How To Pack Perishables

Try as we might, sometimes there’s no getting around the fact we need to pack perishables. Whether you need chilled medication, such as insulin, or are traveling with a young child and need to keep baby food fresh, we need to pack perishables safely. Follow these tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Think small. If you’re packing baby food or yogurt, look for the smallest containers possible. It’s difficult to “save” opened containers of food without reliable access to a refrigerator. Items like yogurt tubes and single servings of snacks can be lifesavers.

Use ices and gels, if you’re not flying. If you’re traveling by train or car, make use of frozen ice packs and gels to keep your items cool. Of course, ice packs and gel packs more than three ounces are a no-no for plane travelers.

Consider a cooler. If you’re road tripping, a cooler can be a big help. There are many models that plug directly into your car and can keep food and drinks chilled for hours. This is a worthwhile investment if you have heat-sensitive medication or are going to be spending a long time in the car.

Finally, grab an insulated tote. Most insulated bags can be taken on airplanes and help keep items chilled. Always alert security or travel staff to your specific needs and see what accommodations can be made for special circumstances before you arrive.