Think twice about travelling with (legal) drugs

Did you know that travelling overseas with medications that are common in Australia might get you arrested overseas? 

Or that your essential drugs might be confiscated on your arrival in a foreign port? 

Every country has its own laws and medicines that are commonly prescribed or available over the counter here might be unlicensed or considered controlled substances in other countries.  

In some cases, the consequences can include a jail sentence. 

The Federal Government’s Smartraveller website offers some advice for people on medication who plan to go abroad. 

Check the online advice of Australian embassies and high commissions of countries in which you have layovers in to make sure your medicines are permitted. 

• Many countries allow a 30-day supply of certain medicines, but also require the traveller to carry a prescription or a medical certificate from their health care provider. 

• If your medicine is not allowed at your destination, talk with your health care provider about alternatives and have them write a letter describing your condition and the treatment plan. 

• At least a month before you leave, seek advice from a travel doctor. 

Discussing your health concerns, itinerary, and planned activities with your provider allows them to give more specific advice and recommendations. 

• If you plan to be gone for more than 30 days, talk to your healthcare provider about how you can get enough medicine for your trip. Some insurance companies will only pay for a 30-day supply at a time. 

• If you are a travelling to a different time zone, ask your healthcare provider about any changes to when you should take your medicine.  

• Find out how to safely store your medicine while travelling and check whether it needs refrigeration. 

Put together a kit of things you may need, especially those items that may be difficult to find at your destination. 

Include your prescription and over-the-counter medicines in your travel health kit and take enough to last your entire trip, plus extra in case of travel delays. Pack medications in a carry on bag in case your luggage is lost or delayed. 

• Keep medicines in their original, labelled containers. Ensure they are clearly labelled with your full name, health care provider’s name, generic and brand name, and exact dosage. 

• Bring copies of all written prescriptions, including the generic names for medicines. Leave a copy of your prescriptions at home with a friend or relative in case you lose your copy or need an emergency refill. 

• Ask your doctor for a list of the medications you are on, and if necessary, a note if you use controlled substances, or injectable medicines, such as EpiPens and insulin. 

Counterfeit drugs are common in some countries, so only use medicine you bring from home and make sure to pack enough for the duration of your trip, plus extra in case of travel delays. 

Airlines and cruise ships may have restrictions on what you can carry on board. This often applies to mobility aids and medical equipment.  

Restrictions can apply to assistance animals, battery-operated devices, and sharps/syringes. 

Most airlines require wheelchairs to be checked in. 

Talk to your airline or cruise company about what restrictions may apply. Make sure you can: 

• Take the equipment you need 

• Access toilets and other facilities 

• Get the right support from the crew. 

See advice for travellers with a disability. 

Talk to the people you’re travelling with about your and their medical needs. You may need to support each other if one of you gets sick overseas. 

Have an action plan. If you carry emergency medication or use any medical or mobility aids, show your travelling companions what to do. 

Know local emergency contact numbers. You can find these here.