Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020

What medicines can I take to Vanuatu in my baggage?

Country forums / Pacific Islands & Papua New Guinea

Probably sounds like a silly question, but I can't seem to find any information on this. I am traveling with a baby and was going to pack paracetomol, antimalarials, antibiotics, antifungals, anti diarrhea, plus antiseptic creams and bandages etc. Is all of this ok? I'd hate to discover it's illegal or something?!!

I have never had any probelms carrying any of these into Solomon Islands, and I think Vanuatu is similar. I often carry extra for my friends in the villages.
In fact, I had no trouble with most of this stuff in Europe either, though some countries won' let you take anything containing codeine.

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Okay. Thanks. Do you have to actually declare all this stuff, or do they just see it all there when they scan your luggage?

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Scan??? They only scan things in Solomon Islands when you are leaving, for security.
I wouldn't declare over-the-counter medicines, or anything for which you carry a prescription, but I am not sure what the Vanuatu people will ask for on their declaration form.
If you are worried, and there is a question about drugs, say yes, and then explain to the customs official.
I am always declaring food, though I only carry things like lollies for the children and vegemite, which have never been a problem.

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thanks! I know I sound like a doofus. Just want to make sure we do the right thing.

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