Flying with an Insulin Pump: Here’s What Tandem, Omnipod, Medtronic an

*Disclaimer: All content and information in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. If you have any specific issues or concerns with your diabetes device, such as device malfunctions, sensor errors, or performance complaints, please contact the manufacturer directly. Last updated on 10/31/2024.

Ah, the thrill of flying with an insulin pump! There is nothing like the adrenaline rush of juggling your insulin pump, your carry-on, and rapidly diminishing supply of patience while inching forward in the seemingly endless security line. You can’t help but wonder if your trusty insulin pump will make it through airport security unscathed and if you’ll manage to keep your cool and make it to your flight on time.

Before You Fly with an Insulin Pump

1. Pack Extra Insulin Pump Supplies

When it comes to packing insulin pump supplies, more is always better. A general rule of thumb to follow is to pack about 2-3 times the amount you’ll need for your trip. Trust us, it’s way better to overpack than end up in a new place scrambling for pump supplies!

2. Keep Your Insulin Pump Supplies in Your Carry-on

Whatever you do, don’t pack your insulin pump supplies in checked luggage. Always keep your pump supplies with you at all times. Bonus: With diabetes, you can get preboarding so your carry-on can receive royal treatment by getting first dibs on the overhead compartments.

3. Coordinate TSA Cares Arrangements

If you need extra help navigating airport security, TSA Cares is there for you! Give them a heads-up 72 hours before your flight and you can have a TSA Passenger Support Specialist assist you through security .

4. Consider a Loaner Pump Program

If you are traveling intentionally or somewhere remote, check if your insulin pump manufacturer offers a loaner pump program. Having a backup pump can be a lifesaver- literally. And if your pump manufacturer doesn’t offer a loaner program, don’t forget to pack long-acting insulin and syringes. Better to have these backups and not need them than to be stuck in a far-off place without your trusty sidekick or additional supplies.

Airport Security with an Insulin Pump

Are Airport Security Scanners Safe for My Insulin Pump?

Tandem t:slim X2 with Control IQ and Tandem Mobi

Metal Detectors: YES, but additional screening may be required.
Baggage X-Ray Machines: NO. Notify security agents that your pump should not be exposed to X-rays and require alternative means of screening.
Full Body Scanners: NO. Although the newer models of these scanners are not X-rays, they have not been tested for safety with Tandem pumps and other screening methods are recommended.

Omnipod DASH and Omnipod 5

Omnipod’s Pod and Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM) can withstand common electromagnetic and electrostatic fields that are found in airport security scanners.

Metal Detectors: YES.
Baggage X-Ray Machines: YES.
Full Body Scanners: YES.

Medtronic MiniMed 780G System, MiniMed 770G System, MiniMed 670G System, or MiniMed 630G System

Metal Detectors: YES, but additional screening may be required.
Baggage X-Ray Machines: NO. Notify security agents that your pump should not be exposed to X-rays and require alternative means of screening.
Full Body Scanners: YES, but you will need to disconnect and remove your insulin pump prior to the scan. Your infusion set should be disconnected at your site and alternative screening that does not use X-ray.

iLet Beta Bionics

Metal Detectors: YES.
Baggage X-Ray Machines: NO. Notify security agents that your pump should not be exposed to X-rays and require alternative means of screening.
Full Body Scanners: YES.

Additional Tips for Airport Security:

Bring Documentation: Use TSA disabilities card or carry a note from your healthcare provider that explains the medical supplies you are traveling with.
Give TSA Agents a Heads Up: Let TSA agents know that you are wearing an insulin pump as you approach the security counter.
Request a Pat Down: If you want to avoid the scanners, you can request a pat down instead. This will be done by an agent of the same gender and a private screening can be arranged if needed.
Opt for a Visual Inspection: You can also choose to disconnect your pump and request a visual inspection of your pump and supplies instead of going through the security scanners.
Prepare for Additional Screening: Be ready for possible extra steps, like a self-pat down of your insulin pump followed by an explosive trace detection test on your hands.
Advocate for Your Needs: Every insulin pump manufacturer has different recommendations so familiarize yourself with your device’s needs. Don’t hesitate to let the TSA agents know what you need- it’s your decision to make!

Flying with an Insulin Pump

Preboarding with Diabetes

Diabetes doesn’t come with many silver linings, but being able to pre-board while flying is one of them. Skip the line, settle into your seat early and make sure that carry-on packed with your insulin pump supplies is within arms reach. Just let the gate agents know you’re boarding with a disability- they aren’t allowed to request additional information.

Communicate with the Crew

Consider giving the flight attendants a heads-up that you have diabetes or just ask for snacks as soon as you board. They might not be diabetes experts, but having someone (or something to snack on) if your blood sugar decides to tank mid-flight never hurts.

Bluetooth Connectivity

When activating Airplane Mode, just make sure your smartphone device’s Bluetooth is on. That way, you can keep using your smartphone device as needed. If you have any connectivity issues while in the air, you can go old school and use your pump directly for boluses.

Stay Hydrated and Adjust Insulin

Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated during the flight and remember that altitude can mess with your insulin sensitivity so be prepared to tweak your doses as needed if you notice funky blood sugars.

Take off and Landing

While insulin pumps are safe to use at cruising altitudes, changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing are a different story. Changes in air pressure can mess with insulin delivery, which could lead to lows. Keep a close eye on your numbers to avoid any surprises!

International Travel

Traveling across time zones with an insulin pump? Don’t forget to update the time on your pump once you land in your new time zone. Those time zone changes can add an extra layer of chaos to your diabetes management so it’s a good idea to check with your healthcare provider beforehand to make sure you’re all set.