Get a medical certificate for travelling with medication

Travelling with medication is generally allowed, but problems often arise because airport security, airlines, and border authorities must balance safety rules with medical needs. Most issues do not involve ordinary tablets, but rather injectable medicines, syringes, needles, liquids, or medications that appear unusual during screening.

Passengers are often stopped when medication exceeds standard liquid limits, requires cooling, or includes sharp objects. Even medically necessary items can be questioned if they are not clearly explained or documented. This is especially common when travelling early in the morning, during busy periods, or through unfamiliar airports.

Another frequent source of stress is uncertainty. Travellers may receive different advice online, from airlines, or from airport staff. As a result, people often arrive at security unsure whether their medication will be allowed, which can lead to delays or uncomfortable questioning.

There is no single global rule for travelling with medication. Airport security follows aviation safety regulations, airlines apply their own onboard policies, and border authorities enforce national drug import laws. Each of these systems has different priorities.

For example, airport security focuses on prohibited items and liquids, while airlines are concerned about onboard safety and liability. Border authorities may assess whether a medication is legal to import, especially if it contains controlled substances. This creates overlap and, sometimes, conflicting guidance.

Because of this, what is accepted at one airport may be questioned at another. Travellers are often caught between these systems, which is why written medical confirmation can become useful even when medication is prescribed and legitimate.

Medical confirmation becomes relevant when the items you carry are not obviously everyday medication. This includes prescription-only drugs, injectable treatments, insulin pens, auto-injectors, syringes, needles, or medications that must be kept in hand luggage for temperature or safety reasons.

It is also relevant when travelling internationally, as destination countries may have stricter rules on certain substances. Even common medications can be restricted abroad or require explanation if carried in larger quantities.

A medical certificate helps clarify that the medication is prescribed, medically necessary, and intended for personal use. It provides context in situations where verbal explanations may not be sufficient or where language barriers exist.

A medical certificate explains the medical need to carry specific medication or devices during travel. It supports your explanation during security checks, boarding, or border inspections and helps reduce misunderstandings.

However, it does not override airline rules, security regulations, or national laws. Authorities may still apply additional checks or deny transport of certain items if local regulations require it. The certificate should be viewed as supporting documentation, not a universal permit.

Understanding this distinction helps set realistic expectations and reduces frustration during travel.

Before travelling, it is recommended to review your airline’s guidance on medication and check the destination country’s rules, especially for prescription or controlled drugs. Keeping medication in original packaging can also help during inspections.

Essential medication should usually be carried in hand luggage to avoid loss or temperature issues. Having a medical certificate available, either printed or digital, can make conversations with airport staff clearer and less stressful.

Good preparation does not guarantee a smooth experience, but it significantly reduces the risk of delays or complications.