Travel GUide

Medical Essentials (Carry-On Only)

• All daily medications (extra supply for delays)

• Rescue/emergency medications (e.g., inhaler, EpiPen, seizure meds)

• Dosing schedule written out

• Copies of prescriptions

• Doctor’s letter explaining medical conditions & meds

• Insurance cards + pharmacy info

• List of diagnoses, allergies, and medical history

• Emergency action plan (asthma plan, seizure plan, etc.)

Storage & Equipment

• Insulated bag/cooler for temperature-sensitive meds (some hotels or if on a cruise will get you a medical cooler for items that need to be refrigerated (but check before arrival)

• Ice packs (check travel regulations if flying)

• Medical devices (nebulizer, glucose monitor, feeding pump, etc.)

• Chargers, batteries, backup power bank

• Extension cord (hotel rooms often lack outlets)

• Cleaning supplies for equipment

Health & Safety Supplies

• Hand sanitizer & disinfecting wipes

• Gloves (if needed)

• Thermometer

• First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, etc.)

• Safe snacks (especially for allergies or restricted diets)

• Water bottle/hydration support

Travel-Day Prep

• Medications packed in carry-on (NEVER checked luggage)

• Set alarms for medication times (time zone adjusted)

• Notify the airline in advance (if flying) for:

  • ☐ Medical equipment

  • ☐ Early boarding

  • ☐ Special accommodations

• TSA notification card (if applicable)

• Printed + digital copies of all documents

• Check to see if all your supplies can go through xray machine. If not, notify TSA prior to going through xray machine.

At Your Destination

• Locate nearest hospital or urgent care

• Identify closest pharmacy

• Store meds properly upon arrival

• Set up a “medical station” in your room

• Adjust medication schedule to local time

Comfort & Regulation  

• Comfort items (favorite blanket, stuffed animal)

• Headphones or sensory tools

• Entertainment (books, tablet, games)

• Snacks that are safe + familiar

• Plan for rest breaks/downtime

Advocacy & Communication

• Practice child explaining their needs (if age-appropriate)

• Medical ID bracelet or card

• Caregiver backup plan (if you’re separated)

• Written instructions for another adult (just in case)

Backup Planning  

• Extra meds split between bags (in case one is lost)

• Photos of medications & labels on your phone

• Telehealth contact or pediatrician number saved

• Travel insurance (if needed for your situation)

Pro Tips  

• Bring more than you think you’ll need (at least 2–3 extra days of meds)

• Keep everything in one grab-and-go medical bag

• Stick as close as possible to your home routine

• Expect some disruption—plan for flexibility, not perfection