Can You Bring Sanitary Pads Or Tampons On A Plane?

Last Updated on March 26, 2023

Key Takeaways

  • Yes, you can bring sanitary pads or tampons on a plane
  • You can wear feminine hygiene products through the checkpoint but if there is a security alarm you may need to undergo a pat down

Your menstrual cycle shouldn’t stop you from bring able to travel whether you are taking a short trip or a long-haul flight.

Let’s take a look at what the people in control of airport security say on the matter.

TSA Sanitary Pads Rules

On their website, the Transportation Security Administration mentions that you can bring tampons on a plane in carry-on luggage.

The TSA doesn’t mention sanitary pads but I checked on Twitter to get a definitive answer:

Sanitary pads are allowed in carry-on and checked bags without any limits on the quantity

TSA on Twitter

So you can take sanitary products like tampons, pads, or even a menstrual cup in hand luggage.

You can also pack pads in checked luggage without restriction.

You personal item bag or your handbag is the best place to pack sanitary products.

There is always the chance that your carry-on luggage might be gate checked if there is a lack of space in the overhead bins.

Keep your preferred feminine products with you in your personal item bag under the seat in front of you.

You can also wear sanitary pads or tampons when you fly. Elizabeth was worried about this so asked the TSA:

Feminine hygiene products can be worn through the checkpoint. However, if the screening technology alarms, you’ll need to undergo a patdown. We understand pat-downs may be uncomfortable but are an important security measure to keep dangerous items off planes.

TSA on Twitter

Try to make sure you don’t have anything in your pockets or are wearing jewelry when going through the airport scanners. You don’t want to trigger any alarms during the screening process.

Tips For Flying During Menstruation

Choose an aisle seat for easier access to the airplane toilet.

Do not flush sanitary pads down the airplane toilet.

Carry sealable plastic bags so you can easily dispose sanitary pads in the trash.

You can bring painkillers on a plane too.

You can bring an empty hot water bottle through airport security. You’d then need to get it filled with hot water after the security checkpoint or ask the flight attendant nicely if they would fill it for you.

Alternatively you are able to bring electric heated pads through airport security. Some women find them useful to help with painful cramps.

Liquids like hand lotion need to be in your quart-size toiletries bag and in containers less than or equal to 3.4 oz.

Wet wipes are not considered to be a liquid and can be brought through airport security in unrestricted quantities.

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