travel drug kit

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Our doctors prescribe you life-saving medications before you need them. We ship them to you before your next adventure. Treat urgent medical issues anywhere — without finding a doctor or pharmacy.

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Trusted medications to treat the most common issues

Duration Health medical kits include prescription-only medications — like antibiotics and EpiPen — that treat urgent problems for adults and kids. We offer 20 kits built from over 70 medications, sourced from the same U.S. suppliers as your local pharmacy and prescribed to you in advance. You'll have instant access to trusted treatment — without the stress of searching for a nearby clinic when you're sick.

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Our world-class physicians customize your kit to your exact needs. Every kit includes a one-on-one video consultation with our doctors, board-certified in emergency medicine, wilderness medicine, travel medicine, and pediatrics. And, enjoy ongoing access to our doctors for a year, so you'll always have expert help available.

"The price of the kit includes an online doctor visit for prescriptions and advice" — Forbes

Easy refills & shelf life

Our easy annual renewal process ensures the medications in your kit are always current. Use your account dashboard at any time to replace medications you've used and to update your entire kit once each year.

We provide a one-year expiration date for all items, the maximum allowed by regulation for prescription vials, with some items like creams and inhalers valid for up to two years. We'll keep your kit current — so you never have to take chances with expired medications.

TSA & Customs ready

Each medication is individually labeled with its prescription to meet international travel requirements.

Family friendly

Medications are available to treat adults and children. From amoxicillin to EpiPen, we cover kids as young as 6 months.

HSA/FSA accepted

We accept cards linked to a medical spending account such as a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

Refund guarantee

Your payment is fully refundable at any time until your Med Kit ships, even after the physician review. Walk away any time before shipment and pay nothing.

Individually prescribed

Each medication is prescribed for use by one individual, based on his or her medical profile.

Emergency meds only

We focus exclusively on medications that could save your life. No medications for chronic conditions or basic first aid supplies.

Printed field guide

Every kit includes a 122-page printed field guide, so you'll know how to use the medications even if you're isolated.

Born in the USA

Every kit is hand-packed in the U.S. by a licensed pharmacist.

Kare in Florida

"WOW ... this process was super easy to take care of ... fill out the forms, have your zoom call with the doc and go over what types of meds you might need in an emergency! Super Simple People ... Get one today!"

Jason in Oregon

"Super easy process to have piece of mind while we travel the world with our family... Definitely recommend it to anyone traveling away from home for any extended amount of time."

Jeff in Hawaii

"Everything I need and room for more for short notice trips around the Pacific. It’s like an insurance policy in a bottle!"

Angela in Florida

"Peace of mind no matter where I roam, that's what this is. I added what I needed and customized my kit. The case had room to add other medical supplies, so I am ready for my kayak expedition."

Elizabeth in Illinois

"I appreciate the freedom this allows to "go where there is no doctor." It means that not speaking the language or not having a cell phone connection are no longer a hard block!"

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The off-grid medical kit with antibiotics, EpiPen and emergency Rx. Talk with our doctors online, and get basic prescription medications now — before you need them in an emergency. Only your Duration Health provider can decide, based on your medical history and other factors, whether it is medically appropriate for you to receive prescriptions. We do not sell prefabricated bags of pharmaceuticals. Each Duration Health Med Kit that contains prescription medications is custom assembled, tailored to each individual patient's needs.

Duration Health is not a pharmacy, is not a nonprescription retailer, and does not sell medications directly. To be able to deliver a customized kit of medications, Duration Health has partnered with a third-party mail order pharmacy. You may request that any prescriptions be sent to an alternate pharmacy. Duration Health charges an administrative convenience fee for its services, but Duration Health does not sell prescription or over-the-counter ("OTC") drugs, mark-up the cost of prescription or OTC drugs, or retain any portion of the fees our affiliated pharmacy charges to you. Nor does Duration Health provide medical advice about or prescribe OTC medications. In states where Duration Health’s physician consultation services are not offered, Duration Health only offers OTC products and does not provide clients with access to obtain a physician consultation. Clients are free to purchase OTC medications of their choice as an OTC-only kit.

You must complete the included online telehealth visit, including a complete medical history and ID verification, before any prescriptions are issued. You may not be eligible to receive items pictured or described on this site. Furthermore, renewal of your prescriptions is contingent upon continued medical appropriateness. Generics only. Brand names are listed on our site for your reference, but in most cases, only generic (non-brand) medications are included in our Med Kits. No controlled substances. Our formulary excludes controlled substances like opioids, benzodiazepines, and other potentially addictive medications. Treatment not guaranteed. No medication is guaranteed to work or guaranteed to treat a particular condition or disease. Use medications only as directed by a physician. Medication uses listed on this site are for educational purposes only and are not intended to represent indications for treatment. Email support only. Our providers are available via email to answer questions about your Med Kit. For non-emergency use only. In an emergency, call 911 or seek local emergency care. No routine care. Duration Health email support cannot be used for routine primary care. Medications prescribed by Duration Health cannot be used for routine purposes. This product is intended only for people who are unable to obtain regular medical care. You must anticipate living, working or traveling where care is unavailable. As a condition of purchase, you must consent to use of these medications only when regular access to medical care is unavailable. Your eligibility for Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) payment and reimbursement is not guaranteed; consult with your health plan, a qualified accountant, or a tax professional to determine your eligibility for reimbursement. Duration Health does not provide or claim to provide any medication or other item to prevent, treat or cure COVID-19.

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The 10 Best Travel Pill Cases of 2024

These are the best pill cases ranging from a one day to one month supply.

In This Article

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• Our top picks
• Tips for Buying
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Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Nothing can throw you out of a routine quite like travel. Often that’s a good thing. Traveling allows for the spontaneity of exploration, and removing the push and pull of a daily grind can feel liberating.

But in some cases, losing the normalcy of your day-to-day life can disrupt important tasks like taking your vitamins and important medications. When you’re away from home, jet lagged, or off your normal schedule, forgetting to take an essential prescription, supplement, or vitamin can be a liability for your health.

A pill case is a must for anyone who needs to take any kind of medication while on the go, and ideal travel options are compact and secure so no tablets wriggle loose. We’ve selected the best ones to fit a range of capsule quantities and sizes, including a surprisingly stylish top pick with clever design features.

Best Overall

Port & polish am/pm pill organizer.

It can fit a week’s worth of medication with clear separation for morning and evening doses.

The mirror feature may feel unnecessary to some.

Too many pill cases we considered appeared the same: made from cheap-looking plastic in what was, essentially, the standard Monday to Sunday pill cases we remember watching our grandparents tote around (just in brighter colors.)

This Port & Polish case feels modern, and is an upgraded version of their tried-and-true weekly case with the addition of AM and PM slots for twice daily medications. It more closely resembles a cosmetics compact than a piece of medical equipment, and depending where you purchase it, comes in either blush, black, or mint green. The addition of a mirror means it doubles as a compact for on-the-go touch-ups. While that feature might not appeal to all, it’s an added perk that made it stand out from the rest.

The Details: 7.5 x 4.5 x 1 inches | BPA-free plastic | 7 compartments

Best Weekly

Auvon imedassist weekly pill organizer.

The clearly labeled and color-coded compartments fit all pill sizes, and the push-button spring design makes it easy to open and close. 

There are no separate compartments for morning and evening doses.

Unlike many other Monday through Sunday pill cases, this spring-assisted design can be open or closed with one hand so it’s easy to operate on the go. All lids are colorful and clearly marked, and the compartments are large enough to fit eight fish oil pills or 12 large vitamins, if needed. We also like how the compact plastic case is BPA-free and also includes a 12-month warranty.

The Details: 8.84 x 2.1 x 1.04 inches | BPA-free plastic | 7 compartments

Most Compact

Ppfish portable daily pill case.

This case is about the size of your thumb and comes in unique colors like rose gold and bright green.

Given its diminutive size, the container will only fit small pills like aspirin, ibuprofen, and small vitamins. 

Made from anodized aluminum, this case is our top option for those who travel with just a few small pills but don’t want to sacrifice style. 

With a diameter of just one inch, it's similar in size to a small lip balm. The case is waterproof with a rubber O-ring to protect its contents, and we like how it could be used for other small valuables such as rings, earrings, and earplugs. The color options are also more interesting than others we saw at this size and price, including matte black aluminum and (our favorite) rose gold.

The Details: 3.15 x 2.13 x 0.91 inches | Anodized aluminum | 1 compartment

HRX Pill Box Case

All seven compartments pop out in case you want to carry just the day’s doses (and then tuck away nicely inside a carrying case).

If you take medication more than twice a day, you’ll need a case with more compartments.

Sometimes, a one-a-day isn’t enough, and there are pills that must be taken in the morning, night, or both. This case makes it easy to stock up on twice-daily meds with compartments that are split into two separate spaces so there’s no forgetting a dose. 

The color-coded, translucent containers made from BPA-free plastic are clearly labeled for the time of day, and are small enough to individually fit in your pocket. Each canister pops into a case that holds all seven containers in place so there’s no worry about them falling out and rolling around inside a bag or suitcase. The organizer is under $10, making it one of the most budget-friendly options on this list.

The Details: 3.98 x 2.52 x 1.81 inches | Plastic | 14 compartments

Best Multi-pack

Qeedy 4-pack pill organizer.

This set comes with four waterproof cases and a package of labels so you can customize the organizer to each person’s individual needs.  

The compartments come in different sizes, so large pills might not fit in smaller spaces.

This set of four cases is great for a family who needs one case per person. Each organizer has eight compartments, and a set of blank labels are included so you can label the case, by pill type, dosage time, or day of the week. 

The cases are small enough — about the size of a credit card — to fit in a pocket, purse, or small bag, and made from BPA-free plastic with a silicone ring and a snap-shut lock for a secure seal. Unlike other cases, the compartments are different sizes, which can be a pro or a con depending on your family’s specific needs.

The Details: 7.17 x 4.76 x 2.95 inches | BPA-free plastic | 8 compartments each

Best Luxury

Ikigai weekly pill case.

Sleekly designed for minimalists, this case offers customized engravings, and is small enough to pack away anywhere you wish.

If you want to pack large vitamins, take twice daily doses, or are traveling for longer than a week, you’ll have to upgrade to a larger model.

Forget brightly-colored plastic or large carrying cases. This streamlined option made from anodized aluminum is a minimalist’s dream with clean-cut edges and hidden storage. 

But despite a demure design, the features are thoughtful. Made of a corrosion-resistant material, the case features a traction pad that makes it slide open with ease and comes in a slew of vivid colors and engraving options to imprint days of the week or your name across the front. And, with a lifetime warranty, consider this the last pill case you’ll ever buy.

The Details: 7.25 x 1.75 x 0.75 inches | Anodized aluminum | 7 compartments

Best Customizable

Cadence the originals set.

These aesthetically-pleasing containers are as functional as they are beautiful.

It costs extra to print words on the removable tiles if not included in the premade options.

This set of cases might be the most attractive, multi-use option we considered. Each capsule is magnetic and links up with others to form a unique honeycomb-like design. They’re leakproof, reusable, and impressively customizable with smaller and larger options as well as this original 1.32-ounce size.

In addition to the variety of calming colors they come in like eucalyptus, terracotta, and petal, each capsule features a removable top tile that can be customized to specify its contents. Choose premade icons that designate pills or day and night, or you can custom print the exact medication name or day of the week for an additional $2. These personalization options beat out anything else we saw and the multipurpose functionality — like transporting travel-size toiletries — adds loads of value.

The Details: BPA-free 20 percent recycled ocean-bound plastic and 30 percent excess manufacturing material | One compartment per Capsule

Most Stylish

Dosey am pm pill case.

The collection of zippered pouches are housed inside a chic carrier that’s more akin to a toiletry bag or cosmetics case.

Each pouch is zippered shut, so it might not be as secure against leaks as a standard case.

We love this choice for those who find a standard plastic case uninspiring. Instead, this case has zippered pouches that are housed inside a cosmetics train case-inspired carrier. It's also made from cruelty-free vegan leather with a velvet lining and wrist strap, and available in colors like sage, lilac, latte, and more. It comes with Monday through Sunday and AM and PM labels so there’s no confusion between pouches.

Use the 14 pouches for one week's worth of twice daily doses, two weeks for once daily regimens, or up to 30 pills to use as needed on your trip. 

The Details: 5 x 4 x 5 inches | Vegan leather | 14 EVA plastic pouches

Best for Long Trips

Auvon monthly pill organizer.

This color-coded organizer fits pills of all sizes for four weeks inside one larger carrying case so everything stays together. 

Since the case is intended to carry 28 doses of medication, it is bulky for a small bag.

For travels that extend beyond a week — lucky you! — a case that can hold doses for longer periods of time is a must. This organizer holds pills for four weeks, or 28 days, in clearly labeled and color-coded compartments that are roomy enough to fit large pills such as fish oil capsules. 

Each individual week can pop out on its own, so you can use those for shorter trips without bringing the entire kit, or you can use this option to bring pills for an entire family instead. We also like the accompanying case, which has a silicone seal to protect against moisture, and snaps closed to safely secure all medications.

The Details: 8.7 x 5.6 x 1.4 inches | BPA-free plastic | 28 compartments

Best for Backups

Restree weekly pill organizer 4 times per day.

This case is ideal for anyone who takes pills up to four times a day, or wants the security of traveling with extra spots for backup pills. 

It’s larger than other seven-day organizers. 

If you take pills more than twice a day, you’ll need a case with space beyond the daily, AM, or PM compartments. This weekly organizer holds medications of all sizes for up to four daily doses, and each individual day-of-the-week case can pop in and out. 

But the real standout feature to us was the additional box labeled for backup pills. Use it for a fourth dose or pack with extra pills, since, despite our best intentions, it’s still possible to lose medications. Bringing a surplus of each kind is the safest way to avoid a snafu while away from home.

The Details: 9.4 x 5.9 x 1.4 inches | BPA-free plastic | 28 compartments

Tips for Buying Pill Cases for Travel

Determine how many pills you need to travel with before selecting a case.

Your personal medical regimen should be the main deciding factor when selecting a pill case. Consider factors like trip duration, the number of daily medications needed, dosing times, and pill sizes before selecting a case.

For example, if you take pills twice daily, we wouldn’t suggest a seven-compartment option with no separation for AM and PM, no matter how much you like the style. Likewise, think about how long you’ll be traveling and make sure your case’s compartments match up to fit enough pills for the number of days you’ll be away.

Consider how much space your pills need

Pill cases are not one size fits all. An organizer might have every feature you want, but if you take large vitamins or fish oil capsules that won’t fit inside, the case will quickly become obsolete. Make sure to look for a case with slots that will either fit your specific pills, or can adjust, should your medications change in the future.

Look for cases that are accessible

If you experience swollen fingers, tremors, or have arthritis, be sure to select a pill case with accessible features. For example, a push-button, spring-assisted design will be easier to open and close with the touch of a finger than a snap-shut lid.

Anyone can use a pill organizer, and many are multipurpose enough to hold other items. However, anyone who needs to take a pill on a scheduled basis would benefit greatly from using a pill case, especially while traveling. A pill organizer keeps medications of any kind organized so you never accidentally skip it, or alternatively, take too much.

Different countries have different regulations regarding medication. If you plan to travel internationally and will be carrying prescription medication in a pill case instead of the container it came in from the pharmacy, it's a good idea to bring a copy of the prescription from your healthcare provider to avoid possible confusion with customs or local authorities. And no matter how you travel with medication, be sure to research the rules for medications where you're visiting to confirm if they may legally enter the country.

Just because a case is designed or marketed to hold medication doesn’t mean you can’t use it for other items. Many cases are multipurpose and can hold items such as jewelry, earplugs, or small valuables. Depending on the case you purchase, you might use it to store lotion, shampoo, conditioner, serums, cleanser, or other liquid beauty or toiletry products, too. Just make sure the case is airtight and leak proof in those instances.

TSA regulations allow passengers to bring medications kept within a pill case onboard in a carry-on. It is not required to keep medication in its original labeled packaging when traveling within the United States. You can also pack pill cases in your checked baggage, though we’d advise against that in the event of baggage delays. If you’re bringing liquid medications in quantities larger than TSA's allotted 3.4 ounces, be sure to alert the TSA security officer when you start the screening process. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure contributor Emily Hochberg is a veteran travel and lifestyle writer and editor who vacations frequently with her family and researched dozens of pill cases to find the best options for traveling with supplements, vitamins, and medications.

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DIY: A Travel Medicine Kit Checklist That Fits in Your Carry On

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A travel medicine kit is an essential part of packing.   Getting sick on vacation is miserable , but sooner or later, it happens to everyone.  I seem to get hit with a bad cold every year while traveling (those darn airplane germs!) and my husband is so sensitive to stomach issues we call him “the canary in the coal mine”. 

The good news is that it’s remarkably easy to find just about any medication anywhere in the world — but it often takes a big chunk of time, especially if you’re staying in small towns or rural areas where you have to drive a long distance to the nearest pharmacy.  And take my word that you don’t want to get food poisoning at 1am and have to wait until morning for a store to open to get supplies.

The faster you can solve your problem, the better.  But unlike Mary Poppins, I can’t carry everything all the time — there has to be a balance between having enough to be useful without weighing you down.

After tons of travel, I’ve created a comprehensive, mini first aid kit.  This DIY first aid kit is quick and cheap to make plus has all the essentials.  When you’re not traveling, throw it in your day bag for local adventures or keep it in your car so it’s always handy.

Travel Medicine Kit Basics

Although you can buy a pre-packaged travel emergency kit, I recommend tailoring it to your specific needs.  That way you’re 100% familiar with what’s in it ahead of time and have products you trust.

Generally speaking, there are three sets of items that should be on your travel first aid kit list:

• Medications You Definitely Need (prescriptions you use at home on a regular basis + special medications for your destination, such as something to help with altitude sickness)
• First Aid Items You Commonly Use  (in my case, that’s band-aids for a myriad of adventure activities + ibuprofen as the “all-purpose drug” for fevers, muscle soreness, and headaches)
• Items You Can’t Get Easily at Your Destination  (I include items I’ll want immediately in this category; i.e. anti-diarrheals, so you can solve the problem at 3am instead of running to a store)

Your first aid packing list might change a little for every trip.  You can take just the necessities for a weekend in New York City but will need a more comprehensive first aid kit for remote destinations.  

Organizing Non-Prescription Medications

No one wants to pack a dozen pill bottles in their carry-on!  Besides, it’s highly unlikely you’ll need all 200 aspirin!  Better to condense a 2-3 day supply into a more compact case.  That’s likely all you’ll need — if that! — but in any case, it’s at least enough to buy you time into you can restock during your trip.

That’s why I use a standard 7-day pill case to organize my over-the-counter medication.  Instead of using each compartment for one day’s worth of pills, I use each space for a single type of medicine.  So, for example, Monday will hold ibuprofen and Tuesday will hold allergy meds.

Just be sure to label, either by writing with a Sharpie marker right on the case or taping a legend to the back.

I’m sure you can find these pill organizers at your local pharmacy, or you can order a basic pill case on Amazon .

These are the 7 medications I divide in my organizer, although you can tweak it for your own travels:

• Ibuprofen (I prefer it for pain relief but you could easily substitute Tylenol or aspirin)
• Decongestants (after ibuprofen, this is the most reached-for drug I pack; airplanes are a hotbed for germs!)
• Antihistamines
• Anti-diarrheal
• Antacids or indigestion meds
• Motion sickness meds
• For me, it’s lactaid, but this is also a great spot for vitamins or probiotics

Pick the Perfect Bag

My first aid kit is about the size of a paperback book, giving me enough space to work with without weighing me down.  I keep it stocked with essentials so I can “grab and go” for most trips without having to worry about a last-minute supply run.

First Aid Kit Supplies:

• My over-the-counter pill box
• Bandages (I prefer ones with built-in antibiotic cream for convenience)
• Antiseptic wipes for minor cuts
• Throat lozenges
• All-purpose first aid balm (hint: Green Goo works great for bites and stings, is all-natural, and the TSA considers it a solid for packing purposes)
• Moleskins for blisters
• Oral rehydration salts – for cases of food poisoning, over-exhertion, or one too many late nights
• Ginger chews (for nausea)

For those of you thinking this is overkill, yes, you can buy premade kits.  Here’s the problem: the cheap ones are worthless: you’ll get bandages that don’t stick and so few pills that you’ll be replenishing them after one trip anyway.  And you’ll likely get a few medications you’ve never tried before, which would make me  really  nervous if I was far from a hospital.

The best travel first aid kit is made by Adventure Medical.   It’s crazy comprehensive and probably bulkier than need be, but I trust all the medical supplies in it.  (Making your own will be cheaper, but obviously not as easy).

Don’t Overstuff Your First Aid Kit Contents

I don’t bother packing items that I don’t use at home, but if these are more common in your household medicine cabinet, you might want to bring them with you while traveling:

• Medical equipment you may need (i.e. syringes, inhalers, epi-pens)
• Aloe wipes or other sun relief items (I may not bring aloe, but I do pack sunscreen!)
• Multi-vitamins and other nutritional supplements
• Antifungal gels or creams
• Separate antibacterial ointment
• Disposable gloves
• Elastic bandage wrap
• Thermometer
• Medical Tape

Remember you don’t need a lifetime supply of everything, so count out what you’ll most likely need and leave the rest at home.  I find small GoTubbs  to be a good size for packing specialty items.

Be Smart About Your Travel Health Your first aid packing list is just one piece of the travel health puzzle. Particularly when traveling abroad, you should start by researching if there are any diseases that are common in that area.  The CDC has an official  traveler health resource to get you started on things like zika virus, malaria zones, etc. (although I find the UK version  easier to navigate). For many destinations, especially in tropical countries and/or developing nations, you may also need to ask your doctor about travel vaccines.  Read my complete guide to budgeting for travel immunizations . Lastly, it’s always a smart idea to purchase travel insurance which will help cover health care costs if you seek medical treatment abroad or if you need emergency help.  I always purchase through RoamRight , but no matter who you choose, you should educate yourself about policy options .

The Most Important Tips for Your Travel Medical Kit

If you’ve got safe drinking water and health insurance and wash your hands often, that’ll get you most of the way there.

My last piece of advice when it comes to a travel first aid kit is to make sure it’s accessible!  If you get a headache onboard an overnight flight but your first aid kit is in your checked suitcase, it does you no good.

Make sure what you need is easy to get to when you need it.  That’s a mistake I’ll only make once!

*     *     *

DIY Travel First Aid Kit List

A first aid kit prepares you for illness, common injuries, and minor accidents. Homemade first aid kits can pack small to fit in suitcases, purses, or cars.

Instructions

Divide over-the-counter medications into small dosages to save on space.

I recommend restocking when you get home from a trip so you're ready to "grab and go" when you pack for the next one!

Recommended Products

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What’s in your travel medicine kit?

Is there something different in your carry-on first aid kit? Do you have other travel tips?

22 thoughts on “DIY: A Travel Medicine Kit Checklist That Fits in Your Carry On”

On every leg of air travel I wear a new paper mask covering nose and mouth. I put it on as soon as the plane doors close, removing it just long enough to eat and drink. Two reasons: 1- So I don’t catch the cold other travelers have; 2- Because the air is so dry on planes, I appreciate being my own humidifier.

Sounds like the perfect size kit. I travel with very little because I tend to purchase meds if I need them at my destination, but anti-diarrhea meds and nausea medications are two that I ALWAYS have with me. Since I lead tours, I can’t be feeling too ill to go out with the group! Those two things usually get me through the day, no matter how sick I am and then I can spend the night in the bathroom if need be, lol.

Before traveling, we prepare our bag with some essential things which we think can be used in journey and first aid bag with proper medication tools is one of those essential things, Make a list of all tools and check before leaving whether all tools present on the list are in the first aid bag or not, I think all tools mentioned in the above post cover everything, but I like the idea of bringing new paper mask, thanks céline bouchard for mentioning this idea in your comment.

Hi can I buy your bag?

@Sabina, What bag do you want to buy? You can make your own easily!

I also bring small scissors to cut the moleskin. One thing about first aid packing that is such a pain is the common recommendation to bring all prescription medications in their original containers, particularly for international travel. On the one hand, that is the safest in case you were to be detained or questioned, but on the other, it adds a lot of bulk to packing that otherwise could be reduced in size. What are your thoughts on that?

@LeRainDrop, Almost everyone I know packs their prescription meds in a pill box rather than original containers. I’d bring a paper detailing meds/dosages + physician’s name and phone number, just in case. (I’d be MORE conservative if you have highly controlled substances, like pain meds)

Thank you so much! I have a handful of prescriptions but no controlled substances, and I got the comprehensive letter from my doctor detailing all my medicines. I wish I found your site earlier, as I’m packing right now for an extended trip to Guatemala in two days, and your site provides a great wealth of info!

Thsis is great info. I’m packing for a trip right now, and will be including these items in my bag for sure.

This is a great list! I never leave home without a fully stocked first aid kit. You never know when the kids are going to hurt themselves.

@Audrey, Or the adults 😉

My wife is responsible for the kit in our family. I’m glad she is, I would have forgotten half of these things!

@Scott, I’d forget too without a list…

Great idea. I never seem to have the right things when I pack. Now I can just use your list and be prepared when we travel. .

Hi Becky, It was great to meet you at WITS17 this year. I always make sure that we have a first aid kit in our car, since we have four children and an accident prone dad of the house!

@Natasha, Pleasure to meet you also…great conference! Funny how sometimes it’s the parents who are more accident prone than the kids.

This is not exactly gear but: Don’t forget to call your wireless carrier to find out what options it offers for traveling wherever you are going. Accidental roaming can be very expensive, and most carriers offer options that are much more economical.

@Paula, Totally true! It’s best to have a set plan that works in your budget or buy a local sim card on arrival.

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I totally agree with you in that the things you need to pack in your first aid kit will depend on the place where you are going. It is important to understand what type of dangers you might be exposed to in order to have the best supplies on hand to avoid any serious accidents. We are planning on taking a camping trip in a few days and wanted to make sure we had the best first aid kit for the job, so I’m glad I found your page.

@Marcus, Hope your adventure was a success!

Excellent and honest post. I found this much useful information, as to what I was exactly searching for packing tips. Thanks for such post and please keep it up.

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How to Travel With Medications

Stay Healthy and Save Money

If you plan to travel to a foreign country, it is important that you provide for your medication needs before leaving. An illness in the middle of your trip can ruin your vacation and cost you money to get needed medications.

Depending on the circumstances, buying medications in foreign countries can be expensive. Moreover, in some countries, you may be at risk of getting a counterfeit drug.

By thinking ahead and packing smart, you can stay healthy and enjoy your time. This article will help you understand what you need to know about traveling with over-the-counter and prescription medications.

Organize a Health Kit

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travelers assemble a health kit containing current prescription medications and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that can be used to treat minor problems. What you include in your travel health kit depends upon your destination and length of travel.

You also should anticipate some disruption in travel plans and take extra medication so you do not run out. For example, you do not want to be stuck in an airport for an extra day without your diabetes medication or pain medication used to treat arthritis.

Which OTC Medications Should I Pack?

Since it is not practical to pack your entire medicine cabinet, your travel destination and your itinerary may help you decide which over-the-counter medications to buy for your kit.

For example, you are less likely to have diarrhea from drinking water in Canada than in Mexico. And, if you are planning a walking trip in London, you are less likely to need an anti-motion sickness medication.

The following are some basic medications to consider:

• Anti-diarrhea medication: Foodborne illness is very common and may cause diarrhea in up to 30% of travelers. This is especially common in parts of Central and South America, Africa, and Asia. Pack Imodium (loperamide) or Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate).
• Antihistamine: To treat an allergic reaction, pack an antihistamine that will not make you drowsy, such as Claritin (loratadine).
• Anti-motion sickness medication: For a bumpy plane or boat ride, pack some Dramamine (dimenhydrinate).
• Medicine for pain or fever: Pack your preferred painkiller, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Mild laxative or stool softener: Changes in your eating routine and access to different foods can cause constipation . Pack a laxative containing bisacodyl such as Dulcolax or a stool softener such as Colace (docusate).
• Antifungal ointment or cream: Fungal infections of the skin, such as ringworm and athlete’s foot are common, especially in warm climates. Pack a tube of Tinactin (tolnaftate) or Lotrimin (clotrimazole).
• Antibacterial ointments or creams: To help prevent a skin infection from a minor cut or scrape, pack a tube of Neosporin Ointment (polymyxin B, bacitracin, and neomycin).

How Do I Manage My Prescription Medications on a Trip?

Before you leave for your trip, see your healthcare provider to get an ample supply of all your prescription medications. Also, talk to your practitioner about your change in schedule and ask when to take medications if you are moving through different time zones.

If you are traveling to a country with malaria , talk with your healthcare provider about getting a prescription for a medication to prevent malaria, such as Lariam (Mefloquine), Malarone (atovaquone, proguanil), or doxycycline (the CDC has a guide to each of the available medications, some of which are recommended for certain areas).

If your destination is a country that puts you at high risk of diarrhea or other bacterial infections, ask your practitioner about the possibility of getting a prescription for an antibiotic, such as Cipro (ciprofloxacin).

Talk to your pharmacist about drug-food interactions. Since your diet may change during your trip, your pharmacist can advise you about foods that could affect your medications.

Pack your travel health kit, including your prescription medications, in your carry-on luggage. Make copies of your prescriptions and pack them with your medications. You should also leave a copy of your prescriptions at home with a friend or family member.

Make a list of your medications, including the generic names and brand names, and what conditions the medications treat. That will make it easier to find a replacement if you run out of or lose your medications .

Will I Have Problems Crossing Borders With My Medications?

If you use a controlled substance, such as a sedative, tranquilizer or narcotic pain medication, make sure you obtain a letter from your healthcare provider, on the practitioner’s stationery, stating why you need the drug.

Without such a letter, these medications may not be allowed into another country or allowed back into the U.S. when you return.

Likewise, you should have a letter from your healthcare provider if you take any medication by injection and you have to carry needles and syringes.

Make sure that all medications are labeled properly. The safest way to carry your medications is in the original bottles, which will also speed the process if your carry-on bags are inspected (this applies to vitamins and supplements as well).

However, if you do not have enough space for the bottles in your carry-on, you can transfer them to small plastic bags. When you have your prescription filled, the pharmacy will give you a print-out that usually has a tear-off section on the top that has the same information as the label on your medication container. You can enclose this tear-off sheet in the plastic bag.

But note that the Transportation Security Administration—TSA— clarifies that although they do not require travelers to have medications in their original pharmacy-provided containers, "states have individual laws regarding the labeling of prescription medication with which passengers need to comply."

You'll also want to make sure that the name on your prescriptions , pill bottles (or tear-off sheet if you're packing your medications in a bag or pill sorter), and ID or passport all match.

If you have a liquid medication, TSA doesn't require it to be less than 3.4 ounces (the rule that applies to most other liquids), but you do need to tell the TSA agent that you have medically necessary liquids in your bag when you start the screening process at the airport.

Even with all of that planning, it's important to also have a clear understanding of the laws and regulations in your destination country. In some cases, you might find that a particular destination's rules simply aren't compatible with a medication that you take , and you may want to consider a different destination instead.

You can discuss the specifics with your healthcare provider, your pharmacist, and the U.S. embassy in the country you're considering visiting . The embassy will be able to tell you whether a medication you take is banned in the country or only allowed in limited quantities.

Where Can I Get More Information Before I Leave on My Trip?

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: The CDC maintains an excellent Travelers’ Health website that includes a wide range of information about travel issues related to health. One section of the site has an interactive map that provides access to health information for each country. And their traveling abroad with medicine page is a must-read if you're planning a trip outside the U.S. and will need to bring medication with you.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA): The TSA provides online information for travelers with disabilities and medical conditions, and it explains the current requirements for how to go through airport security with medications.

U.S. Department of State: The State Department maintains a travel website that provides a profile about the current status of every country in the world. These profiles include information about health-related issues and often highlight issues with prescription medications.

Transportation Security Administration : TSA has a helpful page about disabilities and medical conditions . It includes a tool that allows you to select from among a range of common disabilities and medical conditions to see exactly what you need to know about the screening process and any steps you might want to take in advance to make it as smooth as possible.

Traveling with medications is common, but does require some advance planning. It's generally advisable to pack medications in your carry-on luggage, and to have copies of your prescriptions with you. Liquid medications can be brought onboard aircraft even in quantities greater than the limits that apply to other liquids, but you'll need to notify the TSA screening agent of your liquid medication. For controlled substances, you'll need a letter from your medical practitioner, explaining why you need the medication. And there are some countries where certain medications simply aren't allowed, even though they're prescribed in other countries.

A Word From Verywell

Staying healthy on your trip can save you a lot of money. Out-of-pocket medical expenses in a foreign country can be enormous. Make sure to purchase travel insurance before you leave and pack your medications !

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Travelers' Health .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Choosing a Drug to Prevent Malaria .

Transportation Security Administration. Can You Pack Your Meds in a Pill Case and More Questions Answered .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Traveling Abroad with Medicine .

Mohn, Tanya. New York Times. How to Make Sure You Travel with Medication Legally .

Transportation Security Administration. Disabilities and Medical Conditions ; and TSA Cares: Traveling with Medication ; and Can you pack your meds in a pill case and more questions answered .

By Michael Bihari, MD Michael Bihari, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician, health educator, and medical writer, and president emeritus of the Community Health Center of Cape Cod.

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Traveling Abroad with Medicine

Many international travelers carry medicines with them to treat acute or chronic health problems. However, each country has its own laws related to medicines. Medicines that are commonly prescribed or available over the counter in the United States might be unlicensed or considered controlled substances in other countries. While rules vary by country, there can be serious consequences if you violate the laws at your destination. The consequences may include:

• Authorities taking away your medicine
• Penalties, including jail or prison time

Before Travel

Check with your destination’s  embassy and embassies of countries that you have layovers in to make sure your medicines are permitted.

• Many countries allow a 30-day supply of certain medicines, but also require the traveler to carry a prescription or a medical certificate from their health care provider.
• If your medicine is not allowed at your destination, talk with your health care provider about alternatives and have them write a letter describing your condition and the treatment plan.
• You may also want to check the  International Narcotics Control Board  website that provides general information about narcotics and controlled substances, for countries that have information available, for travelers.

Check CDC’s destination pages for travel health information . Check CDC’s webpage for your destination to see what vaccines or medicines you may need and what diseases or health risks are a concern at your destination.

Make an appointment with your healthcare provider or a travel health specialist  that takes place at least one month before you leave. They can help you get destination-specific vaccines, medicines, and information. Discussing your health concerns, itinerary, and planned activities with your provider allows them to give more specific advice and recommendations.

• If you plan to be gone for more than 30 days, talk to your health care provider about how you can get enough medicine for your trip. Some insurance companies will only pay for a 30-day supply at a time.
• If you are a traveling to a different time zone, ask your health care provider about any changes to taking your medicine. Medicines should be taken according to the time since your last dose, not the local time of day.
• Find out how to safely store your medicine while traveling and check whether it needs refrigeration. Keep in mind that extreme temperatures can reduce the effectiveness of many medicines.

Prepare a  travel health kit   with items you may need, especially those items that may be difficult to find at your destination. Include your prescription and over-the-counter medicines in your travel health kit and take enough to last your entire trip, plus extra in case of travel delays. Pack medications in a carry on in case your luggage is lost or delayed.

• Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. Ensure that they are clearly labeled with your full name, health care provider’s name, generic and brand name, and exact dosage.
• Bring copies of all written prescriptions, including the generic names for medicines. Leave a copy of your prescriptions at home with a friend or relative in case you lose your copy or need an emergency refill.
• Ask your prescribing health care provider for a note if you use controlled substances, or injectable medicines, such as EpiPens and insulin.

Buying Medicine Abroad

Counterfeit drugs  are common in some countries, so only use medicine you bring from home and make sure to pack enough for the duration of your trip, plus extra in case of travel delays. If you must buy drugs during your trip in an emergency, see CDC’s Counterfeit Drugs page.

More Information

• CDC Yellow Book: Avoiding Poorly Regulated Medicines
• Travel Smartly with Prescription Medications (US Department of State)
• Traveling with Prescription Medications (US Food and Drug Administration)

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Travel Size First-Aid Kit: What to Pack & Downloadable Checklist

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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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.

15 Tiny Travel Products to Help You Stay Healthy on Vacation

What Do I Need in My Travel First-Aid Kit?

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
• Motion sickness relief
• Muscle relaxer

For minor bumps and bruises, make sure you have these emergency first aid supplies in your medical kit.

• Various sized bandages
• Alcohol swabs or antiseptic wipes
• First aid balm or sting relief, anti-itch cream , & antibiotic cream

From treating splinters to sunburns, these miscellaneous items are must-haves in your travel first aid kit.

• Thermometer
• Hand sanitizer

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.

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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.

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TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

A pharmacist’s diy travel medicine kit.

Let’s face it. A travel medicine bag isn’t many people’s priority when it comes to putting together that all-important packing list.

But it should be. You never know when you might come down with a cough or cold, have a bout of diarrhoea or take a tumble. A good traveller is always prepared.

However, many travellers are unsure which products they should pack. So what should you include in a travel medicine kit?

This is where I can help you, both as a frequent traveller and a healthcare professional.

In the course of many adventures in 70+ countries, I’ve experienced my fair share of sniffles, scrapes and sprains. Fortunately, as a registered pharmacist , I know how to deal with these as they arise.

However, I’ve only been able to manage these minor medical emergencies because I’ve packed the right medicines and first aid items. This travel medical kit has evolved over the years and I have honed my selection of pills and potions to a collection that covers most of the bases.

In this article, I will share the contents of my trusty DIY travel medicine kit and give you expert advice on what you should consider when packing medicines for travel.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

General Considerations

There is no one-size-fits-all medicine bag for travel.

There is no such thing as a definitive travel medicine kit. Much will depend on your age, gender and medical conditions, your destination, style of travel and your attitude to medicines. It’s all a question of balance. Whilst you won’t want to lug around a medical kit that a paramedic would be proud of, at the same time you should include essential items to cover your basic healthcare needs and emergencies.

Consider your destination and trip style when packing your travel medicine kit

Consider where you are travelling to, and for how long, when deciding which medicines and first aid items to include in your travel medical kit.

Chances are you will not need an extensive selection of medicines, bandages and gauzes on a flashpacking European city break. However, it’s a different story if you are trekking in the Himalayan foothills where access to doctors and pharmacies isn’t a given.

Heading to a high-altitude destination? If so, then you may want to get your hands on preventative treatment before leaving home.

Travelling to a malaria zone? Then. don’t forget your antimalarial medication.

Consider your personal health needs

Although this may be blindingly obvious, you should consider your personal health needs when packing for a trip. For example; if you are a woman who suffers from menstrual cramps, include your preferred remedy in your travel medicine kit.

What’s in my DIY Travel Medicine Kit

 As a pharmacist, I have honed my collection to one that covers most of the bases, and my medicines fit snugly into a semi-rigid plastic pouch from Muji .  You can buy all of the medicines in my travel kit over-the-counter in the UK without needing a doctor’s prescription.

Essential Items

PAIN KILLER: PARACETAMOL 500mg 

Paracetamol (acetaminophen if you are American) is a highly effective pain-killer and it also helps to bring down your temperature if you have an infection. I have used it for headaches, for cold and ‘flu symptoms and for – whisper it – hangovers.

Don’t leave home without it.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY: IBUPROFEN 200MG 

Like paracetamol, ibuprofen is a painkiller and can be used in much the same way. However, it is also anti-inflammatory and so is useful for soft tissue injuries (strains and sprains).

Many women prefer it to paracetamol to relieve period pain.

If you have asthma or have had stomach problems (ulcers) you may not be able to use ibuprofen; check with your doctor or pharmacist.

The choice of paracetamol or ibuprofen to treat headaches and to bring down the temperature is entirely up to you.

Many people find that one works better than the other for them. For example, I find paracetamol is usually effective in killing a headache but ibuprofen barely touches it.

ANTIHISTAMINE TABLET

If like me, you suffer from hay fever or have allergies , an antihistamine is an essential part of your travel medicine kit. Antihistamines are also invaluable for relieving itchiness from hives and insect bites , including pesky mozzie bites .

 My traveller’s medical kit usually has a strip of whichever antihistamine I have to hand. Usually, this is acrivastine but good alternatives are loratadine or cetirizine , neither of which is likely to make you drowsy.

If you want a sedating antihistamine, go for the older drug, chlorphenamine (chlorpheniramine).

Although antihistamine creams are also available, I am less keen on these. They are not as versatile as tablets, and in rare cases can cause skin sensitisation.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY CREAM: HYDROCORTISONE CREAM 1%

I always pop a tube of hydrocortisone cream in my travel medicine bag.

Although it is used primarily for eczema – some people find that eating different foods makes their skin condition flare up – it is also excellent at relieving the itchiness of mosquito bites.

You don’t need to use a lot of hydrocortisone cream. Make sure that you apply it in a very thin layer.

DIARRHOEA MEDICINE: LOPERAMIDE 2MG

Think of loperamide (Imodium) as a pharmaceutical cork.

Call it what you like; Delhi Belly, Montezuma’s Revenge, Backdoor Trots. Most of us will have been struck down by  travellers’  diarrhoea (TD) , usually at the worst possible time.

Trust me; clenching your buttocks on a long-distance bus journey is not much fun. This is where these little green and grey capsules are worth their weight in gold. They are particularly helpful if you have colicky-type pain.

There is some debate as to whether the use of loperamide prolongs TD by retaining the offending bug. The consensus seems to be to let it all flow out, reserving loperamide for those situations where TD may affect travel plans.

My approach is to do exactly that, reserving the use of loperamide for emergencies; to avoid being caught short on a bus or train journey for example.

Codeine and diphenoxylate/atropine (Lomotil) are alternatives to loperamide but I don’t recommend them as they carry a higher risk of side effects for no great gain. Also, you need a doctor’s prescription for these medicines.

Some people take away antibiotics with them to self-treat. The choice of antibiotic depends on the destination.

You will need a doctor’s prescription. A common antibiotic that travellers include in their medical kit is ciprofloxacin .

REHYDRATION SACHETS

Your priority in treating travel diarrhoea or sickness is to keep hydrated. Therefore, I always pop a couple of rehydration sachets with electrolytes in my traveller’s medical kit.

It goes without saying that the water that you use to reconstitute these sachets should be safe

If you don’t have these sachets to hand you can drink other clear fluids, such as diluted fruit juices, as an alternative.

MOTION SICKNESS TABLETS

For those journeys across switchback mountain passes and across choppy waters, I use cinnarizine  (Stugeron) tablets, which do the trick but can cause drowsiness.

Another popular choice is hyoscine hydrobromide (Kwells) but I find that it gives me a dry mouth.

Some people swear by acupressure bands ( Sea-Band ).

Other items to consider

ANTACID TABLETS

Think Gaviscon , Pepto Bismol or omeprazole / lansoprazole . For those times when you overindulge in delicious food or have a few extra drinks.

What’s NOT in my Travel Medical Kit

PROPRIETARY COLD AND FLU REMEDIES

This is polypharmacy at its worst. Proprietary cold and flu medicines are cocktails of unnecessary drugs at sub-therapeutic doses.

Save your money and precious packing space. Just take paracetamol or ibuprofen for cold and ‘flu symptoms. If you feel bunged up, a decongestant such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can be useful.

Expert Tips for Packing Your Travel Medicines

• You don’t need to take vast quantities of these medicines and first aid items; just enough to get by until you can replenish your supplies at a pharmacy or drugstore. For example, I take just a strip or two of tablets
• Choose strips of tablets instead of bottles to save precious packing space.
• For the same reason, remove strips from their boxes. But if you are unfamiliar with how to take the medicine, make sure to keep the instructions.
• Where possible, opt for tablets over liquids, gels and creams.

Travel First Aid Items

STICKING PLASTERS (BAND-AIDS)

A few sticking plasters of different sizes are an essential component of my travel medicine kit.

The most common injuries are cuts and grazes and you don’t need to be an ardent trekker for blisters to appear.

CREPE BANDAGE

But what about if your injury is bigger than a small cut or graze?

A bog-standard crepe bandage is invaluable for keeping a small dressing in place until you get it looked at by a healthcare professional.

Gauze is one of the most useful items in your travel first aid kit.

A gauze square can be used to clean an injury, apply pressure to a wound to help stop bleeding, and dress a small wound. When used as a dressing, it can be held in place by a crepe bandage or surgical tape .

To keep the wound clean and sterile, pack individually wrapped sterile gauze squares.

ANTISEPTIC WIPES

I also always carry a few sealed alcohol wipes for wound cleansing.

ANTIBACTERIAL CREAM

Again, to prevent wounds from becoming infected and to help them heal faster, it’s a good idea to pack an antibacterial cream like Neosporin .

SMALL SCISSORS & TWEEZERS

Both of these items come as standard in most first aid kits and are extremely versatile items to bring with you on your travels.

Scissors are useful for trimming bandages or gauze to the desired dimensions. As well as grooming eyebrows, tweezers can be used to pull out splinters and to extract bits of stone or dirt from a wound.

Is It Worth Buying a Ready-Made Travel First Aid Kit?

For simplicity and for a travel first aid kit that will be packed to perfection, buying a ready-made travel first aid kit is a hassle-free option. You can be assured that the basics will be covered, and your travel healthcare essentials will come in a sturdy and waterproof bag. However, what you gain in convenience you lose in the ability to personalise your travel medical kit to your own needs. Also, as you will only include items that are essential for your trip, a DIY travel first aid kit will likely be cheaper than buying one online.

The Best Ready-Made Travel First Aid Kits

When choosing the best ready-made travel first aid kit, contents, size and weight are the key factors. Whilst you want to make sure you have enough of all of the essential items, you don’t want this to take up too much valuable real estate in your luggage.

Amazon has a good range of travel first aid kits and I’ve picked out their best lightweight and compact travel first aid kits.

Lifesystems Pocket First Aid Kit

Lightweight (100g) and compact first-aid kit that covers the bases for basic first aid.

Mini First Aid Kit

A 92-piece first aid kit that packs a punch for its compact size.

Universal First Aid Kit in Bag

This 100-piece first aid kit is the most comprehensive of the three shown here and weighs in at 380g.

Best Travel Health Resources

Here are my go-to websites for keeping healthy while on the road.

• fitfortravel – a free, interactive, resource providing up-to-date information on avoiding illness and staying healthy when travelling abroad.
• TRAVEL HEALTH PRO – a website comprising the travel health resources of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC), set up by the UK’s Department of Health to protect the health of travellers.
• CDC TRAVELER’S HEALTH – an extensive collection of resources from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Travel Medicines: Final Tips From a Healthcare Professional

Think of this list of items for travel ailments, scrapes and bangs as a tool kit, to which you can add or subtract, according to your needs. In addition, you will need to include any prescribed medicines in your travel medicine bag.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have never taken any of the above medications before. Sometimes medicines don’t mix well together – oral contraceptives and antibiotics are good examples of this –  and medical conditions or allergies may mean that it is unwise to take a certain medication.

For any injury or illness that cannot be remedied by the contents of your travel medical kit, or that does not respond to self-treatment, you should seek professional medical attention.

Although carrying these basic items will help you to deal with the vast majority of ailments and accidents as a traveller, it is no substitute for comprehensive travel insurance.  As a  mid-life traveller , I get my travel insurance from  Staysure. It offers an excellent level of cover, including that against Covid-19, and has garnered 5-star reviews.

Finally, whilst it’s essential to be prepared, chances are that you will rarely need to use the items in your travel medical kit.

Safe and healthy travels!

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a registered pharmacist who has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

6 thoughts on “ A Pharmacist’s DIY Travel Medicine Kit ”

Great list—thanks!

FYI: if you are traveling to or in India by air, ALL scissors are a no go except in checked bags! That includes those tiny ineffective blunt scissors in mini first aid kits and nail clippers. You WILL be stopped.

And as it happens, they fasten your checked bags shut if you’re flying within India! So you have no knife or scissors, and a sealed bag…

Great tip! Thanks. I’ll add it to the article 🙂

Admiring the time and energy you put into your blog and detailed information you provide.

This is a great list! Thanks!

Thanks. I’m glad you liked it!

This is a fantastic list! Thanks!

Comments are closed.

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Travel Series Medical Kit - World Travel

• Jump Over the Language Barrier – Visual Communication Tool enables you to communicate the need for medical care in any language.
• Organized by Injury – Provide fast and effective first aid with the Easy Care Organization System. Supplies are organized into injury-specific pockets.
• Wilderness First Aid Guide Book – Comprehensive Guide to Wilderness & Travel Medicine book provides the most up-to-date first aid information and advice to those traveling or venturing into the wilderness.
• Manage Pain, Illnesses, Cuts, Fractures, and Sprains – A wide array of medications to treat pain, inflammation and allergies, plus wraps and bandages to immobilize fractures and tend to cuts.
• Provide Hospital-Quality Care – Hospital-quality tools, including bandage scissors and precision forceps set the standard for travel medical care.
• TSA-Approved 3-1-1 Bag – Includes TSA-approved 3-1-1 bag for liquids and cosmetics. Additional room is left in the kit to add your own medications and items.

Includes: 1 – Visual Communication Tool 1 – Patient Assessment Form 2 – Bottle, 2 oz. 1 – Plastic Vial, Small 2 – Single-Use Thermometer 1 – Splinter/Tick Remover Forceps 1 – Pencil 1 – Bandage Scissors 1 – Trauma Pad, 5" x 9" 3 – Easy Care Large Sterile Dressing, 4"x4" 4ply/2pc 2 – Easy Care Non-Adherent Gauze 3x4 3 – Sterile Non-Woven Sponges 2v2 2 – Cotton Tip Applicator 1 – Moleskin, Pre-Cut/Shaped 1 – Wound Closure Strip, 1/4" x 4" 1 – Latex-Free Gloves 4 – Easy Care Knuckle Fabric Bandage 10 – Adhesive Bandage, Fabric, 1" x 3" 1 – Wound Irrigation Tool, 10 cc 3 – Safety Pin 1 – Bandage, Conforming Gauze, Sterile, 2" 1 – Cloth Tape, 1/2" x 10 Yards 1 – Plastic Bag, 6" x 8" 3 – Triple Antibiotic, Single Use 8 – Easy Care Alcohol Antiseptic 3 – Oral Rehydration Salts 1 – Wilderness & Travel Medicine: A Comprehensive Guide 6 – Anti-Diarrheal (Loperamide HCI 2 mg) 4 – Upset Stomach Reliever (Bismuth Subsalicylate 262 mg) 4 – Antacid (Calcium Carbonate 420 mg) 4 – Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer (Ibuprofen 200 mg) 4 – Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer (Acetaminophen 500 mg) 4 – Antihistamine (Diphenhydramine 25 mg) 2 – Cold Medicine (Acetaminophen 325 mg, Chlorpheniramine Maleate 2 mg, Phenylephrine HCl 5 mg) 1 – GlacierGel Blister & Burn Dressing, (Small Rectangular) 1 – GlacierGel Blister & Burn Dressing, (Large Oval) 1 – Povidone Iodine, 0.75 oz. 2 – Tincture of Benzoin

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Wilderness & Travel Medicine Book

I really like this World Travel First Aid Kit by Adventure Medical. This kit has many pockets that are labeled so that one can find all the medications and supplies needed in a hurry. I would recommend this kit to everyone, especially if traveling to an developing or undeveloped part of the world. –Lori

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What to Pack in a Medical Travel Kit

Travelers often ask what they should put in a travel first aid kit or medical kit for travel. Commercial pre-packaged travel first aid kits are available in a variety of sizes, but we think the best option is to assemble your own travel medical kit that suits your personal health needs and travel habits.

It may take a few trips and trials to refine your kit's contents, but then you can keep it all together in one compact package to throw in your luggage at a moment’s notice.

My own “travel health kit” has evolved over time, usually by adding items I wish I’d had on a previous trip. Here are some key considerations and items to include:

Buying medications in foreign countries

Medications, even over-the-counter ones, often have different names or formulations in other countries. To avoid confusion, it’s best to bring familiar medications with you. It's also unlikely that you'll conveniently find a nearby pharmacy with your language spoken, the right product in stock, and open hours when needed. With the booming world trade in counterfeit medications, you want to avoid unknowingly buying a medication that is not effective, or worse can contain harmful ingredients.

Travel Vaccines and Routine Vaccines

Vaccines offer powerful protection against many diseases and should be part of your pre-travel preparation. Consult a travel health expert who can determine which vaccines you may need for your destination.

Do I need any special travel medications?

Some travel specific medications can be required for certain destinations or activities. These can include medications to prevent malaria or altitude sickness (also called prophylaxis). A travel health expert can provide the best guidance and prescriptions specific to your  itinerary.

Should I Bring Antibiotics when I travel?

Travelers frequently request “antibiotics just in case”, but the only recommended antibiotic is to treat travelers’ diarrhea (to take as needed only). Other illnesses that you think may need an antibiotic warrant a proper medical evaluation, especially in tropical regions.

Traveling with Prescription Medications

When traveling, ensure your prescription medications are clearly labeled in their original containers. Be careful traveling with controlled substances (like opioids or stimulants), which may be scrutinized and even confiscated in some countries. See your prescriber well in advance of your trip and always carry extra doses in case of unexpected travel delays.

Bring your Medical History Information with you

Carry a legible (laminated if possible) card listing your medical conditions, prescription medications, allergies and any implanted devices. Also include contact information for your primary medical provider and emergency contact(s). 

Should I carry an Epi-Pen when I travel?

ALWAYS carry a fresh Epi-pen® (epinephrine injector) with you if you have any serious allergies. Some destinations may not have nearby emergency care available. Also, consider a medical alert bracelet (even if you only use it for travel). If you become seriously injured or unconscious, you may be unable to communicate any serious medical conditions or allergies.

Should I bring my CPAP device when I travel?

If you use a CPAP device for sleep apnea, don’t leave it at home. Fortunately, modern CPAP machines are smaller and more portable. Restful sleep is even more critical when you are traveling or sleeping at an increased altitude.

OTC (over the counter) Pain Relievers

Also known as analgesics, these medications may have unfamiliar names abroad. I suggest packing a small amount of ibuprofen and/or acetaminophen, whichever works better for you. Familiarize yourself with the maximum safe dosage of each.

Loperamide for travelers’ diarrhea

Loperamide (Imodium®) is an essential treatment for travelers’ diarrhea, and a MUST HAVE item for anyone traveling to a resource poor country where you can’t drink the water.   Even the local food is sometimes enough to make you “irregular”. Use it cautiously to avoid constipation.

Antacids/Laxatives for travel

An altered eating routine and unfamiliar foods can mess with your digestive tract. Everyone has their own unique gut habits and food tolerances. Personalize choices to your own needs. Chewable bismuth salicylate (Pepto Bismol®) can help with a variety of symptoms, from diarrhea to heartburn.

Cold remedies for traveling

Most mild upper respiratory infections (like a cold) will get better on their own, but the symptoms can be a nuisance. OTC cold preparations are numerous, but I recommend oxymetazoline (generic for Afrin®) nasal spray (DO NOT use for more than 3 or 4 days in a row) and lozenges for sore throat and/or irritating cough. Both can help you get much needed sleep.

Antihistamines

Numerous OTC choices are available and can be helpful if you encounter unfamiliar allergens at your destination or accommodations. Most antihistamines can cause sedation as a side effect, which could be a benefit if you have trouble sleeping on long haul flights.

Medications to Prevent Motion Sickness

Some travelers are prone to motion sickness on boats, in vehicles or even snorkeling or diving. Both prescription and OTC preventive medications are available. See   https://www.travelbughealth.com/bugs-blog/medications-to-prevent-and-treat-motion-sickness for more detailed suggestions.

Insect Repellant

Insect repellent is crucial for protection against insect-borne diseases like Malaria or Dengue Fever. Ultrathon® lotion containing DEET is an excellent choice.

Pack only what you need

Don't expect a travel first aid kit to cover every possible emergency; you DON’T need to have every possible thing in it (even if you always pack a prom dress - “just in case”). Plan for likely situations (such as sun, insect bites, terrain, boat rides) and only include things that you regularly use, would grab out of your own medicine cabinet, or have used within the last year. Here are some suggestions:

Essential travel First Aid Kit items

A personal Travel First Aid Kit should include a few basic items to treat minor physical injuries. Don’t go overboard. Minor skin wounds should be cleaned and covered immediately, until you have time to get them treated more thoroughly if needed. Here are some items to consider:

Self-adhesive bandages – Both small and large - have a few of each.

Topical antibiotic ointment – I recommend a small tube of Bacitracin.

Antiseptic wipes - Alcohol swabs are good for disinfecting small scratches or abrasions. I like the disinfectant wipes they hand out on some airlines, which are compact and can effectively clean up a road rash.

Zinc Oxide barrier cream – Think babies’ bottoms and Ozzie surfers. Excellent relief for friction rash from trekking through a wet jungle (personal experience) or an irritated bottom from diarrhea.  Also, an effective substitute if you forget your sunscreen.

Compression bandage – Can be used to wrap an ankle, other sprain or even a wound. Find one with Velcro so you don’t need pins or adhesive tape.

Non-stick wound pads - (Telfa®) - Carry a few, preferrably self-adhesive.

Adhesive Blister Prevention tape or pads – Brand names include Moleskin® or Compeed®.  KT Tape® (often used by sports trainers and physical therapists) can also work in a pinch.

Sunscreen – Get a travel size. SPF 30 is adequate. Use it.

Post-sunburn cream – Aloe gel preparations can provide good relief and speed healing.

Hydrocortisone cream (OTC 1%) – Offers relief from most itchy rashes.

Afterbite® – A unique product, the size of a makeup pen that provides relief from itchy insect bites.

Tweezers – To remove ticks or splinters. These can be very small and DO pass TSA screening regulations.

Disposable gloves – (bring a handful) They stuff easily and can be useful in so many situations.

Oral rehydration salts – It’s not a bad idea to have a few packets handy if you are visiting a cholera or typhoid endemic area, but if you are losing fluids that fast, you should seek medical treatment.

Small thermometer – Any persistent temperature over 100.4°F (38°C) can indicate a serious illness and should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Other Assorted items for your travel health kit

Ear plugs - Tiny and useful on airplanes and noisy accommodations.

Lubricating eye drops – These are usually very compact and provide instant relief, especially if you’re traveling somewhere dry and windy or wear contact lenses.

Masks – Bring at least 2, just in case. Masks are proven to reduce your chance of airborne illnesses, like from that coughing passenger in the plane seat next to you. A mask can also help you breathe easier in cities with air pollution (think Delhi). Wearing a mask also non-verbally communicates your desire to be kept at a distance. N95 or KN95 (Chinese made equivalent) standard masks work the best.

Condoms - Both men and women should carry them. Don’t laugh. Data shows that travelers are often less inhibited and take more risks when  away from home. There is a very high incidence of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) including hepatitis B and HIV in many regions overseas.

And finally…

Quart-size sealable freezer bags (Ziplok®)

The universal MUST HAVE. I don’t think you can have enough, for many reasons. They are:

- A convenient container for any small items, like collectibles, change, electronics or jewelry (I like to use them beachcombing)

- A neat and convenient lunch bag in a pinch

- The perfect container for your travel health kit items. 

- Still the standard for presenting liquids at many airport security checkpoints

- Good for storing wet items or as an extra precaution for containers that could leak in your bags.

An illness or injury can signifcantly impact your travel experience. Think ahead and be prepared with a little bit of knowledge and a few compact items in your travel medical and first aid kit. Visit https://www.travelbughealth.com/ for more travel health tips and advice.

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Travel health kit

Why should i take a health kit when travelling.

A basic travel health kit is important no matter where you travel. First aid supplies and medications may not always be readily available in other countries or may be different from those available in Canada.

A good travel health kit contains enough supplies to prevent illness, handle minor injuries and illnesses, and manage pre-existing medical conditions for longer than the duration of your trip.

What should I pack in my travel health kit?

Basic first aid items.

It is essential to know how and when to use the first aid supplies in your kit. You may consider taking a first aid course before you travel.

You may want to include:

• Adhesive bandages (multiple sizes) and adhesive tape
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Antiseptic wound cleanser (for example, alcohol or iodine pads)
• Blister pads or moleskin
• Disposable latex or vinyl gloves
• Packets of  oral rehydration salts
• Safety pins and scissors
• Tensor bandages for sprains
• Thermometer
• Tweezers for removing ticks, splinters etc.

Travelling with medications

Discuss the use of medications with your health care provider before departure and carefully follow the directions for use, including dosage and when to seek medical care. Bring more than enough medication to last your entire trip . Consult our Travelling with medications and What you can bring on a plane pages for more information.

Here is a basic list of medications to be included in your travel health kit:

• Any prescription or over-the-counter medication you normally use
• 1% hydrocortisone cream to treat minor skin irritation, such as itching caused by bug bites or poison ivy
• Allergy medication, such as an antihistamine, or epinephrine prescribed by your doctor, such as an Epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®)
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Anti-motion sickness medication
• Antifungal and antibacterial ointments or creams to apply to wounds to prevent infection.
• Cold and flu  medications, such as decongestants, cough suppressants or throat lozenges
• Pain and fever medication, such as acetylsalicylic acid (e.g., Aspirin®), ibuprofen (e.g., Advil®), or acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol®)
• Stomach and intestinal medication, such as antacids and laxatives
• If recommended, destination-specific medication, like those for malaria or high-altitude sickness
• If you need to use needles or syringes, take more than enough to last for your entire trip and carry a medical certificate from your health care provider explaining that the needles or syringes are for medical use.

Other items

You may include these items depending on personal preference, destination, and activities:

• Aloe gel for sunburns
• Adequate supply of condoms
• Ear plugs to reduce noise or stop contaminated water from entering the ear canal
• Extra pair of glasses or contacts (or a copy of your prescription)
• Insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin
• Mosquito net
• Saline eye drops
• Water purification filter or tablets

Contact card

Carry a card with the following information in case of a medical emergency:

• Name, address, and phone number of a family member or friend in Canada
• Name and phone number of your health care provider in Canada
• Address and phone number of your accommodations at your destination(s)
• Address and phone number of hospitals or clinics at your destination(s)
• Address and phone number of the Canadian Embassy, Consulate, or High Commission in your destination country/countries (you might also consider carrying the  Emergency Contact Card )
• Emergency contact phone number from your travel health insurance provider

Before you go, don’t forget to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and stay connected to Canada in case of an emergency abroad or at home. 

Proof of your insurance coverage

Always carry proof of your health insurance coverage when travelling. Consult our page on travel insurance for more information. 

Immunization record

Carry a copy of your immunization record in your travel health kit. Include your original International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis  for yellow fever, if you have one.

For a printer-friendly travel health kit checklist, click here .

• Sickness or injury
• Insect bite prevention
• Travelling with medication
• Receiving medical care outside Canada
• Travel insurance
• Vaccination
• What you can bring on a plane

Travel kits

Patients who self-administer drug therapies that need to be temperature-regulated often face a challenge when traveling with their medication. To address this issue, Noble manufactures travel kits that keep medications at the proper temperature. This is also a value-add for patient support programs. Travel kits are available in a variety of colors and sizes, depending on the brand’s needs. 

• Customizable size
• Customizable colors
• Soft, hybrid, or rigid containers
• Cooling packs

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Medical Kits

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All the Nomad medical kits are made in-house to our own high specification by our experienced Pharmacy team. Whave refined our range of  medical kits  to cover every type of travel and travel ailment. For complete protection, we make medical kits which contain everything you will need to treat all kinds of common ailments. For minor scrapes & injuries, we make sterile first aid kits perfect for carrying in your daypack, containing dressings and lancets. We also designed a great kit to specifically treat travellers diarrhoea.

Bespoke Medical Kits   First Aid Items Which Medkit Do I Need?   Travellers Diarrhoea

Please note:

1) Discounts are sadly not applicable on Pharmacy products 2) International delivery is NOT AVAILABLE on Medical Kits marked (POM)

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

It is your responsibility to answer the following questions to enable our pharmacist to properly identify if the medication you are purchasing is suitable for the trip you are undertaking & the persons the medications are for.

As a registered pharmacy we are obliged to check the identity of all individuals using our online medicine service. We use LexisNexis, a credit search company to verify your address and age to ensure we are sending the medication to the correct person. Your credit rating will not be affected by this search. If we are unable to identify you, we may ask you to scan and send photographic evidence such as a driving licence or passport to complete the process.

Failure to answer the questions fully and truthfully could seriously damage your health when taking the medicines prescribed to you by Nomad.

To purchase any of the following products you will need to complete a prescription consultation form first.

Once you have completed your prescription consultation you will be returned here and then YOU MUST place an order for your chosen product.

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Ultimate Medical Kit

Why have we upgraded this kit, why choose the ultimate medical kit, specifications:.

Worldwide Diarrhoea Kit

Instructions for use.

Core Medical Kit

Prescription consultation 2022.

• How many people are traveling? * 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Flight Information

• Which countries are you travelling to? *
• Date of departure * DD slash MM slash YYYY
• Date of return * DD slash MM slash YYYY

First Traveller's Information

• Need a prescription?
• Name (as it appears on your passport) * First Last
• Address * Building Name/Number Address Town/City County Postcode Please note: we require a UK address in order to dispatch your order for this medication
• Name of your GP *
• Your GP surgery name *
• Your GP surgery postcode *
• Your Date of Birth * DD slash MM slash YYYY
• Your Weight (kg) *
• Please provide details of your medical condition(s), answering as thoroughly as possible *
• Please list the medications you take, separated by commas *
• Please list your known allergens, separated by commas *

Second Traveller's Information

• Second Traveller's Name (as it appears on their passport) * First Last
• Address (if different from first traveller) Building Name/Number Address Town/City County Postcode Please note: we require a UK address in order to dispatch your order for this medication
• Phone (if different from first traveller)
• Email (if different from first traveller)
• Name of your GP (if different from first traveller)
• Your GP surgery name (if different from first traveller)
• Your GP surgery postcode (if different from first traveller)
• Their Date of Birth * DD slash MM slash YYYY
• Their Weight (kg) *
• Please provide details of their medical condition(s), answering as thoroughly as possible *
• Please list the medications they take, separated by commas *
• Please list their known allergens, separated by commas *

Third Traveller's Information

• Third Traveller's Name (as it appears on their passport) * First Last

Fourth Traveller's Information

• Fourth Traveller's Name (as it appears on their passport) * First Last

Fifth Traveller's Information

• Fifth Traveller's Name (as it appears on their passport) * First Last

Sixth Traveller's Information

• Sixth Traveller's Name (as it appears on their passport) * First Last

Seventh Traveller's Information

• Seventh Traveller's Name (as it appears on their passport) * First Last

Eighth Traveller's Information

• Eighth Traveller's Name (as it appears on their passport) * First Last

Ninth Traveller's Information

• Ninth Traveller's Name (as it appears on their passport) * First Last

Tenth Traveller's Information

• Tenth Traveller's Name (as it appears on their passport) * First Last

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Ozempic users travel 1,000 miles for weight loss drug amidst shortage.

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Taking weight loss drugs is no longer the road less traveled, and people are going over 1,000 miles to get their hands on semaglutide meds Wegovy and Ozempic. 

The popularity of these drugs has led to a nationwide shortage and people are willing to go to great lengths to get their prescriptions filled. 

Other popular weight loss drugs Mounjaro and Zepbound, both tirzepatides, are out of stock until July and shortages of the drugs could last into 2025, drug manufacturer Eli Lily warned. Slim pickings lead to drastic measures, according to a doctor.

Dr. Angela Fitch, a New York City doctor who specializes in obesity medicine, told the Daily Mail that she’s seen patients come from as far away as Ohio, Virginia and Florida to get prescriptions filled. 

She said another patient even drove 400 miles from Maine. 

A 35-year-old mom and advertising executive from New York City who wished to remain anonymous told The Post that she’s struggled to fill her Wegovy prescription from pharmacies ever since being prescribed. Both Wegovy and Ozempic are manufactured by Novo Nordisk.

“After being prescribed the medication in February 2023, it took me over a month to find a local pharmacy that carried Wegovy,” she said.

“The local, independently owned pharmacy filled my prescription and then told me they could no longer provide the medication for me as my insurance wouldn’t allow the pharmacy to turn a profit off my prescription. I then began researching mail-order prescription services. Thanks to Amazon, I am now able to get my medication. I have, however, had issues with refills as the medication wasn’t available,” she added. 

However, even Amazon has had trouble keeping the meds in stock and people are willing to get the medicine out of state.

“With that said, Amazon is now no longer accepting new prescriptions for GLP-1 medications as they are unable to meet demand. I am grateful I was able to get my medication — I don’t know what I would do if I got a new prescription today,” she explained. 

Tara Dykens, from Massachusetts, told ABC that she’s struggled to fill her Zepbound prescription. 

@hannahrosecotton there is hope for this shortage! #zepbound #glp1 #glp1community #tirzepatide #weightloss #weightlossjourney ♬ original sound – Hannah Rose ✨

“In one given afternoon, I believe I tried to contact between 20 and 25 pharmacies,” she said. 

A content creator on TikTok named Hannah Rose Cotton detailed her issues getting Zepbound. She said she was finally able to get the drug, but as of Saturday, there were no pharmacies within 100 miles of her that had it. 

There is even more demand right now because people want to get their bodies in shape before the summer hits, Marlee Bruno, who owns medical spa Mind, Body & Soul Medical in Pensacola, Fla., told the Daily Mail. 

“We are in Florida, where it is practically already summer,” she said, “and people are starting to get into their bikinis and really want to get on the drug so they can lose weight quickly. It is possible to lose a significant amount of weight fast on these,” Bruno said. 

“As standard, patients lose about one pound a week — but it tends to be a little bit more than that. After three months, they may have lost at least 12 pounds of fat, which is a significant loss and makes many patients feel much better,” Bruno added. 

Celebrities and non-celebrities alike have shared their successful weight loss journeys online which has only increased the popularity of the drugs. Emily Simpson, 47, from the Real Housewives of Orange County, said she lost 40 pounds on the medication. 

The surge in demand has led people to prescribe non-brand name compounded versions of the drug, which is legal in a shortage.

Last year, The Post covered a story about how NYC moms looking to lose baby weight were flocking to “shady” clinics to get their hands on compounded semaglutide, since many didn’t meet the requirements to be prescribed the brand name.

Those who do meet requirements can also get a compounded semaglutide but many still want the brand version for safety and effectiveness reasons. There is no official generic version of the weight loss drugs available.

The FDA has also issued warnings about compounded semaglutide in the past.

“FDA has received adverse event reports after patients used compounded semaglutide. Patients should not use a compounded drug if an approved drug is available to treat a patient. Patients and health care professionals should understand that the agency does not review compounded versions of these drugs for safety, effectiveness, or quality,” the FDA  has declared.

“Patients should be aware that some products sold as ‘semaglutide’ may not contain the same active ingredient as FDA-approved semaglutide products and may be the salt formulations. Products containing these salts, such as semaglutide sodium and semaglutide acetate, have not been shown to be safe and effective,” their site continued. 

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Woman tried to board flight at Memphis Airport with 56 pounds of marijuana: Reports

Before a 21-year-old Memphis woman could board an United Airlines flight, Memphis International Airport Police found 56 pounds of marijuana in her luggage, according to multiple reports.

The woman was charged with possession of a controlled substance with the intention to manufacture, deliver or sell, Shelby County jail records show. This charge is a felony offense that "carries harsh penalties," the Law Office of Bernie McEvoy , an attorney in Nashville, Tennessee, said.

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Woman allowed airport police to check her luggage, had name tag on bags, according to reports

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After locating the woman's luggage, she gave airport police permission to search her bags, WMC-TV said. Once the drugs were found, she was subsequently arrested.

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How much would 56 pounds of marijuana go for on the street?

When a St. Paul, Minnesota man was arrested for possessing 56 pounds of marijuana in May 2013, now-retired Dakota County Attorney James Backstrom estimated the drugs had a street value between $171,000 and $342,000, WCCO , branded CBS Minnesota, reported.

More recently, the Butler County Sheriff's Office seized 56 pounds of marijuana from a property in El Dorado, Kansas in July 2021 and valued the drugs at $180,000, the Wichita Eagle reported.

Biden officials indefinitely postpone ban on…

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Biden officials indefinitely postpone ban on menthol cigarettes amid election-year pushback.

Pictures: Pro-Palestine demonstrators protest at UCF

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Ucf students rally for palestinians, the latest in nationwide campus divestment protests.

Commerce Department announces new restrictions on U.S. firearms exports

Politics | Bob Graham remembered: Mourners pay their respects in Tallahassee

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