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The Dos and Don’ts of Traveling With Medication

Traveling with medication? Realo Drugs explains how to travel with medication safely, including advice for traveling internationally with prescription medication and avoiding common mistakes.

The tickets are booked, your bags are packed, and you’ve set your out-of-office message. Before you head out the door, there’s one last thing you should make sure you have with you—safe and secure: your medications. 

Traveling with prescriptions takes a bit of planning, but it’s worth it to avoid any hiccups while you’re away. Whether you’re heading abroad or taking that cross-country road trip you’ve always wanted to do, a few simple steps can help you stay healthy, organized, and ready to enjoy every moment of your trip. 

At Realo Drugs, we make traveling with medication a little easier. Whether you need a quick refill before your trip or want to transfer prescriptions if you’re visiting North Carolina, our pharmacists are here to help you stay on track and travel with peace of mind.

The dos of traveling with medication

Plan ahead ✅

Before you even zip up your suitcase, make sure you have enough medication to last your entire trip. Pack a few extra days’ worth, just in case of travel delays.

Keep medications in original containers ✅

Not only will this help you keep track of your medications, but it also helps airport security and customs agents identify your prescriptions easily, and prevents confusion if you need medical assistance while traveling.

Carry a list of your prescriptions ✅

Include your medication names (both brand and generic), dosage, and your prescriber’s contact information in case of emergencies.

Pack medications in your carry-on ✅

Checked bags get lost, flights get delayed—keep your medications close to avoid disruptions in your routine. If you’re not flying, be sure to keep your medications in a convenient spot so you can easily get to them when you need to.

Double-check rules before you go ✅

Every country—and sometimes even airlines—has different rules and regulations for traveling internationally with prescription medication. Research ahead to avoid surprises at customs.

The don’ts of traveling with medication

Pour everything into one bottle 🚫

It might save space, but unlabeled containers can raise red flags during security checks and cause unnecessary delays.

Skip the paperwork 🚫

When traveling overseas with medication, some countries require a doctor’s letter or a customs declaration for certain prescriptions. Always carry documentation in your carry-on.

Ask your Realo pharmacist how they can help you make sure you have everything you need to take care of your health while you’re away. Find your nearest location here.

Assume you can buy what you need abroad 🚫

Many over-the-counter (OTC) medications in the U.S. are restricted or even banned in other countries. Bring what you need and check local laws before you go.

Wait until the last minute for refills 🚫

If you’re running low before a trip, call your local pharmacist early to make sure you have everything you need before you leave. Realo makes it easy with services like local delivery and weekly blister packs, so all you have to worry about is making sure your medications are packed and ready to go.

If you’re traveling to North Carolina, Realo Drugs makes it simple to transfer your prescriptions, so you can stay on schedule while you travel.

Flying with medication

If you’re traveling with medication by plane, here’s what you should know before you leave for the airport:

  • The TSA allows liquid medications over 3.4 ounces, but you’ll need to declare them at security.
  • Keep prescriptions in their original packaging and accessible for inspection.
  • Bring a small insulated bag—or ask your local Realo pharmacist for storage advice—if your medication needs to stay cool.

International travel tips

When traveling internationally with prescription medication, preparation is key:

  • Research your destination’s rules well in advance. Some countries have strict laws about importing medications.
  • Bring a note from your doctor or a copy of your prescription for customs officials.
  • Be mindful of OTC medications—what’s common here might not be elsewhere.

Realo is here to help you travel with confidence

Travel plans coming up? Let us help you get ready! Our pharmacists can make sure you have everything you need—from refills and travel tips for packing your medications safely to care beyond your prescription—before you go.

So before you hit the road (or the runway), stop by Realo Drugs. Because no matter where your journey takes you, your health comes with you.