Traveling This Summer? Don’t Forget Your Birth Control

Whether you're heading to the lake for a long weekend, taking a road trip with friends, or catching a flight for a much-needed vacation, a little planning can help your trip go more smoothly. 

If you use birth control, taking a few minutes to prepare before you leave can help you avoid stress later. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you hit the road.

Make Sure You Have Enough Birth Control

Before your trip, check that you have enough birth control to last the entire time you'll be away. If you can, pack a little extra in case your travel plans change unexpectedly or you decide to extend your stay. Did you know that at The Right Time health centers, you can get a year’s supply of birth control during your visit?

If you need a refill, try to reach out to your provider before you leave. If you're due for a birth control shot or prescription refill while traveling, a little planning ahead can help you stay on schedule and avoid scrambling while you're away.

Keep it with You

If you're flying, pack your birth control in your carry-on rather than your checked luggage. Lost bags happen, and keeping your birth control with you makes it easier to stick to your routine.

Think of it as one of those essentials—right alongside your phone charger and ID.

Be Mindful of the Heat

Summer temperatures can rise quickly, especially inside parked cars. If you can, avoid leaving birth control pills, patches, rings, condoms, or other medications in a hot vehicle or direct sunlight for extended periods of time. When possible, follow the storage instructions that come with your method.

Traveling Across Time Zones?

If you're crossing time zones, think about how the change may affect your birth control schedule. This is especially important for people using some progestin-only pills, which need to be taken on a more consistent schedule to remain effective.

Setting a reminder on your phone before you travel can help you stay on track, even if your daily routine looks a little different than usual.

Don't Forget Condoms

Condoms can help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and can provide additional pregnancy prevention when used alongside another birth control method. Packing a few before your trip can help ensure you're prepared if you need them.

Know Where to Get Care

Before you travel, consider identifying nearby clinics, pharmacies, or health centers at your destination. If you need a refill, emergency contraception, STI testing, or other reproductive health services, knowing where to go can save time and stress.

Hopefully, you won't need any of it—but having a plan can offer peace of mind.

A little preparation before your trip can help you focus on what matters most: enjoying your summer! Whether you're exploring somewhere new or simply taking a well-deserved break, planning ahead can help make sure your birth control is one less thing you need to think about while you're away. 

For answers to your specific questions about traveling with birth control, talk to a provider at your nearest The Right Time health center.