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IVF Travel Checklist: What to Pack for Colombia

📖 8 min read 📅 Updated January 2025 🖨️ Print this list

Traveling to Colombia for IVF requires more planning than a typical vacation. You'll need medications that require special handling, documents for your clinic, and supplies for a 2-3 week stay. This comprehensive checklist ensures you don't forget anything important.

Pro tip: Print this page and check items off as you pack.

đź“‹ Essential Documents

đź’Š Medications & Medical Supplies

⚠️ Flying with Fertility Medications

Never check medications in luggage. Keep all medications in your carry-on. TSA allows liquid medications over 3.4oz and syringes/needles when accompanied by injectable medication. Declare your medications before screening and present them in a clear bag. Carry your doctor's letter explaining why you have these items.

đź‘• Clothing (for 2-3 weeks)

🧴 Toiletries & Comfort Items

📱 Electronics & Entertainment

✨ Nice-to-Haves

đź’ˇ Accommodation Tip

Book a place with a refrigerator — essential for storing fertility medications. A full kitchen is helpful for preparing healthy meals. Make sure it's within 15-20 minutes of your clinic.

Before You Leave: Pre-Trip Checklist

🏠 1-2 Weeks Before Departure

Partner or Support Person?

If your partner or a friend is traveling with you, remember they'll need entertainment and flexibility. You'll have appointments most mornings — they might explore the city. After egg retrieval, you'll need someone to accompany you home (you won't be able to drive after sedation).

Need Help Planning Your Trip?

We can help coordinate with your Colombian clinic and recommend accommodations near your treatment center.

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Read more: IVF Trip Timeline | IVF in MedellĂ­n | IVF Cost Guide

Detailed Packing Categories

Medical Documents

Organize all medical documentation in one folder or digital file. Include your complete fertility workup results, previous treatment summaries, current medication list, insurance information, and your clinics contact details. Having everything readily accessible prevents delays and ensures your new care team has complete information. Make copies as backup.

Medications and Supplies

Coordinate with your clinic about which medications to bring versus purchase locally. Pack any current prescriptions in original labeled containers. Bring a small sharps container for injection disposal. Include basic supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Keep medications in your carry-on in case luggage is delayed.

Comfort Items

Two to three weeks away from home calls for comfort items that help you relax. Consider bringing your favorite pillow or blanket, entertainment like books, tablets, or downloaded shows, comfort snacks from home, photos of loved ones, and anything else that brings you peace. These small touches make your temporary home feel more personal during an emotionally intense time.

Practical Essentials

Pack adapters if needed for electronics, though Colombia uses standard US-style plugs. Bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that accommodate bloating during stimulation. Include layers for varying temperatures. Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring between appointments. Dont forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and rain protection depending on your destination and season.

Before You Leave Home

Complete several tasks before departure to ensure smooth travels. Notify your bank and credit card companies of international travel. Set up international phone service or plan to purchase a local SIM card. Arrange care for pets, plants, or home responsibilities. Confirm all appointments with your clinic. Share your itinerary with trusted contacts at home. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that you are prepared.

At the Airport and During Travel

Keep medications and important documents in your carry-on bag. Stay hydrated during flights—dehydration can affect how you feel upon arrival. Move around periodically on long flights to maintain circulation. Once you land, take things slowly as you adjust to your new environment. Your journey to parenthood has taken an exciting step forward.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Every fertility journey is unique, and what works for one person may not be the right path for another. The most important thing is to gather accurate information, work with experienced professionals who understand your specific situation, and make decisions that align with your values and goals. Dont hesitate to ask questions, seek second opinions, and advocate for yourself throughout the process.

If youre considering treatment in Colombia, start with a virtual consultation to discuss your situation with experienced fertility specialists. There is no obligation—its simply an opportunity to learn more about your options and determine if international treatment might be right for you. Many patients find that taking this first step brings clarity and helps them move forward with confidence, whatever path they ultimately choose.

Remember that seeking fertility treatment takes courage. Whether youre preserving your fertility for the future, trying to conceive now, or exploring options after previous challenges, you are taking proactive steps toward your family-building goals. Support is available at every stage of the journey, and you do not have to navigate this path alone. Reach out, ask questions, and trust that you can handle whatever comes next on your journey to parenthood.

We hope this guide has provided valuable information to help you understand your options and feel more prepared for what lies ahead. Your dreams of building a family are worth pursuing, and modern fertility medicine offers more possibilities than ever before. Take the next step when you are ready—your future family may be closer than you think.