What's the rule on bringing prescription meds on international flights?


What's the rule on bringing prescription meds on international flights? You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It's highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.


Do you have to declare prescriptions at customs?

It is not necessary to present your medication to, or notify an officer about any medication you are traveling with unless it is in liquid form (See next bullet). Medication in liquid form is allowed in carry-on bags in excess of 3.4 ounces in reasonable quantities for the flight.


Can I bring pills on a plane Canada?

Prescription medication is exempted from the liquid restrictions that you can bring on a plane in carry-on luggage. Pack an extra supply of medication in case you are away for longer. Carry copies of your prescriptions: Ensure that both the generic and trade names of medications are included in case of loss or theft.


Will customs check my pills?

Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.


What pills can you not take on a plane?

All prescription medicines are allowed on airplanes, whether in a carry-on or checked bag. There is no limit to the amount of medications in pill or solid form that you can bring. Liquid medicines are also allowed.


How do you know if you are flagged by customs?

There are signs that will indicate you have been flagged for additional screenings: You were not able to print a boarding pass from an airline ticketing kiosk or from the internet. You were denied or delayed boarding. A ticket agent “called someone” before handing you a boarding pass.


Do I need a doctor letter to take medication abroad?

Ask your doctor for a letter on their letterhead explaining your medical treatment and necessity, translated into the host country's language, if necessary. Pack enough medication to last the length of your trip and no more than personal-use quantities.


How do I pack my vitamins for international travel?

TSA has no restrictions on bringing vitamins in pill form and powder supplements in your checked luggage or carry-on bags. You can pack these items in their original packaging or transfer to pill organizers. You won't need to declare or show them to TSA agents when going through security.


Do prescription pills have to be in original containers when flying?

As mentioned, you don't need to have your pills in their original bottles under TSA guidelines. However, when traveling out of the country, having those pills in their original prescription bottles may make the customs process smoother and simpler.


Do pills have to be labeled in a carry-on?

All passenger items must undergo security screening. It is recommended that medication be clearly labeled to facilitate the screening process. You may bring medically necessary liquids, medications and creams in excess of 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in your carry-on bag.


What happens if drugs are found in checked luggage?

When drugs are confiscated in airports, TSA officers usually refer to law enforcement to secure the confiscated substances and store them in a warehouse known as a crime laboratory. Here, the drugs will be tested, organized, and shelved for trials.


How do I declare prescription drugs at the airport?

At the Airport Security Checkpoint
You can tell the screening officer about your prescription drugs or present a written list. You may wish to bring doctor's notes, original prescription bottles or containers, and other documentation to make the screening process go more quickly.