Everything you need to know about traveling with medication
While getting to travel is an incredible opportunity, it doesn't always come without some annoyances.
In addition to ongoing COVID-19 testing requirements and restrictions, you also have to deal with packing — in particular, how to pack medication you might need on the trip. After all, the last thing you want during a getaway is to run out of prescription medication (especially if you're stuck someplace due to a positive coronavirus result) or come down with a nasty head cold without access to over-the-counter medications.
That's why it's essential to know certain key details when hitting the road with medications in tow. To find out the best way to be prepared for your vacation, TPG spoke with Dr. Julian Klapowitz of Travel Medicine Consultations, who shared everything you need to know about traveling with medication.
Should I pack my medication in my carry-on bag?
The short answer is yes; that way, you don't risk losing essential medicine in your checked luggage. In fact, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention specifically recommends carrying your prescription medication.
"If I give someone three months of malaria pills, I still tell people to put everything in their carry-on," said Klapowitz. "That way, it doesn't accidentally get lost. Plus, the luggage storage area of the airplane can be freezing. So, anything liquid — like insulin — may end up frozen."
How much medication am I allowed to bring?
Generally speaking, 30 days' worth of medication is acceptable pretty much everywhere. If it's more than that, a doctor needs to provide a note, and you should also have the original prescription, according to Klapowitz. Just allow for extra time at security if you have larger amounts of pills or liquid medicine that doesn't fall into traditional TSA guidelines.
When traveling internationally, the quantity issue really boils down to the types of medications allowed in your destination.
What if I'm traveling for an extended period?
The same answer from above pretty much applies here.
"If you're traveling for more than 30 days, try to have the medication you will need for the entirety of the trip," said Klapowitz. "But, again, those larger quantities will require a doctor's note and original prescriptions to prove the need to travel with that amount."
How do I get medication abroad?
If you don't have enough medicine to get you through an entire vacation or are stuck needing something abroad, there are ways to get medication. Interestingly, the U.S. is more strict regarding many medications than many other countries where you can purchase antibiotics, blood pressure medications and a variety of other pills over the counter.
But, in some destinations, counterfeit medications are a major problem.
"You should be fine to walk into a pharmacy or doctor's office in places like Western Europe and know it's safe," said Klapowitz. "If you're somewhere that's not as reliable, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They should be able to get you in touch with reputable doctors and pharmacies."
Are there destinations that have medication restrictions?
Yes, some destinations do have medication restrictions. For example, Japan doesn't allow certain allergy and sinus medications, and types of inhalers are illegal. Plus, travelers to the United Arab Emirates have ended up in prison because the country has strict narcotics laws.
"Before traveling internationally, check with the foreign embassy of your destination to make sure your medicines are allowed in that country," said Klapowitz. "If it is banned, talk with your doctor about possible alternatives. Or, if you plan to travel with it, be sure all medication is in the original bottle.
"You should also have a doctor's letter explaining the condition and need for the specific restricted medication and an original prescription," Klapowitz added. "Of course, it's not guaranteed you'll be allowed to keep it, but it certainly increases your chances."
Which medications are often restricted?
The most common banned substance is narcotics. "If somebody is thinking about taking codeine, Percocet, Vicodin or methadone, I usually advise to see if it's possible to travel abroad without them," said Klapowtiz.
"The same is true for some regulated psychotropic medications like Adderall and Ambien. But always do your research on the specific destination."
How can I travel with a restricted medication?
Unfortunately, sometimes the answer is that you just can't travel with restricted medication.
But, countries will have a variety of rules — i.e., allow 30-days' worth — so it's important to contact the embassy to see what's allowed. "
Again, if you plan to travel with a restricted medication, be sure you have the documentation to back it up, and everything is clearly labeled," said Klapowitz.
What if my medication is liquid?
If traveling domestically, liquids are allowed so long as they adhere to the TSA's 3.4-ounce rule and fit in a quart-sized bag.
The TSA will allow you to travel with more than that amount, but you must declare the liquid medications to TSA officers at security for inspection.
"The same is basically true for international destinations, so long as it's not a banned substance," said Klapowtiz. "Just be sure to have the original prescription and doctor's note, and leave time for extra security checks."
Can I bring syringes?
Usually, bringing sharp, pointy objects onto a plane isn't allowed. But, some medicines require the use of syringes or needles.
"If you have diabetes, for example, have the same documentation as you would for a restricted medication," said Klapowitz. "Unused syringes and needles are allowed when accompanied by the medication, prescription and doctor's note."
Are there medications I should always bring with me when I travel?
"I always recommend bringing Tylenol, Motrin or Advil for pain and fever, and Imodium for mild diarrhea," said Klapowitz.
"You should also consider taking an antacid if the local diet doesn't agree with you. Then, for anybody who gets motions sickness, pack Dramamine."
In addition to those standard medications, Klapowitz suggested bringing any OTC medications you commonly use.
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| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
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Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.