Carrying medication

If you aren’t forwarding medication ahead of you, always carry your medication in your hand luggage. This is a safeguard against your luggage being lost or delayed.

Always carry a letter from your doctor stating that it is prescribed medication for personal use. The letter doesn’t have to say what it’s for.

It’s a good idea to list medications by name with daily dosages. You may of course wish to re-think this if you are visiting a country with restrictions on entry for people with HIV. Obviously always have enough meds for your trip, and even take a few days extra in case of unforeseen travel delays, but do not carry excessive amounts as this may be deemed as intention to overstay by immigration and customs officials.

Most medications should be kept at room temperature. This should be considered when travelling, especially if you plan to carry your meds on long car journeys in summer months. Some drugs may also require refrigeration. You should check this with your doctor.

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The article you are viewing is part of the larger (multi-page) resource Up, up and away: tips for the positive traveller. View the introductory page.

This article was first published in October 2005 - more than three years ago.

While the content of this article was checked for accuracy at the time of publication, NAPWA recommends checking to determine whether the information is the most up-to-date available, especially when making decisions which may affect your health.

Last updated: 10 Oct 05.