When you’re packing for a trip, choosing what medications to bring with you probably isn’t up there with the tasks you’re the most excited about.
But having the right “just in case” medications with you can save you from unexpected issues and from having to find a pharmacy once you’re at your destination. Here are the must-haves to bring along.
- Pain Relievers
A small bottle of over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin should be a staple in your suitcase. You can use these if you find yourself dealing with a headache, muscle aches after long travel days, or any other general discomfort.
- Antacids or Digestive Aids
Travel can mess with your stomach, especially if you’re trying new foods. If your digestion can be shaky even at the best of times, make sure to bring antacids or meds for indigestion to offer a quick fix on your trip. And if you’re prone to heartburn, bring along a heartburn-relief medication, like famotidine or omeprazole.
- Anti-Diarrheal Tablets
Sticking on the subject of digestion, an upset stomach can ruin your plans, and trying new foods abroad can have some, let’s say, unpleasant digestive effects. So, even if you’ve never had to use it before, pack a medication like loperamide. It’s a safety net, especially if you’re traveling to a place where the food or water might not agree with you.
- Allergy Medication
Even if you don’t have allergies at home, new environments can bring about unexpected symptoms that you’ve never experienced before. That’s why it’s a good idea to bring antihistamines like loratadine or cetirizine in your suitcase to new destinations. These work well for sneezing, itchy eyes, or mild skin reactions.
- Travel Sickness Remedies
If you get queasy on planes, boats, or long drives, packing a travel sickness remedy is absolutely essential. Ginger chews or wristbands can also work well if you prefer a natural remedy.
- Cold and Flu Relief
There’s nothing more frustrating—or frustratingly common—about catching a cold on the plane and ending up sick at your destination. To prepare for the worst, pack a small supply of decongestants or combination meds for cold and flu symptoms.
- Rehydration Salts or Electrolyte Packets
Dehydration can hit you fast in hot climates, especially if you’ve experienced the digestive effects of certain foods or cooking practices. Rehydration salts are a good partner to anti-diarrheal tablets, helping restore your energy and balance your electrolytes.
- Supplements and Vitamins
Finally, if you take daily supplements, you might want to bring enough for your trip. This saves you from having to search for equivalents abroad and means you can stick to products you trust. This is only optional, though—you might choose to leave your supplements at home if you’re only traveling for a week or so.
Takeaway
A lot of these medications are significantly cheaper to buy from your local or online pharmacy, like www.hightownpharmacy.co.uk, at home, so it’s worth stocking up in advance, so you have everything you need while you’re abroad.
Keep all your meds in a zippered pouch or organizer to save space and make them easy to find. If you’re flying, carry them in your carry-on, so you’ve got them on hand if your checked bag gets delayed.
