How To Take Medication On Plane

So, there I was, squished between a chatty grandma and a snoring businessman, cruising at 30,000 feet. I was on my way to a conference, and I'd forgotten to pack one crucial thing - my meds. I mean, who remembers to pack their pills when they're rushing to catch a flight? Anyway, I was in a pickle. I needed my meds, but I had no idea how to go about it. That's when I decided to become an expert on taking medication on a plane. Here's what I've learned, just in case you find yourself in a similar situation.

Preparation is Key

First things first, don't be like me. Pack your meds before you even think about your toothbrush. It's not just about having them, it's about having them ready. You don't want to be rummaging through your luggage in the overhead bin, holding up the line, and drawing attention to yourself. Trust me, the guy behind you will not appreciate it.

Now, what does 'ready' mean? It means having your meds in their original, labeled containers. The TSA might ask to see them, and they'll want to know exactly what they are. Also, keep them in your carry-on. Checked luggage can get lost, and you don't want to be stuck in a strange city without your meds.

Timing is Everything

So, you've packed your meds. Great! But when should you take them? Well, that depends on your routine. If you take them at home before you go to bed, then take them on the plane before you try to sleep. If you take them in the morning, then do the same on the plane. The point is, try to stick to your usual routine as much as possible.

But what if you're on a long flight and you need to take your meds at a time when the cabin lights are off and people are trying to sleep? Well, that's where those little glow-in-the-dark stickers come in handy. You know, the ones you used to put on your ceiling as a kid? Yeah, those. Stick one on your pill bottle so you can see it in the dark. Just don't shine your phone's flashlight in people's faces while you're fishing around for your pills. Trust me, they won't appreciate it.

Water, Water Everywhere

You know what's worse than forgetting your meds? Forgetting how to take them. And no, I don't mean you've suddenly lost your ability to swallow. I mean, you've forgotten that you're supposed to take them with water. And let me tell you, getting water on a plane can be a challenge.

Woman taking motion sickness medication on airplane flight 81257448

Here's a tip - ask the flight attendant for a cup of water when they come around with drinks. They'll usually give you one, no problem. But if they're busy or you're feeling shy, you can always ask for a bottle of water. Just remember to drink it all - you're at high altitude, and you need to stay hydrated.

Special Considerations

Now, I've been talking about pills, but what if you need to take liquid meds or injectables? Well, the rules are a bit different. Liquid meds are usually fine, as long as they're in their original, labeled containers and they're less than 3.4 ounces (100ml). But you might want to check with the TSA before you fly, just to be sure.

As for injectables, you'll need a doctor's note to take them on board. The note should explain why you need them and how often you need to use them. You'll also need to show it to the TSA. And remember, you'll need to inject yourself in a private area, like the airplane's lavatory. Just make sure to wash your hands first!

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What if Something Goes Wrong?

Okay, so you've packed your meds, you've taken them at the right time, and you've stayed hydrated. But what if something goes wrong? What if you start feeling unwell and you need more meds than you've brought with you?

Well, that's where travel insurance comes in. If you've got it, then you can usually get a doctor to prescribe you some more meds and have them delivered to your hotel. But if you don't have travel insurance, then you'll have to pay for the meds yourself. And let me tell you, medical care abroad can be expensive. So, do yourself a favor and get some travel insurance before you go.

And there you have it - my guide to taking medication on a plane. I hope you've found it helpful. And remember, the next time you're packing for a trip, don't be like me. Pack your meds. Your future self will thank you.