Traveling with medications: how do you store them?
If you take medications, it is important to know how to take them safely when traveling. This is because some medications must be kept at a certain temperature to remain effective. Some advice to help you...
Room temperature
Many medications can be stored at room temperature, which is approximately between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. Examples include painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, as well as many antibiotics. Keep these medications in your carry-on luggage, not in the glove compartment of your car. This is because this locker can get very hot, especially in the summer.
Refrigerated medications
Some medications must be kept refrigerated, for example insulin or certain eye drops. These medications must be kept between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. You can use an insulating bag or cooler for these medications. Make sure you have enough cooling elements to keep the temperature constant throughout the trip. Do not store these medications in the freezer, as freezing them can reduce their effectiveness.
Important medications
Insulin: Store in a cooler bag, use cooling elements.
Antibiotics: Usually room temperature, ask us to be sure.
Eye drops: Often keep refrigerated, check the packaging.
General tips
- Always make sure you have a medication passport with you. This lists which medications you are taking and in what dosage. This is useful in case you need to visit a doctor or pharmacy abroad.
- Always take an extra supply of medicines with you in case you stay away longer than planned.
- Consult this website on hand luggage on the plane
- Learn more at pharmacy.nl about storing medicines
- Please ask us for advice if you are unsure about how to store your medicines during your trip.
- For information on taking medicines with you when you travel and customs regulations, visit cak.nl.
- Look at our webpage on sun allergy as well.
- Download the travel pharmacy and take it with you to the pharmacy. We'll see what you need together.
Have a great vacation!