Planning for Travel: Essential Tips for Patients Taking Specialty Medications
Traveling is an exciting opportunity to explore, relax, and make new memories. If you’re managing a complex health condition while taking specialty medications, a little preparation can give you a smooth and stress-free trip.
Check with your doctor to make sure you’re cleared to travel. It’s also important that you have enough medication for the duration of your trip, plus a few extra days’ supply in case of a delay. You may need to give us a call for an early refill or to make sure that a refill isn’t due while you’re gone. Be aware of temperatures while you travel and at your destination. If your medication needs to be stored at a certain temperature, consider packing a portable cooler and/or calling ahead to request a refrigerator at your destination. It’s also a good idea to map out nearby pharmacies, hospitals, or infusion centers – just in case you need support while you’re away.
If you’re flying, always keep your medications in your carry-on bag so they don’t get lost in checked luggage. TSA Cares is a great resource if you need assistance getting through security. Contact them at least 72 hours before your flight. For international travel, double-check with your destination’s U.S. Embassy that your medications are allowed in your destination country and carry documentation with your condition and emergency contacts.
No matter how you travel, staying hydrated, taking breaks, and keeping your medication easily accessible can make the journey much more comfortable.
To make planning easier, we’ve put together a downloadable checklist to help you stay organized and travel with confidence.