Can you bring medication on a plane? TSA rules for pills and liquids
The short answer
Yes. TSA allows medication pills in both carry-on and checked bags. TSA also allows medically necessary liquids, gels and aerosols in reasonable quantities above 3.4 oz (100 ml), but you must declare them to officers at the checkpoint.
Pills
TSA lists medications in pill form as allowed in carry-on bags and in checked bags. The TSA item page refers travelers to its guidance on transporting medication.
Liquid medication
TSA lists liquid medications as allowed in carry-on bags, with up to 3.4 oz (100 ml) allowed under the standard rule, and allowed in checked bags. TSA says it allows larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip. You must declare them to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection.
Medically necessary ice packs
TSA says medically necessary gel ice packs in reasonable quantities are allowed regardless of their physical state, for example melted or slushy. Tell the TSA officer at the checkpoint so they can inspect them.
At the checkpoint
The final decision always rests with the TSA officer at the checkpoint.
Sources: TSA: Medications, Pills, TSA: Liquid Medications, TSA: Gel Ice Packs. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take pills in my carry-on?
Yes. TSA lists medication pills as allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
Can I bring more than 3.4 oz of liquid medicine?
TSA allows medically necessary liquids in reasonable quantities, but you must declare them to officers at the checkpoint.
Do I need to declare liquid medication?
Yes, if it is a larger amount than the standard limit. TSA says you must declare it for inspection.
Are medical ice packs allowed?
TSA allows medically necessary gel ice packs in reasonable quantities, even if melted or slushy. Notify the officer.