Tips for a Safe Trip

Planning for a trip can be tricky – predicting the weather, deciding what to bring, and packing your medications safely. Safely packing your medicines can be easy if you know these helpful medication tips.

  • Bring more than you need in case of travel delays.
  • Pack medications in your carry-on luggage if you are flying.
    • You will have access to them during your flight.
    • This ensures you will have your medications even if your checked-in luggage gets lost.
  • Store medications in their original container.
    • This prevents taking the wrong medication.
    • This is necessary to pass through airport security and border crossings.
  • Do an accurate count of your pills before you leave. This will help the poison center determine the risk involved in cases of accidental overdose or ingestion.
  • Consult with your physician or pharmacist if you are traveling through several time zones to develop a specific plan to adjust the timing and dosage of your medications.

Are you planning on visiting a hot, humid climate? Keep your medications in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. If traveling by car, do not store medications in the glove compartment or trunk. Heat and humidity can affect medications. If involved in water activities, be sure that medications are kept cool, secure and in a waterproof container.

Whether you are home or on the road, there are several basic medication safety tips you should follow.

  • Do not store medications in the bathroom where humidity and heat build up.
  • Always store medications in child-resistant containers.
  • Keep your purse or suitcase up high and out of reach of children.
  • Don’t take medications in the presence of children. They like to imitate adults.
  • Always carry a complete list of your medicines (including prescription, over-the-counter and dietary supplements), the doses, schedule and your physicians’ and pharmacy’s phone numbers.
  • Wear a medical-alert bracelet or necklace if you have allergies.
  • Remember, 1-800-222-1222 is a free, confidential, 24-hour national helpline. Call for a poison emergency, prevention tips or medication questions.