Why Declare Your Medication During TSA Check Point 🌍✈️

Customs officials are trained to look for undeclared substances. If you’re caught with medications that aren’t properly documented, it can lead to delays, questioning, or seizure of your meds. Declaring them upfront, especially in their original packaging with a prescription or doctor’s note, shows transparency and builds trust.


Declaring your medications when traveling abroad might seem like a hassle, but it’s actually a smart and essential move— 


If your medications are confiscated and you can’t access replacements abroad, it could be dangerous or even life-threatening—especially for chronic conditions. Declaring your medications ensures you’re more likely to keep them with you and avoid interruptions in treatment.


Travel Smart!


Travel Smart: Navigating Medications on International Journeys

When traveling internationally, ensure your medications are legal in the countries you will be visiting or transiting (connecting city) through. This will help you avoid any legal issues. Check with the embassies of the countries you are flying to for the most up-to-date information on prohibited medications.


Some examples of commonly restricted medications include:

  • Narcotics: Medications like hydrocodone and oxycodone are often strictly controlled 
  • Sedatives: Drugs such as alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium) may require special permission 
  • Stimulants: Medications for ADHD, like amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (Adderall) and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), can be illegal in some countries 
  • Pseudoephedrine: Found in cold medications like Sudafed, this can be restricted due to its potential misuse 
  • Codeine: Commonly found in painkillers and cough syrups, it is regulated in many European countries 
  • Diphenhydramine: An ingredient in some sleep aids and allergy medications, it is regulated in countries like Italy 


By researching and preparing ahead, you can possible ensure a smooth journey without any legal complications.


Travel Advisor Pro-Tip đŸ’Ą

Ensure you have an international plan or get an eSIM card to stay connected at your destination. This will allow you to call your doctor from anywhere with no worries. 

Traveling With Medications in the USA

Traveling with medications requires some planning to ensure you have everything you need and comply with regulations. Here are some tips to help you travel smoothly with your medications:


1. Keep Medications in Your Carry-On

You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It’s highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.


2. Original Packaging

  • TSA does not require passengers to have medications in prescription bottles, but states have individual laws regarding the labeling of prescription medication with which passengers need to comply.
  • It is not necessary to present your medication to, or notify an officer about any medication you are traveling with unless it is in liquid form.

3. Doctor's Note

Carry a note from your doctor explaining your medical condition and the necessity of your medications, especially if you are carrying controlled substances.


4. Check Regulations

Research the regulations for carrying medications in your destination country. Some medications that are legal in your home country may be restricted or prohibited elsewhere.


5. Pack Extra

Bring extra medication in case of travel delays. It's a good idea to have at least 3 to 5 days worth of extra doses.


6. Liquid Medications

The TSA allows medically necessary liquids in reasonable quantities. Let TSA know you are carrying them at the security checkpoint and keep them in a clear, resealable plastic bag. 


7. Organize Your Meds

Medication in liquid form is allowed in carry-on bags in excess of 3.4 ounces in reasonable quantities for the flight. It is not necessary to place medically required liquids in a zip-top bag. However, you must tell the officer that you have medically necessary liquids at the start of the screening checkpoint process. Medically required liquids will be subject to additional screening that could include being asked to open the container.


8. Temperature Control

If your medication needs to be kept at a specific temperature, use insulated bags or gel packs. Inform the airline and security personnel about your needs.


9. Injectable Medications

You can travel with injectable medications and unused syringes. Declare them at the security checkpoint for inspection.


10. Medication List

Keep a printed or digital list of your medications, including dosages and prescribing doctor’s contact information. This can be helpful in case of emergencies.


11. Traveling Internationally

When traveling internationally, make sure to investigate your medications are legal in the countries you will traveling to or connecting to.  This will insure you will not get into legal trouble with those countries.  Check the embassies you are flying to for more update information about illegal medications.


12. X-Ray

Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.

  • You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened.


13. Not Prohibited

Nitroglycerin tablets and spray (used to treat episodes of angina in people who have coronary artery disease) are permitted and have never been prohibited.



💡Travel Advisor Tip

"By following these tips, you can help ensure your medications remain safe and accessible throughout your journey. However, if you are questioned by TSA, stay calm and courteous. If needed, politely request to speak with a supervisor. Should your medication be confiscated and the issue remains unresolved, avoid confrontation—remember, the agents are doing their job. Once you leave the checkpoint, contact your doctor for guidance and locate a nearby pharmacy to obtain a recommended alternative." 😊