# Minimal travel health kit: the list that covers 90% of trips

> This website provides general health information for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before making medical decisions.

Source: https://medova.health/en/blog/travel-kit · Published: 2026-02-27 · Updated: 2026-04-11

Evidence basis: source_required, otc_only, country_specific

Travel Kit, Checklist, Packing

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

**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)

**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)

**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

**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

**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.

> **💡 Tip: 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.