Your First Aid Travel Kit: Packing for Your Health
Updated: May 26
Experience is a great teacher, and sometimes the lessons are hard ones. Some of my lessons have taught me what to include in a “first aid travel kit” that always comes with me on trips. I'm sharing some essentials for a travel first aid kit that you'll want to toss into your carry-on or check-in luggage. Your kit may vary according to your body’s needs and any medical conditions you have.
Here’s a list of over-the-counter medications you may want to include:
Alcohol wipes – In addition to having some in your kit, it’s a good idea to have in your bag for when you’re out and about.
Antibacterial ointment – Don’t let a minor cut become a major problem. Neosporin is a great option.
Anti-diarrhea medication – Imodium or Pepto-Bismol can come in handy if you get a stomach bug or eat something that disagrees with your belly.
Antihistamine – Very helpful in case of a mild allergic reaction.
Anti-itch or hydrocortisone cream – Great to have on hand to stop the itch of a bug bite or a rash. I bring a small tube of Gold Bond.
Anti-motion sickness medication – Good to have on hand if you have motion sickness issues.
Band-Aids – Blisters on my heels from sneakers that apparently weren’t broken in well enough became my lesson in making sure these were always in my kit.
Decongestant – They are a huge help with my ears when flying.
Mild laxative – Changes in routine, foods, and alcohol intake can affect another one of your bodies “routines. ”
Pain/fever medicine – From a headache to a mild sprain, this is on my “don’t leave home without it” list- Tylenol or Motrin
Whether you consider them as part of your “travel health kit” or on another packing list, be sure to include these “preventative care” items- sunscreen, insect repellent and hand sanitizer.
I prefer to put my "travel budget" toward experiences that build memories instead of packing so many of the above items are purchased at Dollar Tree. I've even written an article with 49 packing items that can be picked up for only $1.25 at Dollar Tree.
Other items I have I like to have with me or tweezers, a safety pin and a pack of matches. These items can come in handy for all sorts of things such as removing a tick, popping a blister or getting a splinter out.
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Happy traveling!
-Connie