If you’re planning on jetting off this Easter or summer and need to take medication with you then there are strict rules you need to be aware of from different airlines

As Easter holidays loom and summer beckons, millions are gearing up for their overseas getaways.

However, for those who rely on medication, figuring out whether to pack pills in hand luggage or hold suitcases can be a source of stress. Travellers are advised to stow medication – enough to cover the flight duration and any potential delays – in their cabin bags to prevent loss or damage.

While all airlines permit passengers to carry essential prescriptions, there are specific rules regarding quantities and types of medication that flyers should familiarise themselves with.

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Airport personnel may need to open containers to screen liquids at security checkpoints. Medical equipment undergoes separate screening, reports the Daily Record.

It’s also recommended to check embassy guidelines for your destination country to stay abreast of the latest regulations concerning medication. This information can typically be found on the embassy’s website.

Here are some rules from various airlines about travelling with medication:

Ryanair

Ryanair allows passengers to bring medical equipment on board free of charge, in addition to a small personal bag, subject to pre-clearance by their Special Assistance Team.

This includes as much liquid medicine as required for the flight duration, which doesn’t need to fit into the transparent bag used for other liquids. However, it must be ready for inspection at airport security.

The budget airline advises that if you need to bring or use a Special Medical item on board, you should get in touch with them. They will then assess your request and provide authorisation if approved.

easyJet

easyJet’s policy states that there is no requirement for a doctor’s letter if medication is packed in hold luggage. However, they recommend packing medication in hand luggage where possible, particularly if it’s something you might need during the flight.

They also advise passengers to consult their doctor or pharmacist if their prescription contains a controlled drug. These are medications subject to stringent regulations due to government decisions, such as Diazepam, Lorazepam, Codeine or Tramadol.

If you need to travel with medicine containing a controlled drug, they suggest checking the embassy rules of your destination country, as well as entry requirements before flying.

Proof of ownership of your medication, either through a prescription or a doctor’s letter, is necessary.

A letter from your healthcare practitioner confirming that the medication is prescribed to you and is necessary to bring on board is only required if you are bringing any of the following items on board:

• Liquids that exceed 100ml
• Sharp objects such as needles
• Oxygen cylinders and concentrators
• Any medical equipment that may be considered as dangerous goods in the aircraft cabin. Check with easyJet for a full list.

TUI

TUI has advised that if passengers are planning to carry medication or medical equipment in the aircraft cabin, they must bring along a doctor’s letter or prescription. This document should confirm that the medication belongs to the passenger and that the equipment is necessary for the flight.

Liquid medication exceeding 100ml can be taken through security with a doctor’s letter.

If medicines are packed in hold luggage, TUI recommends packing them separately. This bag will not count towards the standard cabin baggage allowance but must not exceed the maximum dimensions of allowed cabin baggage.

TUI also allows passengers to carry insulin or a pen injection device in their hand baggage without a medical certificate, but this must be declared at check-in. Insulin should always be packed in cabin baggage rather than hold luggage as low temperatures in the hold can inactivate it.

Jet2

Jet2’s policy allows passengers to bring essential medications in their hand luggage. However, liquid medications over 100ml require a doctor’s letter and must be in the original container.

Needles, syringes, and insulin pens must be declared to security and cabin crew.

Jet2 advises passengers to carry essential medications for the duration of their trip in their hand luggage. These must be clearly labelled with the passenger’s full name, healthcare provider’s name, generic and brand name, and exact dosage.