Jetting off to new time zones is exciting but it often comes with the groggy downside of jet lag. The struggle to adjust your internal clock to match your destination’s local time zone can leave you feeling like a zombie. That’s where melatonin, the body’s natural sleep aid, comes into play. But can you bring melatonin on a plane? What are the TSA rules and regulations when it comes to this common medication?Â
Let’s find out!
Melatonin: Your Sleep-Wake Cycle Regulator
Before we dive into the rules, let’s understand why melatonin is such a hot topic for travellers. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in our brain. It plays a crucial role in regulating our circadian rhythm, the internal clock that tells us when it’s time to sleep and wake up.
When you travel to different time zones, your body clock gets out of sync with the local time, leading to jet lag and its notorious side effects like daytime sleepiness and disrupted sleep patterns.Â
Different Forms of Melatonin
Melatonin is available in various forms, including pills, gummies and liquids. Most commonly, travellers opt for melatonin pills or gummies as a natural sleep aid. The good news is that you can bring melatonin supplements in reasonable quantities in your carry-on bag.
When it comes to liquid melatonin, the TSA (transportation security administration) rules are a bit more specific. While you can carry liquid medications, including liquid melatonin, in your carry-on luggage, they must adhere to the 3.4 ounces (100ml) rule for liquids.
Are Melatonin Gummies Allowed?
Melatonin gummies have gained popularity as a convenient and tasty sleep aid. These supplements contain melatonin in a chewable, gummy form, making them an attractive option for travellers seeking to combat jet lag and get some shut eye!
Whether or not melatonin gummies are allowed on flights largely depends on the airline and relevant regulations. In general, gummy vitamins and supplements are considered a liquid or gel-like substance by airport security, so they must adhere to the liquid rule for carry-on bags.
Carry-On or Checked Baggage?
Melatonin pills, gummies or other solid forms should be packed in your carry-on luggage. It’s a good idea to keep them in their original bottles of packaging to avoid any potential issues at the security checkpoint. Remember, the STA agents are primarily concerned with security, not the effects of jet lag.
However, if you require much melatonin, especially in liquid form, you might want to check with your healthcare provider about the best way to transport it. For medically necessary liquids, such as liquid melatonin, you can often carry larger quantities, but it’s a good practice to check with your doctor and have documentation if needed.
Domestic vs. International Flights
Bringing melatonin on domestic and international flights presents unique considerations for travellers seeking to manage jet lag and sleep disruptions.Â
- Domestic flights – You’ll benefit from the simplicity of staying within your home country’s borders. Domestic flights usually entail shorter durations, reducing the need for excessive quantities of melatonin supplements. You can carry melatonin pills or gummies in your carry-on bag, adhering to standard TSA rules for liquids if opting for the liquid form. Since language barriers and visa requirements are typically not concerns on domestic flights, you can focus solely on addressing your sleep needs during your journey!
- International flights – Travelling abroad on an international flight with melatonin requires more strategic planning. International flights often involve longer travel items, crossing various time zones and navigating customs and immigration processes. It’s crucial to research and adhere to the specific rules of your destination country regarding melatonin supplements. Ensure you carry melatonin pills or gummies in their original packaging and, if necessary, provide documentation for prescription medications. Be mindful of varying regulations regarding dosage and forms, as these may differ from your home country.Â
Prescription Medication and Melatonin
If you’re using melatonin as a prescription medication, be sure to bring it in its original packaging, clearly labelled with your name and dosage instructions. The TSA website provides specific rules and guidelines for carrying prescription drugs, so it’s worth checking in advance to ensure a smooth screening process.Â
Jet Lag Management Tips
While melatonin can be a helpful tool for managing the effects of jet lag, it’s essential to combine it with other strategies for the best results!
- Light Exposure: Try to expose yourself to natural light at the right time in your new time zone. Light therapy can help reset your body clock.
- Physical Activity: Engage in physical activity during the day to help tire your body out for a good night’s sleep.
- Sleep Mask: Pack a sleep mask in your personal item for use during long flights. It can help you get some quality shut-eye on the plane.
- Avoid electronic divides: Limit the use of electronic divides before bedtime. The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with melatonin production.
- Sleeping pills: If you struggle with sleep issues, ask your medical professional about taking a sleeping pill or sleep supplements before a flight.
- Maintain a Consistent Schedule: Try to stick to your destination’s local time for meals and activities, even on the plane.
- Consult Sleep Experts: If you have serious sleep disorders or are concerned about your sleep quality while travelling, consider consulting with sleep experts for personalized advice.Â
Travel Essentials for a Good Sleep
Next time you find yourself asking, “can I bring melatonin on a plane”, you should consider some of my fave travel sleep essentials!
- Trtl Travel Pillow – This is the only travel pillow I bring with me and helps me get a good sleep on trains, planes, buses and more.
- GRAYL Filter Water Bottle – Ensuring you’re hydrated will help you get a better sleep, no matter where you are. I use this filtering water bottle to make sure I can have access to clean water no matter which country I’m in.
- Loop Ear Plugs – Noise cancelling ear plugs is where it’s at! This will help you fall asleep on a flight, even if there are crying babies around.
- Sleep Mask – There’s nothing worse than bright plane lights waking you up. Use a sleep mask to block everything out and get some zzzs.
- Inflatable Travel Pillow – If you’re going on a long-haul flight, this inflatable travel pillow is the only way to go. You can blow it up on the flight and deflate it when you get off. It will help you make the best use of the limited space while still allowing you to have a comfortable sleep.
- Melatonin Gummies – My personal choice when it comes to melatonin! These vegan gummies are super affordable and have a great taste.
My Amazon storefront (Canadian storefront here), has all the travel essentials you could ever need.
Want more travel packing tips? Read some of my other blogs here:
- Can a Skateboard be a Carry On? The Best Way to Travel With One
- Can You Bring a Disposable Camera on a Plane: Full Guide
Don’t forget travel insurance before your next trip! I’ve been using SafetyWing for nearly 2 years and never leave home without it.
Enjoy a Restful Flight!Â
The answer to the question, “can you bring melatonin on a plane?†is yes, in various forms, as long as you follow specific rules and guidelines. Remember to pack melatonin supplements in your carry-on luggage and if you require large quantities or have a medical condition, consult your doctor for guidance.
By following these best practices and understanding the TSA regulations, you can enjoy a smooth journey and arrive at your destination country with the energy and enthusiasm to explore the wonders it has to offer!
I’ll be back shortly with a new blog but in the meantime, you can follow my adventures as a full-time traveller and digital nomad on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube!
Cheers,
Amy xx
P.S. Like this post or found it helpful? Consider buying me a coffee or share it with a friend 👇ðŸ¼
