How to Keep Medications Cool When Outdoors

Use a separate cooler for drinks.

Some medications must remain cold while you camp, travel or play outdoors. Make proper preparations ahead of time to avoid spoiling your medication or reducing its effectiveness due to climate conditions. Purchase a cooler rated to keep ice cold for five days or more even in hot weather. Look for a cooler that features solid sides and a thick layer of insulation. Keep the medication refrigerated right up until the time you pack it.

Things You'll Need

• Quart-size freezer bags
• Ice cubes
• Cooler
• Refrigerator thermometer

Instructions

1. Fill several quart-size freezer bags with ice cubes. You'll want enough bags to cover the bottom of the cooler in two layers.

2. Place a bag or bags filled with ice cubes flat at the bottom of the insulated cooler.

3. Seal the chilled medication in a dry freezer bag. Place the medication bag in another dry freezer bag with a refrigerator thermometer and seal the second bag. Double-bagging protects the medication from moisture.

4. Place the double-bagged medication on top of the layer of bagged ice.

5. Place bags of ice on top of the medication bag and close the lid quickly. Keep the cooler in the shade and do not open it unnecessarily.

Tips & Warnings

• If an electrical supply is available, a thermoelectric cooler will keep medications cold to 40 degrees below the outdoor temperature.

• Check the thermometer whenever you open the cooler to administer the medication. Replenish ice as needed.

• Keep drinks and food in a separate cooler.

• Never leave your medication cooler inside a car. Excessive heat can spoil the medication and will melt the ice faster.

References

• Association for Vascular Access: Traveling with Refrigerated Meds

Resources

• Medline Plus: Storing Medicine Safely
• Coleman: How to Pack and Clean Coolers