For those headaches, cramps, aches, and fevers, Advil can be invaluable when you’re traveling.

So you’re probably wondering if you can bring Advil on a plane to your next destination.

According to TSA regulations, you can bring Advil on a plane in both your carry on and checked bags.

But does the type of Advil you want to bring matter?

What are the rules when flying internationally?

Can you also bring other OTC medicine on your next flight?

Let’s take a closer look.

Can You Bring Advil on a Plane?

Advil Pain vs PM vs Cold/Sinus Flu vs. Children’s’

Advil has a range of products with different delivery methods.

These include:

  • Advil Pain: Dual Action, Tablets, Caplets, Liqui-Gels, Migraine, Arthritis
  • Advil PM: PM Caplets, PM Liqui-Gels
  • Children’s: Drops, Chewables, Suspension
  • Cold/Sinus/Flu: Multi-Symptom Cold & Flu, Sinus Congestion & Pain, Congestion & Relief, Cold & Sinus, Allergy Sinus

But can you bring all of these on a plane?

Fortunately, yes.

Regardless of the Advil product and its delivery form, the TSA allows you to pack both in your carry on and checked bags.

Domestic vs. International Flights

Even though the TSA only has authority in the USA, other countries will also allow you to bring Advil onto a plane in both your carry on and checked bags.

When traveling outside the USA, it’s a good idea to have Advil and other medicines in their original packaging, as the medication might not be as widely known outside the USA.

By Airline

All airlines follow TSA regulations.

So this means that regardless if you’re flying with a regional or major air carrier, including Southwest, Delta, United, JetBlue, and American Airlines, you will be able to bring Advil on a plane in both your carry on and checked bags.

Does it Make a Difference if Advil is Opened or Unopened?

It makes no difference if the Advil you want to bring on a plane is opened or unopened.

Both opened and unopened packages will be allowed in both your carry on and checked bags.

How Much Advil Can You Bring on a Plane?

The TSA state that “you can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened.”

This includes Advil.

If packed in your checked bag, there are also no limits.

How to Pack Advil for Flying

Checked Bags

There are no specific instructions you have to follow when packing Advil in your checked bags.

Just place any Advil products in your bag, check it in, and you’re good to go.

Carry on Bags

If you want to pack Advil in your carry on, the TSA list the following requirements:

  • It is not necessary to present your medication to, or notify an officer about any medication you are traveling with unless it is in liquid form.
  • Medication in liquid form is allowed in carry-on bags in excess of 3.4 ounces in reasonable quantities for the flight.
  • You must tell the officer that you have medically necessary liquids at the start of the screening checkpoint process.
  • Medically required liquids will be subject to additional screening that could include being asked to open the container.

This does not apply to Advil liqui-gels, as the liquid is enclosed in a capsule.

Can You Bring Tylenol, Ibuprofen, and Other OTC Medications on a Plane?

Whether you want to bring Tylenol on a plane, or other medications like Advil, Ibuprofen, Motrin, and Aleve, the TSA state that:

  • You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened.
  • Medication in liquid form is allowed in carry-on bags in excess of 3.4 ounces in reasonable quantities for the flight, though additional screening will be required.

This only applies to medications packed in your carry on bags.

If packed in your checked bags, there are no specific instructions you must follow.

Robert Davis - Seasoned Flyer
Travel Management Consultant

Robert is an expert in commercial air travel with decades of experience in the travel industry, and has spent countless hours in airports and on planes for work.

Robert therefore has an unrivaled understanding of everything related to commercial air travel, and has been quoted or mentioned in major publications, such as Insider, Trip Savvy, ZDNet, and Bored Panda, showcasing his extensive knowledge and expertise in the field.