Traveling with Medications: How to Prep, Pack, and Stay Safe

Almost everyone packs clothes more carefully than their meds. That can cause real trouble fast. Whether you use daily pills, injectables, or controlled substances, a little planning keeps you healthy and stress-free on the road.

Packing and paperwork

First, carry all prescription meds in your carry-on. Checked bags get lost. Keep medicines in their original labeled containers so security and customs can read them. Bring a printed list of each drug, dose, and your doctor’s contact. If you use controlled meds (like strong painkillers or some sleep aids), ask your doctor for a short letter stating the condition and prescription—some countries require it.

Need more than 90 days of meds while abroad? Talk to your prescriber early. Some pharmacies can provide extra supply or a travel prescription. If you’ll cross borders, check the destination’s rules for specific drugs—warfarin, stimulants, and some antidepressants can be restricted.

On the road: storage, timing, and refills

Temperature matters. Insulin and some biologics must stay cool. Use an insulated travel case with cold packs and avoid placing them in checked luggage. For pills, humidity and heat can degrade meds—store them in a dry, cool place, not the bathroom.

Time zones can mess up dosing. If you take a once-daily medicine, decide whether to shift timing gradually or split the change over a day. For time-critical meds like ADHD meds or anticoagulants, keep a clear schedule and set alarms. If you take warfarin (Coumadin), plan how to check INR while away—some clinics and telehealth services can arrange tests and dose advice remotely.

Lost or stolen meds? Contact your embassy or consulate for help and local laws. Many countries have reputable pharmacies, but brand names differ. Bring a copy of the prescription (with generic names) so a local pharmacist can help you get an equivalent. If you rely on a subscription service (like Symbicort refills), set up auto-refills and delivery to your home before you leave, or arrange for a trusted person to pick up prescriptions for you.

Carry medical ID for severe allergies, diabetes, or conditions like epilepsy. An EpiPen or emergency inhaler should always be within reach, not buried in checked luggage. For injectables and syringes, check airline rules—most allow them if you have a doctor’s note and keep needles in a secure case.

Finally, get travel health insurance that covers prescription replacement and telemedicine. A quick virtual consult can save a trip to an unfamiliar clinic. With a little prep—labels, letters, backups, and the right storage—you’ll handle most medication hiccups and enjoy the trip instead of stressing over your pills.