Most travel health problems are small: a blister from new shoes, a headache after a long flight, an upset stomach from unfamiliar food. They are easy to deal with — if you have the right thing with you at 11pm in a town where the pharmacy has closed.
A travel first-aid kit does not need to be big. A small zipped pouch with a few carefully chosen items covers most situations.
The basics
These are worth taking on almost any trip:
Plasters (bandages) in several sizes, and blister plasters
Antiseptic wipes or cream
Pain relief and fever reducer you already know you tolerate
Oral rehydration sachets for dehydration and stomach bugs
Antihistamines for allergies and insect bites
Small scissors or tweezers (in checked luggage if they are sharp)
Hand sanitiser
Your own medicines
Take enough of any regular prescription medicine for the whole trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Keep it in your hand luggage, in its original packaging, with a copy of the prescription.
Some medicines that are legal at home are restricted in other countries. Check the rules with your destination's embassy or official government website before travelling.
Destination extras
Depending on where you are going, consider:
Insect repellent in destinations with mosquitoes
High-factor sunscreen and after-sun
Motion-sickness remedies for boats and mountain roads
Water purification tablets or a filter bottle for remote areas
Any malaria prevention or vaccines recommended by a travel clinic
Know when to get help
A first-aid kit is for minor problems. For high fever, severe pain, difficulty breathing, or symptoms that do not improve, see a doctor. Save your travel insurer's emergency number in your phone, and know the local emergency number for your destination.
This is general travel information, not professional, legal, medical, or financial advice. Airline rules, entry requirements, and prices change — confirm with airlines, official government sources, and your insurer before you travel.
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