Have your medications shipped to your destination. If your insurance provides a mail order prescription program, you may be entitled to a "vacation disbursement" of medications on top of your normal shipment. Have your vacation disbursement sent to your hotel in your destination town. Carry a few extra pills with you in case your shipment is delayed.
Carry all medications in their original, labeled pharmacy containers. Laws vary across the country and around the world, but medications in labeled pharmacy containers are generally permitted in reasonable quantities for personal use. If you use a daily pill dispenser, carry it empty and refill it at your destination.
Separate liquid medications and pack them together in an easily-opened container. Federal regulations stipulate that liquid medicines are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule, which states that liquids must be in containers of three ounces or less and all liquid containers must fit into one quart-size zip-top bag per person. Liquid medications may be carried in a properly labeled pharmacy container of any size, but they must be separately declared to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel.
Pack all medications in your carry-on luggage. Checked bags can be delayed, damaged or lost. Most airlines allow passengers to carry an extra bag onto the plane if it is primarily filled with medications. Take only as much medication as you need, but do not hesitate to carry needed medicines due to luggage restrictions.
Allow extra time to clear airport security and customs. Many airports now divide security lines according to level of familiarity with procedures and likelihood of requiring additional security checks. When traveling with pain medications, choose the "Special Needs" line. When traveling between countries, expect to answer basic questions regarding your medications.
