Taking medication on your trip? Be aware: in other countries, they may be classified as drugs.

You're packing for your trip and thoughtlessly throw your medication in your toiletry bag. It seems harmless, but you could unexpectedly become a drug smuggler. Not every medication is allowed across the border.

Just like with traffic regulations , the law here is not the same everywhere. Over 1.5 million people using medication in the Netherlands must apply for an official certificate when traveling.

You can take most medications on holiday, but caution is advised. For some medications, you need a medication declaration. According to the Dutch government, these are medications that fall under the Opium Act, such as sleeping pills, strong painkillers, ADHD medication , and medicinal cannabis. Oxazepam, oxycodone, temazepam, methylphenidate, diazepam, zolpidem, lorazepam, fentanyl, and codeine with paracetamol are examples of commonly used substances in the Netherlands that require a special declaration.

Without a declaration, customs or the police might think you're carrying drugs. You can find out if you need such a declaration through the CAK's Travel Medicines Assistance program.

You can also request a medication certificate from the CAK (Central Administration Office). Do this well in advance. Such an application can take several weeks, especially if you're traveling outside Europe. Regardless of where you're going, you must download the medication certificate and have it signed and stamped by a doctor. The doctor's BIG number must be legible in the stamp.

If you're traveling within the Schengen Area, a Schengen Medical Certificate is sufficient. You can submit this digitally after seeing a doctor by scanning or taking a photo of the signed certificate. The approved certificate is valid for 30 days. If you're traveling longer, you'll need to request two certificates.

If you're traveling to a country outside Europe, you'll need an English certificate. You can download this from the CAK (Central Administration Office) and have your doctor sign it, but they can also write a certificate themselves. You then need to send the certificate to the CAK by mail. It's recommended to do this at least four weeks in advance.

You'll usually need an additional stamp afterward. You can ask the embassy or consulate of the country you're traveling to where to get one. If you're traveling to a so-called "Apostille country," you'll need to go to the courthouse to get a stamp. Otherwise, you'll likely need to get a stamp from the embassy, ​​consulate, or Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

You'd love to make the most of your vacation and come home as relaxed as possible. What's the best way to do that?

Will the EU introduce age limits on porn sites? Porn actress: '8-year-olds recognize me on the street'

House price increases are slowing, with most homes put up for sale in years