Two questions:
Where do you usually store your copies of your passport and credit cards? Do you keep them in your carry-on for the flight and then put them in your suitcase when you get to your destination? I can't seem to remember what I've done in the past ...
Are there any restrictions to taking "mixed" pills on the plane? I'd like to put Ibuprofen, Execdrin, allergy pills, etc. in one medicine jar. Is this OK?
Thanks!
The thing to remember about carrying backup information is to carry it separately from the real thing. I carry credit cards in a money belt. Copies of information go in a manilla envelope in my day pack. I keep a copy of my passport in my suitcase for identification in case the suitcase gets lost. I do not carry copies of my credit cards. I carry a list of credit cards with the last 4 digits, the 3 digit number on the back and the phone number of the credit card company. The credit card company only needs your name and the last 4 digits of the card to ID you. Photocopying credit cards takes up a lot of room on a sheet of paper, and if you lose the paper, it's like losing the credit card since all the info is there for the thief to use. Without your name and the rest of the numbers on the card, it is more difficult for a thief to use the info from the sheet of paper. You can put all of your emergency info on one sheet of paper front and back to carry with you all the time.
I think it is extremely unlikely that anyone would ever look at what pills you are carrying. I always do what you are suggesting.
With regard to the passport copy another idea is to scan a copy of your passport and e-mail it to yourself.
I've done what Jeff suggested, take a copy and email myself. I also emailed a trusted family /friend in case I cannot get access to my email.
Ultimately its up to you how you wish to carry a spare copy.
Another thing that I did regarding my passport was to take a photograph of it that would remain in my memory card during the trip. The key is to not format the card during the trip though.
Just remember when you email it to yourself, to do so to an internet email address (such as Yahoo or Gmail). That way it isn't likely that you (or someone not on the trip, sharing the email box) don't end up downloading it to your email program (Outlook, etc...) before the trip, thus removing it from the online view.
Nicole, technically #2 is not o.k. The rules are that medicines are to be original labeled containers.
I would try it will a few tylenol, but I would not just bring a pill jar with three or four different pills in it,, it only takes one customs office in a cranky mood to decide to apply the rule to ruin your day.
I agree with isailtheseas and pat. Your list of "mixed pills" are OTC Remedies. It's probably not a good idea to do that for the reasons mentioned. I'll add another reason.
Aspirin is an OTC which is proven to be beneficial in Cardiac Emergencies when administered as First Aid. First Responders may ask if anyone has some Aspirin. You might have some, but if it's not in it's original container, it's not safe to administer a "mystery pill". Responders are trained that if it's not in it's original labled container it is out of the question.
Never "mix pills" that are prescription. It could get you into trouble, as mentioned, and even cost you your life in an Emergency. If you'd like that further explained, just PM me. I'm EMT (and IC F/A).
The other Posters are right, chances are no one will look at your pills. But that should not be your only concern. It is not wise to combine pills, period...prescription or non-prescription OTC. Paramedics know this well.
And definitely only in carry-on.
I have traveled throughout Europe and China, I put Tylenol, allergy pills, Tums, etc in 1 bottle. I don't check my luggage and have never had a problem.
LOTS of extremely GOOD reasons posted about carrying pharmaceuticals onboard. Why take OTC stuff with you - get a small bottle of whatever you need at your destination, when/if you actually need it.
I guess I've reached the age of being 'old fashioned', because I REALLY don't understand why it's so difficult to obey the rules. Someone carried illegal substances in their shoes, and now we have to take our shoes off at security, which is a terrible inconvenience. One person carries a quantity of fluid that causes a problem, and now we can't even bring a bottle of water past security, much less anything more than miniscule quantities of any liquid. How do parents bring formula to feed the infants? This has become ridiculous, but much of what we gripe about was caused by someone who did something wrong.
I do my best to 'do the right thing', and it bugs me that someone who chooses to ignore the rules may end up causing yet one more idiotic restriction.
Sharon - I understand your frustrations. I am a frustrated traveler as well, however - the rules were put into place for a reason. The 3 oz. rule is confusing to some extent, but remember WHY it was created in the first place.
Nicole - I would keep all of your OTC medication in its original container. Like Flight Attendant said - its not up to the screeners to know what it is or what its for. Isn't it better to be safe than sorry? Foreign countries' security is much more stringent than ours so I wouldn't chance it myself. I like to stick with what works for me, but that's my opinion.
From the TSA Website:
"Non-liquid or gel medications of all kinds such as solid pills, or inhalers are allowed through the security checkpoint once they have been screened. We recommend, but do not require, that your medications be labeled to assist with the screening process."
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/editorial_1059.shtm
Thanks for your replies everyone. We just got back from Ireland yesterday. I decided to take my chances and put it all in one jar. I understand I took my chances, but everything went fine. The screeners and customs guys were more concerned with haggling my husband about the Brewers shirt he was wearing ...
