Getting sick while you’re travelling is honestly no fun at all. It’s even worse when you’re in a foreign country where you don’t speak the language, and the last thing you want to do is hunt for a pharmacy when you’re already feeling terrible.
Most frequent travelers pack a curated kit of their regular over-the-counter medications so they’re prepared for anything. You really want to have your own familiar remedies on hand so you know exactly what you’re taking and how it works for your body, without having to guess at foreign labels.
Why You Need to Pack Your Own Meds
You might think you can just run to a pharmacy when you land, but language barriers and different brand names can make that a challenge.
In many countries, the “over-the-counter” medications you trust at home require a prescription, or they might not be available at all.
By packing your own travel pharmacy, you ensure that you have exactly what works for your body the moment you start feeling symptoms.
Whether you’re dealing with a long-haul flight headache or a reaction to local food, having your trusted meds ready means you can get back to enjoying your vacation faster.
A pharmacy kit is handy for minor issues, but when traveling out of the country, it’s worth having one of the Best Credit Cards in Canada for Travel Insurance. Many premium cards protect you for bigger emergencies even when booking with points, or just for being a cardholder.
AWP TIP
I never leave the house, even at home, without my favorite Compact Travel Pill Organizer.
I actually have one for myself, one for each of my teen kids, and one for my mom. It’s such a simple way to keep everyone’s vitamins and “just in case” meds in one secure, moisture-proof spot that fits right in your carry-on.
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What You Should Have in Your Kit
Through years of travel, we’ve learned which meds are actually worth bringing. Instead of hunting for a pharmacy with a sick kid, we pack everything in travel sizes.
This way, we can keep them in our carry-on instead of risking them in a checked bag. We always make sure our kit has these essentials
Getting your meds organized is a great first step. For more gear that makes family trips easier, check out my essential travel resources.
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Get more tips & ideas for travelling with points.
Join the AWP community to get guidance, updates, and practical tips on using points for travel.
Bottom Line
Packing a small travel pharmacy is such an easy way to protect your trip. It only takes you a few minutes to put together, but you’ll be so glad you have it if you or your kids start feeling unwell.
Just make sure you keep it in your carry-on so it’s always with you when you need it most.
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From points newbie to booking your first trip
Learn everything you need to know to start using credit cards, points, and travel loyalty programs. Make your first redemption with points for nearly free travel.
New to Points? Start Here
From points newbie to booking your first trip
Learn everything you need to know to start using credit cards, points, and travel loyalty programs. Make your first redemption with points for nearly free travel.
Disclaimers
* Medical: I am not a doctor; this post is for informational purposes only. Always consult a professional before taking new medications.
* Affiliate: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
