Airports are stressful enough, and many travellers try to prepare in advance when it comes to things such as putting liquids in clear bags or making sure electronics are easily accessible. However, there’s one rule which you may forget about, and according to an expert, even the Royal Family follow it.
Andrea Platania, travel expert at Transfeero, explained how travellers should “never” travel with unlabelled medication or supplements. He said: “Travellers often think it’s harmless to tip their tablets into a small pill organiser or sandwich bag to save some space. But depending on where you’re going, that can trigger a serious problem. In some countries, even basic over-the-counter medicines like codeine or certain antihistamines require a prescription or special paperwork.
“If you can’t prove what you’re carrying, you risk delays, confiscation, or even fines.”
If you’re on regular medication, it could be worth travelling with a note from your doctor confirming what each medication is for.
Andrea added: “It’s not about being paranoid. It’s about removing any doubt for customs officers. The last thing you want is to spend the first day of your trip in an airport office explaining what’s in your unmarked bag of pills.”
In some part of Asia and the Middle East, the expert said the rules are strict, with certain medicines considered controlled substances.
The expert noted: “Failing to follow local regulations can escalate beyond a fine, sometimes leading to court appearances or travel bans.”
He advised holidaymakers to research a country’s drug import laws before travelling, but recommended a doctor’s note to be on the safe side.
Andrea added: “It’s one of those little details you don’t think about until it happens to you.
“At that point, you’re not only stressed, but your trip might be off to the worst possible start. A bit of forethought can prevent that entirely.”
