How-to Guide

A Health Records Checklist for International Travel

A prescription that’s completely normal at home can raise questions at customs abroad. Bring the paperwork.

Health documents worth bringing

  • Current medication list with generic names — brand names vary by country
  • Allergy and condition summary, especially anything relevant in an emergency
  • Vaccination records, if your destination has entry requirements
  • Travel insurance policy details and emergency contact numbers

Traveling with prescription medications

Keep medications in original packaging where possible, and carry a doctor’s letter for anything that could raise questions at customs — controlled substances especially. Some countries restrict medications that are entirely routine elsewhere, so check destination-specific rules ahead of time rather than assuming.

Vaccination requirements for travel

Some destinations require proof of specific vaccinations (yellow fever is the most common example) for entry. Check requirements for your specific destination well before departure — some vaccines need weeks to become effective, not just days.

Having it all with you, offline

Because MedKeep is offline-first, your family’s medication lists, allergy information and vaccination records are readable on your phone with no roaming data or signal — exactly the situation you’re often in abroad. Export a PDF summary before you leave as a backup, in case a foreign clinic needs a printed copy.

Frequently asked questions

What health documents should I bring when traveling internationally?

A current medication list with generic names, an allergy and condition summary, vaccination records if required at your destination, and your travel insurance details.

Can I bring prescription medications on international trips?

Generally yes, kept in original packaging with a doctor’s letter for anything that might raise questions — but check destination-specific restrictions in advance, since some countries restrict medications that are routine elsewhere.

Does MedKeep work without internet while traveling abroad?

Yes. MedKeep is offline-first, so your records are readable on your phone with no signal or roaming data, and you can export a PDF summary before you leave as a backup.

MedKeep app icon

Try it with MedKeep — free

Your whole family's medications, vitals, visits and documents. Encrypted on your device, works offline.

Updated July 19, 2026 · 4 min read
Back to guides

Your health records,
always with you.

Free to start. Your whole family on the Family plan. Encrypted on your device, we can't read it.