Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Heather

I'm getting ready to go on a cruise in two weeks, so I'm trying to cover all my bases to ensure that I'll get through all security checkpoints with two containers full of white powder....

I spoke with an agent at TSA (Transportation Security Administration), which is responsible for all domestic security at US airports. They have no problem with any quantity of dry foods, nor did they have an issue with me bringing on two containers of white powder (acacia and natural calm). They said the substances didn't even need to be in their original containers! Cool! However, she did recommend removing the containers from my carry-on and specifically presenting them to the security screeners.

However, I'll also need to deal with Customs and/or the cruise line security. I spoke with the ship's coordinator for my cruise about everything I want to bring onboard. CUSTOMS IS DIFFERENT THAN STANDARD AIRPORT SECURITY! She told me that the white powders MUST be in their original containers. I told her that I also plan to bring a small soft-sided cooler of Bio-K bottles in my checked bag (the 3.5-oz bottles are larger than the allowed 3-oz quantity). She said they do not allow coolers onboard, but that if I get a letter from my doctor (on professional letterhead) specifically stating all the items I need to bring, I won't have any problems.

Glad I called!!

I had planned on only taking enough acacia and natural calm for the week, but now I have to take BOTH (rather large) containers in my carry-on. HEATHER - what are the chances of making a smaller container of acacia, for traveling purposes? I would think this would be useful for anyone traveling internationally, on a cruise, or even domestically; especially with the increased security we have these days. I know I would buy one!

Anyway, I'm sure my doctor won't have any problem helping me out with this; I'm going to talk it over with her this afternoon. Just thought I would pass this info along for any frequent travelers out there!

--------------------
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lisa, IBS-C (Vegan)
Stable since July 2007!
Mommy to Rhiannon Marie (Dec. 13, 2008)

Print Remind Me Notify Moderator