Taking medication on holiday
Holidays are a time to unwind, explore new places, and enjoy some much-needed rest. For those who rely on regular medication, travel requires careful planning. This guide will help you manage your medication on holiday, so you can fully enjoy your trip.
Check restrictions
Each country has its own rules and regulations when it comes to medications, and it's essential to understand the local laws. Some medications that are common and legal in one country may be restricted or even banned in another.
Research whether your medication is permitted in the country you’re visiting. Some painkillers, for example, are illegal in certain countries without special permission. The embassy or consulate of your destination country can usually provide the necessary information.
Get organised
Check your medication supply: Ensure you have enough medication to last the entire trip, including extra in case of an unexpected delay to your return.
Consult your doctor: Let your doctor know about your travel plans. They can offer advice specific to your destination, such as adjustments to your medication routine based on time zone changes or dietary concerns.
Carry a doctor’s note: It’s helpful to carry a note from your doctor, copy of your repeat prescription or keep the medication in the box detailing the medication you take, the dosage, and why it’s necessary. This can help with customs clearance and security checks.
Translation: If traveling to a country where the local language is not one you speak, consider having key medical terms (like medication names or conditions) translated into the local language.
Packing
When packing, it's important to store your medication in a way that makes it easily accessible and safe from damage.
Keep medication in its original packaging. This makes it easier to prove that it's prescribed for your use, and the labelling includes important information, such as your dosage and the pharmacy details.
Never pack your medication in your checked luggage. Luggage can get lost or delayed, and you don’t want to be left without your medication.
Temperature considerations: Some medications need to be stored at a specific temperature. If your medication is temperature-sensitive, discuss with your doctor and / or transport provider how this can be kept safe during transit.
Time zones
If you’re traveling across time zones, figuring out when to take your medication can be confusing. Missing doses or taking medication at the wrong time can affect its effectiveness or lead to side effects.
Work with your doctor to create a schedule that fits your new time zone. Set reminders to ensure you don’t miss any doses.
Travel insurance
Good To Go insurance can help you with travel insurance for your trip. Good To Go can cover all types of existing medical conditions and has no upper age limit. Remember to buy travel insurance as soon as you've booked your trip to ensure that you have cancellation cover in place straight away. Good to go includes cancellation cover on Gold, Platinum and cruise policies. Good to go provides loss of medication cover of up to £300 on all policies.
Don’t let your age or medical conditions hold you back. For travel insurance you’re good to go!
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