medications

Yup

Yes, it is fine. No one checks. I find the small plastic zip lock bags you buy at craft stores ideal. They come in several sizes and I find them more portable and they don't come
open.

Generally I don't worry about it, and throw all of my pills together when I go to Italy, France, or Spain. But...... if I was going to take Oxycodin, or some other type of addictive drug, etc, I would only take it in the original bottle, and have a copy of the perscription, and check the regulations in the counry where that I was going. Our problem, in the US, is that TSA and Customs each have a different set of rules. TSA says: "We do not require that your medications be labeled. "Medications in daily dosage containers are allowed through the checkpoint once they have been screened." http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/editorial_1374.shtm#4 But......Customs can really get you (generally when you come back) if you are carrying addictive drugs:: "If you need medicines that contain potentially addictive drugs or narcotics. Carry such substances in their original containers;Carry a prescription or written statement" http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/vacation/kbyg/prohibited_restricted.xml#Medication For other drugs Customs suggests: "Any medications being carried overseas should (NOTE: "should"...... not "must"...my interpetation ) be left in their original containers and be clearly labeled. Travelers should check with the foreign embassy of the country they are visiting to make sure any required medications are not considered to be illegal narcotics." http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/tips_1232.html#customs

....what I also should add is that the only time that I had a problem was when I filled a perscription in the EU ( I had run out.) On my return to the US, just as I was entering the Customs area, and before I could get up to the window, they called out my name, had me step aside, and asked me what drug I had purchased in the EU. I told it was one of my BP meds, and they said "OK" and had me step back in line for the standard screening.

Steve: How did they know you purchased the meds in the EU?

I would make sure that I have at least an extra weeks worth of medications with me. I have friends that got stuck in China after 9/11 and others that were stuck in Europe after the Iceland volcano and both ran out of medication. Like other posters said, if it's a narcotic or something else that is heavily controlled, take in original containers. Also, make sure you have Drs. names & phone numbers with you and have a great trip!

I also carry all my meds/supplements in little ziploc baggies that I purchase at craft stores. Works out well & have never had any trouble traveling with them. Definitely take extra medication if it's something you can't be without.