The Travel Health Kit: don’t leave home without it.
Regardless of where you travel it’s a good idea to carry a travel health kit with supplies you may need to manage any preexisting medical conditions, prevent illness or injury, or treat any minor health problems that occur. With a little planning it is easy to put together a travel health kit.
If you have a preexisting medical condition carry enough medication for the duration of your trip, plus a little extra. Although it might seem like a good idea to combine medications into one small container, officials at ports of entry may require proper identification of medication, so keep all medications in their original container with clear labels. Certain medications, such as controlled substances, are not permitted in some countries. If you are unsure about medication restrictions in the country you are traveling to, contact the embassy of the country you are traveling to for clarification.
The following is a list of items you may want to consider for your travel health kit.
Prescription Medications and Supplies
Medications taken regularly at home
Antibiotic for treatment of moderate to severe diarrhea
Medication to prevent malaria, if needed
Medication to prevent altitude illness, if needed
An extra pair of prescription eyeglasses
EpiPen if you have a history of severe allergic reaction
Over the Counter Medications
Treatment for pain or fever (Tylenol or Ibuprofen)
Treatment for stomach upset or diarrhea (Imodium or Pepto-Bismol)
Packets of oral rehydration salts for dehydration
Mild Laxative
Antacid
Antihistamine/Decongestant
Cough Drops
Anti-motion sickness medication
Mild sedative or sleep aide
Saline eye drops
Saline nasal spray
Basic First Aid Items
Adhesive bandages
Gauze and adhesive tape
Antiseptic wound cleanser
Antibiotic ointment
Hydrocortisone cream
Anti-itch cream for bug bites
Aloe gel for sunburns
Moleskin to prevent foot blisters
Ace wrap for sprains or strains
Safety pins
Supplies to prevent illness or injury
Antibacterial hand wipes or hand sanitizer
Insect repellant
Bed net (if needed for protection from insects while sleeping)
Sunscreen
Latex condoms
Water purification tablets
Ear plugs
Documents
Proof of required vaccination on an International Certification of Vaccination card or medical waiver form
Copies of prescriptions for medications
Documentation of preexisting medical conditions such as diabetes or allergies
Contact information for health insurance and supplemental travel health or evacuation insurance
Contact information for family member remaining in the US
Contact information for your health care provider
Places of lodging
Hospitals or clinics in your destination
US embassy or consulate in the destination country
