8 mistakes to avoid when packing medications

Packing for an international trip often means triple checking that you have your passport, wallet, and phone before you leave home. But one essential element that travelers often overlook (or mismanage) is their medication. Forgetting a travel pill box, packing it in checked luggage, or not following through TSA rules can quickly turn a dream vacation into a stressful struggle. Even basic over-the-counter products, like children’s Tylenol or chewable Pepto-Bismol, can be surprisingly difficult to find abroad, especially in countries where pharmacies have different formulations or ban certain medications altogether.

“You’ll save worry and money if you don’t need to find a doctor to get prescriptions for chronic medications,” he said. Alisha Goodrum, MD, internal medicine doctor on virtual care platform plush care.

To help travelers avoid common mistakes, Dr. Goodrum shares the top mistakes tourists make when packing medications abroad, plus simple strategies (and products) that make a difference. Buy these travel essentials from Amazon before your next vacation to stay healthy and happy abroad.

Mistake number 1: completely forgetting about medications

The Solution: Pack Them Safely in a Clear Toiletry Bag

It sounds obvious, but in the rush of last-minute packing, even essential recipes can be forgotten. “Pack medications ahead of time to avoid forgetting them,” Dr. Goodrum advised. “Keep them with other important things, like your passport.” Be sure to also pack them in a secure zippered toiletry bag with dedicated compartments. This Bagsmart transparent toiletry bag It makes it easy to store medications, keep them safe and separate from other toiletries, and see what’s inside at a glance.

Mistake #2: Hiding medications in checked luggage

The solution: put a compact pill box in your carry-on luggage

Lost or delayed luggage is an inconvenience, but if your medications are inside, it can go from an annoying travel nuisance to a dangerous situation. Dr. Goodrum suggests packing them in a bag or personal item that won’t get lost during transportation. A compact TSA-friendly pill organizer, like this colorful $9Easily slides into your personal item so your medications stay with you at all times.

Mistake #3: Throwing away original prescription bottles

The Solution: Package the Originals to Avoid Potential Security Issues

TSA does not require travelers to carry prescriptions in their original bottles. But Dr. Goodrum says it makes life easier to carry them in their original bottles if you’re worried they might be marked, just in case. “Medications should be in a container that has a label that includes your name and the name of the medication,” she explained, adding that it may also be helpful to bring a copy of your prescription or doctor’s note. This larger toiletry bag Spacious, stretch mesh sports pockets that can help keep all your original pill bottles safe and organized for days on the go.

Mistake #4: Ignoring the rules on liquid medications

The Solution: Pack Liquid Medications in a Cooler and Report It to TSA

Although the TSA has restrictions on liquids, medications such as insulin are exempt—but you, “you must declare them [at TSA] so they can be tested as appropriate,” said Dr. Goodrum. To help you travel safely, invest in a refrigerator insulin travel case or a leak-proof liquid medication bottle, as needed, to ensure safe transportation of liquid medications. Youshares insulin travel refrigerator It comes with two TSA-approved ice packs to keep your medications cool, while the external window shows you the temperature in real time. For $14, it’s a worthwhile investment that can save you the hassle of going through the security line.

Mistake #5: Skipping Prescription Documentation

The Solution: Carry Recipes in a Document Wallet

If you lose or run out of medications abroad, Dr. Goodrum says having the proper documentation (with dosage and frequency) can make replacing them much easier. “Keep a copy in your wallet or purse, and also with your medications,” she said. “If you prefer a handwritten list, be sure to update it before you travel.”

TO waterproof travel document wallet keeps prescription lists and doctor’s notes secure and accessible. This case has ample space for any documents you, your friends, or family may need on your adventures, including room for up to five passports. There are also zippered compartments so you can safely store cash and other valuables.

Mistake No. 6: Ignoring international laws

The Solution: Do Your Research (and Keep It On Hand)

Medication rules vary around the world, even for prescriptions that are common in the United States, especially if they don’t have the original bottles. If you rely on life-saving medications, says Dr. Goodrum slim travel folder It is useful for organizing letters from doctors, copies of prescriptions, and printouts of relevant regulations.

Mistake #7: Forgetting Over-the-Counter Essentials

The Solution: Stock Up on Over-the-Counter Essentials

Even basic medications may be unavailable, expensive, or difficult to find abroad, so Dr. Goodrum recommends stocking up on essentials like ibuprofen, Tums, and other over-the-counter medications in advance. This practical kit comes with over 30 travel-size medication pouches for any ailment, including Pepto-Bismol, ibuprofen, pain relievers, decongestants, and more. The slim bags store easily in personal items or even toiletry bags.

Mistake #8: Traveling without a first aid kit

The Solution: Invest in a Portable First Aid Kit and Keep It Up to Date

Cuts, sprains and scrapes can derail your trip if you’re not prepared. But it doesn’t take much preparation or investment to build a travel-friendly first aid kit and keep it updated before each trip. “Band-aids, neosporin, and alcohol wipes may be good to have for acute cuts or injuries,” Dr. Goodrum suggested. This TSA Friendly Travel First Aid Kit It’s small enough to throw in your carry-on, but covers the basics for both kids and adults. With over 100 pieces, you’ll be prepared for any minor injury.

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