Minimal travel health kit: the list that covers 90% of trips
You don't need a pharmacy in your suitcase. A well-chosen core kit covers most situations. This guide gives you a base list plus add-on modules for specific conditions — so you pack only what you actually need.
Core kit (every trip)
These items cover the most common travel health issues:
Pain relief / fever reducer
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen. Avoid aspirin for children.
Oral rehydration salts (ORS)
The single most important item for diarrhea. Sachets are lightweight and cheap.
Antihistamine
For allergic reactions, insect bites, motion sickness (drowsy type doubles as sleep aid on flights).
Plasters and wound closure strips
Cover cuts, blisters, and minor wounds. Include a few sizes.
Antiseptic wipes or spray
Clean wounds before dressing. Alcohol-based or chlorhexidine.
Sunscreen SPF 30+
UV exposure is higher at altitude, near water, and in tropical destinations.
Insect repellent (DEET 20–50%)
Prevents mosquito-borne diseases. Apply to exposed skin, not under clothing.
Personal medications
Bring enough for the trip + 1 week extra. Keep in original packaging with prescription.
Thermometer
Digital, compact. A fever above 38.5°C after tropical travel is a medical emergency.
Tweezers
Remove splinters, ticks, or thorns.
Add-on modules
Add these based on your destination and activity:
Tropical destinations
- Antimalarial tablets (prescription — start before travel)
- Permethrin-treated mosquito net (for accommodation without AC/screens)
- Oral rehydration salts — extra sachets (diarrhea risk is higher)
- Water purification tablets (iodine or chlorine dioxide)
High altitude (>2,500 m)
- Acetazolamide (Diamox) — prescription, start 1 day before ascent
- Lip balm with SPF (UV + dry air)
- Extra sunscreen (UV index increases ~10% per 1,000 m)
- Ibuprofen (for altitude headaches)
Long flights (>6 hours)
- Compression socks (DVT prevention)
- Melatonin 0.5–3 mg (jet lag — take at destination bedtime)
- Nasal saline spray (cabin air is extremely dry)
- Earplugs + eye mask (sleep quality matters for immune function)
Traveling with children
- Pediatric paracetamol/ibuprofen (liquid or suppository, weight-dosed)
- Pediatric ORS sachets (smaller doses)
- Sting relief gel (for insect bites)
- Digital thermometer (ear type is fastest for kids)
Chronic conditions
- Double supply of prescription medications (split between carry-on and checked bag)
- Doctor's letter listing medications (in English + local language)
- Medical alert card/bracelet (for unconscious emergencies)
- Sharps container (if you carry injectables like insulin)
Packing tips
- Use a clear zip-lock bag for quick airport security checks.
- Keep medications in carry-on luggage — checked bags can be lost or temperature-damaged.
- Photograph your prescription labels and vaccination record.
- Check destination rules for controlled substances (some OTC meds are restricted abroad).
- Replace expired items before each trip — check dates, not assumptions.
What to leave behind
- Antibiotics "just in case" — improper use creates resistance. Get a prescription if needed.
- Expired medications — they may be less effective or harmful.
- Glass bottles — choose plastic or blister packs for weight and safety.
- Everything "you might need" — a bloated kit means you carry it all but use nothing.
Important note
This list covers OTC (over-the-counter) items. Prescription medications (antimalarials, altitude drugs, emergency antibiotics) require a clinician visit before travel. Always check your destination's import rules for medications.