Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Whether you're heading to the beach, taking a road trip, or flying across the country, planning ahead can help ensure your vacation is memorable for all the right reasons.
One thing that's easy to overlook when packing? Your medications.
Running out of a prescription, storing medications incorrectly, or forgetting important health essentials can quickly put a damper on your trip. Before you leave home, use these pharmacist-approved tips to travel safely and confidently.
Refill Prescriptions Before You Leave
One of the most common travel mistakes is waiting until the last minute to refill medications.
A week or two before your trip:
- Check your prescription supply.
- Request refills early if needed.
- Make sure you'll have enough medication for your entire trip, plus a few extra days in case your return is delayed.
If you're unsure whether you have refills remaining, your pharmacy can help.
Pack Medications in Your Carry-On Bag
If you're flying, always keep your medications in your carry-on luggage.
Checked bags can be delayed or lost, leaving you without important medications.
Keep medications:
- In their original prescription containers
- Easily accessible
- Protected from excessive heat or moisture
Protect Heat-Sensitive Medications
Summer temperatures can affect certain medications.
Examples include:
- Insulin
- Some injectable medications
- Certain liquid medications
Never leave medications in a parked car, where temperatures can rise quickly. If needed, use an insulated travel case or cooler pack designed for medications, but avoid placing medications directly against ice unless the product instructions allow it.
If you're unsure how to store your medication while traveling, ask your pharmacist before you leave.
Stick to Your Medication Schedule
Vacation often means a change in routine, making it easy to miss doses.
Helpful reminders include:
- Setting alarms on your phone
- Using a pill organizer
- Taking medications at the same time each day
- Planning ahead if you'll be changing time zones
If you're traveling internationally or crossing multiple time zones, your pharmacist can help you adjust your medication schedule safely.
Pack a Travel Health Kit
Having a few health essentials on hand can save time and stress during your trip.
Consider packing:
- Pain relievers
- Allergy medication
- Motion sickness medication
- Antacids
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Adhesive bandages
- Antiseptic wipes
- Thermometer
- Insect repellent
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Aloe vera gel for minor sunburns
A well-stocked travel kit can help you handle many common health concerns while you're away.
Stay Hydrated
Traveling in hot weather, spending time outdoors, and increased physical activity can all increase your risk of dehydration.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you're:
- Hiking
- Visiting amusement parks
- Spending time at the beach or pool
- Taking medications that increase fluid loss, such as certain diuretics
Remember, thirst isn't always the first sign of dehydration.
Keep Important Health Information with You
Before you travel, make a list of:
- Current medications
- Allergies
- Medical conditions
- Emergency contact information
- Your pharmacy's phone number
- Your healthcare provider's contact information
Having this information readily available can be invaluable in an emergency.
Your Pharmacist Is Part of Your Travel Team
Before your trip, stop by your pharmacy if you have questions about:
- Medication storage
- Travel vaccines
- Motion sickness prevention
- Heat-sensitive medications
- Drug interactions with over-the-counter products
- Building a travel first aid kit
We're happy to help you prepare so you can focus on enjoying your vacation.
Travel Smart This Summer
A little preparation goes a long way toward a safe and enjoyable vacation. By planning ahead, packing your medications properly, and taking care of your health while you're away, you'll be ready to make the most of your summer adventures.
Before you hit the road, stop by our pharmacy. Whether you need a prescription refill, travel health advice, or help choosing over-the-counter essentials, our team is here to help you travel with confidence. Safe travels, and have a wonderful summer!