Packing vitamins for your next vacation takes planning to reduce problems, both during the travel portion and once you reach your destination. Environmental changes sometimes affect the quality of the pills. Security checkpoints at the airport also present challenges for some travelers carrying vitamins, even though they aren't considered drugs. Pack your vitamins properly to avoid problems on your trip.
Flying
Vitamins and other pills are allowed in your carry-on luggage. The vitamins need to go through the X-ray machine at security. An alternative option is to allow the screeners to inspect your vitamins and other medications. To avoid any problems, carry your vitamins in the original packaging so the screeners are able to see what it is. Liquid vitamins present more of a challenge for airport security checks. Liquids are limited to 3.4 oz. bottles in your carry-on luggage. If your liquid vitamin container is larger, look for a smaller package that is under 3.4 oz. or pack the liquid vitamins in your checked baggage.
Driving
You face fewer restrictions when traveling by car because you don't have to deal with the security checkpoints. Pack your vitamins with similar items when traveling by car. If you take several vitamins or pills, one option is to divide them into a pill case so you don't have to carry several large pill bottles. Keep the vitamins and other toiletries that are sensitive to environmental conditions in the front of the vehicle with a more controlled environment. The trunk or roof-top storage heats up quickly, particularly during summer travel months.
Temperature & Humidity
High temperatures and humidity cause water-soluble vitamins to deteriorate over time. If you travel in a hot, humid area, your vitamins may begin dissolving or breaking down. Bathrooms also create a hot, humid environment due to the humidity from the shower. When traveling, keep your vitamins in an air-conditioned environment when possible. Store the vitamins outside the bathroom at your destination to avoid damage to the pills.
Tips
Pack your vitamins separately from other items that might leak during travel, such as hairspray, cleanser or other liquid toiletries. For longer vacations, consider buying a small container of your over-the-counter vitamins once you arrive at your destination. This eliminates the risks present during air or car travel. If the vitamins are affected by hot, humid conditions at your destination, you won't lose your regular, large bottle of vitamins.
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