Traveling with Medications

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It seems more and more these days, prescription medications are a part of our everyday life.  So what do you do when you travel?  Did you know that medications that are legal here in the United States may not be legal in other countries?  How do you get through security if you are carrying liquid medications?  Here is some valuable information to simplify your travel plans.

 

Traveling with Liquid Medications:  Liquid medications are allowed on a flight in excess of 3.4 ounces as long as it is a reasonable amount for the length of your trip.  You must declare the liquid medication before your screening starts.  The liquid medications do not have to be in the Ziploc bag of other fluids you are carrying.

 

Prescription Medication needs to Stay Cold:  Some prescription medications need to stay cold, so how do you travel?  You are allowed to carry your medications with a gel freezer pack to keep you medications cold.  You need to keep those medications with you (not in your checked baggage).  Again, you need to declare that you are carrying medications and the gel packs before you start the screening process.

 

Prescriptions and International Travel:  Each country has their own regulations and requirements for traveling with medications.  For the most up to date information regarding these regulations check with the State Department website:  http://travel.state.gov/content

 

Best Practices:  When traveling outside the United States, it’s always a good idea to keep your medications in their original container.  In most cases you should travel with a copy of your prescription and the contact information of the prescribing doctor.  Keep this information with your prescriptions.  Always declare to security screeners that you are traveling with medications.  Check with the state department website for any restrictions regarding your medications.

 

It’s always a good idea to have a travel advisor.  They are experts in the field and can guide you through the regulations and restrictions regarding your prescription medications.  Most importantly, have a great vacation!