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PEEL TRAVEL CLINIC & Saldanha Health Centre

Travelling with Medications

Millions of Canadians travel internationally with prescription medications every year. With proper preparation — physician letters, correct packaging, and knowledge of destination rules — travelling with medications is straightforward.

Our travel medicine physician at Peel Travel Clinic can provide physician medication letters for international travel as part of your pre-travel consultation. Call (905) 890-2757 to book.

General Rules for All Medications

Always Do This

  • ✓Keep medications in original pharmacy-labelled containers
  • ✓Carry all medications in your carry-on baggage
  • ✓Bring a physician letter listing all medications and doses
  • ✓Bring 2 extra weeks of supply beyond your trip length
  • ✓Research destination country rules for each medication
  • ✓Store temperature-sensitive medications in insulated cases

Never Do This

  • ✗Pack medications in checked baggage only
  • ✗Remove medications from labelled containers
  • ✗Assume your medication is legal in every country
  • ✗Leave insulin or biologics in extreme heat or cold
  • ✗Rely on finding your medication abroad

Medication-Specific Guidance

Controlled Substances

Opioids (oxycodone, hydromorphone), benzodiazepines (lorazepam, clonazepam), stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin), and other Schedule I–III drugs require extra documentation.

  • •Physician letter on clinic letterhead with diagnosis, dose, quantity
  • •Check destination country's embassy — some countries prohibit specific drugs
  • •Japan, UAE, Indonesia, and Singapore have strict rules on controlled substances

Insulin & Diabetes Medications

Insulin, syringes, lancets, and glucose meters are permitted in carry-on by CBSA and TSA. Notify security before screening.

  • •Frio insulin cooling wallets or insulated cases for long trips
  • •Unopened insulin: stable until expiry if refrigerated; opened vial: 28 days at room temp
  • •Bring extra supplies — insulin concentrations differ internationally (U-40 vs U-100)

EpiPen & Emergency Medications

Epinephrine auto-injectors, nitroglycerin, and other emergency medications must be in carry-on — never checked baggage.

  • •Carry 2 EpiPens — one for use, one as backup
  • •Check expiry dates before travel and replace if needed
  • •Wear a medical alert bracelet for severe allergy conditions

Malaria & Travel Medications

Antimalarials and standby antibiotics prescribed at Peel Travel Clinic come with pharmacy labels and counselling on proper use.

  • •Malarone: start 1–2 days before, continue 7 days after — keep in carry-on
  • •Doxycycline: photosensitizing — use sunscreen daily
  • •Standby antibiotics: do not use unless diarrhea is severe or febrile

Countries with Strict Medication Rules

Country Notable Restrictions Action Required
Japan Pseudoephedrine, stimulants (Adderall), some opioids prohibited Apply for Yakkan Shoumei import certificate for controlled medications
UAE / Saudi Arabia Many opioids and psychotropics require advance authorization Contact UAE/Saudi embassy; obtain official import permit before travel
Indonesia / Singapore Very strict drug laws; some medications carry severe penalties Physician letter essential; verify each medication with embassy
Greece / EU Controlled substances limited to 30-day supply; Schengen certificate recommended Obtain Schengen Certificate from prescribing physician for opioids/benzodiazepines

Always verify current rules with the destination country's embassy before travel — regulations change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring prescription medications on an international flight?

Yes — you can travel internationally with prescription medications. Keep them in their original pharmacy-labelled containers. Carry a letter from your physician listing all medications, doses, and the medical necessity. Carry medications in your carry-on baggage (not checked), as checked baggage can be lost, delayed, or subjected to temperature extremes that may degrade medications.

How do I travel with controlled substances like opioids or benzodiazepines?

Travelling internationally with controlled substances requires extra preparation. Obtain a letter from your prescribing physician on clinic letterhead listing the drug, dose, quantity, and your diagnosis. Some countries require advance authorization — check the embassy of your destination country well before travel. In Canada, the CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency) does not require a permit to take personal-use quantities of controlled substances out of Canada, but the destination country's rules apply on arrival.

Can I travel with insulin and other temperature-sensitive medications?

Yes — insulin and biologics can be transported with proper insulated travel cases. Insulin is stable at room temperature for approximately 28 days (opened vial) or up to the expiry date (unopened, refrigerated). For longer trips, use a Frio insulin cooling wallet or insulated case with ice packs. Do not put insulin through checked baggage or place it near the aircraft window in extreme temperatures. TSA/CBSA allow insulin, syringes, and supplies in carry-on.

Do I need to declare medications at customs?

In most countries you do not need to separately declare personal-use medications, but customs officers may ask. Having your medications in original labelled containers with a physician letter avoids most issues. Some countries have very strict rules on specific medications — codeine is controlled in some countries, pseudoephedrine is restricted in others. Check the destination country's embassy website or PHAC travel health notices before travel.

How much medication should I bring for international travel?

Bring the full amount you need for your trip plus a 2-week buffer. Medications may not be available at your destination, may be counterfeit, or may have different formulations. Ask your pharmacy to provide an early refill before travel. Keep medications in two separate locations (carry-on and a trusted travel companion's bag) as insurance against loss.

Get Your Physician Medication Letter

We provide physician letters for international travel with medications. Book a pre-travel consultation at Peel Travel Clinic, Mississauga.

Call (905) 890-2757

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Disclaimer: Medication import rules vary by country and change frequently. Always verify requirements with the destination country's embassy before travel. This page is for general guidance only and does not replace a consultation with our physician. Please book an appointment to discuss your specific medications and travel plans.