How to Pack Medications and Supplements for Travel

Keep all medications in their original, labeled containers and carry them in your personal item rather than checked luggage. Carry a physical copy of your prescriptions and a doctor's note for any controlled substances to breeze through security checks.

  1. Inventory and Organize. Group your medications by type (prescription vs. OTC). Create a simple spreadsheet listing the drug name, dosage, and what condition it treats. This is essential if you need to seek local medical help.
  2. Secure Prescriptions. Keep all prescription meds in their original pharmacy-issued bottles with your name clearly visible. If you are going on a long trip and need to split your pills, only do so for the duration of the trip and keep the original pharmacy labels in the same bag.
  3. Prepare Documentation. Request a 'prescription summary' from your doctor or pharmacy. For controlled substances (e.g., ADHD meds, strong painkillers), carry a signed letter on office letterhead stating the necessity of the medication and the dosage.
  4. Use the Right Container. Use a dedicated, waterproof, and shockproof hard-shell pouch for your meds. Avoid soft pill organizers unless they fit inside this hard shell to prevent crushed pills or spilled supplements.
  5. Maintain Temperature. If you have insulin or other temperature-sensitive medications, use a medical-grade cooling wallet (like Frio) rather than a gel pack that may be confiscated by TSA or airport security.
Can I put my pills in a weekly organizer?
Avoid doing this for international travel. If customs officers search your bag, they need to verify the contents via the pharmacy label. A weekly box makes this impossible and may cause your medication to be confiscated.
Does liquid medication count toward the 3-1-1 rule?
Medically necessary liquids are exempt from the 3.4-ounce (100ml) limit. Inform the TSA officer that you have medically necessary liquids before they scan your bags.
What if I run out of medication abroad?
Carry your doctor's contact information and the generic name of your drug. Contact your health insurance provider before leaving to see if they cover 'emergency prescription fills' in foreign countries.