Sending medicine and personal care products through peer travelers

Diaspora families regularly need to send medicine home: prescription drugs that are expensive or unavailable locally, vitamins and supplements, and personal care products for family members with specific needs. The rules governing this are strict and vary by country.

Over-the-counter medicines. Non-prescription medicine in original, commercially sealed packaging is generally permitted in personal-use quantities (a few boxes or bottles). Products like paracetamol, antihistamines, and vitamins typically pass without issue when clearly labelled.

Prescription medicines. Carrying prescription medicine for someone else is legally complex. Most countries require that prescription drugs be accompanied by the prescription and the patient's name. The traveler is carrying medicine prescribed to someone other than themselves, which may be prohibited or require documentation.

The traveler's obligation. A traveler must be able to declare and explain any medicine in their luggage to customs. If they cannot provide documentation for prescription drugs, the medicine may be confiscated. Travelers should only carry medication they are fully comfortable declaring.

What senders must provide. Original packaging with clearly visible labelling, the original prescription where applicable, a brief written note explaining the medical need (for prescription items), and explicit disclosure to the traveler before the booking is confirmed.

High-risk categories. Controlled substances and narcotics (even prescribed), injectable medications, large quantities of any medication suggesting commercial intent, and medication without original packaging.

Personal care products. Creams, lotions, hair products, and cosmetics are generally fine in personal-use quantities. Liquids must comply with airline carry-on rules (100 ml per container in hand luggage) if carried in cabin baggage.

When in doubt, use a registered pharmacy's international mail service for medications. Peer delivery is appropriate for routine supplements and over-the-counter products, not for complex prescription needs.