Flying With Medical Devices: A Practical Guide to Airport Screening, Power, and Paperwork

Flying with a pacemaker, insulin pump, CPAP machine, oxygen concentrator, or other medical device can feel overwhelming. Security checkpoints, battery rules, and airline policies add layers of complexity to a trip that might already be stressful.

The good news: millions of travelers safely fly with medical devices every year. With some planning and the right information, you can usually move through the airport, board your flight, and manage your device with much more confidence.

This guide walks through what to expect and how to prepare, focusing on three key areas:

• ✅ Airport screening procedures for common medical devices
• 🔋 Power supplies and batteries for flights and layovers
• 📄 Documentation and communication to smooth your trip

Throughout, the focus is on practical, non-medical information you can use to plan your journey.

Understanding Your Medical Device Before You Travel

Before you think about airport lines or power outlets, it helps to understand a few basics about your specific device and how it behaves when you travel.

Key questions to answer about your device

Try to clarify these points in advance (often by checking your device manual or speaking with your healthcare team):

• Is the device implanted or external?
  For example, pacemakers and defibrillators are implanted; insulin pumps, infusion pumps, and certain monitors are external.

• Is it life-sustaining or supportive?
  Devices like ventilators, external defibrillators, or certain infusion pumps may be considered critical; this can affect airline handling and priority.

• Is it sensitive to metal detectors or scanners?
  Some devices can safely pass through security scanners; others may require manual inspection. Device manufacturers typically provide guidance on this.

• Does it use batteries, external power, or both?
  Knowing your battery type, capacity, and expected runtime helps you plan for long flights and possible delays.

• Can it be safely disconnected temporarily?
  Some devices can be paused for moments (for example, to pass through screening), while others should remain connected continuously.

You do not need to memorize technical details, but having manufacturer information or a device card handy can make it easier to explain your needs to security staff and airline personnel.

Airport Screening With Medical Devices

Security screening is often the most stressful part of air travel with medical equipment. Policies can vary between countries and airports, but there are some common patterns.

General principles at security checkpoints

Across airports, security teams usually:

• Allow medical devices and supplies through checkpoints with additional screening if needed
• Expect travelers to declare medical devices that might trigger alarms or require special handling
• Offer alternative screening methods (like pat-downs) for people who cannot pass through certain scanners

You can usually bring medical equipment like syringes, insulin, nebulizers, CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, and associated supplies, but these may be inspected separately.

Implanted devices: pacemakers, ICDs, neurostimulators

Travelers with implanted devices often have specific concerns about scanners and magnets.

Common considerations include:

• Metal detectors and walk-through scanners
  Many people with implanted devices walk through metal detectors without issues, but some device manufacturers advise holding an ID card and requesting an alternative screening method.
  The concern is usually not the metal detector itself but lingering near it or being exposed to handheld wands for long periods.

• Full-body scanners (millimeter-wave)
  In some regions, these scanners are used instead of metal detectors. Travelers with implanted devices sometimes choose to decline these scanners and request a pat-down instead, especially if the manufacturer advises caution.

• Handheld wands
  Prolonged or repeated contact with a wand directly over an implanted device is usually discouraged. If you have an implanted device, you can typically ask security not to place the wand directly over it.

• What helps:

  • Carrying a device ID card or letter explaining your implanted device
  • Politely stating at the start of screening: “I have an implanted medical device and may need an alternative screening method.”

External wearable devices: insulin pumps, CGMs, monitors

Insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), Holter monitors, external neurostimulators, and similar wearables can interact differently with scanning equipment.

Key points travelers commonly consider:

• X-ray conveyor belts
  Many device manufacturers advise not placing pumps or CGM receivers on the X-ray belt and instead requesting hand inspection. The concern is potential damage to sensitive electronics.

• Full-body scanners
  Some device makers state that pumps and CGMs should not be exposed to certain body scanners. Travelers often choose to:

  • Inform the officer that they are wearing a medical device
  • Request a pat-down instead of a scanner
  • Ask that the device not be removed unless medically safe to do so

• Visible devices and adhesive sites
  It can be helpful to mention upfront that your pump, sensor, or infusion set is attached to the skin and should not be pulled or removed.

• Spare supplies
  Extra infusion sets, sensors, and doses of medication are usually allowed in carry-on bags, often with additional screening.

Devices that require manual inspection

Some devices are best handled by direct visual and swab inspection rather than scanners or X-ray belts. These might include:

• Portable infusion pumps and medication cassettes
• Certain neuromodulation external controllers
• External heart monitors
• Battery packs and specialized chargers
• Some specialized equipment used for home therapies

You can usually ask for your device to be screened by hand inspection. Officers may swab it for explosive residue; this is a standard procedure and does not damage the device.

Communicating with security staff

Clear, calm communication makes screening smoother:

• Speak up early:
  As you approach the line, say something like:
  “I’m traveling with medical devices and may need extra time and manual screening, please.”

• Keep it simple and specific:

  • “This is an insulin pump that should not go through X-ray or body scanners.”
  • “I have an implanted defibrillator and need an alternative to the full-body scanner.”

• Be prepared for follow-up questions:
  Security staff may ask:

  • Whether the device is removable
  • Whether it contains liquid
  • Whether there are any sharp components

Having your device card, a short letter, or the manufacturer’s information leaflet can answer many questions quickly.

Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage for Medical Devices

Where you pack your device and supplies can strongly affect safety and convenience.

Why medical devices belong in carry-on bags

Most sources of travel guidance encourage travelers to keep essential medical devices and supplies in carry-on baggage, such as:

• Insulin, pens, and syringes
• Pumps and pump supplies
• Inhalers, nebulizers, and tubing
• CPAP machines and accessories
• Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) and related parts
• Batteries for any device
• Emergency medications and rescue devices (for example, auto-injectors)

Reasons include:

• Checked bags can be delayed, lost, or exposed to extreme temperatures.
• You may need your device or medication mid-flight or during an unexpected delay.
• Lithium batteries often must not be placed in checked luggage, according to common aviation rules.

What can go in checked baggage

Less critical duplicates or bulky items may go in checked bags if allowed, such as:

• Extra non-lithium backup batteries (if permitted by the airline)
• Spare tubing, masks, or accessories that are not urgently needed in-flight
• Non-essential backup equipment, if you have multiples

However, any item you cannot safely go without for the duration of your travel, including delays, is typically best kept with you in the cabin.

Power Supplies, Batteries, and In-Flight Use

Power planning is one of the most important parts of traveling with medical devices, especially for long-haul flights or complex itineraries.

Understanding your device’s power needs

Key details to confirm before flying:

• Battery type:

  • Lithium-ion
  • Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)
  • Alkaline
  • Custom proprietary batteries

• Battery capacity and runtime:
  For example, how many hours a fully charged battery typically runs under normal use.

• Charging method:

  • AC wall outlet (voltage range and plug type)
  • DC adapter (for use in cars or some airplane seat outlets)
  • USB or other connectors

• Whether the device can run on internal battery only during takeoff, landing, and turbulence, when plug-in power might not be available or allowed.

Airline rules around batteries

Airlines usually follow aviation authority rules that:

• Often limit the size (watt-hour rating) and type of lithium batteries carried on board
• Commonly prohibit spare lithium batteries in checked luggage
• Usually require terminals to be protected (for example, using caps or keeping batteries in original packaging) to prevent short-circuits
• May limit the number of spare batteries allowed per passenger

For many medical devices, batteries fall within standard size limits, but checking both airline and general aviation authority guidelines helps avoid surprises.

Estimating how much power you may need

When planning, consider:

• Total travel time door-to-door, not just flight time
• Possible delays, diversions, and layovers
• Whether you will have reliable access to outlets in airports or on planes

Many travelers choose to bring more battery capacity than they think they’ll need, such as:

• Enough charged batteries to cover the entire journey
• Additional margin for unplanned delays
• Fully charged power banks or backup packs that comply with airline rules

In-flight use of medical equipment

Different airlines have different policies on using medical devices in-flight.

Common practices:

• Portable oxygen concentrators:
  Many airlines allow approved POCs on board, often asking for:

  • Advance notice
  • Proof that the device is on an accepted list or meets standard requirements
  • Sufficient battery capacity to cover a defined multiple of flight time (airlines may specify this)

• CPAP machines and ventilators:
  These are often permitted and might be:

  • Used during flight with battery power
  • Plugged into available seat power where allowed (though power is not always guaranteed)

• Infusion pumps and similar devices:
  External pumps are frequently used in-flight, especially when medically necessary. Cabin crew may ask you to keep tubing organized and equipment secure during takeoff and landing.

• Noise and size considerations:
  Larger or louder devices can be placed under the seat or in front of you to minimize disturbance. Some travelers bring noise-masking headphones if their device makes constant sound.

💡 Power Planning Snapshot

• 🔋 Pack all essential batteries in carry-on, protecting terminals
• ⚡ Assume seat power may be unavailable or unreliable
• ⏱ Plan power for total trip time plus buffer
• ✈️ Check airline policies if you plan to use oxygen, CPAP, or ventilators during the flight

Documentation, Letters, and Medical Device Cards

Having the right paperwork does not guarantee a completely friction-free trip, but it often makes questions easier to handle.

Types of documents that can help

Commonly useful items include:

• Medical device identification card
  Many implanted and external devices come with a wallet-sized card that lists the device type, manufacturer, and sometimes specific model.

• Brief physician or clinic letter
  A short letter printed on office letterhead can:

  • Confirm that you use a medical device and associated supplies
  • Note that you may need to carry medications, needles, or other items through security
  • Explain if your device should not pass through certain screening equipment

• Prescription labels and original packaging
  Keeping some medications and supplies in their original labeled containers helps confirm they are for personal medical use.

• Translated documents (if traveling internationally)
  A short explanation in the language of your destination or transit country can sometimes help, especially for more specialized devices.

What to include in a physician or clinic letter

Travelers often find it helpful if the letter briefly notes:

• Your name and date of birth
• The general type of medical condition or need (without detailed history)
• The name and type of medical device(s) you use
• Any important handling notes, such as:
  • “This device should not be disconnected.”
  • “This device should not go through X-ray or full-body scanners.”
  • “The patient must have immediate access to this device and its accessories.”
• That you must carry medications and associated supplies (like syringes, lancets, cassettes, or tubing) through security and on board.

The letter does not need to be long; clarity and concise information are usually more helpful than extensive detail.

Packing and Organizing Medical Devices for Travel

How you pack your medical equipment can significantly affect how smoothly you move through security and manage your device on the plane.

Practical packing strategies

Consider these approaches:

• Create a dedicated medical bag
  A small, organized carry-on or personal item that:

  • Holds all essential devices, medications, and supplies
  • Can stay with you under the seat
  • Is easy to open for security inspection without unpacking everything

• Use clear pouches or organizers
  Transparent or labeled pouches for:

  • Medications
  • Infusion sets and sensors
  • Tubing and masks
  • Cables and chargers
    make it easier to find items and easier for officers to inspect them.

• Separate liquids and sharps

  • Medication liquids often receive special handling, and many security agencies allow medically necessary liquids above standard volume limits.
  • Syringes, lancets, and other sharps may be allowed when clearly associated with medications. Keeping them with their related item helps security understand why they are needed.

• Protect delicate components
  Wrap or cushion:

  • Sensors
  • Masks
  • Glass vials
  • Specialized adapters
    to prevent damage from impact or pressure.

Temperature and environmental considerations

Some medications and devices are sensitive to:

• Extreme heat or cold
  Cabin temperatures are usually more stable than cargo holds, another reason to prefer carry-on.

• Moisture and condensation
  Sealed bags and desiccant packets can help keep components dry.

• Altitude and pressure changes
  Certain devices may behave differently at altitude; manufacturer guidance may include any limitations for air travel.

Communication With Airlines and Travel Providers

Beyond airport security, airlines and sometimes airports may need advance information about your device, especially if:

• It requires on-board oxygen or ventilatory support
• You need extra space, special seating, or assistance boarding
• You plan to travel with large equipment or multiple devices

Before you book or soon after booking

It may be useful to:

• Review the airline’s “special assistance” or “medical needs” policies.

• Confirm whether they allow:

  • The specific portable oxygen concentrator or device model you use
  • In-seat use of CPAP or ventilators
  • Additional carry-on items for medical equipment

• Inform them if you:

  • Need wheelchair assistance to and from the gate
  • Require pre-boarding to set up equipment
  • May need help stowing heavier items

At the airport and on the plane

When you arrive at the gate, you can:

• Briefly explain to gate agents that you:
  • Are traveling with medical equipment
  • May benefit from boarding early to stow and set up your device

Once on board:

• Let cabin crew know:
  • Where your device is stored
  • If you will be using it during the flight
  • If there are any safety considerations they should be aware of (for example, tubing they should avoid snagging with carts)

Special Considerations by Device Type

Different devices raise different practical questions. The following is a general overview; manufacturer and clinical guidance should remain your primary reference.

Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors

Typical travel-related considerations include:

• Scanner and X-ray exposure
  Many pump and CGM manufacturers suggest avoiding:

  • X-ray belts for the device
  • Certain types of full-body scanners

• Blood glucose changes due to time zones and meals
  While medical decisions remain between you and your clinical team, from a travel logistics perspective, it helps to:

  • Pack extra supplies (sensors, infusion sets, batteries)
  • Keep a backup plan if electronics fail (if this is part of your usual care planning)

• Backup equipment
  Some travelers bring:

  • A spare pump (if available)
  • Additional meters or test strips
  • Extra infusion sites in case of accidental removal

CPAP machines and sleep devices

Many airlines treat CPAP devices as assistive devices, which may allow you to carry them in addition to standard baggage.

Common points:

• Carrying the device on board

  • Keep it in a dedicated case
  • Ensure it’s clearly identifiable as medical equipment

• Using CPAP during flight

  • Check whether your airline allows it
  • Consider that seat power might be intermittent or unavailable
  • Many travelers bring sufficient battery power for overnight flights

• Water for humidifiers

  • Distilled water may not always be available during travel
  • Some travelers choose to temporarily use CPAP without humidification if clinically acceptable, or to use available bottled water for short trips as guided by device documentation

Portable oxygen concentrators and respiratory devices

Air travel with oxygen or respiratory support equipment typically requires more coordination:

• Regulatory requirements
  Airlines and authorities usually:

  • Accept only certain concentrator models
  • Require documentation that the device meets safety standards

• Battery requirements
  There may be expectations that you carry enough battery power to cover a multiple of the flight time, plus contingency. The exact multiple varies by policy.

• Airport oxygen vs. in-flight oxygen
  Oxygen arrangements on the ground (in terminals) are often different from those in the air. Travelers may coordinate with home oxygen providers or local services for continuity.

Implanted cardiac devices and neurostimulators

Travelers with pacemakers, defibrillators, or neurostimulators often focus on:

• Avoiding prolonged exposure to certain scanners or magnets, per manufacturer advice
• Carrying device cards and emergency contact information
• Keeping distance from strong magnets sometimes found in certain equipment or retail security gates

Many find that routine airline travel is possible with these devices once security screening patterns and precautions are understood.

Quick-Reference Checklist for Traveling With Medical Devices

Here is a compact checklist to review as you plan ✈️

Bringing It All Together

Travel with medical devices involves more moving parts than a typical trip, but it does not need to be unmanageable. When you:

• Understand how your device interacts with airport security,
• Plan for power and backup batteries, and
• Carry concise documentation and communicate clearly,

you reduce uncertainty for yourself, security officers, and airline staff.

Every itinerary and device is a little different, and personal medical guidance always comes from your healthcare team and device documentation. From a practical standpoint, though, most travelers find that advance preparation and organized packing turn a stressful unknown into a manageable routine.

With the right groundwork, your medical device can travel with you as a reliable companion rather than a barrier—freeing you to focus more on your journey and less on the logistics.