Consultation with a pharmacist at Accès pharma chez Walmart
Your pharmacist can help you choose the right medications based on your destination and specific needs, and can even prescribe certain ones if necessary. A visit to the travel health clinic allows you to receive personalized advice and ensure that your travel health kit contains all the essentials: medications, first aid supplies and other necessary items. This is ideal for travelling with peace of mind, especially if medical care is likely to be limited at your destination. Your pharmacist can also provide information on recommended vaccines and precautions to take before you depart.
Things to keep in mind for your travel health kit
Which medications should you take when travelling?
Prescription medications
When travelling, it’s crucial to properly prepare your prescription medications to avoid any unexpected issues. Make sure you pack your medications in their original containers, as this can help verify their legitimacy during customs inspections. Before you leave, research the regulations concerning the transport of medications in your destination country, as some places may have restrictions. It’s also advisable to bring enough medication to last throughout your trip, along with a surplus in case your journey is extended. If you have any concerns, consult your pharmacist for advice tailored to your personal circumstances and destination.
Medications for minor everyday ailments
Ibuprofen (e.g., Advil®)
This medication is ideal for relieving minor aches such as headaches, muscle soreness or inflammation. It’s a valuable ally when travelling!
Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol®)
Whether you’re dealing with heat exhaustion or a headache after a long day of walking, acetaminophen offers rapid relief.
Medications for digestive issues
Loperamide (e.g., Imodium®)
In the event of diarrhea, this medication will be incredibly helpful.
Bismuth subsalicylate (e.g., Pepto Bismol®)
Another ally for your digestive system! This medication not only relieves diarrhea but also helps soothe stomach aches, nausea and indigestion.
Antacids (e.g., Tums®)
These tablets are very useful for alleviating heartburn or indigestion after a large meal.
Motion sickness medications
[H4] Dimenhydrinate (e.g., Gravol®)
This medication helps prevent and treat motion sickness by reducing feelings of nausea. For equally effective relief without drowsiness, ginger Gravol® is an excellent option.
Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl®)
While these medications are commonly used for allergies, they can also have a sedative effect, helping to reduce motion sickness in some individuals.
Allergy medications
Antihistamines (e.g., Claritin®)
Essential if you’re prone to seasonal allergies or insect bites, these medications help to alleviate symptoms such as sneezing or itching.
EpiPen® adrenaline auto-injector
It’s important to always have an EpiPen® on hand in case of severe allergies, especially when travelling to remote areas where medical care might be difficult to access. Before departure, check the expiration date to ensure it is still valid and ready for use. If you have any doubts about its use or encounter emergency situations, it is advisable to consult your pharmacist.
Cream for relieving insect bites (e.g., Benadryl®)
During travel, insect bites can be irritating. Having a soothing cream or gel on hand is always beneficial for calming itchiness.
Other types of medications not to forget in your travel kit
Oral rehydration salts
Oral rehydration salts are useful, especially if you’re travelling to areas where the water isn’t safe to drink or if you plan to engage in intense physical activities in hot weather.
First aid supplies
When preparing your travel kit, it is advisable to include essential items to ensure your health and safety throughout your journey. A well-equipped kit can make all the difference in case of minor injuries. Below is an essential list to consider for your travel health kit.
Bandages
Ideal for protecting cuts or scrapes, bandages prevent wounds from becoming infected and promote healing.
Topical antibiotic ointment (e.g., Polysporin®)
A must-have in your travel kit. In case of cuts, scrapes or other skin injuries, this cream helps to prevent infections thanks to its antibacterial properties.
Antiseptic wipes
They allow you to disinfect hands or surfaces, reducing the risk of infections during your travels.
Gauze pads
Used to cover open wounds or to control bleeding.
Scissors
A tool for cutting bandages, clothing or managing other medical needs.
Medical tape
This adhesive tape is perfect for keeping bandages in place.
Disposable gloves
They help protect your health and the health of others when handling wounds or administering first aid.
Alcohol-based sanitizer
Essential for sterilizing hands before treating a wound, sanitizer helps to prevent infections.
Adhesive bandages (e.g., BAND-AID®)
Easy to apply, adhesive bandages are perfect for protecting minor cuts or blisters while allowing the skin to breathe.
Other items to include in your travel kit
[H4] Sunscreen
Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect you from UV rays and prevent sunburn. Remember to reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating, to ensure optimal effectiveness.
After-sun lotion
Applied after sun exposure, it soothes irritation and hydrates the skin, promoting better recovery.
Lip balm with sun protection
Useful for protecting and hydrating your lips from the harmful effects of the sun, this lip balm with sun protection also reduces the risk of irritation and cold sores from prolonged exposure.
Insect repellent
A practical product for repelling biting insects, it helps to reduce the risk of itching and mosquito-borne diseases, especially when staying in high-risk areas. You can also add a mosquito net to your luggage, which reduces the risk of contracting malaria in at-risk areas, a potentially serious disease transmitted by mosquitoes.
Antibacterial gel
Useful for keeping your hands clean when water and soap are not available, antibacterial gel helps to reduce the risk of infections.
Condoms
An important choice for protected sexuality, condoms help to prevent sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies.
Tampons, sanitary pads or a menstrual cup
Essential for menstrual periods, these products ensure comfort and protection while travelling.
Thermometer
It allows for the quick detection of fever, which is particularly useful during travel.
Travel documents
Vaccination record
Essential for proving that you are up to date in your vaccines, this record is important when travelling to countries with specific health requirements.
Blood type card
Having this information readily available is crucial in the event of a medical emergency where a blood transfusion might be necessary.
Pharmacy contact details
Noting your pharmacy’s address and phone number can facilitate the renewal of prescriptions or help to locate necessary medications during your trip.
Copy of your prescriptions
Having a copy of your medical prescriptions can prove the legitimacy of your medications in case of customs checks.
Name and dosage of your prescription medications
Include details about your medications to avoid any confusion or issues with local law enforcement agencies.
List indicating drug allergies and intolerances
This list can be vital, especially when travelling, to prevent prescriptions that could cause adverse reactions.
Emergency contact numbers
Having these contacts easily accessible allows for quick communication with your family or employer in case of an emergency.
With this list in hand, you’ll be ready to enjoy your trip hassle-free! Remember to tailor your kit to your personal needs and destination.
Preparing your travel health kit doesn’t have to be a source of stress. Take the time to think about what you’ll need and don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist for help. Safe travels!
The information provided does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional and does not constitute professional liability for affiliated pharmacists at Accès pharma. At the time of publication, the information presented was accurate but remains subject to change.
