Can I take my medicine on holiday?

Your Must-Know Guide for Safe and Legal Travel

Traveling with medication involves more than just tossing pills into your suitcase. Even prescribed medicines that are common and perfectly legal at home may raise red flags internationally—so staying informed is essential. Here’s what to consider before jetting off.

1. Know the Legal Landscape

• Not all legal UK meds are accepted abroad
  Some medications readily available in the UK are restricted—or outright banned—in other countries. For example, Nurofen Plus (which contains codeine) is prohibited in places like Egypt, Indonesia, and the UAE. Likewise, over-the-counter decongestants containing pseudoephedrine could land you in trouble in Japan or South Korea due to their links to illicit drug manufacturing.
• Risks of ignoring local rules
  Carrying forbidden medications—even unintentionally—can result in confiscation, hefty fines, or, in rare but serious cases, detention or arrest.

2. Country-Specific Regulations Matter

• Europe: usually a 3-month supply limit
  Travelers to Spain, France, and several Schengen countries may bring up to three months’ supply of medication with a prescription and doctor's note. In Greece, however, opioids such as codeine are banned entirely. Germany may even ban certain supplements and vitamins.
• Stricter rules elsewhere
  In Turkey, certain substances—like medical cannabis and methadone—must be declared at customs. Meanwhile, countries like Japan, the UAE, and Singapore strictly prohibit CBD oil—even if it’s THC-free—as well as many ADHD medications, without prior authorization.

3. Documentation Is Your Travel Companion

• Carry prescriptions and doctor’s letters
  Always bring your prescription or a signed letter from your GP detailing the medication name, dosage, your personal details, and how long you’ll need it. This documentation can help authorities verify legitimacy—especially for controlled drugs.
• Translation helps
  Having your doctor’s note translated into the local language of your destination can ease communication and avoid misunderstandings.
• Insurance considerations
  If you're taking medications like weight-loss injections (“skinny jabs,” including Ozempic), failing to declare them and the condition they're prescribed for can constitute a serious breach of your travel insurance. This may void coverage—even for unrelated claims—and leave you liable for thousands of pounds in medical costs. Experts report that typical medical claims abroad can exceed £1,700.

4. Airport & Hand Luggage Guidelines

• Controlled drugs must stay with you
  Any medication containing a controlled substance must be carried in your hand luggage when entering or leaving the UK. Without proper documentation, it can be confiscated.
• Three-month supply only
  You’re permitted to bring up to a 3-month personal supply of prescribed controlled medicines. That includes Schedule 2–4 drugs that have been legitimately dispensed, along with a doctor’s letter showing dosage and frequency.
• Exemptions to the liquids rule
  Essential medications—including liquids over 100 ml, inhalers, and medical food—are exempt from the standard liquids restriction, although security may require you to show prescriptions or doctor’s letters.

5. Planning for Emergencies Abroad

• Local pharmacies may help
  If you run out of prescribed medicine while overseas, many countries accept UK prescriptions—but it’s wise to check ahead via official travel advisories.
• Be travel-health aware
  Illnesses endemic to certain regions—like malaria or dengue—may require preventative medications (e.g., antimalarials) that you should plan for in advance. If you're away for an extended period, factor in how to obtain ongoing prescriptions abroad.

6. Quick Checklist Before You Travel

1.     Research your destination’s medication rules
Checking embassy resources or official government sites can save you from surprises.

2.     Gather documentation
Carry prescriptions and letters. Translate them if needed.

3.     Pack smart
Controlled meds in hand luggage only. Keep original packaging.

4.     Declare and insure
Declare health conditions and medications when obtaining travel insurance to avoid voided coverage.

5.     Carry enough—but not too much
Stick to the 3-month supply rule.

6.     Have a backup plan
Know how to access local healthcare or pharmacies, and understand the process for repatriation or medical emergencies.

Homework will help

Travel should be smooth and memorable—not fraught with legal anxieties or medical problems. By doing your homework on medication regulations, safeguarding documentation, and ensuring your insurance is comprehensive, you can truly enjoy the journey without worrying about whether your pills will get you into trouble abroad. Safe travels—and stay healthy!