Coughing and sore throats can be common side effects of air travel, but can you bring cough drops on a plane to alleviate these symptoms? The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strict guidelines for what items are allowed in carry-on and checked luggage, and it can be confusing to determine what is permitted. In this article, we will cover the TSA’s rules for carrying cough drops on a plane, the types of cough drop allowed, and special considerations for packing liquid or gel-based products. We will also provide tips and additional resources to make your travel experience as smooth as possible. Whether you are a frequent flyer or just taking a one-time trip, it’s important to know what you can bring on board to stay comfortable during your flight.
What Are Cough Drops?
Cough drops, also known as lozenges, are small, medicated, and are used to soothe sore throats and alleviate coughing. They are typically made from a combination of ingredients such as menthol, eucalyptus, and other natural or artificial flavors, and they work by numbing the throat and providing a soothing sensation to suppress coughing. Cough drops come in various forms, such as hard candy or soft gummies, and can be medicated or not with different active ingredients, such as menthol, eucalyptol, and others. They can also be used as a preventive measure to reduce the chance of catching a cold or flu, as well as to alleviate symptoms of a cold or flu once it has been caught.
Can you bring cough drops on a plane?
TSA guidelines for carrying cough drops on a plane
– The TSA allows cough drops in both carry-on and checked luggage, as long as they are in reasonable quantities for the trip.
How many coughs drops you can bring on a plane
– It is not specified by TSA how many coughs drops you can bring on a plane, but it is advisable to pack enough for your trip, and not to bring more than you will use, as the TSA may question excessive quantities.
Rules for packing cough drops in carry-on or checked luggage
– Cough drops can be packed in either carry-on or checked luggage, but if they are in liquid or gel form, they must adhere to the TSA’s liquid guidelines. This means that they must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, and all containers must be placed in a clear, quart-sized bag.
Types of cough drop allowed on a plane
Medicated cough drops
– Medicated cough drops contain active ingredients such as menthol, eucalyptus, and other natural or artificial flavors, that can help alleviate symptoms such as sore throat and coughing. They are available over the counter and can be brought on a plane.
Natural cough drops
– Natural cough drops are made from all-natural ingredients and do not contain any artificial flavors or chemicals. They can be brought on a plane, but check the ingredients and make sure they comply with TSA guidelines.
Homemade cough drops
– Homemade cough drops can be brought on a plane as long as they comply with TSA guidelines. However, it is important to note that homemade cough drops may not be as reliable as store-bought products, and it’s advisable to check with your doctor if you have any concerns or medical conditions.
Special considerations for carrying cough drops on a plane
Liquid cough drops
– Liquid cough drops must adhere to the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule, which means that they must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and placed in a clear, quart-sized bag. Be aware that if the container is larger than 3.4 oz, it will not be allowed through security and would need to be checked in your luggage or discarded.
Cough drops in gel or paste form
– Cough drops in gel or paste form must also adhere to the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule and be placed in a clear, quart-sized bag. They are subject to additional screening and may be subject to additional restrictions.
Cough drops with other medications
– If you are carrying cough drops that also contain other medications, it’s important to have a prescription or a note from your doctor, to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings with TSA officers. Additionally, it’s advisable to pack your medications in their original container and in a clearly labeled bag, to facilitate the screening process.
Conclusion
Summary of the information provided
– In this article, we have discussed the TSA’s guidelines for carrying cough drops on a plane, including the types of cough drops allowed, how much you can bring, and rules for packing them in carry-on or checked luggage. We also discussed special considerations for carrying liquid, gel, or homemade cough drops, as well as cough, drops that contain other medications.
Tips for packing cough drops for a flight
– To ensure a smooth travel experience, it’s important to pack enough cough drops for your trip, but not to bring more than you will use. If you are carrying the liquid or gel-based cough drops, make sure they comply with the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule and pack them in a clear, quart-sized bag. If you are carrying cough drops that contain other medications, make sure to have a prescription or a note from your doctor, and pack them in their original container and in a clearly labeled bag.
Additional resources for travel with cough drops
– If you have any further questions or concerns about traveling with cough drops, you can refer to the TSA’s website for more information on their guidelines, as well as check with your doctor or travel agent for additional advice. The TSA also offers a “Can I Bring My…” tool on its website, where you can search for specific items and find out if they are allowed on a plane.