When you pack for a trip, especially a trip overseas, it’s easy to forget about medications and first-aid. That’s why you should always bring a basic first-aid kit with you on your travels.
I always keep a pre-packed first-aid kit ready to go so I don’t have to think twice about it when I’m packing. Of course, you may need additional items depending on where you’re going and what activities you have planned. But this first-aid kit packing list covers the basics.
What Do I Need in My Travel First-Aid Kit?
Medication
These everyday medications will take care of most common aches and pains that come with a long day of travel.
- Antihistamine
- Antacid tablets
- Hydration pills or electrolyte replenishers
- Cold relief medicine
- Sleep aid
- Motion sickness relief
- Muscle relaxer
Emergency
For minor bumps and bruises, make sure you have these emergency first aid supplies in your medical kit.
- Gauze pads
- Various sized bandages
- Alcohol swabs or antiseptic wipes
- First aid balm or sting relief, anti-itch cream, & antibiotic cream
Other
From treating splinters to sunburns, these miscellaneous items are must-haves in your travel first aid kit.
First-Aid Kit Tips
- Look in the school supply section of your local drugstore for a small container, or order a small tackle box from Amazon.
- Only separate medication from its labeled bottle if you know you’ll be able to differentiate pills.
- Keep prescription medications separate from your first-aid kit.
- Include over-the-counter (OTC) medication based on your needs; i.e., if you’re traveling on a cruise and need motion sickness pills, make sure to include those.
- Pack a natural balm like GREEN GOO First Aid, which can relieve symptoms for dry skin, insect bites, scrapes, rashes, chafing, cuts, sunburns, blisters, and poison ivy.
- Include various-sized bandages; they double for blister protection if you plan on doing a lot of walking.
- Hand sanitizer, a small tissue pack, lip balm, and sunscreen are also must-haves.
- Be sure to fill out the Medical ID on your iPhone and list any allergies, emergency contacts, and your doctor’s information.
- Keep a laminated copy of your COVID-19 vaccination card accessible during your travels as well as a photo of your card available on your phone.
- Remember to pack extra face masks if you plan on visiting a destination or attending an event where masking is required
Download and print this checklist to make your own travel first-aid kit.
Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.
All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.
You Might Also Like:
• Gifts For Haters: What to Buy for the Person Who’s Impossible to Shop For• 9 Times You’ll Regret Being Cheap When You Travel
• The Best Travel Products from Oprah’s Favorite Things
• Unique Gift Ideas for Every Type of Traveler on Your List
• The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with a CPAP Machine
We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
Related
Top Fares From
Today's Top Travel Deals
Brought to you by ShermansTravel
Black Friday Sale: 6-Night India Tour,...
Exoticca
vacation $1599+Amsterdam to Copenhagen: Luxe, 18-Night Northern...
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
cruise $12399+Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati
85OFF.com
Car Rental $19+