Even if your medications can be purchased over the counter from a pharmacy or supermarket, carry them in a clear plastic bag, in the original packaging, and tell the security officer that you have them with you.

According to TSA and international security standards in 2026, pills and solid medications do not have to be in a clear bag, nor do they need to be removed from your carry-on during screening. However, if your medication is a liquid, gel, or aerosol (such as insulin, cough syrup, or specialized creams) and exceeds the standard 3.4-ounce (100ml) limit, it falls under the "medically necessary" exception. While these do not have to fit in your quart-sized 3-1-1 bag, you must declare them to the security officer for separate inspection. A high-value peer tip is to keep all medications in their original prescription bottles with your name clearly visible, as this prevents confusion during a manual bag search. While not strictly required for domestic US travel, a clear bag can help organize these items for quick identification. For international travel, always check the destination's specific drug laws, as some common over-the-counter medications in the U.S. may be restricted or require a doctor’s note elsewhere.