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[Crackers]

It's been a good two years since I've flown, and my travelling needs are much different than they were two year ago. As a result, I have a couple of questions I just don't know the answers or where to look for them. So, here goes:

1. I need to travel with an injectable medication pen, as well as carry pen needles, and lancets on the flight. The injectable pen also needs to be refridgerated. What do I need to do to properly pack these items so they are not taken from me by TSA? Also, is there a TSA permitted cooling item I can use like an ice pack or insulated pack of some kind to keep the medication at the correct temperatures.

2. My nephew who is being treated for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mood Disorder, and ADHD is coming this trip. I've taken him on several vacations in the past and do have a letter from the doctor explaining that we can't be separated on the flight and he will need to sit with me on the plane as Southwest doesn't have assigned seats. If we get stuck with C ticket boarding passes, will the letter be enough to have a flight attendant find us seats together or should I go to the desk and see if he qualifies for pre-boarding? He is 25 and looks like a healthy young adult, but intellectually and emotionally is more on par with a child about 10 years old. There would be a melt down if we were to be separated.

Any help in answering these questions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

[revral]

I'd call and ask Southwest but I suspect their employees aren't allowed to read such letters due to privacy laws.

[Starwind]

For #2 I would contact Southwest and discuss the issue with them. They also have the following page for reference: https://www.southwest.com/html/custo...ities-pol.html

Note that US federal regulations/law requires that a passenger that notifies an airline (self-identifies at the gate) they have a disability that requires additional time with boarding or seating MUST be allowed to preboard. The airline does not need to know what the disability IS, only that there is one. See DOT's "Additional Guidance: Preboarding of Air Travelers With Disabilities": https://www.transportation.gov/airco...g-notice-final

TSA has guidance regarding traveling with medications here: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures

Note in particular: "Ice packs, freezer packs, gel packs, and other accessories may be presented at the screening checkpoint in a frozen or partially-frozen state to keep medically necessary items cool. All items, including supplies associated with medically necessary liquids such as IV bags, pumps, and syringes must be screened before they will be permitted into the secure area of the airport."

YOU will have to determine how best to keep your medication at the right temperature. I suggest speaking with your pharmacist for advice and to ensure you know the proper range to keep it at.

For example, for something that needs to be at fridge temp, ice packs may make it TOO cold as it could freeze it, which for some things is a problem (ie their safe range is cold but not frozen).

FRIO cases are a popular way of keeping medications cool (but not frozen); I have used one myself. http://www.frioinsulincoolingcase.com/ and they are sold elsewhere online and in stores.

SW

[JoanneS]

If you're travelling SWA, I would suggest buying the Early Bird option. That will just about assure you a seat in either the A or early B group and then you'll be able to sit together without a problem.

[Crackers]

Thank you for your comments.

I did consider buying the early bird passes, but that adds $100.00 to our airfare. It was one thing when it was $10 each leg, but now at $25.00 each way, it is just too much.

Starwind, thank you so much for the links. They were extremely helpful.

[notjustamom]

For #2 go to the ticket agent at the gate and tell them that you and/or your nephew need to pre-board for medical reasons. The doctors note is useless as they can't ask and probably won't even look at it. The pre-boarded can be accompanied by 1 other person. This will allow you to board before the A group. Early bird is $15pp one-way so $30 rt not $25 each way. If you have more questions feel free to PM me. I travel SWA multiple times a year with my autistic son.

[Disney4us2]

I've traveled on Southwest with multiple needs. I used the Frio for my insulin pens. If it's hot when you travel, it is a good way to have medication with you. I have also traveled with a scooter rollator. I was able pre board. Go to the gate agent and let them know your situation and see if you can pre board.

[Crackers]

I have no idea why I thought it was $25.00 each way. Must not have been wearing my glasses when I looked it up the first time. I looked up the Frio. That looks like it would work. Thank you all for your suggestions.

[feonag]

I would call SWA to see if you will be able to pre-board. I am not sure that they pre-board for that condition. My niece is autistic and they have never pre-boarded. If not then purchase early bird. That is the only way to make sure you sit together.