Travelling with medication abroad – What you need to know

You can usually take medication on a plane and abroad, but it’s important to plan ahead. This includes packing it correctly, carrying the right documents and checking the rules for your destination. 

Travelling with medication doesn’t need to be complicated. With a little preparation, you can focus on enjoying your trip with confidence. In this guide, we cover: 

• If you can take medication on a plane: Yes, you can – but there are rules around liquids and carrying it in your hand luggage 
• How to travel with medication safely: Pack it correctly, carry documents and keep it accessible 
• What to check before you travel: Local restrictions, prescriptions and medical documentation 

Yes, you can take medication on a plane. You’re usually allowed to carry both prescription and over-the-counter medication in your hand luggage. This is often recommended, so your medication stays with you throughout your journey. 

If your medication is a liquid, it may be exempt from standard liquid restrictions – but you might need to show proof, such as a prescription or doctor’s note. 

It’s always a good idea to check with your airline before you travel, as rules can vary slightly. 

In most cases, you can take your medication abroad for personal use. 

However, some countries have strict rules on certain medicines, especially controlled drugs. What’s allowed in one country may be restricted in another. 

Before you travel, check the rules with the embassy of the country you are travelling to and make sure your medication is permitted. This helps avoid delays or issues at customs.  

Packing your medication properly can make your journey much smoother.  

When travelling, carry your medication in your hand luggage where possible. That way, if you get separated from your hold luggage for any reason, you won’t have the added stress of not having your medication with you.  

Here are some other tips for packing medication: 

• Leave it in its original packaging 
• Carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s letter 
• Pack enough for your trip, plus a little extra in case of delays 

Keeping everything clearly labelled and easy to access can help you move through security with confidence.

Managing medication when flying is usually straightforward with a little preparation. 

Keep your medication in your hand luggage so it’s always within reach. This is especially important for long journeys or if you need to take your medication at specific times. If you’re travelling across time zones, you may need to adjust when you take your medication – your GP or pharmacist can help you plan this. 

It’s also a good idea to keep medication clearly labelled and easy to access for security checks. 

You may not always need a doctor’s note, but it can be helpful – and sometimes essential. A doctor’s letter can: 

• Confirm that the medication is prescribed to you 
• Explain what it’s for 
• Support you if you’re carrying liquids, syringes or controlled medication 

Some countries require documentation for certain medications, so it’s best to check before you travel. 

Important: Your GP practice may charge for writing this sort of letter as this is not part of routine NHS care. 

Travelling across time zones or following a routine can make managing medication feel more complicated. Planning ahead can help you stay on track.

You might want to: 

• Set reminders for when to take your medication 
• Keep medication in your hand luggage for easy access 
• Store it at the correct temperature if needed 

If you’re unsure, your GP or pharmacist can help you plan how to manage your medication while you’re away. 

If you usually take medication at 8am and 8pm, a time zone change could affect your routine. 

For example, if you’re flying from the UK to New York, you may need to adjust your schedule slightly to keep doses safely spaced out.

If you run out of medication while travelling, you may be able to get a prescription locally. However, this can vary depending on the country and the medication you need.  

It may take time, and you might not get the exact same medication. That’s why it’s best to take enough for your whole trip, plus extra in case your return is delayed. If you can, take an extra week or two worth of medication, just in case.

If you need a prescription while you’re abroad, you may be able to visit a local doctor or pharmacy.  

The process can vary depending on the country you’re in. In some places, pharmacists can provide certain medications directly. In others, you may need to see a doctor first.  

It’s worth noting that the medication available may not be exactly the same as what you use at home. That’s why it’s always best to travel with enough medication for your trip, plus a little extra. 

Staysure’s Travel Doctor service is designed to help you get medical help abroad* – including prescriptions – with minimal disruption, so you can focus on enjoying your time away.

If you’re travelling with a medical condition, it’s important to plan ahead so you can relax and enjoy your trip. 

Before you travel, make sure your travel insurance reflects your health needs and that you understand what is and isn’t included in your policy. Staysure cover pre-existing medical conditions and all ages, so you can travel with confidence.

Yes, many people travel with medical conditions every day.

In most cases, you can fly as long as your condition is stable. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your GP before you travel, especially if you’ve recently been unwell or started new treatment. Some airlines may also ask for medical clearance depending on your condition.

Before you set off, take a moment to check: 

• Your medication is allowed in your destination country 
• You have the correct documentation 
• You’ve packed enough for your trip 
• Your medication is stored correctly for travel 

A little preparation can make all the difference. 

You’ve got dreams to fulfil and adventures to chase – and travelling with medication shouldn’t hold you back. 

It’s important to choose a policy that will cover your pre-existing medical conditions to protect you against any medical emergencies. At Staysure, we’re specialists in medical travel insurance.   

With the right preparation and the right cover in place, you can relax and enjoy your trip from start to finish. So get your quote now – and start looking forward to your next adventure.

^{*Travel Doctor is powered by Air Doctor. Up to 3 appointments per insured person, per policy. Geographical restrictions and T&C's apply.}