Before You Go: Get Enough PrEP
The #1 travel mistake is running out of medication. Here's how to avoid it:
- Request a 90-day supply: Most insurance plans and telehealth providers can prescribe a 90-day supply. Ask your provider well before your trip — some pharmacies and insurance plans need prior authorization for extended supplies.
- Carry extra: Bring more days than you think you'll need. Flights get delayed, trips get extended.
- Use mail-order pharmacy: Telehealth PrEP services can ship a 90-day supply directly to you before your departure.
Compare PrEP access options
Telehealth providers, local clinics, state programs, Medicaid, and manufacturer assistance can all be valid routes. Compare cost, lab method, medication options, location, privacy, and follow-up instead of defaulting to one provider.
Compare providers and programs →Packing and Airport Tips
- Carry-on only: Always pack PrEP in your carry-on bag. Checked luggage gets lost.
- Keep original labeling: Leave medication in the pharmacy bottle with your name and prescription label, especially for international travel. This avoids customs issues.
- Bring a copy of your prescription: A letter from your provider or a pharmacy printout helps if customs questions your medication.
- Consider a pill case: For daily convenience, use a weekly pill organizer, but keep the original bottle in your bag too.
Time Zones and Dosing
If you're crossing time zones with daily oral PrEP:
- Don't stress about exact timing: PrEP works as long as you take it once every ~24 hours. A few hours off won't reduce effectiveness.
- Gradually adjust: If you're traveling across many time zones, shift your pill time by 2–3 hours per day until it aligns with a convenient local time.
- Set a new alarm: Update your phone reminder to a time that makes sense in your destination's time zone.
On injectable PrEP? If you're on Apretude (every 2 months) or Yeztugo (every 6 months), travel is even simpler — no daily pills to remember. Just plan your injection schedule around your travel dates.
Getting PrEP Abroad
If you need to refill PrEP while abroad:
- Many countries sell generic TDF/FTC over the counter or with minimal medical requirements, especially in Southeast Asia, parts of Latin America, and some European countries. Prices range from $5–30/month for generics.
- Thailand, India, and Brazil are known for affordable generic PrEP availability at pharmacies.
- In the EU, PrEP access varies by country. The UK, France, and the Netherlands have strong PrEP programs, but you'll typically need to see a local doctor.
- Plan ahead: Research your destination's PrEP availability before you go. Local HIV organizations can point you to resources.
Countries Where PrEP May Be Restricted
Some countries have strict drug importation laws. While PrEP is almost never a controlled substance, carrying medication can raise questions in countries with conservative drug enforcement. Keep your prescription documentation accessible and consider carrying a note from your doctor.