solution is cloudy, discolored, or contains particles ❌ Discard if EpiPen has been frozen

Protecting EpiPens During Travel

Hot Climates / Summer Travel

  • Use insulated medication case (FRIO, MediCool)
  • Activate cooling pouches per manufacturer instructions (usually water-activated)
  • Avoid leaving EpiPen in car (can reach 120°F+ in summer)
  • Store in hotel room safe or refrigerator (not freezer)
  • Carry in air-conditioned areas when possible

Cold Climates / Winter Travel

  • Keep EpiPen close to body (inner jacket pocket)
  • Avoid prolonged outdoor exposure in freezing temperatures
  • Use insulated case to maintain temperature
  • Don't store in unheated areas (car trunk, outdoor luggage)
  • Bring indoors immediately upon arrival

Airplane Cabin Environment

  • Cabin temperature typically 65-75°F (18-24°C) - safe for EpiPens
  • Avoid window seat in direct sunlight (can overheat)
  • Keep in insulated case if cabin temperature feels extreme
  • Cargo hold can drop below freezing - never check EpiPens

International Travel with EpiPens

Country-Specific Regulations

Most Countries Allow Personal Medication

  • Epinephrine auto-injectors widely recognized worldwide
  • Personal use quantity (30-90 days) typically exempt from import restrictions
  • Prescription or doctor's letter usually sufficient

Restricted Countries (Check Before Travel)

  • Some Middle Eastern countries have strict medication import laws
  • Certain Asian countries require advance approval for imported medications
  • Contact destination country's embassy for specific requirements

Customs Declaration

  • Some countries require medication declaration on customs form
  • Declare EpiPens if form asks about prescription medications
  • Show doctor's letter and prescription if questioned
  • Typically no issue with reasonable personal supply

Language Barriers

Translated Medical Documents Bring doctor's letter translated to:

  • Destination country language
  • Languages of transit countries (if connecting flights)
  • Spanish, French, Mandarin (widely spoken languages)

Translation Services

  • Professional medical translation (recommended)
  • Google Translate (backup for emergency communication)
  • Hospital emergency departments usually have interpreters

Universal Medical Symbols

  • Red cross / medical insignia on EpiPen case
  • Allergy alert bracelet with pictogram
  • International allergen symbols (crossed-out peanut icon, etc.)

Replacing EpiPens Abroad

If EpiPen Lost/Damaged Overseas

  1. Contact local pharmacy (may dispense with foreign prescription)
  2. Visit local doctor/clinic for emergency prescription
  3. Contact U.S. embassy for medical resource referrals
  4. Call your home doctor to fax/email prescription to local pharmacy
  5. Contact travel insurance for emergency medication assistance

Availability by Region

  • Europe: EpiPens widely available (may be under different brand names)
  • Asia: Availability varies; major cities usually stock epinephrine auto-injectors
  • Africa/South America: Limited availability outside major urban areas
  • Australia/New Zealand: EpiPens readily available

Generic Names Worldwide

  • "Epinephrine auto-injector" (U.S./UK)
  • "Adrenaline auto-injector" (UK/Australia/Europe)
  • Scientific name: "Adrenaline" or "Epinephrine"

Airline-Specific Policies

Major U.S. Airlines

American Airlines

  • EpiPens allowed in carry-on (unlimited quantity)
  • Allergen-free meals available with advance request
  • Cannot guarantee nut-free flight
  • Notify crew if severe allergy
  • Contact: Special Assistance 800-735-2988

Delta Air Lines

  • Epinephrine auto-injectors permitted
  • "Buffer zone" seating for severe allergies (limited, request in advance)
  • No peanuts served, but cannot control passenger food
  • Medical assistance via Delta trained flight attendants
  • Contact: Disability assistance 404-209-3434

United Airlines

  • EpiPens always allowed in cabin
  • Allergy meals available (request 24 hours advance)
  • Crew can make PA announcement for severe allergies (optional)
  • Onboard emergency medical kit includes epinephrine
  • Contact: Accessibility desk 800-228-2744

Southwest Airlines

  • Epinephrine auto-injectors permitted
  • No longer serves peanuts (but passengers may bring)
  • Allergy-friendly snacks available
  • Preboarding available for allergy-related needs
  • Contact: 800-I-FLY-SWA

JetBlue Airways

  • EpiPens allowed in carry-on
  • Nut-free snacks available upon request
  • Crew can announce severe allergy to passengers
  • Medical kit includes epinephrine
  • Contact: 800-538-2583

International Airlines

European Carriers

  • Generally accommodating of EpiPens
  • Prescription label or doctor's note recommended
  • Allergen-free meals available with advance notice
  • EU regulations protect medical device transport

Asian Airlines

  • EpiPens allowed with prescription documentation
  • Language barrier possible - bring translated doctor's letter
  • Allergen meals available but limited options
  • Crew English proficiency varies

Budget/Low-Cost Carriers

  • EpiPens permitted under same TSA/medical device rules
  • Fewer meal options (bring your own safe food)
  • May have less experience with severe allergy accommodations
  • Confirm EpiPen policy when booking

Traveling with Children Who Have EpiPens

Documentation for Children

Additional Requirements

  • Parent/guardian authorization letter (if child traveling with others)
  • School allergy action plan (adapted for travel)
  • Emergency contact card with parent phone numbers
  • Photo of child with allergy information on back

Child-Specific EpiPen Considerations

  • Use EpiPen Jr (0.15mg) for children under 66 pounds
  • Practice EpiPen administration with child before trip
  • Teach child to recognize allergy symptoms
  • Ensure child knows to tell adults immediately if symptoms occur

School Group / Camp Travel

If Child Traveling with School Group

  1. Provide EpiPen to chaperone with written instructions
  2. Ensure chaperone trained in EpiPen administration
  3. Supply backup EpiPen (child keeps one, chaperone keeps one)
  4. Provide written emergency action plan
  5. Verify travel health insurance covers child

Authorization Forms

  • Medical treatment authorization for trip leaders
  • EpiPen administration consent form
  • Emergency contact information (multiple numbers)

Teens Traveling Alone

Teaching Self-Advocacy

  • Practice explaining allergy to TSA, flight crew
  • Role-play emergency EpiPen use scenarios
  • Ensure teen can read and understand prescription labels
  • Set up emergency contact on phone lock screen

Safety Measures

  • Medical ID bracelet with allergy information
  • Copy of doctor's letter in wallet
  • Emergency contact card in carry-on
  • Regular check-ins with parents via phone

Allergy-Friendly Travel Tips

Pre-Travel Preparation

Research Destination

  • Identify hospitals/clinics near accommodation
  • Find allergy-friendly restaurants
  • Learn how to say "I have a severe [allergen] allergy" in local language
  • Download translation app with medical terms
  • Join allergy travel forums for destination-specific tips

Allergy-Friendly Accommodations

  • Choose hotels with refrigerators (medication storage + safe food storage)
  • Request allergen-free room (no scented products, cleaned thoroughly)
  • Ask about on-site dining allergen protocols
  • Verify proximity to medical facilities

Safe Food Strategies

Bringing Safe Food

  • Pack non-perishable safe snacks for flight
  • TSA allows solid food in any quantity in carry-on
  • Bring full meals if concerned about airline food
  • Consider travel-size allergen-free meal kits

Restaurant Communication

  • Print allergy cards in local language
  • Ask detailed questions about ingredients and cross-contamination
  • Speak directly with chef when possible
  • Choose simple dishes with fewer ingredients
  • Consider eating at chain restaurants with allergen menus

Allergy Identification

Medical Alert Jewelry

  • Bracelet or necklace with allergy and "Carries EpiPen"
  • Include emergency contact phone number
  • Internationally recognized medical alert symbol
  • Visible even if unconscious

Wallet Card

  • Laminated allergy information card
  • Emergency contacts
  • Doctor's information
  • "In case of emergency, administer my EpiPen"

Emergency Action Plan

Anaphylaxis Response During Travel

Recognize Symptoms (within minutes to hours after allergen exposure)

  • Skin: hives, itching, flushing, swelling
  • Respiratory: difficulty breathing, wheezing, throat tightness, coughing
  • Gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramping
  • Cardiovascular: rapid pulse, low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting
  • Neurological: anxiety, confusion, sense of doom

Immediate Actions

  1. Inject EpiPen immediately (don't wait to see if symptoms worsen)
  2. Call 911 or local emergency number (airport: alert security; airplane: alert flight crew)
  3. Lie down with legs elevated (unless vomiting/breathing difficulty)
  4. Prepare second EpiPen (may need in 5-15 minutes if symptoms don't improve)
  5. Take antihistamine (Benadryl) if able to swallow
  6. Go to emergency room (even if symptoms improve - risk of biphasic reaction)

After Emergency Care

  • Request replacement EpiPen prescription
  • Purchase new EpiPens before continuing travel
  • Identify trigger if unknown
  • Consider cutting trip short if severe reaction

Post-Reaction Considerations

Medical Follow-Up

  • ER visit mandatory after EpiPen use (observe for 4+ hours)
  • May receive additional medications (steroids, antihistamines, IV fluids)
  • Doctor may prescribe additional EpiPens for remainder of trip
  • Update allergy action plan if needed

Travel Continuation

  • Assess whether safe to continue trip
  • Consider returning home if allergen unavoidable at destination
  • Increase EpiPen quantity carried
  • Heighten vigilance for remaining trip

Expiration Dates & Replacement

Checking EpiPen Expiration

Where to Find Expiration Date

  • Printed on EpiPen auto-injector barrel
  • Listed on EpiPen box
  • Format: "EXP MM/YYYY" or "Expires MM/DD/YYYY"

Pre-Travel Expiration Check

  • Check expiration date 2-4 weeks before trip
  • Replace EpiPens expiring within 3 months of trip end date
  • Ensure adequate shelf life for entire trip duration + buffer

Expired EpiPen Risks

  • Epinephrine degrades over time (reduced potency)
  • May still provide some benefit in extreme emergency
  • NOT recommended to rely on expired EpiPen
  • Always replace before expiration

Replacing EpiPens

Before Travel

  • Refill prescription 30 days before expiration
  • Check insurance coverage for early refill (may require override)
  • Pay out-of-pocket if insurance denies early refill (safety worth cost)
  • Ask doctor for prescription for extra EpiPens for travel

During Travel

  • Pharmacies can fill prescription in most U.S. states
  • International: varies by country (doctor's letter helps)
  • Travel insurance may cover emergency medication replacement
  • EpiPen manufacturer (Viatris) has international customer service

Cost Considerations

  • EpiPens expensive in U.S. ($600-700 for 2-pack without insurance)
  • Generic alternatives cheaper (adrenaclick ~$100-200)
  • Manufacturer copay assistance cards available
  • Consider purchasing extras before international travel (cheaper in U.S.)

Resources & Support

Allergy Organizations

Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE)

  • Website: www.foodallergy.org
  • Travel tips and resources
  • Translated allergy cards
  • Emergency action plans
  • Helpline: 800-929-4040

Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (AAFA)

  • Website: www.aafa.org
  • Travel guides for allergic individuals
  • Advocacy and support

Kids With Food Allergies (KFA)

  • Website: community.kidswithfoodallergies.org
  • Family travel resources
  • Support forums

Medical Resources

TSA Cares

  • Toll-Free: 855-787-2227
  • Assistance for travelers with medical conditions
  • Call 72 hours before flight for support

U.S. Embassy (when abroad)

  • Can provide medical resource referrals
  • Assists with emergency prescription needs
  • Emergency contact information on embassy website

International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers (IAMAT)

  • Website: www.iamat.org
  • Directory of doctors worldwide
  • Translated medical terms

Helpful Apps

Allergy Travel Apps

  • AllergyEats: Restaurant allergy ratings
  • Spokin: Allergy-friendly destination guides
  • Google Translate: Medical term translation
  • GF Scanner / Allergy Scanner: Barcode scanning for allergen detection (varies by region)

Conclusion

Flying with EpiPens is not only allowed but protected under federal regulations. With proper preparation, documentation, and awareness, you can travel safely with severe allergies.

Key Takeaways: ✅ Always carry EpiPens in cabin (never check) ✅ Bring at least 2 EpiPens (more for international travel) ✅ Keep prescription label visible or carry doctor's note ✅ Notify flight crew of severe allergies ✅ Inspect EpiPens before travel (check expiration, solution clarity) ✅ Use insulated case for temperature protection ✅ Know how to use EpiPen and recognize anaphylaxis symptoms ✅ Go to ER immediately after using EpiPen (even if symptoms improve)

Your life-saving medication is your right to carry. Travel confidently knowing you're prepared for any emergency.

Safe travels from the MedFly Safe Team!

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