Common medications that could land Aussie travellers behind bars
For many of us, sleeping pills, cold and flu tablets and painkillers are staples for overseas travel.
But did you know common over the counter medications that we take for granted in Australia could see travellers facing fines or even being locked up overseas?
Research conducted by Compare the Market has analysed drug laws in 11 popular travel destination to reveal which common medications travellers should avoid taking with them overseas.
Last year, the most common country for Australians to be arrested on illegal drug-related charges was the US, closely followed by Thailand, the UAE, China and the Philippines.
Here’s how to avoid a holiday destroying encounter.
1. Prohibited in the United Arab Emirates
Common contraceptive pills, nicotine lozenges and children’s Advil or Panadol.
When travelling to the Gulf Countries, be extremely wary of what medications are packed in your suitcase, as possession of any drugs classified as illegal can lead to imprisonment.
The UAE does not allow anything that contains codeine, Valium or Ritalin, as well as medicine to treat HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. There is a total of 70 banned medicines, including Diane 35 and 36 (contraceptive pills) some nicotine lozenges and children’s Advil and Panadol.
For medication that is necessary for emergency or health reasons, travellers may be allowed to carry 30 days of treatment, if they have prior permission from the UAE Ministry of Health, a valid prescription and a valid certificate from the Australian health authority.
2. Prohibited in the United States
Addictive narcotics such as sleeping pills and antidepressants without a doctor’s letter. According to the US Customs and Border Protection, medicines that contain potentially addictive drugs or narcotics need a written statement from a doctor or physician.
These drugs, which include sleeping pills and antidepressants, should also be in their original packaging with no more than a 90-day supply.
3. Prohibited in Thailand
Codeine and drugs to treat ADHD. Double check if over-the-counter medication bought in Australia is legal in Thailand, as restrictions apply to some drugs containing codeine.
Medication to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which is normally prescribed by a doctor in Australia, is also considered a controlled substance in Thailand.
4. Prohibited in Hong Kong
Sleeping tablets and medication to treat anxiety. Never underestimate the power of prescriptions.
In Hong Kong, it is illegal to be in possession of sleeping tablets and medications used in treating certain conditions, such as erectile dysfunction or anxiety, without a doctor’s note.
5. Prohibited in Singapore
Nicotine gum, anti-anxiety pills, sleeping pills and strong painkillers. As a country that has had a chewing gum ban since 1992, Singaporeans consider medicinal chewing gums, like nicotine gums, as a prohibited substance.
They also do not allow anti-anxiety pills, sleeping pills and strong painkillers without a licence. Common medicines, such as those used to treat diabetes or high cholesterol, are banned if you have more than three months’ supply.
6. Prohibited in Japan
Some cold and flu tablets. As Japan has very strict rules on what can be carried in and out of the country, it is vital to know the active ingredients within your medicine.
Dexamphetamine (used to treat ADHD) and pseudoephedrine (found in some cold and flu tablets) can be a reason for detainment. Other medicines containing codeine or morphine need a Narcotic Certificate before entering the country.
7. Prohibited in China
Sleeping pills, medication for ADHD, and strong painkillers without a prescription.
Before holidaying in China, make sure you have a doctor’s note for every medication that you are carrying. It is better to be safe than sorry, as any amount above a seven-day supply of medication will need to be verified by a prescription.
This note should outline what the drug is being used for and the quantities required. It’s also important to bring a copy, as customs may want to keep a copy of your prescription.
8. Prohibited in Greece
Codeine without a prescription. European countries vary when it comes to their rules surrounding medication, but Greece has special rules around codeine.
Codeine is allowed only with a prescription stating what it is, how much is taken and that it is for personal use only.
9. Prohibited in South Korea
Narcotic medications without prior approval and a prescription.
Medications that are classified as a controlled substance (narcotic) require approval from the Narcotic Control Division of the Korean Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) before arriving in South Korea. And, a letter or a prescription from a doctor is needed.
10. Prohibited in Russia
Codeine without a doctor’s letter. Although Russia bans most drugs that are illegal in Australia, a doctor’s letter is required to confirm the need for medicine containing codeine.
Other medications that Aussies can buy over the counter, including cold and flu medication, may also need a prescription.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
illegal medication travelling medicineLatest News
Australia fails to make top 10 destination list for American travellers
Australia's top cities have failed to make the grade with American travellers this northern summer, with no local city in the top.
APT Launches 2025 Asia Adventures
APT has launched its Asia Adventures for 2025, including new luxury holidays in India, Sri Lanka and Japan. Five new tours lead guests to the highlights of India, including a seven-night cruise along the rarely travelled Lower Ganges aboard the Ganges Voyager. Further south, Sri Lanka’s greatest destinations are revealed on a new 15-day Land […]
ANZAC Battlefield travel on the 2025 bucketlist
As Anzac Day dawns, agents prepare for a surge in bookings for the 110th anniversary of the Anzac Cove landings.
Former Channel 9 Getaway host and founder of TRIBE Jules Lund to speak at Travel DAZE
From blond-tipped travel reporter to Travel DAZE speaker, Jules Lund cuts through the BS.
HX’s Roald Amundsen finds aliens in the Antarctic
Forget whales, HX's MS Roald Amundsen captures aliens in the Antarctic - and they're not pretty.
Mayhem in France as 70% of flights face cancellation
I mean it wouldn't be France if there wasn't at least one strike.
Etihad Airways launches double-decker service with world’s only in-air three-room suite
We imagine falling asleep in the three-room suite is superior to falling asleep on your neighbour's shoulder.
Norwegian Cruise Line launches 2024 Europe travel season
Europe certainly has a lot of ports. Its time for Australia to up its game.
“The power of travel for positive change” – Intrepid’s Jenny Gray hails controversial all-women Saudi Arabia trip
There is an awful lot to love about this tour from Intrepid. Where do we sign up?
Princess names the Sun, unveils Sanctuary Collection + Star Princess to Alaska in ’26
A huge bottle of Veuve was smashed into the side of the ship to make things official. So no, we couldn't snag a glass.
Collette special offers across peak northern summer season
If you are craving a trip to Europe then grab this deal with both of your grubby hands.
Air India and All Nippon codeshare between the two countries
Here at TW we agreed that the photo would have worked better if they had swapped planes.
A&K offers minimum 18 weeks paid parental leave
Contrary to what the photo suggests this benefit is only applicable for humans. Back to work Mrs Jumbo.
NH Hotel Group rebrands as Minor Hotels Europe & Americas
Hang around the bends of the hotels. We imagine they will be full of a lot of branded content.
Scenic Eclipse II – the business of creating unforgettable life-changing memories
These cruise brothers from another mother offer a view of cruising on Scenic Eclipse II that is poles apart.
MSC builds new hospital ship with Mercy Ships
If you want to read a story that puts a smile on your face then this is the one for you.
“I peed on myself watching this” – Social media users squirm at Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of The Seas 55ft dive video
TW is not responsible for any involuntary actions your body might have after watching this video.
FLIGHT REVIEW: Qantas Boeing 787 Dreamliner business class
The real bonus is you're unlikely to be around screaming children. Hoorah!
Traveltek offers travel agents new rapid deploy cruise website
As always, if you have any issue with the platform, just turn it off and on again.
Experience whale watching & classical music at the Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville
Disappointedly, the whales do not start singing in tune with the orchestra. Opportunity missed.
Fond, very Fond. London hotel famed for James Bond link adds ‘Classic Comforts’ lunch menu
James Bond author Ian Fleming was so fond if this hotel, it inspired the legendary phrase ‘shaken, not stirred’.
What sets Eclipse Travel apart with Africa expert Hilary Dubyk: Travel Weekly TV
If you want to know more about Africa, then Hilary Dubyk is your person.
Surge in Australians visiting Japan
Feel like all of your friends have just returned from Europe? Now it's Japan.
Seabourn announces Western Kimberley Traditional Owners as Godparents of Seabourn Pursuit
Seabourn has named Western Kimberley Traditional Owners, the Wunambal Gaambera, as Godparents of the ultra-luxury purpose-built Seabourn Pursuit. It is the first cruise line to appoint Traditional Owners as godparents of a ship. Seabourn Pursuit embarks on its inaugural season in the Kimberley region this June. The naming ceremony will take place on Seabourn Pursuit’s […]
Sydney named 17th best place to work remotely
If you struggle to get a seat within Sydney's coffee shops, you now know why.
W Melbourne grows sales team
We appreciate the thought that has gone into this team photo.
Cunard welcomes new ship Queen Anne
This might be the most impressive ship handover in ship handover history.
Intrepid Travel appoints Yvette Thompson as general manager sales & marketing ANZ
It isn't end-of-day Monday and Yvette Thompson has already nabbed herself an impressive promotion.
Anna Fawcett re-joins Global Touring in newly-created APAC role
With such an impressive CV, Global Touring is no doubt thrilled to have Fawcett back.
“We know our response has been far from perfect” – Emirates’ open letter following Dubai flooding
If you also need to write an apology letter, then this is a pretty good template.
Malolo Island Resort opens brand new Spa
Fiji’s Malolo Island has added another string to its bow – opening its $1.3 million day spa on Thursday, 18th April 2024. (Lead Image: matriarch Rosie Whitton with spa staff) Located at the edge of the resort’s luscious patch of tropical rainforest, the new “Leilani’s Spa” adds another level of elevated experiences to Malolo’s already […]
Virgin Australia’s HILARIOUS second instalment of the ‘Bring on Wonderful’ campaign
We don't use the word 'hilarious' lightly, but this is worthy of the title.
Visit Sunshine Coast reveals new brand identity
If you were looking for another reason to visit the Sunshine Coast then this is it.
Sofitel launches brand campaign starring Sex Education’s Gillian Anderson
We can confirm the content of this video is less spicy than Sex Education.
Holland America Line gives agents the chance to visit Alaska on 11-day Famil
If you've ever wanted to see a Polar Bear (and who doesn't?), now is your time.
More than 65 luxury agents gather in Sydney for Best of the Best dinner
This looks like a fabulous do. We imagine there may be a few (or maybe 65) sore heads this morning!