Traveling with Medications

With the right planning, traveling with prescription psoriasis medicines does not have to be a hassle at the airport.^1-4

First, you should do your research, know the rules, and get organized. If you spend some extra time packing, you can speed up the process through TSA and keep your medicine safe on your flight.^1-4

You may have to carry topical creams, biologics, and oral medicine. Make sure you know the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules for traveling with medicine. Following these rules will save you time and trouble.^1-3

TSA regulations for medications

TSA regulations allow you to carry certain medicines and supplies in your carry-on luggage:^1,2

• Prescription drugs and creams
• IV bags, pumps, and syringes
• Ice packs, freezer packs, or gel packs
• Other necessary medical supplies

When it comes to medicine, you do not need to follow TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule. This rule tells you how much of products like shampoo you can bring through a security checkpoint. TSA allows larger amounts of liquids if they are medically necessary.¹

Inform TSA officers of all of your medicines and necessary supplies at the checkpoint. You should pack these in a separate bag because the security agent will screen it separately.¹

Preparing to travel with psoriasis medicines

Carry a letter from your doctor

For starters, let your doctor know about your travel plans. You can also ask your doctor for a letter explaining your medical treatment and needed medications.⁴

A letter from your doctor can help reduce questions and delays at security checkpoints if you have syringes and ice packs.^1-4

You can also give the TSA agent a TSA Notification Card, which explains your medical needs and the medicine you are carrying. If you take biologics, you should also carry a biological therapy alert card.⁴

Call your pharmacy

Notify your regular pharmacy or mail-order service well in advance of when you plan to leave. You will need enough psoriasis medicine and supplies to last the entire trip, especially if you are leaving the country.^3,4

If you will be traveling for a long time, you may have to request a refill or see if it can be delivered to your new location. Many countries allow a 30-day supply of certain medicines.^3,4

Bring copies of your prescriptions

To confirm the medicine belongs to you, bring along written copies of your prescriptions. You may need to request a refill. Or you may need proof to replace your medicine if it is lost, stolen, or stored improperly.^3,4

Confirm rules in other countries

You should also research the laws and rules for medicine if you plan to visit another country. The best places to start are the US State Department website or the US Embassy for the country you are visiting.^3,4

How to pack psoriasis medications

Label all medicines

Make sure your medications are in their original containers or bottles with the original labels. You should also keep your biologics in the original box or packaging. Labels should include your full name, your healthcare provider’s name, the generic and brand name of the drug, and the exact dosage.^1-4

This avoids any confusion and helps TSA agents verify that the medicine was prescribed to you.^1-4

Pack a health travel bag

Pack medicines in a carry-on bag in case your luggage is lost or delayed. You may want to prepare a travel health kit with first aid supplies and your prescription medicine.^1-4

If you use biologics, it may be easier to carry a separate travel bag or cooler bag as your personal item. Some medication travel bags even have a built-in temperature display.^3,4

Keep your medicines cool

If you are traveling with biologics, you will need to keep them cold during travel. Make sure you account for your entire flight and travel time and how you will store them when you arrive at your destination.^1-4

Be sure to pack a sharps disposal container or another safe alternative if you use biologics.^1-4

Tips for flying with psoriasis medicines

Most people feel a little anxious going through airport security, especially if they are carrying items that could hold up the process. Here are some tips for a smooth process through airport security:^1-4

• Give yourself extra time to get through security
• Be prepared for additional screening
• Tell TSA you are traveling with medicine
• Have your medicines out and ready to declare
• Do not combine medicines into 1 bottle
• Cooperate and answer the TSA agent’s questions
• Keep your ice packs frozen solid if possible
• Review TSA rules or contact TSA before your flight

What helpful tips do you have for traveling with medications?