Travelling with medication can be a bit of a headache. With some prescription and over the counter drugs readily available in the UK being restricted or banned in other countries, you can face a range of difficulties when travelling abroad. Especially if you are travelling to countries such as India, Pakistan, Turkey, or United Arab Emirates, where a range of medications will not be permitted into the country. If you have a long-term condition, you may well be aware of the precautions you need to take while travelling. But those dealing with a new or temporary condition may be unprepared for the additional red tape. So, what do you need to do when travelling with medication?
Check before you travel
If you’re travelling with prescribed medication, carry your medicine in your hand luggage.
One of the most important things you need to do before travelling with any medication is to check the rules relating to your destination. You should be able to find out all the information you need online. And the embassy of the country in question is a good place to start. You may find that certain medications are not allowed out of the UK. Or that they are not allowed into the country you are travelling to. You may also face restrictions for any countries that you pass through, to change flights, for example.
It is also wise to check with your airline before flying with medication. Many airlines have their own controls. And if you are flying with liquid medication of greater volume than 100ml, you will need special dispensation from a medical professional.
Get the right documentation
If you are prescribed medication you are responsible for checking whether it is subject to control.
There are a couple of different pieces of documentation you may need when travelling with medication.
Prescription
To get your prescription you should visit a local community pharmacy.
Even if your medication is not restricted, it’s always a good idea to carry a valid prescription with you. This will prove to any authorities that you are legitimately in possession of your medication.
Travel with medication letter
If your medication is restricted, or if your airline requires proof that you cannot travel without your medication, a travel with medication letter should help. While travel with medication letters should be available from your GP, if you have limited time, you may wish to work with a digital provider. With ZoomDoc, you can receive a verifiable travel with medication letter from a registered general practitioner on the same day that you request it. Meaning that if you’re caught short by the need for unexpected travel, or if you find yourself having to take a new medication just before you leave, you can gain the right documentation without delay.
Simply visit Zoom Doc, upload the relevant information, and follow the prompts. All requests made before 9pm will be fulfilled the same day.
Store your medication and equipment carefully
This seven day pill box is a great addition to any travel collection, perfect for storing just the right amount of medication
If you take a lot of medication, it’s often easier to decant your tablets into a daily dosage dispenser. However, this is not a good idea when travelling. If you are taking any medication overseas, particularly any that may be restricted, it is always wise to keep it in its original packaging. That way, the authorities can be certain that your tablets are what you claim they are, rather than prohibited substances.
Travelling with medication can be a bit of an annoyance, particularly if you have limited time to get things organised. But with ZoomDoc, you can access the documentation you need quickly, and efficiently. Saving you time and taking away some of the unnecessary stress of travel.
Find out more about ZoomDoc travelling with medication letters.