How to Pack Medications for Travel in 2024 (New TSA Rules!)

[@PortableProfessional]

🌴 *Win a FREE Trip to Costa Rica!* www.dailydrop.com/giveaways/costa-rica-giveaway-2024-06?via=portable-professional. Giveaway closes June 13 2024, don't miss out! Good luck!

[@billnict1]

What do you recommend we do?

[@DaveTexas]

I love the "declare it to a TSA screener" line. Any time I’ve ever tried to tell any TSA agent about the liquid medications I carry or the medical device that is attached to my body, there’s either no one to tell without having to hold up the line - getting myself yelled at - or they just yell at me that I just need to put my bag on the conveyor belt or go through the body scanner. As I travel multiple times each year and have been carrying these medications for decades, I no longer take anything out of my carry-on. I also never say anything about my medical device. 90% of the time, no one ever says anything, and the remainder of the time they just do a quick Pat-down of the area where I wear my device.

[@bethg7026]

Larger airports are often like this, because the tsa line is so busy. But when I flew with my daughter's injectable medication in an iced bag, the agents were always very courteous with me, and even agreed to change their gloves before opening the pen case for sterility.

[@FrankFox-yu1xf]

Same with us

[@yvonnemcnaughton455]

YES. That is so frustrating😡

[@ingegerdandersson6963]

Thats because these checks for liqueds isn’t for you to be safe it is for you to feel safe. Over 10 years ago a head of security at a large european AirPort told me this and that the check for liqueds did nothing for security but it was a political desition so we would start flying again after 9/11

[@birdnird]

I had to declare to US Customs codeine/theophylline cough syrup (bought over the counter in the Johannesburg airport), but they could tell I was so sick I needed it. They pretty much just waved me through. I suspect they also didn’t want to get too close to me for too long and risk catching my bug. This was 2002, right before SARS 1 blew up

[@Reed-2big]

Recently a Canadian screening insisted I go through a metal detector as it was ALWAYS required. I arrive in a wheelchair. After forcing me to walk through the metal detector she wanted me to go back through again. I had already mentioned I had metal implants/prothesis. I repeatedly told her going back through would not change anything! Eventually she asked a supervisor who told her to just do the pat down. He actually didn’t ask me any questions, so I assuming he had been watching and heard me calmly telling her it would be of no use to keep going through the metal detector! I hate training screeners! And yes in Miami I had an agent doing a search when the supervisor told her I was pre check. No problem about still being better screened, but she responded to the supervisor “ What ‘s pre check?”

[@melissablick779]

Sorry that happened to you. Really sounds like she didn't think things through and put you through a lot of unnecessary stress. Surprised she didn't know about TSA Precheck, but that's a US program, so she might not have come across to before.

[@Reed-2big]

@@melissablick779 if you’re working in the Miami airport you should know what Pre Check is! I’m not sure who the people were in Canada but yes we had just flown in internationally and things were harried at best. I wasn’t asking for more than just recognize that when I tell you I have metal in my body the metal detector better go off! Also when I tell you I can’t lift both arms at the same time don’t insist I have to, you certainly can’t scan both sides at the same time, and as long as I don’t bring my hand anywhere close together I don’t understand her problem! Meanwhile at the scanner belt they were taking apart the medical bag and not scanning the batteries, nor the charge cables with blocks, nor the CPAP power cords with blocks, they want to put the machines themselves back through the scanner -- stupid but not a problem other than they mixed the machines up! For what it is worth, the machines are light enough that the most they might have contained was 2-4 AA batteries, any others would make them heavier than a 2C cell flashlight! They are pretty much allowed to check what they want without taking things apart! And yes, hubby has had to explain what it is, but that was 15 years ago! The weather was also a mess so we chalked it up to everyone being stressed, well almost everyone. The cabin crew on air canada were superb I watched them transfer my wheel chair when they came in an started to say something and I just pointed to the overhead! But all was not lost, for drama that is, when we got to the hotel they had cancelled my room claiming the credit card wouldn’t go through. The same credit card id used 2 weeks prior! And since planes were grounded and it was pouring rain finding another room was challenging. But we were where our car was and after finding another hotel over the phone could drive there. Had it not been pouring rain so hard it was hard to see we would have found a hotel slightly away from the airport. No, I haven’t stopped traveling and I’m just glad the hassles were minor coming home.

[@firebound12]

Weird. There are several things that went wrong and they're not following SOP.

[@Reed-2big]

@@firebound12 SOP change to keep you from becoming too complacent. But yes, it would seem there is room for retraining.

[@r.a.y.1704]

That forcing you to walk through should not have happened! Especially since you told them about the implant. They should have gone to pat down immediately. I’ve been reading the CATSA rules since I will be flying from one side of Canada to the other. (Won’t even be leaving the country.) And if you can’t walk through and you have implants, you can request a private pat down if you don’t want everyone to hear everything.

[@jeffreybishop9478]

Flying home from Canada to the USA. She is a USA citizen. TSA had my wife of 70 years old. Had to totally disassembled her battery operated breathing device. The cannula was in her nose and functioning when she was told to do so. It was a new breathing device design. TSA had not scene this type before. They had her sitting in a chair as it went through the x-ray. Then brought it back to her. She reassembled it and turned it back on put her cannula back into her nose. She was then allowed to go through the walk through screening x-ray. When she got home she cleaned the total unit again. The case of the device had on two sides “medical device”. Why was this outrageous examination done ?

[@dianaashton2512]

This was allowed to be done because some area of our country are controlled by the evil Nazi cabal, I suggest that when Trump returns to office that all of these invasive airport procedures will be gone, yippee.

[@bernardmueller5676]

Because you voted twice for Bush.

[@ericapelz260]

Theatrical Security Agency.. It's all about the show.

[@pauld315]

No idea why they did this, other than they can. If they ask for you to do something like that and they are going to touch the device you can tell them to put on a mask and change into clean gloves before doing so. I travel with a CPAP and they have never asked me any questions.

[@sherriheavner1842]

I only use air travel when absolutely necessary. I never bring anything of value because I know people who have had items taken from their luggage. So much for something I am paying for. US TSA can’t even be civil.

[@cathleenaudrey7723]

If you have been dispensed a larger amount of medication than you plan to take with you, then ask the pharmacy for a new small bottle with label; mine was happy to do it at no additional charge.

[@FrankFox-yu1xf]

We do this also.

[@nancyadams9228]

Great suggestion!

[@pockets3956]

Thanks for this tip!!

[@lestranged]

this is good to know. all my meds come in giant bottles that are only like 10% full. it takes up so much space.

[@Blgtn43]

Thank you.

[@brentsummers7377]

Very efficient and easy at SFO airport. Collected my checked bag & proceeded towards the exit. Told the first customs officer I needed to declare some medication & she directed me to another officer. Showed him the medication in the zip lock bag which also had the pharmacy printed prescription. He asked if I had a prescription I said yes. And I was clear to go!😀

[@MLCruey]

I last flew 15 years ago but got the pharmacy to give me jar labels of all my meds (8 different meds) that I put on small snack size zipper bags with a fews days more than what I need. Saves space and weight. I then load the pills into my daily pill boxes as needed when I get to my destination.

[@donnaleeah5075]

Oh I like this idea. Thanks 😊

[@kathyscholten5369]

Flying out of Orlando in May 2024 I witnessed a poor mother holding for tiny infant. The TSA insisted to open every single bottle of breast milk and stick a test strip into each of them. TSA came to the frozen bottles and said she had to test each of those as well. This was appalling to contaminate those bottles and give this new mom a hard time. She was near tears and the infant was fussing. I’ve worked with newborns and her child appeared to be under 2 months old.

[@ashleycnossen3157]

The same thing happened to me with baby formula. We're allowed to bring as much as we need for travel, but we were traveling all day. They opened every single bottle of formula. Once opened they expire after 2 hours...so I was left without any formula for the whole day. No amount of reasoning or crying moved them. The lady had me detained and called me an "agitated passenger" to her manager (he was a bit nicer). I've never been more angry than on that day. This was in Boise, Idaho 2023.

[@janetroberts4359]

Let’s face it-many TSA agents are good folks, but always some are just dicks who are power tripping.

[@ActinOut]

We we're flying out of Orlando the same time. The TSA in Orlando was the the most ridiculous TSA experience we've had. Mostly horrible organization. A number of their machines were down adding to the problem. One of the things we had trouble with was too much water that was still in a wrung out swimsuit that hadn't completely dried out yet, so we threw it in a plastic bag. You couldn't wring anything else out of it, but apparently it was too much water according to their carry on scan machine.

[@billnict1]

It's unfortunate but it is something that a bad actor would exploit. The TSA and their rules have kept us safe post 9/11.

[@FrankFox-yu1xf]

This is getting ridiculous!! They are endangering babies lives! See what we wrote about what happened to our daughter, It will irritate you also!!

[@maxinefreeman8858]

I was watching an airplane safety show. They were saying not to take anything with you if it's an emergency and you're going to go down the skide. I said I have a small cloth tote bag with a strap that fits over the body. My medications go in it. They were saying no, you'll be able to get your medications. I'm a retired nurse, I so I know how things take time. You can't just rattle off a list. I've kidney disease from ibuprofen. My blood pressure goes up and down. I can't imagine it not shooting up if I'm scared. I've got to maintain my blood pressure to keep my kidneys from further damage. That cloth bag isn't going to hit anyone or slow anything down. I'd want to be able to carry at least a 24 hour supply.

[@brucelee3388]

Maybe try a 'money belt' to carry a few doses? Goes inside your clothes so no one else is going to know. They come in 'round the waist' and 'shoulder holster' designs last time I looked.

[@GWRosenberg]

Yup! “Medically necessary” means never leaves my immediate area, no matter what policies they might have. I have a small pouch with big grabbable handles that carries my pill case, wallet, passport, and phone in the very top of my personal item right next to my feet. If I must assume the position in a crash I can yank it out from there and pocket it. Easy peasy.

[@bdimon]

@@maxinefreeman8858 I wear a Scott eVest when I travel. Lots of pockets for meds, phone, etc. Fairly pickpocket resistant too. Not a bag, it's clothing.

[@joane24]

It does take time to reach for things in case of emergency, where every second may count. So it's best to keep valuables on you/pockets/fanny pack/cross body purse, etc. I wear fanny pack on planes with my phone and documents, just in case. Never had an issue (the flight attendants check if your belt is fastened, and no one ever said anything about me having a small fanny pack).

[@alisonjones7747]

Hosties are not going to be checking for fanny packs and sling bags in an emergency. What they DO NOT want is people trying to get into the overhead bins and people dragging things out from the underseat area. It is wise to have a small sling or similar with medications and passport.

[@tolson57]

2 weeks ago, I was put thru the ringer by TSA at SeaTac because I was carrying prescribed lotions in their original containers with the prescription labels. I told the agent that I had them and he said to just leave them in my backpack. The Xray screener kick my bag to secondary inspection where a senior agent proceeded to supervise a trainee to do an explosive screening on every pocket of my backpack. They never opened the Ziplock with the lotions, they also did a pat down on me and then test their gloves for explosives. Before I went on the trip, I went to the TSA website and read the rules on prescriptions lotions and followed them perfectly. The rules said they might open the lotions but never said anything about a full explosives test. Once I was thru the scanner it took them 40 minutes to finally clear me. It's like they don't even know their own rules.

[@clayedwards1066]

They don’t

[@kaylakitty3814]

It’s possible that your bags getting kicked to secondary screening had absolutely nothing to do with your prescribed lotions. I have had the same over-the-top check and explosive screening done and I had no lotions, liquids, shampoos, medications, etc.

[@tpkyterooluebeck9224]

It is worth it to NEVER use a USED backpack or bag for TSA. You never know who put a gun or bullets, etc. in that bag before. That residue can stick to bag and be picked up. So, if you have a license to carry, I'd have a specific bag and clothes that never see the license to carry stuff, including the clothes you wear for that. I know, overkill, but TSA has gotten to that point, where by if they suspect even the slightest spec of residue, you will be flagged. However, in their favor, everyone is concerned about World and no more peace just like we had twice before.

[@jodeegu]

I went through SeaTac twice in two days (cancelled and then rescheduled flight). My husband, daughter, and I all agreed that it was the most disorganized, rude, and careless TSA screening process we had ever been through.

[@paulaj7682]

​@@jodeeguJust went through yesterday. Being TSA pre, I mistakenly thought I would have an easier time of it ... nope. I was traveling with my 11 and 14 year old grandsons, and one of them was "randomly" selected for secondary. I got the special treatment instead. My stress level was already high. I will give them mixed reviews on rudeness. Of the five agents I interacted with, two rude and three just fine.

[@janetroberts4359]

If a TSA agent opens your prescription bottles during a screening, be sure to check the lids when you get your bag back.

[@tashiraburton]

Why do the lids need to be checked?

[@LodyLynn]

@@tashiraburton, in case the agents did not close the caps properly which could result in medication all over the suitcase, room, floor etc

[@tashiraburton]

@@LodyLynn thanks

[@janetroberts4359]

@@tashiraburton because the TSA agent didn’t get the lid back on one bottle right. Half the med ended up all over the bottom of my bag.

[@ericapelz260]

Never underestimate incompetence.

[@Buck1954]

I had a cheap pocket watch on my carry on in 2006. I got through all of the check points with it. Everybody was still edgy about 911 then. Then came Spain where they point a machine gun at me and started looking for the lump of metal inside. I showed them where it was and let them take it out. I said, "cheap watch, you keep". She came back and said, "cheap watch, you keep".

[@HR-wd6cw]

The medications thing I didn't think about much on my last trip, having diabetic supplies which filled about a 1 gallon bag (but this also included the insulin, infusion sets and other related supplies -- which may also be one reason they didn't question the bag either since it was all labelled I guess, at least the liquids -- insulin). What I have found is that if you can go without your pump for maybe 15 minutes (which I have found I can and it's not an issue) you can sometimes get through by just telling them you have an infusion set but you can still walk through the body scanner (which I have done). Most glucose monitoring devices / CGMs will usually also be fine with the body scanners and metal detectors (I've gone through quite a few with the Dexcom system and they were fine). It's when you DON'T tell them about these things that you may be subjected to questioning, so I usually tell them that I'm putting my pump in the bin with my shoes and wallet and will walk through the body scanner but that I have a CGM installed and an influsion set, but this does speed things up compared to opting out and opting for a pat down instead, as I've had to wait, in some cases, 20-30 minutes if the airport is busy). So if you can, remove your pump if it's detachable, and let them know and you can probably go through the body scanner or metal detector (neither of which should mess up a CGM, but the pump will set them off as most contain enough metal to do so). For the diabetes suplies I just take them out and put them into a bin (they are in a 1 gallon zip lock bag so it's obvious that they are medications) and this has proven to also be faster. Usually they don't dig through the bag but will look for a prescription label/tag, at least in my experience over the years having flown probably about 20 times with diabetes supplies and liquid insulin at least). As a funny note, coming back from Las Vegas, my bag was going to be searched randomly at TSA but sinc I was in a rush packing the back for my return flight home, the guy opens it up and says "I'm not going through this" (I sort of just piled clothes in the bag since it was the end of my trip and just wanted to get back. Not saying this would work, but it did save me some time. I think an empty plastic water bottle did trigger their system, but the guy did find that when opening the bag as it was right on top.

[@war-painter]

I always carry an empty water bottle and fill it up at the next drinking fountain after I get through TSA pre check and whatever. Why buy water?

[@bethanywilson6152]

I wear an insulin pump and CGM and appreciate you sharing the experience of going through the body scanner with CGM. Thanks

[@jamesgilbert1969]

My checked bag has been lost a few times, once for 3 days, another for 5 days and yet other for a full week. The most serious consequence came when I packed the cord to my CPAP machine in my suitcase, and then could not find a matching cable at my destination. 3 sleepless nights and the pain of difficult breathing tauight me an unforgettable lesson.

[@SomebodySaid...]

My husband and I just returned from 2 weeks in Europe where we put Apple Air Tags on the 2 checked bags we had and on each of our wallets that we carried on ourselves. This greatly reduced my concerns about where our most important items were located. It’s true that someone could cut them off but they didn’t and I had a lot more peace of mind because of them.

[@Tugela60]

You probably should not be traveling then.

[@jamesgilbert1969]

@@Tugela60, learning the lesson let me continue traveling.

[@michaelkrupar9808]

My personal rant: In general, I wish TSA would be consistent across the airports they cover. I do have Global Entry that does include Pre Check. As a diabetic, I wear an insulin pump, and CGM as well as carry an insulin vial in my carry on medical bag. What's frustrating is at this airport, I can go through with no issues, at another airport, I have to remove my belt and hold my pump in my hand, or, if I have to take off my belt, I also have to take off my shoes. Other airports will take my carry on apart even if it does clear the screening, while most just require me to pull out my liquids bag. My insulin and pump supplies are in a separate "Medical" bag that's rarely touched, but there have been times when someone insists on going through it. I've learned to ask for a supervisor to oversee the procedure because if something is lost or broken, I want it documented. Anyway, the bottom line - this would all be easier for everyone IF TSA was concistent in their duties from one airport to another.

[@sharonrimsza7960]

TSA needs to stop hiring “lowest bidder” personnel. Please properly train TSA personnel consistently across ALL airports. They need completion requirements for each position. And re-training to include testing. TSA should be a matter of pride and importance to keep us safe. Trust me, I have seen the craziest things at the airport lines. Obvious ignorance of medical devices, obvious ignorance of procedures and safety, obvious ignorance of physical abilities of our, not only elderly, but our veterans, and others with disabilities. And do not get me started on the ridiculousness of sticking their hands and fingers on our medications. TSA…how about we spit on your food before you eat it? Ugh! Many TSA employees are very good at their jobs without being abusive and intrusive. It is the ones that have the issue with ‘power’ to tell others what to do. Believe me, I have had them tell me I need to take off my shirt because I can not wear more than one shirt. I told them that I had on a sports bra under my blouse but if you want me to show off my fat in public I am more then happy to announce what you are demanding and most likely embarrass the heck out of you, your supervisor and the public. I am old so I do not care. How about you? They decided it was a better idea to leave me alone. I own my own paper booties and I had an airport employee tell me I had to leave my paper booties in the trash can. Well, I said I think not, these are mine and I will not throw away paper! And I kept on walking. What an idiot.

[@michaelkrupar9808]

@@sharonrimsza7960 The US Government, of which TSA is a part of, will ALWAYS hire the lowest bidder, ALWAYS!

[@sharonrimsza7960]

@ yes, unfortunately they do.

[@torirochleau-rice8037]

I have T1D and wear a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Because the research is sketchy as to whether or not CGMs can safely go through the various screening devices, I always ask for a pat down instead. This is never a problem, and I travel internationally regularly. (I did have a fun moment in France, when the airport worker showed me that she was wearing the same CGM, and she knew exactly which machine was ‘safe.’)

[@sfbeancounter]

I wear CGM and never had a problem using any screening devices. After telling security agent about my CGM, they said i will be fine.

[@tranquillady1688]

I've been moved from the metal detector which I was supposed to go thru, since I have TSA pre-check, when an agent motioned me to go thru the full body scanner and when I said I couldn't due to my insulin pump, I ended up getting a body search in which the other agent started pinching my skin around my cgm causing me to yelp in pain and then causing another agent to yell at the lady pinching my cgm.

[@birdee18]

Last year when I flew to Europe, I asked my pharmacist if he would print extra prescription labels and put them on smaller bottles for me. I was only traveling for a week, but I still took 10 days worth of medication. I waited until I arrived at my destination to sort them into my pill organizer. This year I’ll do the same but I may also ask my NP to write a letter specifying what each medication is for. I did not have TSA Pre Check last year, and I did not have to remove anything from my bag here in the US, nor did I have to in any of the European airports.

[@LisaKnobel]

That's a bit much. I've traveled to Europe twice and never encountered a problem with my prescription meds and supplements. I put them all in pill organizers. I do carry the bottles of my two prescription meds with me and a prescription of Ivermectin. I have not had an issue.

[@dfuss2756]

I gave up on flying. We drove wherever we needed to go or took a train. Got so tired of bad service and not so polite people. That is the best I can say about flying. In BWI airport my jewelry was taken from my carry on and held up for everyone to see. Never trusted TSA again.

[@pyreneesfarm7818]

I am the same way, If and when I travek again, it may be by train oe bus, but the attitude of the TSA has taken the joy of flying and made it a nightmare

[@abijahdixon2771]

Here in Alaska flight is necessary for some medical reasons and the ferry is a three day thing, but yes TSA sure has made traveling bad at times for many people.

[@charlayned]

It wasn't an airport, but the cruise terminal. I am in a wheelchair (electric) and we usually stow our meds in a separate bag that we hook to the back of my chair. Both of us are on several medications and many of mine are pain meds. I always carry a list of them and the dosage and doctor in my tablet. I also have a huge problem with dry mouth due to the meds so I have a metal bottle with water in it (Cirkul, which has a flavor container in it). When we went through TSA, the med bag was fine but they were going to make me pour out the bottle. This was a one hour wait to board and I wouldn't be able to handle not having the water. So, I asked him "If I chug it, you know it's okay, right?" and proceeded to do that. He laughed and told me to go on through, if I could drink it, it wasn't explosive. I will have a doctors prescription for my water bottle next time we go so there's no problem. My husband always has to ask for the pat down, he wears the glucose monitor and has a titanium heart valve. They both react in some of the scanners. We also have the medical card given to us when he got the valve, which has what it is, the doctor, the surgeon and dates. We bot have a copy so it's always with us. I'm kinda OCD and I print out everything, packing lists, med lists, travel paperwork on the cruise, and everything else I can think of and it all goes in a folder (the ones with the brads to hold it) and if there's any question, I just show them the print outs. Saves a lot of time trying to figure out what I did with whom and why.

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for sharing this! Sounds like you have things very organized. Love the chug the explosives🤣 Enjoy your travels!

[@katebc9148]

I was in line and heard a screening agent yell loudly at an elderly couple across the room and felt so sorry for them. I can well imagine they probably don’t travel often, or are from an era when people at airports were kind, were helpful , and flying was pleasant. It is no longer that way. I would rather drive than fly. I understand the (screening personnel) have a very difficult job and probably have difficult people all the time. However, it needs to be improved. It seems the whole process could use an overhaul.

[@calj01]

The whole process should be abandoned, let another 3 letter agency bite the dust

[@Skatakephalos7434]

Yeah, like the poor Geatapo haveing to check papers att the time.

[@marymacdonald2379]

With an open border it is ridiculous to have TSA doing anything other than scanning bags for bombs. Going through citizens' drugs and toiletries is beyond a waste of time.

[@larryfromwisconsin9970]

I flew in the USA last month. No problem with TSA and my medication being placed in a daily pill dispenser. But you're right, I would never fly International like that. Not concerned about TSA but the foreign Customs could have a fit about this. I had a buddy spend thirty days in a United Arab Emirates jail for packing his Sudafed in a Zip Lock baggie.

[@M_SC]

Idk when that was, but there used to be 2 kinds of Sudafed, and one (no longer available on the shelf) contained pseudoepinephrine, which is used to make methamphetamine. Check your medicines for any kind of epinephrine type medicine (do your research) and then check if those are controlled substances in the other country. Many countries don’t control the same medicines. I take my American friends back medicine from my country they can’t get without a prescription.

[@joy2440]

@@M_SC correct - you have to sign for it at the pharmacy but it’s very powerful medicine ( the old one)

[@DanKaraJordan]

And the Sudafed that doesn't have pseudoephinedrine is proven to be little more than a placebo...

[@FrankFox-yu1xf]

We can no longer fly international, because of some of the medications my wife must take.

[@mwebb3014]

@@FrankFox-yu1xfWould you elaborate on what they are? My husband takes pretty powerful meds for Parkinson’s

[@KjartanAndersen]

Been traveling 5-10 times a year in Europe and the US with all my medication in day-dispensers with no issues. Not once been asked anything about them.

[@rileydj8764]

Same. Always use multi day dispensers with all the pills mixed. I just carry the RX papers that came with them. But I’ve never been asked, in hundreds of international flights.

[@anitamitchell3452]

Good to know. Just in case I ever get to fly again.

[@pauld315]

Me too, I have never had a problem. Just flew last week.

[@Harlow65965]

There’s always a first time and this is not something you want an issue with in another country

[@casey4602]

@KjsrtanAndrson yesterday's price isn't today's price...

[@kenrice]

My wife and I have been snowbirds for 18 years. We divide our time between our homes in the USA and the Philippines. Every year I bring about 5 and 1/2 months of medication with me to the Philippines, and never once in 18 years have I been questioned over my medication.

[@dragontalontsiawd]

How do you do it with Visas? Or do you have dual citizenship? I want to start doing this. I need help. No lie.

[@gbkworf]

I always take at least an extra 1-2 weeks of meds if not more.

[@stevenjohnson2063]

At least as a veteran I have access to pharmacies worldwide through army Navy and Air Force bases

[@kzarz0219]

I preload my medication into 1 ml syringes. I carry enough for my time at my destination. So far, I haven't been stopped or questioned domestically or internationally.

[@richardsteinbergmakingknives]

That jet lag is a real thing. I just returned from Philippines and it's kicking my butt. Hey, Thanks for this topic. I travel with medications and this info helps!

[@PortableProfessional]

Glad you found it helpful. Hope you shake that jet lag soon.

[@RuthOrr-b8k]

According to TSA Facebook page post dated 6/5/24. No need to bring original prescription bottles. Can use pill holders/daily dispensers

[@suen5006]

I'm not taking any chances.

[@jimscard]

Domestically only.

[@MrVenona]

That would be great - if the TSA "officers" actually followed their own rules.

[@MarilynB-MariLuv]

​@suen5006 I agree. Especially traveling International. My local pharmacy use small containers I can travel International. I have let pharmacy at least 7days before travel date.

[@donnaleeah5075]

I did a text chat with TSA who stated what you are saying. I'm keeping the text since being on 8 prescriptions (heart issues) and not wanting to check in luggage I'd hate to bring my box of meds.

[@allankamen9875]

Every day it seems "they" add more rules to make travel more onerous and less enjoyable. I used to love to travel, now it just seems like a hassle and something I will avoid, if possible.

[@ashleycnossen3157]

They're trying to turn us into North Korea

[@tpkyterooluebeck9224]

Take the Train! Then, take the Cruise ship. After that, worry about Japan, as they are strict with foolishness. I basically may not have my epipen if I go to Japan, even though allegedly, at least at the legal law level, they changed the rules for epipens specificically for food anaphylaxis. I wouldn't trust Japan because feeding tubes and other must have meds and extremely rare food for infants with extremely high food allergies can still be stolen by their border agents because border agents don't care about law and would rather steal and make money on the black market.

[@aojorel]

That’s exactly what they want

[@AlanRPaine]

The people who think up these rules need to justify their existence and if they didn't come up with new rubbish on a regular basis. Airport security in the US can be incredibly paranoid. The agents have to follow the rules but some of them seem to be over zealous. It must be a frustrating job because they are unlikely to catch a real terrorist in their whole careers.

[@Buck1954]

The plan is to keep you 15 minutes from home.

[@Surfcityham]

We had to get special permits to bring more than 30 days of prescription medicines into Japan for a cruise. You need your itinerary, flight numbers, and photographs of every medicine bottle. I take the standard medicines of an American middle-aged or older person (blood pressure and station). My wife has Rheumatoid arthritis and has many prescriptions. TSA, Japanese customs, Dubai customs, and Dubai's version of TSA did not ask us about them. My wife also has some metal in her back. She has the X-ray ready to show. So far, only the San Luis Obispo courthouse has detected it.

[@tpkyterooluebeck9224]

I heard stories about Japan being pickier with epi-pens and specialy formulated formula for infants and those who use a feeding tube, such that they were conficated as being illegal. I think the black market for them is too high yet. Laws did change in Japan here, in our favor, but I still don't trust customs in any country, but especially Japan and Australia.

[@tonymatthews2344]

hi Megan, thanks for this, if you are not prepared transporting medications can be a nightmare!, as you mention, hold luggage can get lost so all mine go in my carry-on. my insulin needs to stay chilled so go into a small tupperware box wrapped in microfibre cloth with freezer blocks, i have three small freezer blocks so they are allowed, i have to declare the hypodermic needles but i always carry a prescription and have never had a problem, i travel to S.E. Asia three times a year which is a 16 hour flight (including a 2 hour stopover) so i ask the cabin crew to put the insulin in the fridge, i have never had a problem with any of the Middle Eastern airlines, they are always very helpful. one quick point about pill boxes, they often "pop" open during the flight, this is due to the low air pressure in the cabin, i just put a piece of tape across the lids and have never had a problem since🙂

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for sharing this Tony! Safe travels!

[@ReyOfLight]

Ever tried a Frio pouch? Activated with water and keeps insulin cool for a long time with each activation. Just thought I'd mention it as it sounds like it could save space for you, along with being able to keep your insulin safely with you at all times and not risk it getting too cold or lost during the flight. A smaller Frio pouch can also be convenient if visiting or living in a very hot area where the weather could pose a risk to the pen, penfill or vial that is currently in use and the person needs to bring with them for meals and corrections while out and about (and potentially away from air conditioning)

[@jimfromburbankca5253]

One of your best videos to date. Bravo. This was information that was really needed.

[@kerrypanes5759]

Megan, I really appreciate your vidoes. They have made flying so much more easier and cheaper. Thank you.

[@PortableProfessional]

You are so welcome! What a nice comment to read. It's great to have you on the channel, Kerry!

[@kittykathy9532]

I actually haven’t flown since the Mid90s. I usually drive to places within a few hours for vacation. And I’ve been driven from Pennsylvania to Florida for vacation. My husband hates to fly and I enjoy it, but I haven’t done it since way before 911. Every time I see these videos it makes me not want to even even get on a plane because it seems like it’s such a hassle anymore!🙁

[@tammypearson4500]

TSA Cares is great! We notified them about our 7 year old autisticgranddaughter and they were wonderful with her personalized screening. Thank you for your information!

[@PortableProfessional]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I've heard many good things about TSA Cares and it's so encouraging for all of us travelers. Thanks for watching 🥰

[@heleneg525]

Did you have a TSA agent accompanying her throughout the screening process? I ask because I will have a family member w/ dementia traveling later this year.

[@tammypearson4500]

@heleneg525 yes, they were there with her the entire process. You need to contact them a couple of days ahead of time. It's all very easy.

[@heleneg525]

@@tammypearson4500 Thank you.

[@tammypearson4500]

@@heleneg525 you're very welcome!

[@AnthonyScott_Little_Black_Duck]

I have a pacemaker and generally speaking most TSA agents appreciate being told and even being shown the medical device ID card. Some agents were more meh get in the spinning gizmo and keep moving. I print out the prescription list from my app and carry that with me in case i don't have access to wifi. I travel through Qatar en route to the Philippines and it's always a good idea to keep hard copies of your documents. And I carry my med bottles in clear plastic bags.

[@camilledextraze7104]

Hi Megan! As a Canadian, my medication is pre-packaged in 28 little blister-type pack (Dispil - Canadian patent) and I haven’t been subject to a search so far, either at Canadian customs or American customs. Excellent video, Megan.

[@karenrobertson1944]

Blister packs provided by the pharmacy should be perfect because they state the patient name, name and description of every drug, dosage, etc. Much less sketchy to a security screener than random looking pills and capsules in a fill-it-yourself plastic pill minder, especially if you don't have the pharmacy bottles.

[@BlingyBea]

That’s awesome, wish our US pharmacy did that, great for traveling.

[@653j521]

@@BlingyBea Have you asked?

[@BlingyBea]

@@653j521 no I haven’t, I thought that was a Canadian patent like she stated.

[@joane24]

Then again, in Europe, we don't get our prescription info anywhere on the meds😅. Actually, the minute you hand over the prescription to the pharmacist, you never see it again. I wonder what travelling in the US would be like then, as a tourist from Europe when carrying your meds. 🤔🥴

[@minutemark]

TSA does not require medications to be in their original, labeled, prescription containers. However, using the original containers may limit delays or additional questioning.

[@Subgunman]

Coming into the USA from Europe medicines are packaged in blister packs set in cardboard packaging that are clearly marked and with Braille writing to boot! There are NO prescription marking on the packaging and seldom do we receive a hard copy of our prescription. Prescriptions are electronically forwarded to the pharmacies so as to preserve wasteful paper consumptions.

[@HubrisMaximus]

I’m a resident of France but travel to the US regularly. French medications (pills) are never dispensed in bottles with the patient’s name on them. Pharmacies instead give you a box with pills in blister packs, but never with your name on them. I usually take them out of the blister packs and boxes immediately as they are bulky to store and a pain to deal with. Luckily I’ve never been questioned about my meds and supplements that I put in a pill organizer when I travel.

[@MyriamSchweingruber]

Lucky you! My medication is the main reason I do not fly to the US anymore, I had 2 very unpleasant airport security screenings. Apparently these people don't care about security in the first place, they just jump on the occasion to bully a person with a non-standard setup. Unfortunately even keeping my medication in the original packaging didn't help, those are bulky and fill up pretty much the whole of my luggage if I go abroad for more than a week. Even sticking to strict TSA rules I checked on before online, this ended up with me missing my next domestic flight and being suspected to be a drug smuggler. Prescription copies and doctors letters were completely ignored, apparently the idea that somebody would need to take 10 pills daily is beyond their immagination. So if you are a fellow transplant patient: think twice before flying to the USA from Europe

[@SaadiaGreenberg]

From the TSA website: "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." I have traveled internationally form the US several times this year and my day pill containers have never been questioned. (US, Austria, Japan & Israel)

[@fredadunne5382]

A few years ago TSA looked at my insulin pens and waved it through. When I got to Italy, the Italian security staff totally freaked and sent me through a full security check. It was finally ended when their supervisor stopped the check and read them the riot act.

[@cathybrind2381]

Italians!!!!

[@653j521]

@@cathybrind2381 Americans!!!! Humans!!!! LOL

[@PortableProfessional]

*SUBSCRIBE for weekly tips & hacks* : bit.ly/subscribe-travel-hacks

[@Tiger_Woo_dds]

I like your voice🎉

[@brucestein988]

As you note, getting on-board is the first step with the TSA. I have never had them have a problem with my prescriptions in the pharmacy bottle with the pharmacy label. However, remember that you also have to get past the customs of the country you are going into. Mostly I have found that the countries in Europe take the same approach as the USA when looking at medications. However, outside of that please check the destination's specific requirements. On one occasion, I also "had" to have an original signed letter from my doctor as to what medications I had to have with me. Did they look at it? No, but if they had asked and I did not have it, I might have been denied entry (or worse). My advice, double check the rules all along the way and follow them.

[@lmcc0072]

Just like that basketball player learned, just because your marijuana vape is ok in California and other parts of the U.S. doesn’t mean that it’s ok in Russia.

[@vickilindberg6336]

I travel witha 2 gallon zip lock bag that contains all my meds in their original bottles, 2 insulins & equipment Plus my most recent office visit report including my allergies, medical conditions & list of medications. I arrived in a wheelchair, last time wearing a knee high cast & told security I had 3 body implants. They still almost strip searched me. No amount of planning will save you if you run into a TSA as..

[@Alan-rt3se]

I just got back from Italy, and I took all my prescription meds in a weekly pill minder, NOT in their original packaging, and nobody in the US or Italy had any problem with that. I kept the meds in my personal item bag, along with my electronics and valuable items. My larger carry-on bag contained only clothing and a spare pair of shoes.

[@cachecow]

I go away for months at a time so I can carry a few hundred pills. I (slowly and with heat) peel the labels off my med bottles and stick them on a zip-lock bags and fill them up. I've never been stopped or had a problem

[@kategirl9182]

You can get duplicate labels at the pharmacy

[@cachecow]

@@kategirl9182 Thanks I didn't know

[@dndrusso]

Do you separate your pills into separate bags and then put the label on each one instead of bringing the bottle?

[@TripleAM19]

I actually did the same thing when I traveled to India and had no issues. However, I'm sure each country has their own rules.

[@cachecow]

@@dndrusso If there are just a few and they look different I might put them together with the 2 labels on the bag. I'll keep the sleep/pain pills together b/c those are the only ones they should be interested in, and in case of emergencies you'll want to be able to ID them and grab them fast

[@DeanDecoursey]

Thanks Megan. I just got bad from my recent trip to Chiangmai. Having Global Entry, I was surprised at LAX at one of their kiosks fumbling around in my pockets for my Passport, the one agent in charge there said to come on down. He had a machine that took my fingerprints and a picture but never asked me for a Passport if it wasn’t for visas, Passports would be obsolete. On the negative side, I didn’t bring my Bose headphones. On my 12 hour flight back from Manila to LAX, I was sitting near a baby that decided to cry for the first 2 hours. I can do a fair job of tuning that out but headphones would help. Only 6 months until I see Chiangmai again.

[@jacquiet6040]

See ya there.

[@bedtimesd.1247]

The TSA Does not require you to keep your prescription drugs in their original labeled container many state do not require it as well. Think some of us have a massive amount of medications that would never fit in a personal bag.

[@starregazer]

Same here. I tend to travel for a month at a time in Europe and never bother taking my original containers because it would take up so much room. I usually just take a daily pill container that has morning, afternoon, evening and turn that into a 21 day pill organizer. I may try to get my doctor to issue some paper prescriptions though just in case I am questioned!

[@bedtimesd.1247]

@@starregazer Yes I have the necessary documentation.

[@mary-ruthflores4107]

I have smaller prescription bottles when I travel. My Pharmacist printed correct labels for the amount I travel with. In Boston/Logan I have had TSA swab test pills in pill cases. So I now always have prescription bottles and my prescription with me

[@bedtimesd.1247]

@@mary-ruthflores4107 Great I am glad that works for you. My prescriptions come from a by mail pharmacy. My trip is also unexpected and short notice. Very seldom does Good advice work in all places and in all situations. I will remember your advice for my next trip because it is great advice.

[@theresapitts9550]

They tossed my husband’s meds because they were not in the bottle with the label

[@XX-mn6ed]

I have been traveling for 30 years and never packed individual prescription bottles. Internationally you do need to take extra care not to bring Class 2 prescribed meds or certain OTC products because they are strictly prohibited in countries like Japan and South Korea. You can try and file for a medical waiver in advance but you likely won't be successful.

[@birdnird]

A little OT, but when I was bringing my mother’s jewelry home after she passed, I was diverted for extra screening. When asked what was in the bag, I said, “My inheritance.” I was quickly whisked back to a private screening room where a cursory inspection of the contents of the bag took place, and we exchanged stories about our parents. I suspect he hurried it up when it seemed like I was going to start into more family stories 😂. OFC I code “harmless, nice little middle-aged middle-class white lady.” They never asked about the Kratom capsules in my purse 😂😂😂

[@nathanfitzgerald6651]

LOL, that sort of reminds me of the movie Airplane! in which Ted Striker's sob stories were so tiresome to listen to that his seatmates would commit suicide in elaborate ways.😂😂😂

[@Nomadicshieldmaid75]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@jpmasters-aus]

I have a lot of medication (both prescriptions and over the counter), a reverse shoulder replacement, diabetes testing (with needle) and a medication in an epi-pen like device that needs to be kept at a cool temperature. I use those plastic containers with lids at home prepared by my pharmacy, but when I travel overseas I have my pharmacy put all the non liquid items into WebsterPacs. The advantage with these travelling from my point of view are: 1) They provide day and time with day allocation of medication 2) The medication is sealed in the PAC 3) At the top of the pac is a print out of all the medication, dosage, frequency and description of the colour/shape/markings of each mediation. 4) On top of that I also carry a letter from my General Practitioner (family doctor) covering all the medication, my artificial shoulder, diabetes testing device, medicine in an epi-pen like device and that I am carrying a CPAP device. When travelling locally in Australia (or departing from Australia) airport security will usually want me to go through the scanning machine rather than a metal detector. I still usually need a pat-down of a small area (but not always my shoulder!). In ports/countries that don’t have the body scanners, I find in Asia, if I hold up my doctors letter whilst putting everything on the rollers for scanning, and call out I have a metal shoulder, I am asked to bypass the metal detectors and am fully patted down, which I don’t mind at all. My new mini-CPAP machine causes me a lot less trouble than my home CPAP machine (being so much larger and would often have to be unpacked put in a bin for rescanning for everyone to see it being unpacked and them repacked, I think a breach of medical privacy). Again travelling around Asia recently I have had no issues raised with my WebsterPac medication, and was surprised that my epi-pen like medication in the cooling container, as soon as I mentioned it is described on my GPs letter, it was never opened for review (it did go through the scanners). As an aside, on a trip to SFO before COVID over an extended Easter break, I was pickpocketed and my passport and wallet was stolen. For Australian’s Easter is a four day break, and the SFO consulate office wasn’t opened on the Monday, and I was returning that evening. So there was no way I could get a replacement passport. I knew I needed to report the matter to the Police and have a case number, then called both my airline and our 24 hour Foreign Affairs office. FA said that provided I was going straight back to Australia (ie not via another country) I wouldn’t need a passport, but may be asked a number of questions to identify myself upon check-in and passport control in Australia. I contacted my airline, the pre-Covid Virgin Australia who had the best business class between Australia and the US 😢. They weren’t overly phased either. We agreed that it would be more helpful if I caught an earlier flight from SFO to LAX than book (VA # on a DL flight - Dom First Class). There was a reasonable fare difference given the closeness to travel. As a Platinum member, they went to check on a few things, and decided that since getting the earlier flight was operationally better for them, I would not be charged the price difference. They asked a few things however. 1) That I get to SFO an hour earlier than usual as checking and getting though TSA would take longer 2)That I only checkin to LAX and then at LAX checkin for SYD. The reason was just in case Australian Immigration decided from what ever reason I wasn’t able to fly and needed to stay in LAX until I get a new passport, meaning they didn’t need to find and offload my bags. I’m glad I got to SFO early as the check-in systems are so automated these days, no-one was able to work out how to not check me in all the way to SYD. The found the most experienced agent, who still needed to call their Helpdesk for support. In the end I think they somehow broke up my booking (as I lost my special meals and preselected seat out of LAX), and I think they somehow created a manual baggage tag. Fortunately I had split my wallet, so that I still had my photograph drivers licence. When I got to the top of the TSA queue, I handed the agent my drivers licence and explained my passport had been stolen. A bit flummoxed, they called for their supervisor, who was an amazing, gentle and proficient person. After I told here the situation and that VA was happy for me to do this domestic leg and DL and checked me in, that would indicate that the airlines are happy for me to fly this sector. She then asked for some other forms of identification, one was did I have any credit cards (more the merrier), and, the link back to this video, did I have an prescription medication with my name clearly on them. I was able to give here a number of packets! I was let through, but I had to go through full screening rather than priority (less) screening. After lugging my baggage to check in at the VA counter, the agent (I think in training) I don’t think fully listened to me, so was surprised when she couldn’t check me in as I had no travel approval in their system from Aust Immigration! Another agent took an education approach rather than taking over (which I thought was good) and helped through the process, which included calling the Immigration 24 hour hot line. After I was asked a number of questions by them, they were comfortable it was me, and I was allowed to be checked in. Then to TSA at Tom Bradley. The person before me at the top of the queue’s middle name wasn’t an exact match to their passport. So they had to stand aside waiting for a supervisor. I was next and they really didn’t know what to do. I commented, here is my boarding pass from SFO and airlines can’t board a passenger without Immigration approval (with or without a passport). VA had checked me through so they must be happy for me to travel. She let me through to the security line, but when the supervisor arrived for the other passenger, they must have told them about my situation, and the supervisor pulled me out of the security line. If only it has been faster! I went through all the details again, and was asked for three ways of identifying myself, but medication wasn’t acceptable to the supervisor. Anyway through I went eventually. On arrival in Australia, a VA ground staff member had to escort me to manual immigration processing and stay with my until I was called to the immigration officer. This agent didn’t seem very on the ball (it was very early in the morning), I told him them passport was stolen, told them its number, that it had been reported stolen and due to the Easter Monday holiday I wasn’t able to get an urgent replacement. After asking me the same questions about 5 or 6 times (with the same answers), a supervisor was walking behind them and they called them over. The supervisor had zero concerned, called me through and to a side are just to do a couple of checks. After a few minutes they came out of their office with a piece of paper and asked me three or four questions. After I had answered them they simply said, welcome home and from your history of travelling you probably know where to get your bags etc. Interesting side notes 1) My original passport was found down near the wharf area (off the F tram(?)). It was stolen around Union Square, and returned to the Australian consulate for free return to myself. 2) When my new passport was issued (and before COVID I was an extensive overseas traveller), for the next 3 or so years I was always bounced from the automated immigration gates on exit or entry. Nobody would tell me why. I suspect one of two things, just to make sure I am who I say or because I lost a passport. That situation corrected itself a couple of years ago.😊 3) I later found out that any Australian citizen can enter Australia without a passport. intermediate countries on the way home may not permit transit, and yet on arrival there will be some clarifications and confirmation required. I would assume that is the case for most countries and their citizens.

[@madchatteress]

WOW ... What an ordeal. I'm glad you were able to make it back home to Australia.

[@patriciachirgwin3238]

Thanks for the tips. As someone with Crohn’s disease and a stoma bag, I was concerned as to what might be expected of me. I shall refer to your videos before I fly as they always have great information! Thank you!❤️

[@SharonRepici]

You would be a great candidate for TSA Cares and personalized screening.

[@marybethcully5883]

Thanks for the updates…I have used TSA cares…I have MS and have mobility issues and use a rollator to walk long distances…a TSA cares agent walked me through the entire screening process, it made what would normally be an exhausting process so much much easier. It was a godsend❣️

[@PortableProfessional]

I have heard positive things bout TSA Cares. Glad you had a good experience!

[@laurabower6107]

Going on a trip to Europe and have been really enjoying your travel tips! :) Thanks for all your efforts to make travelers trips easier and more enjoyable!

[@PortableProfessional]

Woot woot, love to hear it! Thanks for watching 🥰

[@Desi_Des]

Going to France next week but I know Paris well as I was born there, lived there for 7 years and went back every year to visit my dear Mama, who has now passed away. We always learn something new in each video, so I take what I like and leave the rest. Love the videos very much as it can have great information.

[@TischTosh]

for coffee, buy packets (like Mount Hagen organic coffee, taste is ok; use two for an eight ounce cup--pro tip 😊). bags of loose ground coffee are SUUUUSSS (like "you're hiding drugs from our dogs" kind of sus 😉 and you will be stopped (I was, and the agent didn’t really even know why, she just said, "the machine doesn't like your bag..." she let me through and I kept the coffee. I later learned about the coffee thing. Never stopped with packets....)).

[@wadehunter8113]

I have an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor - despite manufacturer warnings I detach my pump and have it x-rayed with my bags and go through the backscatter machine like normal. Sometimes they make me touch the CGM then swab my hands, but that’s as far as it’s gone. Never had any issues, but I still arrive a little early just in case.

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks so much for sharing your experience! Smart move to arrive early just in case.

[@rdouglas747]

Never allow TSA to force you to put your pump through the baggage scanner. Also, never go through the body scanner with an insulin pump. Always request a pat down. I wear a pump and CGM and I never go through the machines.

[@wadehunter8113]

@@rdouglas747 I used to opt for the pat down until I one day when I was running very, very late for my flight, so I just put the pump with the rest of my belongings. Made things go so much faster and had zero effect on the pump itself - plus it was disconnected for less time than I spend in the shower. It’s my preferred way to do it now. But I completely agree - the TSA cannot force you if you don’t want to.

[@crowguy506]

I would always take of my pump. It’s no problem at all.

[@barbaradace7952]

Tip: if you want an easier-to-pack smaller labeled prescription vial or bottle for travel, your pharmacy will usually be willing to provide you with one at your request. Also, since I take a lot of daily supplements, I bought a bunch of 2x3" ziplock bags and pack my morning, afternoon, and evening supplements in individual bags, color coded with stickers, which take up much less space than a pill box and can be easily slipped into my pocket when I begin each travel day.

[@copisetic1104]

I solved this years ago, I stay away from airports and airplanes. Haven’t flown in 20 years, people on flights were nuts back then even crazier today, I don’t travel outside of Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, and Utah. Road trips only

[@mtnmagic1998]

Know how you feel! Me too!

[@BlingyBea]

husband is the same, no air travel for him

[@lmcc0072]

I don’t like air travel myself, but sometimes it’s the quickest way from point A to point B. If the drive is 8 hours or less I will usually drive.

[@horsepowerandtalk1033]

My Rxs were in the daily pillbox in my carryon and not a peep out of the TSA. This was a domestic flight 2 weeks ago. I had more trouble with a rent-a-cop in my home state at the gate of a boat show. I have also done this flying to Europe many times since 2022with no problems.

[@davidhawley8570]

You need a prescription label on inhalers and epi-pen cartridges when traveling to foreign countries or they may be confiscated. Happen to me in Schiphol airport and I was without both for my vacation.

[@PortableProfessional]

Thanks for sharing this , David. Rules and regulations can certainly differ by country. Save travels!

[@maggieclendenin6740]

Wow that's awful thanks for sharing as I use multiple inhalers and am leaving for London in October

[@mikepayne1350]

I fly weekly all over the world. Never once have I been stopped by TSA.

[@lmcc0072]

Most of the people who are stopped are either new flyers or people that have a lot of medical liquids. Just my observation.

[@ByHassanMoulali]

Thank you so much for another info filled video... i am travelling soon and this video reminded me of how i should handle my medication .. thank you for always giving useful travel info. ur videos makes travel easier and safer keep up the good work . with best wishes.❤💚

[@PortableProfessional]

Woot woot, love to hear it and wishing you all the best on your upcoming trip. Enjoy to the MAX! Thanks for watching 🥰

[@kittykathy9532]

I actually haven’t flown since 1999. Yep, 1999 ! I usually drive to places within a few hours for vacation. And I’ve even driven from Pennsylvania to Florida for vacation. My husband hates to fly but I enjoyed it, back then, but I haven’t done it since way before 911. Every time I see these videos, and think I might want to fly somewhere again, I change my mind. The more I see these videos and the more I read comments, it makes me not want to even get on a plane because it seems like it’s such a hassle anymore!🙁

[@aminaahmad8328]

If you haven’t been on a plane recently, you should know that the seats are even more cramped than they were in 1999. Indeed, they have actually squeezed an extra seat into the aisle!! 😢 I have to travel overseas and the Atlantic passage is 14 and 1/2 hours in a seat like that 😢😢

[@Mecks]

Hi Megan, Can you look into trying out “Bundle Packing” for one bag travel? Once you pack your bag, when do you really need to access that bag during travel (ex. waiting at gate through in-flight) If we can decide that, is it cost effective to bundle pack in one bag?

[@PortableProfessional]

Oh I will look into this. I've never heard the term Bundle Packing but with a quick google search it looks like an interesting idea to try out. Thanks so much asking and I'll check it out!

[@shirleykaye9693]

Bundle packing is effective but only if you are going to one destination and unpacking for the duration of your stay. Otherwise if you are moving from destination to destination it becomes a pain. It is hard to get to the one item you need if it's in the middle layer of the bundle without unbundling the whole thing.

[@JAM-65]

This happened to me at YYZ traveling to Frankfurt. I have double breast prosthetics due to breast cancer and they really checked me over. The lady guard told me to pack them in my checked luggage next time. She said putting them in my carry on might be worse because she has seen them pull them out and nearly rip them apart

[@ano070602]

Have RX information for needles and test stripes. The TSA can be a jerk about it. I always tell them what equipment I have. I also use a hard case makeup case. It makes it so much easier. Also, tag any devices with what condition in your bag. Makes it easier.

[@carollewis3912]

I didn't have problems with medicine but I was told I would have to throw away my son's water or drink it. It wasn't much so I turned it up and drank it. When I got through security I looked down. They had missed a nearly full diet Coke! I thought cool! I've got something to drink!😊 I also could not print my boarding pass. I had the dreaded SSSS. It turned out to be not too bad. It took about 5 extra minutes.

[@Rosarium2007]

So glad I have TSA PreCheck.

[@DisHammerhand]

Same.

[@paulaj7682]

Being TSA pre, I mistakenly thought I would have an easier time of it ... nope. I was traveling with my 11 and 14 year old grandsons, and one of them was "randomly" selected for secondary ... in the TSA pre line. I got the special treatment instead. My stress level was already high. Had to go through the large scanner and they opened my bag to inspect my powdered coffee creamer. 😒

[@lhv569]

When I traveled for work, my employer paid for TSA precheck. It worked great. Now that I'm retired, there is no real reason to have it for a flight every 2 or 3 years.

[@tevaz5001]

They do complicate my travels but deep down inside I am so grateful for TSA regulations and searches.

[@johns4708]

And you are grateful because? Those who give up Liberty for Perceived safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.

[@davesaunders7080]

Good summary regarding travel with medications, many good ideas to minimize security issues and also to keep important medications under your control.

[@PortableProfessional]

Woot woot, love to hear it! Thanks for watching 🥰

[@TheChloe1331]

If you have any device in or on you or have a lot of meds(especially if they have to have needles such as insulin or factor), you should go to the TSA handicapped line.

[@Kevin_Rhodes]

I fly with a veritable pharmacy in my briefcase nearly weekly. The pills are in a 7-day pill minder. TSA has never said a word. None are narcotics, liquids or gels though.

[@pinkey6141]

Yesterday they had the tsa agent pat down the compression socks I had on. I never had to do this. There were no questions about my meds. I had them in daily pill box and in a gallon size clear bag with print out from dr.

[@leonb2637]

As noted, some OTC's that are legal in the USA are not in some counties. It works the other way too as some OTC's obtained outside the USA may not be legal here as OTC's or only with a prescription. I would keep OTC's in their original labeled containers, see if can find small size packages in pill form of for example anti-diarrhea medicines. Most OTC you may need can be found in other countries but often under a different brand name. I would suggest bringing the card you are given for any internal metal medical items like hip joints, metal bars in legs, back.

[@TracyKMainwaring]

my FIL was shocked to find out Voltaren gel is not available in the US!

[@mtnmagic1998]

It's available OTC at most pharmacies and Walmart so not sure why he couldn't find it.

[@TracyKMainwaring]

@@mtnmagic1998 maybe it's just recently available. This was more than 5 years ago, probably close to 10.

[@mtnmagic1998]

@TracyKMainwaring According to the title it's for 2024.

[@TracyKMainwaring]

@mtnmagic1998 the title of what?

[@robwolf2152]

Recent trip, agent ask family in front of me to remove all baby bottles to be scanned outside bag to avoid search after screening - so best to be ready to remove and not pack at bottom of bag. I don't always travel with meds in original bottle as bottle is often much bigger than necessary, but do bring the drug paperwork. So far never stopped for search, so can't say if this is acceptable, but will continue doing so. When heading to destination all my meds are in carryon, when going home, I pack a day or two's worth in carryon, rest in checked. I have pre-check and Global Entry, so save time on lines. Best for re-entry into the US.

[@joefalkner2368]

Another excellent video. Thank you!

[@PortableProfessional]

Woot woot, love to hear it! Thanks for watching 🥰

[@Rick59Cameron]

If you have a medical device such as a pacemaker then opt out of the x-ray and have them do a pat-down. You do not have to tell them anything about your health, this is why there are HEPA laws.

[@Reed-2big]

I’m not sure some of my medicines would fit in a ziplock bag! We did do a longer trip where I traveled through Abu Dhabi and Japan and Singapore. We did all the paperwork for medications for Japan who didn’t seem to know what the paperwork was. Abu Dhabi was harder because on the return flight we had an overnight. We tried to get the paperwork but it wasn’t as clear as it might have been, so I planned to run out of my one medication before we got there. Then I lucked out and was allowed to not claim our luggage so it stayed air side which protected a questionable otc drug. Singapores rules were impossible to read and I had been taking most of the drugs when I lived there so we just had minimal counts for them -- no one checked. Singapore when I lived there was mostly concerned about narcotics, which I just didn’t carry. I would add that some countries will you a 30 days supply of many drugs, but we were traveling for 61 days so for Japan, our first entry we did the paperwork.

[@joleighva]

I have a mediport that I access myself and carry an entire weekender bag stuffed full of powdered meds, and sterile waters in vials. I also have needles and all kinds of supplies to access my port. All of my pill medication is in a daily container. All my meds are able to be irradiated, so I send the bag thru with my carry-on. I travel frequently domestically and in all that travel, I have been asked ONCE to hand check my bag. I carry my prescriptions with me just in case, but all she did was rifle thru the bag and comment, “Wow. You must have a serious medical condition.” Like she was waiting for me to share my protected medical information. I just said, “Yep.” She zipped my bag up and handed it back. I think whether they give you a hard time has to do with your attitude. Nervousness sets off their alarm bells, even if it’s just you worried about them giving you a hard time about your meds. Drug mules are nervous, and TSA is trained to pick up on it. I know my rights, and I know I have a right to carry everything in that bag with me. I’m not nervous that they’ll give me a hard time, and therefore I don’t set off their radar.

[@amygregg1658]

You said to keep prescription pills in the original bottles, but suggested packing over-the-counter meds and supplements in daily pill boxes. This is assuming that the TSA agents will be able to tell the difference between prescription and OTC supplements just by looking at the pills. If you have no problems getting your unlabeled supplements through security, why would you expect to have problems with unlabeled prescription meds?

[@Signs9]

Excellent question!! What are we supposed to do? I have three small bottles of prescription meds. However I plan on bringing several vitamins to take each day and was thinking of using one of those days of the week pill containers. How do they know the difference between vitamins and perscribed pills?

[@angelinnz6796]

I always have a list of my prescribed medicatuons from my Dr and have never been questioned. I keep some in my personal bag and in my carry on.

[@flyingnow4233]

Also, speak with your doctor about writing a prescription for you to carry in case you need an emergency refill.

[@PortableProfessional]

That is good planning! Thanks for watching!

[@cherrob48]

Prescriptions are ONLY ACCEPTED IN COUNTRY OF ORIGIN. So not useful if travelling outside your own country.

[@iwrite6388]

Love your videos! I take several meds-at three or four different times per day. I went to TSA socials and asked. They said I don’t have to keep them in the original container. And I follow your advice by using Pre check. I have one medicine that is a controlled substance (I need my ID to pick it up). I keep this in its original container and always near my ID. and. A list of the meds. Finally, I have MedicAlert.

[@leftycrafter]

I have so many meds that traveling with all thw bottles would take up too much space. Plus I prefer a small pull organizer as its harder ro remember meds while traveling. Its obnoxious they put all these rules on how people should carry their personal meds. It's micromanaging for a power trip

[@war-painter]

Agreed. My pharmacy is part of an enormous health conglomerate that puts prescription pills in plastic bottles in gigantic containers sometimes for 20 pills (and difficult to scrape labels off!)-But traveling with pills in their original bottles would require a GIGANTIC suitcase and, trust me, this IS EXACTLY the time to save on space. I’m old and not as strong as I used to be. Not in a separate bag EVER. Nevertheless, I’ve never been stopped and I prefer to have medications packed in small daily packets clearly marked BUT with all the official prescription labels peeled off and neatly filed tidily together with my ID and passport in my crossbody bag right on my person so nothing can ever get lost. Small and concise is best so if needed I can put them in a hotel safe. Gigantic plastic bottles with pills that rattle around are a liability and a target for thieves. Putting cotton wool or tissue in each individual bottle to stop the noise is time consuming, fiddly and a complete WASTE OF SPACE. This is the most ridiculous suggestion and I doubt that any experienced traveller will follow “portable’s” idea. Nice try, but no. Fifty year traveler.

[@CinDB]

@leftycrafter Same here, 9 prescriptions, 11 supplements! I have two Lewis N. Clark Travel Pill Organizers (wallets) that are available thru Amazon. The cost of them has gone up, most likely due to popularity, but I've never had any security stop me to ask about them. Highly recommend and just take pictures of your prescription bottles just in case.

[@maureensullivan2139]

@@war-painterWell, it isn’t a problem until it is. It’s one thing if you’re dealing with TSA agents in the U.S. and quite another in Tokyo or Singapore. If you’re lucky, they’ll just be confiscated. If you’re not lucky, you could also be looking at jail time.

[@sherimiller3562]

Unfortunately, TSA agents either don’t know or don’t care about medical devices. I tried to tell a TSA agent that I had a continuous glucose monitor and couldn’t go thru a full body screener, and she refused to hear me and made me go thru the full body screener. I’ve also had to take off my insulin pump every time I travel.

[@lmcc0072]

You should have researched the rules before you got to the airport. You can ALWAYS opt out of the body scanner and opt for the full body patdown. They can’t force you to get scanned. Get there early though. If it’s busy, you may be waiting 20 or 30 minutes for someone to perform the patdown.

[@ajc-ff5cm]

It goes without saying that you need to be thorough when traveling with medication.

[@PortableProfessional]

Absolutely! So many nuances. Safe travels and thanks for watching. 🥰

[@davidgavney6711]

I’ve travelled to many cities in 17 European countries, plus Mexico, Dominican Republic, the Caribbean, and Jamaica consistently over the last 10 years, and never had a problem with putting my prescription meds in a daily dispenser. I think like you say later in the video, there are some countries like Japan, Philippines and I’ve heard United Arab Emirates that are problematic.

[@charlescahoon3557]

I recently had a strange experience in Edinburgh. Meds were ok but my carry on also had my CPAP machine and battery ( all pre approved by all airlines I flew) and a tablet. I did not have to remove anything from the bag prior to X-ray but then they pulled my bag for inspection. The pulled out the CPAP and tablet( not the battery) and swiped for explosives. Then the person put those two items back in a tray and took it back to be x-rayed again. Of course, I still had all the stuff from my bag pulled out in my original tray. She started telling me I needed to get over to the X-ray area to watch my stuff. I told her I had to get all of the stuff back in my carry on first. She was starting to raise her voice when a supervisor noticed and stepped in to tell the person to dial it back. I never once raised my voice or acted disrespectful. I always want to get thru this process as smoothly as possible and know these folks catch hell from passengers all day. Just seemed strange she insisted in a second X- Ray. They tell you not to let your stuff out of your possession but then sort of made me do that.

[@lovelessm]

I just checked the TSA web site which is continually updated. If you are flying domestically there is no requirement to keep prescription medication in their original containers and you may pack that medication in a pill container. It does state that some states may have their own requirement but so far I've not found any that conflict with TSA rules. I'm assuming your advice applies mainly to international travel.

[@k.c1126]

It's seems like a no-brainer to me to carry my meds in my purse/laptop bag. Weird that people have to be told that... 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@sarabell5382]

As of July 3rd: While the TSA does not require prescription medications to be in their original prescription bottle, it is recommended to keep medications in their original, labeled packaging to facilitate the screening process. Is this changing?

[@tceller08]

Pacemakers can go through metal detectors! Older ones were an issue but newer ones are fine. I’ve traveled all over the world and haven’t said anything in years. (30 years paced, frequent flyer)

[@dndrusso]

How new is new?

[@tceller08]

@dndrusso, I’ve had this one since 2015 so at least 8-10 years. The alloys in it will not set off airport metal detectors, and it’s shielded well enough that it can’t be affected by the metal detectors. 3D scanners use xray technology so not an issue.

[@bdimon]

My doctor said the same thing. He also said not to stop and stand in the metal detector for an extended time. However, as you said, it's okay to walk through them to be scanned.

[@tceller08]

@@bdimon Correct! Just don't linger. Don't linger anyway, lol, TSA gets cranky if you don't keep things moving! The wands are actually what we need to watch out for. They are the same technology but concentrated so we should never be wanded above the waist. TSA is well trained and knows this but I've run into it at concerts and government buildings where they wanted to use a wand rather than let me walk through. It's easier and actually safer to walk on through without saying anything than speak up and end up dealing with someone untrained with a wand. In 30 years, the only time I've set off a metal detector was in a department store. There were a lot of people and I got too close to it. Nothing happened to the pacer, but I was close enough to the pole to make it go off.

[@lmcc0072]

If your doctor says that your pacemaker is ok for the metal detector then you should be good to go.

[@CLEOandBARB]

Thank you for this video! I have a hard time finding accurate info on this topic.

[@melanierosalez6989]

The Travel Tips section of TSA's website is answers some of the basic/common questions about meds.

[@patrickdeady410]

Thanks for your thorough information and tips! I will definitely keep them in mind when I go to Croatia in November!

[@PortableProfessional]

LOVE CROATIA!! Enjoy to the MAX! Thanks for watching 🥰

[@joedoe-sedoe7977]

I am old enough to remember when you just walked onto the plane and the stewardesses had to look like Megan in miniskirts

[@maryhartsock7792]

I’m old enough to remember getting dressed up to fly and being given a “wings pin” when flying as a child.

[@Bill_N_ATX]

Same here. When you went with folks to the gate and waited for them to take off and then met them at the gate when they came home. Then metal detectors were added but they didn’t care if you had a ticket or not. That ended pretty much with the first Gulf War in the US. Then 9/11 and the real security theater hit. Some of the restrictions and security measures were effective and some were useless but they remain to this day.

[@DrVVVinK]

​@@maryhartsock7792 kids are still given wings. Even adults, you just have to ask. 😊

[@mtnmagic1998]

​@maryhartsock7792 LOL! Your comment reminded me about a trip I took when my daughter was just 5 days old. We got on the plane and seated and were give those wings which are now in her baby book.😊

[@maggieclendenin6740]

Oh I miss that

[@stevenkaskus6173]

Important question, what about alcohol pads, insulin pens and bottles and other liquid injectible medicine and required syringes?

[@Mr.DJones]

Thank you for your time and posting.

[@roelcruz7586]

I just came back from Europe. I packed all my meds and supplements in a bottle. I didn't say anything, they didn't say anything. No problems whatsoever.

[@MiaHessMusic]

Thank you Megan!

[@sumaccooking]

I try to avoid carrying any liquids, powders and such as much as possible. I keep those in the checked in luggage never in the carry-on. Even medication, unless I have to. Easier this way. But good tips, if you have to keep with you.