Across your plant medicine journey, there’s likely to be a time when you need to travel interstate within Australia – and you’ll need to bring your prescriptions along for the ride.
With prescription plant medicine strictly regulated across the country, it’s essential to ensure you’re prepared before you travel, so here’s Farma’s comprehensive guide to safe, secure and streamlined travel with plant medicine:
Documentation: Your clinic, GP or specialist may issue you a medical patient letter detailing that you’ve been lawfully prescribed your specific prescriptions, what these products are, and any other pertinent details. If you have this, or if you are a SAS-B pathway Patient with this documentation, we recommend keeping a copy saved on your phone, and printing a physical copy to store with your prescriptions when you travel (in case these are inspected at any point). Please note: it is not a legal requirement to carry a copy of your prescriptions, but if you have access to this, we recommend carrying it with you.
Labels: Don’t be tempted to decant any product to lighten your luggage weight – keep your plant medicine in its original packaging with all of the labelled prescription details attached. Most importantly, your name needs to be clearly marked so they can identify you as the Patient – ensure the labels aren’t faded beyond readability – this is especially important if your primary verification for your medication are the labels on the medicine themselves.
Secure storage: If you plan to fly or travel by train or other public transport methods, ensure you keep your plant medicine safely separate from other medications (even other prescription products). A waterproof zip-lock bag, small hard-shelled case or pouch can be handy (you can even utilise clear bags to ensure transparency for airport staff to easily sight the contents). Check on the lock mechanisms of all your prescription products and ensure they won’t leak or spill during your trip, and aim to keep in a cool, dark conditions.
Accessories: If you require a battery, a vaporising device or other unit to deliver your plant medicine, ensure this is switched off and cool, clean and dry. Aim to remove any residue or scent and store these separately in your luggage. If you plan to fly, check with your airline to ensure your device is compliant to travel with and of course, never use these devices while flying or on any form of public transport. Remember: if you do choose to carry a vaporizer, this should be listed and noted by your prescriber as a required accessory for the consumption of your specific medicine – this will help to avoid any delays or difficulties especially within an airport screening setting.
Do your research: Different states around Australia have slightly different laws regarding plant medicine consumption and use – check out Health.gov.au to review state-by-state laws: Drug laws in Australia | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. Remember, travelling internationally with plant medicine is illegal in most countries, so if you have an international trip coming, check in with their government websites and official guidelines and get express written permission from a government official before you fly
Stay informed: Before you travel, review your dosing guidelines from your Doctor, and ensure you are comfortable with managing your dosing on your travels. If you plan to medicate before travelling, ensure you understand how this may impact you differently (especially at different altitudes!), and remember it is still illegal to drive while using some plant medicines – ask your Doctor if you’re unsure). Plan how and where you will consume your plant medicine safely (especially if you are staying at hotels or other paid accommodation), and ensure your medicine is safely stored and locked away if you leave your hotel during the day (we recommend utilising the hotel safe if you have access to this).
So, enjoy your travels safely and if you have any more questions, we encourage you to check in with the Farma team.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. For accurate legal guidance, please consult with relevant legal authorities or a qualified professional.