Michael Turner
Pack all unused diagnostic kits inside carry-on/cabin baggage in original, tamper-evident boxes. Store reagent vials and buffer solutions in containers ≤100 ml each to meet standard liquid limits; if medically necessary volumes exceed that threshold, declare them at the security checkpoint and keep purchase receipts and manufacturer instructions readily available.
Do not transport collected specimens inside passenger baggage unless packaging complies with IATA Packing Instruction 650 for Biological Substances, Category B (UN 3373): leak‑proof primary receptacle, sealed secondary packaging, absorbent material between layers, and a rigid outer box. Laboratory shipments require a dedicated courier and hazardous-goods paperwork; personal carriage of used specimens without that packaging risks refusal by airlines and border authorities.
Security screening treats sterile swabs and sealed kits as standard carry-on items, but reagent ampoules and liquid buffers are inspected under liquid rules and X‑ray screening. Present any medically justified liquids at the checkpoint to avoid delays; keep instructions for use and product labeling available to security staff.
Regulatory and airline requirements differ by carrier and destination. Verify airline policies and entry rules at least 72 hours before departure: some jurisdictions restrict import of medical diagnostic devices, require specific device markings (CE/FDA), or demand official result documentation for entry. Retain both printed and electronic receipts, device labeling, and any prescription or lab paperwork.
Avoid placing used kits or specimens in checked baggage; temperature-sensitive components intended for immediate analysis should be kept in cabin with cold packs and clear labeling. For commercial transport or bulk consignments, engage a courier experienced with biological materials to manage temperature control and compliance.
Quick checklist: original sealed packaging; buffer vials ≤100 ml or declared at checkpoint; no transported specimens unless PI650-compliant; carry receipts and device labeling; confirm airline and destination rules 72 hours before departure.
Bringing SARS‑CoV‑2 diagnostic kits in cabin baggage
Pack sealed SARS‑CoV‑2 rapid antigen or PCR self‑collection kits in carry‑on; place reagent vials and any liquid components inside a single clear 100 ml (3.4 oz) resealable bag and present separately during security screening.
Keep swabs and buffer tubes in original packaging. Lancets and other small sharps are permitted in cabin only if fitted with safety caps; otherwise transfer to checked baggage or consult security staff. Uncapped needles and syringes are not allowed without prior medical declaration and airline approval.
Electronic readers and other devices with lithium batteries must comply with airline battery rules: cells up to 100 Wh are allowed in cabin, spare cells must be carried in carry‑on with terminals insulated, cells between 100–160 Wh require airline approval, and units above 160 Wh are usually prohibited.
If transporting collected specimens, follow infectious‑substance regulations: human samples are often classed as UN3373 (Category B) and need triple packaging, clear labelling and carrier acceptance. Avoid carrying patient specimens in passenger cabin unless transport arrangements meet IATA/ICAO requirements.
Customs and import rules vary: some destinations restrict personal import of in vitro diagnostic devices or require registration/approval for molecular kits. Retain purchase receipt, manufacturer instructions and any clinical authorisation for presentation to authorities.
Practical packing checklist
Sealed kit(s); reagent vials in a 100 ml clear bag; swabs in original wrappers; capped lancets or sharps case; device manual and purchase receipt; protective case for spare batteries; clinician note or prescription if applicable.
At the airport
Place the clear liquids bag in an accessible pocket of the carry‑on for screening. If screening personnel request inspection, present original packaging and the product leaflet. For international itineraries, confirm airline and destination rules before departure and use authorised couriers for shipment of any biological samples.
Which types of PCR, rapid-antigen and lateral-flow kits are allowed in carry-on
Bring sealed PCR kits, rapid-antigen kits and lateral-flow kits in cabin baggage; unopened swabs and reagent vials that are 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) or smaller per container normally meet airport liquid limits.
PCR kits: dry swabs in sterile tubes and small-volume viral transport media (VTM/UTM) under 100 ml are accepted in carry-on. Large VTM bottles (greater than 100 ml) should be transferred to checked baggage or sourced in smaller aliquots; commercial labs often supply single-use vials to avoid this issue.
Rapid-antigen and lateral-flow kits: lateral-flow cassettes, buffer ampoules (typically 1–3 ml) and extraction tubes are routinely permitted in cabin baggage. Confirm total liquid volume per kit and keep kits in original sealed packaging to speed security screening.
Used specimens and biohazardous material: sealed, triple-packaged clinical specimens may be regulated under IATA packing instructions; avoid transporting biological samples in passenger baggage unless following carrier and lab shipping protocols. For mail-in diagnostics, hand samples to the courier at designated drop-off points rather than placing in checked hold.
Battery-powered readers and spare cells: portable analyzers with lithium-ion batteries up to 100 Wh are allowed in carry-on; devices or spare batteries between 100–160 Wh require airline approval; anything over 160 Wh is prohibited. Protect terminals (tape or original packaging) and keep spares in cabin, not in checked baggage.
Documentation and screening tips: keep kits in original boxes, present unopened packages at security if requested, check reagent volumes before travel, and verify airline or country-specific restrictions ahead of departure. For unrelated travel accessories and discounts, see best umbrella promotional code and best windproof compact umbrella reverse.
How to pack and present diagnostic kits at airport security to avoid delays or confiscation
Keep all diagnostic kits sealed in original packaging and place them in an easily accessible outer pocket of carry-on baggage for screening.
Place any liquid reagents in a single transparent resealable plastic bag and respect the common 100 ml / 3.4 fl oz per-container rule used by US and EU screeners (3-1-1). Vials larger than 100 ml should go in checked baggage or be cleared with the airline before travel.
Carry manufacturer labels, instructions for use and purchase receipts together with kits; present these documents on request to verify contents and intended medical purpose.
Avoid transporting collected biological specimens unless packaged and labeled as Category B (UN3373) with proper triple packaging and carrier approval; most passenger flights restrict specimen carriage without formal shipping arrangements.
Keep electronic readers, portable analyzers and spare lithium batteries or power banks in cabin baggage with terminals insulated. Battery capacity guidance: ≤100 Wh allowed without airline approval, 100–160 Wh requires airline consent, >160 Wh prohibited on passenger aircraft.
During screening, remove kits from bulky bags and place them in a tray or on the belt when directed; separate sealed kits from clothing and toiletry items so officers can inspect packaging and labels without delaying the whole carry-on.
If an item is flagged because of reagent volume or unfamiliar packaging, request a manual inspection rather than immediate disposal and record serial or batch numbers beforehand where possible. When in doubt, contact the airline or departing airport security in advance and obtain written confirmation for any nonstandard items.
How liquid reagents, swabs and battery-powered devices affect carry-on restrictions
Keep liquid reagents in containers ≤100 ml unless Safety Data Sheets (SDS) classify them as dangerous goods; hazardous reagents require airline approval or cargo shipment under IATA/ICAO Dangerous Goods rules.
Regulatory thresholds and classifications
- Liquid volume limits: standard cabin rule = 100 ml (3.4 oz) per container for general liquids; medically necessary liquids may be exempt but must be declared at security and supported by documentation.
- Dangerous goods: reagents containing flammable solvents (ethanol, isopropanol), strong oxidizers, or corrosives may be UN-classified (e.g., UN1993). SDS and manufacturer data determine if air transport as passenger cabin is prohibited.
- Infectious substances: collected clinical specimens or swabs immersed in transport medium may fall under UN3373 (Category B) or higher-risk categories; such items require triple packaging, labeling and acceptance by the carrier for air transport.
- Lithium batteries: lithium-ion up to 100 Wh permitted in cabin without airline approval; 100–160 Wh require airline approval (typically limited to two spares); >160 Wh generally forbidden on passenger aircraft. Lithium metal batteries limited by lithium content (max 2 g for most passenger carriage).
Practical handling rules
- Reagents: check SDS for UN number and hazard class before travel. If SDS lists flammable liquid or toxic components, arrange cargo transport or written airline permission; small sealed ampoules under 100 ml usually acceptable but verify composition.
- Swabs and sample media: sterile, unused swabs in original packaging pose no special DG risk. Collected samples with transport medium require packaging meeting UN3373 and prior carrier acceptance; dry swabs with no medium are less restricted but local biosafety rules may still apply.
- Battery-powered analyzers and power banks: carry power banks and spare lithium cells only in cabin; protect terminals (tape or original covers) and keep at safe charge level per manufacturer recommendations. Devices with non-removable batteries are normally allowed in cabin; if placed in checked baggage, ensure device cannot activate accidentally.
- Documentation: carry printed SDS for reagents, manufacturer declaration for device batteries (Wh rating), and any physician or supplier letters that attest to medical necessity or kit contents when applicable.
- Carrier and authority checks: consult IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations and the airline’s policy well before departure; airport security or airline personnel may deny carriage if documentation or packaging is inadequate.
Quick checklist: verify SDS for each reagent; confirm UN/PG classification; ensure swabs/samples meet UN3373 if applicable; limit spare lithium-ion to ≤100 Wh in cabin or obtain approval for 100–160 Wh; pack batteries to prevent short circuits; obtain airline confirmation when any reagent or battery exceeds standard passenger limits.
Required documentation and airline permissions for diagnostic kits at border crossings
Carry printed MSDS, the manufacturer’s authorization (CE mark, FDA EUA or equivalent) and a clinician’s letter stating intended personal use, quantity and collection method.
Core documents to have available: passport, boarding pass, product insert with lot/expiry, Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS), manufacturer conformity certificate, physician’s prescription or attestation, any pre-approved airline correspondence, and destination-country import or quarantine permits when applicable.
Confirm product classification before travel: reagent kits may be classified as non-infectious consumer medical devices, Biological Substance Category B (UN 3373), or a dangerous good (for some liquid reagents or preserved materials). If classified as a dangerous good, bring the IATA Dangerous Goods Declaration or the carrier’s written acceptance and the specific UN number and packing instruction cited by the manufacturer.
When requesting airline permission, email customer relations with: flight number/date, full product name and manufacturer, quantity (units and total volume of liquids), presence and watt-hour rating of any lithium batteries, and attached MSDS and product insert. Example subject line and first sentence: “Request: carriage approval – diagnostic kit, Flight AB123 10 Sep. Attached: MSDS, product insert, clinician letter.” Keep the airline’s written reply (PDF or screenshot) accessible for check-in and immigration.
Check destination rules ahead of departure. Some jurisdictions restrict importation of biological reagents or require prior health authority approval (examples include certain Pacific and Gulf states). If uncertain, seek confirmation from the embassy or the destination health regulator and retain that correspondence. For a comparable example of how carriers handle permission for specialty equipment, see are dslr camera allowed at barrett jackson.
