Can you take medications on a plane? Are there specific rules governing what medications you can take when flying, or how they are packed?
These and similar questions are very common, especially with a growing population of older, retired people flying. Whether your parents are traveling with you or you are newly retired and wanting to enjoy your free time with a trip or two, it's important to know the airline rules for packing medications before you go, so you do not risk having important medications confiscated.
In fact, it's not just the airlines but also customs you need to please, depending on where you are going. Because the laws, legalities and regulations differ for taking medications to different countries and even on different airlines, here are some basic tips to help you ensure you get your medications safely to your destination with you.
1) Have your prescription/s with you. If there is any question, having a copy of your prescription packed along with your medications will help clear up any questions and prove the validity of your need to carry them. Always carry whatever applicable paperwork you can get; this may also help you remember what to take and how much, etc. while you are away and your surroundings and routine are unfamiliar and possibly distracting.
2) Follow basic airline rules for liquids; you will not be allowed to bring any liquid containers any larger than 3.4 fluid ounces/100mL in your carry-on, so either pack accordingly, splitting liquid medications into smaller bottles as needed, or pack your medications in your checked luggage. Because it's safer and more secure to keep your medications with you, the former option may be the better one.
3) Call ahead to your specific airline to inquire about any policies they may have. The airline personnel will be able to offer guidance as to how you should pack medications and what paperwork they will require, if any (although, as mentioned, for customs and other purposes it's always a good idea to have accompanying paperwork with medications).
4) If you are planning to visit a foreign country (or several), it may be wise to do some research online ahead of time, to find out if any medications you routinely take are illegal or otherwise prohibited there. If you are carrying something that is prohibited, you risk not only having it confiscated but also a run-in with the local legal authorities, an entirely avoidable unpleasantry.
As a side note, it is always a good idea to label all your medications, and to have a note about what you are taking and why, in case of an emergency during which someone else needs to get that information quickly. Your note should also contain information about any allergies you have and any serious medical conditions you are dealing with, so all pertinent information is available at a glance.
Now that your medications are in order, you can think about enjoying your trip with one less thing to worry about. These tips are brought to you by Travel-Like-A-Pro.com. Bon Voyage!
