Have a Safe Trip – Avoid Problems with your Medications!

Travelling can be hectic enough without the added problem of worrying about your medications. Here are a few tips to help you avoid having your vacation spoiled by a problem with your medication.

Be sure that you have an adequate supply of all your medications before you leave home.

• Get your prescriptions refilled well in advance of your departure date.
• Remember to also take a supply of any non-prescription medications that you use on a regular basis.
• You should bring more medication with you than you need, in case you experience a travel delay.

Keep in mind that medications are sensitive to temperature and humidity extremes.

• If you are travelling to a hot or humid climate, take extra care to keep your medicines in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
• Never store them in your car’s glove compartment or trunk.
• If your travels take you to places that include water activities, be sure to keep your medications cool and dry in a watertight zip lock bag.

When flying, pack medications in your carry-on luggage

• This way, you will have access to your medicine during your flight and you will have it with you even if your checked-in baggage gets lost.

Bring along a complete list of your medicines.

• Ask your pharmacy to provide you with a complete list of your medications.
• The list should include Doses, Schedule and Important phone numbers, including those of your local pharmacy and physician

If you lose your medications while travelling.

• You will likely need new prescriptions to replace lost or forgotten medications.
• Take your medication list to a local doctor to make this easier.
• Remember that medications may have different names in different countries. If you are unsure about anything related to your medications, ask a healthcare provider for advice.