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Travel · 15 min

A medicines bag for the journey

Everything you need to stay well while away, in one bag that stays with you rather than in the suitcase.

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Travelling with a long-term condition can mean a lot to remember: tablets, inhalers, injections, times that shift with the clock, what to do if something goes wrong far from home. One bag, packed with care and kept with you, takes much of that weight off the trip.

The steps

Four small steps,in your own time.

  1. A week or two before you go, check you have enough of each medicine for the trip and a few extra days, and ask your pharmacist or doctor if you need more.

  2. Pack the medicines in their original boxes, in a bag you will keep with you, not in checked luggage or a bag that travels separately.

  3. Add a written list of your medicines, doses and conditions, the name and number of your doctor, and a copy of any prescription.

  4. If you are crossing time zones or going somewhere very hot or cold, ask a pharmacist how to adjust the timings and how to store your medicines safely.

The reason

Why it helps

Lost luggage or a delay is an inconvenience; lost medicines can be much more. Keeping them with you, with a list, means someone can help you if you become unwell away from home. Asking a pharmacist in advance means fewer worries on the way.

A gentle variation

If you are only away for a night or a day, use a small pouch with the day's doses, the list, and an extra dose in case you are delayed. Some people keep it packed all the time.

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WE · TRIBE

Try itwith someone.

If you look after someone who takes medicines, pack the bag with them and let them carry it if they want to. If you are travelling with friends or family, tell one person where the bag is and what is in it.

Make it a plan in HIVELIVE, with WE

Try it today

Today, write a list of your medicines, doses and your doctor's number, and put it in your travel bag or wallet.

Add it to your day

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