A well-stocked medical kit will help you prevent travel-related illnesses, such as upset stomachs and desynchronosis -- the medical term for jetlag. You will also be able to deal with small health problems, such as cuts, grazes and cold symptoms. Although you can usually buy medical supplies when you arrive at your destination, you avoid the challenge of finding your favorite brand at the right dosage in an unfamiliar country with different medical procedures and even languages. You also avoid the issue of varying levels of pharmaceutical quality and the widespread use of counterfeit drugs.
If you are taking medication for an ongoing medical condition, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or depression, ensure you pack enough medication for the duration of the trip. Add some extra supplies, in case you have to extend your stay unexpectedly. Certain countries restrict the movement of certain types of medication, such as injectable medications, narcotics and hallucinogenic drugs. Carry a note from your doctor prescribing the controlled substances to avoid problems and delays at customs.
What you should include in your travel medical pack will vary depending on your destination. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and the State Department websites for information on the health and medical conditions of the country or area you are visiting. These websites also offer advice on what vaccinations you may need to take before your trip. For example, the Centers for Disease Control recommends travelers to Sudan take medicine before, during and after their visit to avoid contracting malaria; and to get vaccinations against typhoid, polio and hepatitis A.
Although the specific contents will depend on the particulars of your trip, consider including antihistamine, pain relievers, sleeping pills, laxatives, antacid, cough medicine, antibiotics for moderate to severe diarrhea and anti-motion sickness medicine. You should also have basic first aid items, such as bandages, gauze, a thermometer, sunscreen and tweezers. Remember to pack sharp objects that could be used as a weapon, such as scissors, in your checked luggage. Also consider limits on the volume of gel and liquid containers.
