Carry Medicines in Flight: Traveling by Plane with Medication? Know These Important Rules
Carry Medicines in Flight: When traveling, especially by air, it’s crucial to carry necessary medicines for illness or emergencies. However, there are several rules to follow when carrying medication on a plane, which many people are unaware of. Not following these rules can lead to problems during airport security checks, and your essential medicine might even be confiscated. In this post, we will discuss some important rules and tips for carrying medicines on a plane, which will make your journey safer and more worry-free.
Why is it Important to Carry Medicines?
During travel, you might fall ill due to changes in weather, diet, or other reasons. Additionally, for those suffering from chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart conditions, carrying their required medication is essential. Finding the right medicine at the right time in a foreign or unfamiliar place can be difficult and expensive. Therefore, it is wise to travel with your necessary medications for your own safety.
Essential Rules for Carrying Medicines on a Plane
There are some international regulations to follow when carrying medicines on a flight. These rules are designed for your safety and the safety of other passengers. Let’s get to know these rules.
- Always carry a doctor’s prescription: For any medicine, especially if it falls under the list of controlled substances, carrying a doctor’s prescription is mandatory. The prescription should be recent and include your name, the medicine’s name, and the dosage. Keep it handy so you can present it as proof if security personnel ask. Carrying medicine without a prescription can lead to its confiscation.
- Keep medicines in your hand luggage: Always keep all your essential medicines in your handbag or cabin luggage, not in your check-in baggage. This is because check-in luggage can get lost or be delayed. In such a situation, not having your necessary medication on hand can cause significant problems.
- Do not change the original packaging: Keep the medicines in their original packaging or bottles. If the medicine’s name, manufacturer’s information, and expiration date are clearly visible, it is easier for security personnel to verify them. Repacking medicines into smaller, unmarked containers can raise suspicion.
- Special arrangements for temperature-sensitive medicines: Some medicines, like insulin, need to be kept at a specific temperature. Before traveling with such medications, inform the airline via email and inquire about their regulations. Usually, you are allowed to carry such medicines in an insulated bag with a small ice pack. After boarding, you can request the cabin crew to store the medicine in a cool place under their supervision.
- Carry a reasonable quantity of medicine: Take only the amount of medicine you will need for the duration of your trip. Carrying an excessive amount might raise questions. If you must carry a larger quantity, have a valid reason and a doctor’s letter to support it.
Some Additional Tips
- Rules for liquid medicines: Although there is a restriction on carrying more than 100 ml of liquid on a plane, this rule is often relaxed for essential liquid medicines accompanied by a doctor’s prescription. However, you may need to show these medicines separately to the security staff.
- Make a list: Create a list of all the medicines you are carrying, including the name of the medicine and when to take it. This will be helpful for your own convenience and in case of an emergency where someone else needs to assist you.
- Set an alarm on your phone: While traveling or adjusting to a new time zone, you might forget to take your medicine on time. Therefore, set an alarm or reminder on your phone to ensure you take your medication at the correct time.
Following these rules when traveling with medication on a plane will allow you to travel safely and without worry. Your health is your most important asset, so pay special attention to your medicines when preparing for your trip.
