Travel Plans Freaking Me Out

[KwanYingirl]

Can you guys help me figure out how to safely travel without losing my medication? I haven't flown since 9-11 so I don't know what the rules are for travel out of the U.S.

Can I have my meds on my carry on bag? Should I get a safe at the hotel? Should I pack a bag to check in with all my toiletries? I'm very concerned of losing my meds.

 

[Pencil]

I don't live in the US, but one thing I do know is that you should have a copy of your prescription. (Not the law, just a good precaution)

 

[The Albatross]

The rational way to address this is a phone call away... to your local airport.

 

[Kefira]

I don't normally have to deal with anything that would be suspect and my understanding is for domestic flights small amounts in labeled bottles won't be questioned.

http://blog.tsa.gov/2013/09/tsa-travel-tips-tuesday-traveling-with.html
that has some basic info as well as a contact number for more detailed info.

 

[Deleted member 28740]

Depends on where you are traveling to. I would call the airline and ask them all the questions you have. I flew post 9/11 from US to Germany change of planes in the UK. There different rules for leaving the US, leaving UK and entering Germany. The airline will know and advise. You should be able to carry them on board, and Pencil is correct. Make a copy of the scrips, put them with meds in ziplock for security check. Hope the travel is for pleasure KwanYingirl. I also made copies of all my travel docs, credit cards, id, important contact info, etc. to leave with some you trust in case of loss. Having that info is crucial should a loss happen.

 

[Friday]

I bring Rxs in their original bottles, along with a copy of my paper Rxs where I keep photocopies of my ID & Passport (in case they're lost, it makes it easier at the embassy to have them), and these days, backup pics on my phone. I rarely travel with luggage, but when I do, I keep them in my carry on, not the luggage.

I also keep 72hours worth of meds in an altoids (or similar) tin in my purse, and 24 hours in a locket. I don't take many meds, though

Not exactly legal in most places, but it's never been an issue. I'm not smuggling contraband. I have an Rx for it.

LOL... So I've got meds in 3 places (locket, tin in purse, carry on), and documents in 3 places! (Originals, copies, pics)

 

[Candleflames]

I travel a few times a year with anywhere from 3 to 5 prescriptions with me and have never had any issues. I was asked about them once while traveling internationally. Just to check that I had prescriptions for them. I keep everything separate in their own bottles in a zip lock bag in my purse. I've never put my meds or any valuables in a checked bag. It's not something I would consider secure.

Having copies of you prescriptions is a good idea. As is copies of your paperwork in general.

 

[Glara]

In the US and most of the islands, Mexico, Canada and much of South America you can bring your meds in your carry on. You may also bring toiletries in Ziplock sandwich bag. The containers may not exceed 3 oz. I usually put a small contact solution my inhaler, my tubes of makeup, a small deodorant, small toothpaste etc. In my carry on I take a change of clothes, underwear and pjs in case my checked luggage gets lost. I also bring my phone and chargers and one of those power surge additional outlets, there's always numerous things to charge at the airport and hotel. I love to fly so I'm enjoying answering this post. I've been really down but this makes me feel a little better. Have a wonderful trip!

 

[Julesnaz]

I always pack my meds, ids, an extra change of underwear, and anything else I might need in a carry on just in case of lost luggage. That way you at least have some essentials

 

[scout86]

The TSA web site has up to date good information for the US. I can't imagine a scenario where you couldn't have your prescriptions in a carryon bag. In my experience, the BEST carry on fits under your seat. (The seat in front of you, actually.) That way you can keep an eye on it and don't have to mess with the over head compartments. Those are a hassle and there's at least some chance of losing your bag. Under the seat is fast & easy. I've got a bag like a gym bag I use and it works perfectly. Also has room for a change of clothes, etc, just in case of lost baggage.

Depending on what meds you're taking and how long you're going to be on the road, I'd be tempted to keep them with you as much as possible. (Call me paranoid but I can imagine drugs being stolen from a safe. What goes in a safe? Things that worth stealing.....)

 

[darrenS]

I have travelled numerous times both internationally and domestically and have never had a problem, the only time i was careful is in Africa as some places have particular rules about certain meds ie: a couple of years ago Tanzania would not allow Methadone of any form, , which i was taking for chronic pain. But overall never been checked , never stopped and as soons as they see your name on the meds , they will leave you alone.

 

[darrenS]

i spilt things up , i put some in my suitcase and some in my carry on , so if lost or stolen , i still have some - i have left them in a safe many times in many different countries and have never had a problem and ive been to some bad places. Most are just interested in cash, cameras and what not.