My boyfriend and I are going to Mexico in November and I'm having trouble getting an answer to this question. I am an insulin dependent diabetic and must bring insulin injection pens (basically an insulin needle) with me. I've flown with them before and had no trouble, however I'm wondering if anyone has had to travel through customs in this situation. Does anyone know anything about this? Will the pens cause any problem when traveling through Mexican customs?
All that was required when I phoned the specific airport and customs desk when I traveled was a prescriptipn for my meds and a prescription for the needles. I even made the doctor note that I would need to have an ice pack with my meds just in case. After all that the initial agent never even looked at my paperwork but the retunong agent went as far as testing it for explosive residue! Best of luck to you!
Hi K., I am an insulin dependent diabetic and I wear an insulin pump, and I am also a diabetes nurse educator. I have traveled internationally and really what you should have is a letter from your doctor saying you are diabetic and are required to carry needles, insulin, lancets for your meter etc. When you go through security, you will be required to put any liquids you are taking on board as carry on items in a quart sized clear plastic bag. This includes things like insulin and purell. The insulin should have the label from the pharmacy if possible on it or a copy of it with it. I have to say though with all the preparation I have done to travel and the many times I have traveled, not once has anyone questioned these items or asked to look at my prescription labels. Do not check any of your diabetes supplies, you never know when they will loose your luggage or what temperature they will be at before you get them back. Always be prepared with dry goods like snacks, some form of glucose like candy or glucose tablets to treat low blood sugars. You never know when there will be a delay to getting food. Glad to see you are getting prepared, have a great trip! C.
I traveled to Mexico last Jan. I have an insulin pump, but also carried 1 pkg of needles in case of malfunction of my pump. My dr. wrote me a note on her Rx pad stating that I was diabetic and required insulin supplies, insulin syringes and vials of insulin. Also carry other Rx drugs in the bottles that have the Rx label on it. I carried all meds and supplies in my carry on luggage.
In Mexico they have a red light/green light system to determine what luggage to search. So there is a high probablity you will not have any problem. Check with the gov travel website to check changes to policy.
Have you tried calling the airline you are using and asking them? They may have recommendations for you.
Have fun!!
My sister also travels international and has diabetes. She has to have a copy of all prescriptions with her. I would also pack a copy of the prescriptions in your checked luggage just in case something happens. In addition, she wears her ID bracelet that identifies her as someone with diabetes. Lastly, if she is staying for an extended period, she mails additional supplies to the hotel in care of her name and let's them know she is expecting a package. This way she doesn't have to bring such a large amount with her. Hope this helps - the ADA can probably help with traveling as well if you contact them.
Have you tried searching the internet? There might be a page for travelers to Mexico.
I would think if you carry a copy of the prescription with you it won't be a problem, but better to make sure.
My son has to travel with an epi pen because of severe allergies. My doctor told me that as long as it is in the presc. Case or have a presc label and you make them aware that you have it with you that you will be fine. He also provided me with a prescription note saying the neccesity of the drug just to be sure. Hope this helps. Bernadette
I would also call your airline. they would know best!
