I seem to remember a posting warning about Turkey customs being picky about RX drugs in original containers (searched for it on the RS forum, but no results specific to Turkey). I don't take many nor are they essential, but I really don't want to lose them to an overanxious customs official or try to explain the situation. Most pill bottles are only 1/4 full and take so much extra room that I would like to consolidate into something more compact. Has anyone experienced specific scrutiny from Turkish customs? I'm thinking of taking a photo of the RX label on the bottle with an example in front of the bottle and then using the plastic containers. No opioids, etc., just common drugs.
Thanks
Neil
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
Easiest way is to go to your provider and have them print the labels. Then put the labels on sandwich zip lock bags with the pills. And don't bring 90 days supply if only staying 10 days. Years ago we were in Turkey and I don't remember them being any different than any other European country -- zero interest in you luggage. Just walk through the door that says, "Nothing to Declare" The only times and it has been several times that I have had my luggage pulled apart was the US Customs. They do like to put their fingers in your luggage.
Posted by
Magyarország / Rep of Texas
20159 posts
For me this question falls into the grey area between what I do and what I want to be responsible for in the advice I give.
Google the subject and let me know if you find a single creditable travel site who's editor published something other than carry it in the container in which you purchased it.
In the last 10 years at lest the only time I have every had my carry on luggage searched outside of the US was in the airport in Istanbul. If you are flying Istanbul to the US, do count on your carryon being searched. Guaranteed every time. Happens at the gate. But it is not customs. I can not recall the last time I ever had a customs check in Istanbul or anywhere else (I pass through Istanbul 6 to 8 times a year). Never in more than 20 years. But security, yes. Do they care? They might if you have a baggie full of 100 unmarked pills; or even if you did (not the pharmacist) stick a label on it.
What are the odds? Pretty remote you will have any issue. Very, very remote. Until you do. So while my pills are in little baggies on each trip with no prescription information and includes at lest one med not legal for sale in the EU and a handful of syringes, I am not going to tell anyone that's the right thing to do. Some day I may pay the price
Do the google, then decide.
Posted by
ohio
110 posts
I was in Turkey in 2019. I carry my meds in the little plastic pill puches sold at WalMart on every trip I take. I have never had anyone question them either entering Turkey, Viet Nam, Africa and all over Europe. I never had heard of it being a problem going to Turkey so didn't even think about it. Most of what I bring are OTC vitamins but I do have 3 rx meds that I take. If I took bottles they would take up 1/2 of my personal carry on bag. I've never had the pharmacy print out labels either. I mark the pouches with a marker.