While it’s always a good idea for passengers to keep their medications in their carry-on bags, it still doesn’t guarantee that you’ll arrive at your final destination with all your prescriptions.
According to information from January BuzzRx Survey of 1,245 Americans1 in 10 Americans with prescription discount services have had their medications confiscated by the Transportation Security Administration or foreign border patrol agents while traveling.
“Before you travel, especially if you’re traveling internationally, it’s essential to find out what medications you’ll need at your destination,” Ricardo Rodriguez, a member of BuzzRx’s data team, told USA TODAY.
Rodriguez explained that some U.S. medicines are not approved in other countries, which can complicate travel. “It’s probably best to discuss this issue with your provider.”
Domestic travel is just as likely to have medicines confiscated, with 41% of respondents saying they had had their medication confiscated as well as international travel, with 44% of respondents saying they had.
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For domestic travel, TSA recommends storing prescriptions in their original, marked containers. TSA regulations allow travelers to carry more than the normal limit for liquids, which is 3.4 ounces, if the medication is in liquid form.
According to data from BuzzRx, one in nine travelers had to cancel a trip because their medication was confiscated at the airport, and one in six were able to get their medication replaced but had to pay the full price of their prescription. did not become.
More than 50% of BuzzRx survey respondents said their medications increased their stress and anxiety while traveling, and 18% said their medications forced them to cancel some travel activities. did.
Anxiety medications were the most commonly confiscated types, followed by sleeping pills and over-the-counter medications.
Rodríguez said travelers should consult a doctor about replacing confiscated medicines or consider seeking help from a consulate or embassy if they experience problems abroad.
Zach Wictor is a travel writer based in New York. Please contact us at [email protected].
