medical kit for travel to asia

• Travel planning

Vaccinations and a medical kit

With a small dose of preparedness and planning you’ll be well positioned to handle any minor ailments you pick up in Southeast Asia—don’t forget to use your common sense!

Planning categories

Get an idea, get some money, get insurance, get your documents, get your gear, get packing, get the most out of your trip, get talking, get booking, get out alive, get working.

For travel in Southeast Asia, most medical experts recommend at least vaccinations for measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), typhoid, hepatitis A, chicken pox, diphtheria, tetanus and polio. Some of these you may have had when you were a child, but in some cases you will need a booster to get you back up to scratch. A doctor in your home country can offer advice on your personal situation.

You may also wish to consider shots for Japanese encephalitis, hepatitis B and rabies. Each has its own risk profile and will be dependent to an extent on what you’re doing during your travels. For instance, if you are spending a lot of time around animals then a rabies shot would be a good idea. Be sure to consult with a travel doctor or travel clinic (as well as your own doctor for whatever specific needs you may have) to decide which vaccinations are the right fit for you and your itinerary.

You’ll find useful information about vaccinations on the Travel Doctor website , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) .

Travel medical kit

Generally you will be able to get medical attention and general medicines throughout Southeast Asia for most minor ailments, at local hospitals, medical clinics or pharmacies.

Treatment costs are reasonable by Western standards. If you are looking at major surgery or get seriously ill, get yourself to Bangkok, Singapore or home for treatment. You do have travel insurance, right?

Nevertheless, it's a good idea to take a small medical kit . There is not a region-wide prescription system, and much general purpose medication can be bought over the counter, though if you require specialist medication, bring your scripts as a local pharmacy may refer you to the hospital if they don’t have what you are after. Local chemists can be inconsistent, sometimes asking for a script or doctor’s letter, other times just handing the goods over.

While many of these are easily purchased in Southeast Asia, if you prefer to be prepared, in a general traveller medical kit we would recommend:

* Band aids, elastoplast dressing strip, steristrips, sterile gauze, cotton wool, thermometer, safety pins, safety scissors and tweezers * A wide spectrum antibiotic, antacids, Flagyl (for giardia), Imodium or Lomotil (for the runs), paracetamol, rehydration mixture and cough lozenges. * Antifungal cream, cetrimide antiseptic (Savlon), mosquito net, insect repellent (Muskol, Repellem, RID) and sunscreen.

Other items may include a torch/flashlight, a small bottle of hand sanitiser, and, if you think you might need them, condoms. Of course you'd pack sunscreen. While you can buy any of these items locally at the many chemist shops, quality sometimes varies. While the variety and quality of available tampons and pads are improving, they remain pricey so you may wish to bring a supply of your preferred brand in case a suitable substitute isn’t readily available.

Further reading

Planning well is an integral part of getting the most out of your trip. Be it picking the right backpack, the right vaccinations or the right country, the simple decisions are often the most important.

How to prepare your travel medical kit for Asia

A very important part of planning a trip is to think in advance about your health and safety abroad. When travelling to a different country, especially if you travel far from home and to countries with poor sanitary conditions, satisfactory medical help may not always be accessible. The standards of medical facilities and equipment, quality of medicaments and expertise of medical personnel might differ from what you are used to in your home country. Having a first aid kit can be particularly helpful in areas where medicines are in short supply or of doubtful quality. That is why it is wise to be well prepared before you leave and have the basic, yet very important medical items with you. In this article I am going to show you what’s in mine and help you properly prepare your travel medical kit for travelling Asia.

• Plasters – I take plenty of them as minor scratches and cuts are likely to happen. They will protect the scratch from getting infected and help it heal faster. Consider taking waterproof plasters if you plan to do a lot of swimming. 
• Wound spray – This one is good for minor scratches and cuts because it has antiseptic properties which help prevent infection. I prefer to take alcohol free spray as it is not painful when you spray it. For bigger injuries please ask for medical help especially if you haven’t had a tetanus booster. 
• Paracetamol – For fever and muscle pain relief. Stick to the one you are used to.
• Pain killers – I take these mostly for my painful periods but you can use them for headaches and toothaches as well. Just don’t overdo it. The pills I usually carry with me contain metamizole sodium.
• Electronic thermometer – Measuring your temperature is a good idea if you don’t feel well as it’s very important for making the correct diagnosis.
• Vitamin C – I use 1000 mg of vitamin C supplements. Personally I use the ones from CaliVita International , but any other brand should be fine. Try to get ones with prolonged effect as they stay in the body for longer. I try to take them almost every day as vitamin C helps boost your immunity and there are many things that can lower our immunity while travelling so helping the body a bit is not a bad idea.
• Multivitamins – I also carry multivitamin supplements with me and take them only when I feel tired, when I haven’t had plenty of healthy food or when I feel that my body needs an additional source of vitamins and minerals. I use A-Z Vitamine which contain 27 different vitamins and minerals. 
• Antimalarials – You should consider taking these in case you travel to a country with high risk of malaria and only after consulting with your GP. They are quite expensive but you might want to have them just in case, as they can be used both as prevention and therapy. Before we went on our SE Asia trip we got two packages of Malarone even though we didn’t plan to take them as prevention. If you plan to use them as prevention you should start taking them few days before entering the country with high malaria risk, every day during your stay and few days after you have left the country. As our trip lasted for three months, it didn’t make sense to do this. Before taking antimalarials you should also consider the possible side effects. Anyway, to be on the safe side get a package or two before you head on your adventures! 
• Antibiotics – this is a tricky one, as certain type of antibiotics is not efficient against all bacteria. Plus you can’t get them without prescription. However if you have any condition that requires or might require antibacterial therapy during your trip, it is a good idea to take a box or two with you. I usually take specific type of antibiotics with me as I am prone to strep throat, so I feel safe having them with me even if I don’t need to use them. Many countries have a problem with counterfeit medications which can do more harm instead of helping you, so getting antibiotics from home doesn’t make you unnecessarily cautious. Please note that you might want to grab your prescription for customs control – just in case! 
• Probiotics – They support a healthy microflora in your stomach. Good to have them in case you need to take antibiotics or for any gut problems, which occur quite often especially in third-world countries. 
• Activated charcoal – Even though I have never used it (apart from as an ingredient for my face mask) it is a good idea to throw few tablets in your medical kit as it is very good for stomach pains caused by gas, diarrhoea, food poisoning or other stomach issues.
• Antiseptic throat spray – Good to use for early throat symptoms. Personally I use Tantum Verde , but any other would be just fine. 
• Nose spray – Good for relief of nasal congestion. I usually chose Olynth , but you should stick to the one you are used to.
• Antihistamine medication – It is basically a drug that treats or prevents allergic reactions. It can be a true life saver! Even if you are not normally allergic to anything, consider taking a box of those as new allergies can appear when in contact with new food or substance.
• Throat lozenges – I prefer to take ones with antiseptic effect. They help relieve symptoms of sore throat and coughs. 
• Bandage – Good to have one of these in case of injuries, to protect or support the injured part of the body, to restrict the movement or to hold a dressing in place.   
• Sterile dressings – Used to control bleeding from a major wound or to absorb any discharge.
• Tape – It might come in handy for securing dressings and bandages. I sometimes use it to even cover plasters just for keeping them in place if the injury is on an inconvenient place like feet or hands. Plasters are likely to unstick during walking or due to sweating and fixing them with a tape will keep them stay longer.   
• Sterile gloves – They don’t occupy much space, but you might want to have them with you. As I said before the healthcare standards in many countries might significantly differ from what we are used to. In case you need any kind of medical intervention you would feel much better if the clinician wears them. Which is not always the case.
• Sterile syringes and needles – Up to you. In case you are too cautious and want to have everything under control. And because of the same reasons I mentioned before – healthcare standards. You might want to have yours in case you need any blood tests or injections. 
• Face masks – To a certain level they can protect from infectious diseases in crowdy places and air pollution. If you wear it or not – it is absolutely your decision. Good to have them with you anyway, especially in Asia!
• Ear plugs – Prolonged exposure to noise can harm your ears. It is a good idea to have them with you, especially if you plan to take a long bus ride in Myanmar! 😀 Or if you just need to relax on the plane.
• Safety pins and scissors  – this one is pretty obvious, they might come in handy in various situations.
• Any medication that you take on a regular basis – Make sure to take enough to cover the whole stay, plus put some more in case you have any delays on the way or need to deal with lost baggage. Note that you will need to declare it at customs if you have supplies for more than 3 months. 
• Hand sanitiser – This ones goes in my hand luggage and I always keep it close to me. For a three month trip I had three small bottles. For shorter trips one should be enough. 
• Insect repellent – This one is a must! Especially in countries with mosquito-borne diseases. Spray or cream – it’s up to you. For me the creams work better and are much more pleasant to use. Make sure to have enough of those and always apply them on exposed skin regardless of the time of the day. 
• Sunscreen – Needless to say that this is an important item no matter the season and destination!
• Copy of prescription for the medicine that you carry detailing the actual drug name on it rather than the brand name – You should have this for every medicine that requires prescription as you might need it during border control checks, but also in case you need to get extra supplies or you need medical help.
• Copy of vaccine records
• Details of pre-existing medical conditions or allergies      

Besides packing your travel medical kit for Asia, it is also very important to be aware of some possible diseases in the country you plan to visit, their symptoms and treatment. Before travelling it is a good idea to see your GP or a specialised tropical disease doctor and have a consultation regarding any necessary boosters and vaccination for every country you plan to visit. Before the visit make sure to check your immunisation list and show it to your doctor. Some countries require that you show a yellow fever certificate on entrance (in case you are coming from a country with yellow fever risk). Others require a polio vaccination certificate. Make sure to have all the necessary information before you go. And last but not least – get a travel insurance for the whole period of your stay and make sure to familiarise with its conditions.

My personal favourite when it comes to reliable travel insurance are the guys from World Nomads . Below is a form to help you check out your options.

I hope that by putting together this list of medical items we have helped you to better prepare for your next adventure. Now you know how to create your travel medical kit for travelling Asia. May your next trip be safe and enjoyable!

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Check out our Before You Go guides to better prepare for your next trip.

And let us know what you think about this guide or share what is in your Asia travel medical kit! We always love hearing from you!

With Love, 

Jelena and Luke    

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About The Author

Jelena & luke.

Hey! We are Jelena and Lukas - digital nomads passionate about crossing borders and finding perfect angles. We are citizens of the Earth without a wish to categorise by nationality, belief or race. But if you insist to know, we belong to the kind of people with curious nature, bright minds, quite itchy feet and eyes sensitive to visual imperfection. We perceive this world as a place to find adventure, but also harmony, to share positivity and strive to become better people with every single sunrise. We are delighted to see you here!

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Use this checklist to prepare for your next trip abroad. Make sure to bring items with you, since quality of items bought overseas cannot be guaranteed. Not all of these items may be relevant to you and your travel plans.

Pack for a Healthy Trip

Prescription medicines

• Your prescriptions
• Travelers’ diarrhea antibiotic
• Medicines to prevent malaria

Medical supplies

• Glasses and contacts
• Medical alert bracelet or necklace
• Diabetes testing supplies

Over-the-counter medicines

• Diarrhea medicine (Imodium or Pepto-Bismol)
• Antihistamine
• Motion sickness medicine
• Cough drops, cough suppressant, or expectorant
• Decongestant
• Pain and fever medicine (acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen)
• Mild laxative
• Mild sedative or sleep aid

Supplies to prevent illness or injury

• Hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol) or antibacterial hand wipes
• Water purification tablets
• Insect repellent (with an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin)
• Sunscreen (with UVA and UVB protection, SPF 15 or higher)
• Sunglasses and hat

First-aid kit

• 1% hydrocortisone cream
• Antibacterial or antifungal ointments
• Digital thermometer
• Oral rehydration salts
• Antiseptic wound cleaner
• Aloe gel for sunburns
• Insect bite anti-itch gel or cream
• Disposable gloves
• Cotton swabs (Q-Tips)
• Copies of your passport and travel documents
• Copies of all prescriptions (medications, glasses, or medical supplies)
• Health insurance card and documents
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination (if required for your trip)
• Contact card with the street addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses of: Family member or close contact in the United States
• Health care provider(s) at home
• Lodging at your destination
• Hospitals or clinics (including emergency services) in your destination
• US embassy or consulate in the destination country or countries

Additional Resources

• Check the Transportation Security Administration website for updates on permitted and prohibited items, including medicines that you are allowed to carry onto an airplane.
• Some items may not be allowed in other countries. It is a good idea to check the  Customs and Import Restrictions section of the U.S. Department of State Tips for Traveling Abroad.
• Enroll in the Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to get the latest safety updates and help in an emergency.

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The Ultimate Southeast Asia Packing List | What To Bring & Wear

Planning your Southeast Asia adventure but feeling a bit lost in the packing process? Overwhelmed with fitting everything into your travel bag? Don’t worry; we’ve got your back! Packing for Southeast Asia, especially if it’s your first backpacking trip, can be a bit of a puzzle. The dynamic climates, diverse terrains, and cultural variations across Southeast Asia demand a thoughtful approach to packing. Lucky for you, this article is your go-to packing list guide for Southeast Asia , based on our own experiences exploring the region for years. This packing guide is for anyone up for a variety of outdoor activities , from hiking and swimming to navigating city life in Southeast Asia’s different weather vibes throughout the year.

The motto here is less is more , but traveling efficiently and lightly doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort. We’ve put together this super practical Southeast Asia packing list to ensure you don’t forget a thing on your trip. We’ll break it down into different sections – from picking the right travel bag, and organizing and protecting your stuff, to detailed lists for clothing, toiletries, electronics, and other handy travel gadgets. Let’s make sure you’re well-equipped for the adventure of a lifetime!

*  Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you book through our links. This is at no extra cost to you. This way you’re helping us write awesome travel guides and keep providing you with free content. We only recommend products we like and trust ourselves.

Some golden packing list rules for Southeast Asia

Packing for Southeast Asia is actually surprisingly uncomplicated. Given the consistently warm and humid climate, your wardrobe will likely consist of lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable fabrics. This not only ensures comfort but also makes packing a breeze as these clothes won’t take up much space. Laundry facilities are readily available in most places, and in case you forget anything, local shops and supermarkets have you covered. However, there are a few items that might be trickier to find once you touch down in Southeast Asia. Depending on your planned activities and regions you’ll be exploring, it’s wise to consider some extra items.

Traversing Southeast Asia is much smoother when your backpack or suitcase is on the lighter side. This proves invaluable when hopping on and off various modes of transportation like buses, boats, trains, tuk-tuks, and ferries to navigate this stunning region.

Southeast Asia stands out as one of the most traveler-friendly continents. Many adventurers effortlessly roam these countries armed with just a handful of essentials and a reliable pair of comfortable shoes.

For your Southeast Asia packing list, keep these key points in mind:

• Opt for lightweight, quick-drying materials as it’s hot and humid all year around.
• Less is more. You will have to pack, unpack, and carry your luggage around in a very hot climate!
• Laundry facilities are readily available in most places.
• Bring a few sarongs, as you have to cover up your shoulders and knees when exploring temples.
• Pack ample reef-safe sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
• Utilize packing cubes for organized and stress-free packing.
• Roll your clothes and arrange them side by side in your packing cubes to maximize space.  
• If you’re moving around Southeast Asia, favor a backpack.
• Avoid bringing luxury or valuable items.
• Keep some space for the treasures and souvenirs you might pick up along the way.

1. Choosing the right travel bag

When it comes to choosing between a backpack and a suitcase for your Southeast Asia adventure, it ultimately boils down to personal preference. But let me tell you, from my own experience, I highly recommend going with a backpack . Southeast Asia is known for its uneven surfaces, rugged terrain, and plenty of stairs. Plus, you’ll likely find yourself hopping on boats to reach some of the beautiful islands, not to mention navigating through various modes of transport.

Trust me, having a backpack makes all of this a breeze. I started my travels with a trusty suitcase at 20, adamantly claiming I’d never go the backpack route. But after a few trips, I quickly converted to the backpacking lifestyle. It just makes everything so much smoother, especially when you’re racing after a bus or making a mad dash through the airport to catch your connecting flight.

Now, if you’re torn between the two worlds, fear not! There are convertible backpacks that can transform into either a backpack or a wheeled suitcase, giving you the best of both worlds.

Having explored most Southeast Asian countries over the past decade, and discovering all sorts of destinations, we’ve narrowed down a list of backpacks that we’ve personally tried and tested. These gems are perfect for carrying your ultimate packing list for Southeast Asia. Let’s dive in!

Our Recommended Travel Backpacks

Selecting the right backpack is a game-changer for your trip. So, when it comes to brand, size, and quality, choose wisely, you want your backpack to accompany you on many journeys to come! The gear you pack can make your journey a whole lot smoother. Remember, in Southeast Asia, you’ll be doing a lot of walking with all your gear in tow, so the size and volume of your backpack definitely matter . It’s essential to know how much space you’re working with before you even start assembling your ultimate packing list for Southeast Asia.

Now, when it comes to your main backpack, we highly recommend trying them on with some weight in person . We’re all unique, and what works like a charm for one person might not be the best fit for your body. Personally, we are big fans of the German brand, Deuter . We’ve been using their gear for years, and it’s never let us down. Good to know, Deuter offers both female and male versions of their various backpack models, catering to everyone’s preferences. We’ve personally experienced these bags as comfortable, practical, and built to last, so be sure to include them on your Southeast Asia packing list.

Woman Travel Backpacks

Deuter AVIANT VOYAGER 60+10 SL  –  Standing at 175 cm (or 5’7″), I find the 60L capacity of this backpack to be just right and in perfect proportion. Designed with the female anatomy in mind, it boasts a VariQuick back adjustment system, allowing you to customize the fit to your body. Plus, both the back system and the straps are generously padded, ensuring ultimate comfort even during long hauls. The integrated 10L daypack is a handy addition. What I particularly love is the dual access points – both from the front and the top – and the separate bottom and lid compartments. There is also a transport cover included at the bottom which doubles as a rain cover.

Osprey Fairview 55  – If you’re a fan of the popular American brand Osprey, you’re in luck. The Osprey Fairview 55 is tailored for women and offers an adjustable torso fit. It cleverly separates into a main backpack and a smaller, detachable daypack that can be either attached to the larger pack or worn on the front for easy access. The large front panel makes easy access to the main compartment. Need even more space? Consider the Osprey Fairview 70 for added packing room. And for those times when you’re looking to streamline, the back panel harness can be conveniently stowed away. 

Men Travel Backpacks

Deuter Aviant Access Pro 60 + 10L  – Moritz his backpack from Deuter shares similarities with the Osprey counterpart. It features a single, generously sized main compartment accessible from the front, offering a more suitcase-like feel rather than the traditional top-loading style. This design choice makes organizing and packing your belongings a breeze. Inside, you’ll discover handy side pockets and a dedicated shoe compartment for added convenience.

The exterior boasts a spacious pocket that houses the included 10L daypack with a comfortable, padded back. It can also be securely attached to the shoulder straps if necessary. The entire back panel harness can be neatly stowed away for easy transport, giving the backpack a sleek and streamlined look.

Osprey Farpoint 40  – A fantastic alternative to the Deuter for men. Like the Deuter, it offers a spacious main compartment accessible from the front, providing easy access to your belongings. However, it lacks the additional side pockets which can often be quite handy. We also observed that it doesn’t feature an adjustable strap system in the back for a customized fit. Just like the Deuter, it does come with a practical cover to neatly stow away the straps during transport.

The Osprey Farpoint 40 boasts a convenient size, allowing for a very compact travel experience. If you find yourself in need of more space, there’s also the option of the Osprey Farpoint 70L , which comes complete with an extra attached daypack for added versatility.

Smaller daypack for daily adventures

In addition to our primary travel backpacks, which typically hold our clothes and are checked in during flights, we each carry a compact daypack that accompanies us on board. This smaller pack is reserved for our valuables and personal items like laptops and camera gear. We also bring along one of the extra 10L daypacks that come with our main Deuter backpack. This often serves as a secondary daypack for hiking when we need a bit of extra space. When we’re on the move, our daypacks are carried at the front for easy access, while the larger travel backpacks rest comfortably on our backs.

Deuter Giga 28L  – Depending on your needs, we’ve come to appreciate the 28L Deuter Giga for its ample capacity and well-designed compartmentalization, making it ideal for daily use. Once we reach a destination, it often becomes our go-to for carrying travel essentials like water and snacks while on the move. For a smaller option, take a look at this light daypack from Deuter .

WANDRD PRVKE 21L   – The second daypack in our arsenal is the WANDRD PRVKE 21L , which we got together with their removable camera cube , tailored specifically for safeguarding our camera equipment. It has many discreet compartments to neatly store smaller items, including a hidden passport pocket at the back. There is also side access for easy retrieval of your camera while on the go, and the camera compartment opens from the back, providing a convenient overview of your belongings. Additionally, there’s an expandable section at the top, keeping personal items separate from your camera gear.

2. Organizing and protecting Items

Packing cubes.

When it comes to keeping your clothing neatly organized in your backpack, investing in packing cubes is a game-changer. This way you don’t have to dig through your stuff and create a chaotic mess just to find that one item. We allocate each cube for a specific category – whether it’s t-shirts, bottoms, socks, you name it.

TIP | Roll your clothes and arrange them side by side in your packing cubes. This little hack works wonders, helping you maximize the space within your cubes even further. 

Luggage locks

Luggage locks are an absolute essential on your Southeast Asia packing list to ensure the safety of your belongings while you’re on the move. They come particularly in handy in situations where you can’t secure your backpack in a locker, and they’re a must-have for air travel as well.

If you’re planning on engaging in water-related activities in Southeast Asia, like snorkeling or kayaking, consider adding a dry bag to your packing list. It’s a smart move to keep your belongings safe and moisture-free. This particular dry bag even comes with a waterproof phone case, which proves incredibly useful for capturing moments by the beach. All in all, a dry bag is a valuable addition to your packing list, especially considering the climate and occasional sudden downpours in Southeast Asia.

Backpack Covers

The same principle applies to your larger backpack – you will be happy having a rain cover to shield it from getting completely soaked. If you’re considering renting a motorbike to embark on the Mai Son Loop in Thailand or the Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam , this addition will be a true lifesaver on your Southeast Asia packing list.

Anti Theft Bags

For an added layer of security, especially if you’re a frequent hostel-goer, consider investing in a Pacsafe bag. These anti-theft bags are purpose-built to safeguard your valuables and are often referred to as “portable safes” . The stainless steel wire mesh integrated into the fabric is highly resistant to cutting. Whenever we found ourselves in accommodations without door locks or safes, we’d stow our passports and laptops in it before heading out. Fortunately, we didn’t have to use it too often. While it’s a bit of an investment, it provides peace of mind, and we always bring it along. It’s incredibly compact, lightweight, and can be easily stashed flat at the bottom of our backpack.

Cross-Body Bag

We each also have a cross-body bag that we carry next to our big backpack and a small daypack. This is to carry our phone, wallet, and other small things on the go and for easy access. Also handy to have for in the evening or if for once you don’t want to wear a backpack.

Carabiners are yet another handy addition to our arsenal. We make sure to pack a few every time. They typically find a home on our bags, ready to swiftly link them together, or secure items like a water bottle or a camera to our backpacks when we require hands-free convenience.

Travel Document Organizer

Personally, we’re a bit fanatical about the organization, so while this item may not be an absolute necessity, we find it incredibly valuable. A travel organizer allows us to keep all our crucial documents, including passports, boarding passes, and various currencies, neatly together. It streamlines the check-in process and ensures that all our paper documents are conveniently in one place .

Electronic Cable Organizer

If you’re anything like us, traveling with a multitude of chargers for your phone, laptop, and camera gear, this electronic cable organizer is a game-changer. It effortlessly fits into our smaller daypacks, providing a tidy home for all our cables, chargers, SD cards, and portable chargers. Say goodbye to the hassle of tangled cables; everything is neatly organized and easily accessible.

3. Clothes Packing List for Southeast Asia

Opt for light and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen when selecting clothing for your Southeast Asia packing list. Choose versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched and dry quickly. Steer clear of overly tight or synthetic materials that can feel sticky in the heat. Comfort should be your priority – leave delicate fashion dresses at home , as they’re likely to suffer wear and tear. The combination of sunscreen, constant packing and unpacking, and rigorous laundry sessions can lead to fading and damage to delicate fabrics. In most cases, you won’t need an extensive wardrobe for your Southeast Asia trip. Laundry shops are plentiful and will wash your clothes for just a dollar or less. 

That doesn’t mean you can’t rock fashionable outfits! Just keep in mind that Southeast Asia generally experiences warm and humid weather year-round . The exception might be if you plan on hiking in places like Sapa ( Vietnam ), Pai (North Thailand ), or the Cameron Highlands (Malaysia), where you’ll need some extra outdoor gear.

With the exception of the beach area, it’s crucial to remember that many parts of Southeast Asia are more conservative , and locals tend to dress modestly. When visiting religious sites, you’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees, so keep this in mind when choosing your outfits.

Below, you’ll find a suggested packing list for Southeast Asia, tailored for both men and women . Keep in mind that these items are just recommendations and may vary based on your individual travel style.

Southeast Asia Packing List Women

• 3 pairs of shorts – Active shorts ,  Denim Shorts  &  Linen shorts
• 1  pair of leggings  – Perfect for the colder areas when you go hiking, but I also use these as loungewear
• Hippie pants (buy those in Asia!) 
• 1  long skirt
• 3 dresses – two long dresses  and  one short dress   
• 4 tank tops  or  light shirts
• 2 lightweight shirts with sleeves
• Long-sleeve base layer   – I usually wear this when flying from home, where it’s often significantly colder, and use it as loungewear for overnight train rides and hiking in colder areas.
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 1   Sports Bra
• 2 Bralettes
• 2-3 Bikinis
• Hat for sun protection, definitely if you go hiking to prevent heat stroke
• 1 pair of sunglasses
• 2 or 3 lightweight cotton scarves  (in some fun colors) for covering up when visiting temples, often I also use them to protect myself from the sun when I am wearing a sleeveless top. We always carry one in our backpack as it comes in handy on numerous occasions, as well as a sarong or beach blanket!
• 5 pairs of socks  +  1 pair of trekking socks  (we really like the ones from Falke!)
• L ightweight sneakers   (we personally enjoy the ones from Adidas)
• Birkenstocks  are always a comfy option to explore a town and go temple hopping all-day
• 1 pair of comfy flip-flops  
• Fleece  or  hoodie  – to be comfortable on train rides and definitely if you plan on visiting Northern Thailand (can be rather cool in the morning), North Vietnam like Sapa or plan on trekking Mt. Kinabalu in Borneo Malaysia.

All of the above fit into my Deuter AVIANT VOYAGER 60+10 SL  backpack divided over packing cubes. I highly recommend the roll-and-stuff method!

Optional items for women:

• Lightweight Rain Jacket  – We, personally, don’t pack rain jackets as we’ve never found the need for them. Whether or not you should bring one depends on whether you’re traveling during the peak of the rainy season. In our case, we usually opt for compact foldable ponchos or simply purchase disposable ones on the spot if necessary.
• Hiking Shoes  (lightweight and low cut) – The need for these depends on your planned activities. Everyday sneakers work perfectly for standard hikes. However, if you’re venturing into more intermediate terrain, it’s highly recommended to bring an additional pair of hiking shoes. I was immensely grateful for mine in L a os , where the landscape was rougher. Personally, I really like the brand Salomon , as they provide extra support, excellent grip, and stability on challenging surfaces like pebbles and gravel. Plus, these shoes are equipped with a GORE-TEX membrane, making them waterproof. You’ll certainly appreciate this feature if you encounter a sudden rain shower or find yourself in a muddy area.

Southeast Asia Packing List Men

• 3 pairs of shorts – cotton shorts ,  linen shorts  &  athletic shorts
• 1 pair of hiking pants – Moritz really likes these convertible cargo pants from North Face , as they can be worn both long and short, also perfect for hiking in the colder areas.
• 1 pair of long trousers   (for temple hopping and cities, lightweight pants over jeans!)
• 6 T-shirts, a combination of cotton T-shirts   and  dri-fit sports T-shirts
• 1 Long Sleeve Cotton Shirt
• 1 Casual sleeved shirt
• 1 Warm Fleece  or  hoodie
• Lightweight sneakers  (we personally enjoy the ones from Adidas)
• Flip Flops  
• Birkenstock Sandals , a comfy option to explore a town and go temple hopping all-day
• Cap  for sun protection, definitely if you go hiking to prevent heat stroke
• 1 pair of  Sunglasses
• 2 pairs of  swimming shorts
• 10 pairs of underwear (this depends on how long you are on the road, we packed 10 pairs on our 3-month backpacking trip through South East Asia).
• 10 pairs of socks  (can really recommend bamboo ones) + 1 pair of trekking socks from Falke

Optional items for men:

• Light waterproof rain jacket   – As mentioned, we don’t pack rain jackets as we’ve never found the need for them. In our case, we usually opt for compact foldable ponchos or simply purchase disposable ones on the spot if necessary.
• Hiking Shoes  – Moritz got these lowcut ones from Adidas for South East Asia, they are also with Gore-tex.

4. Electronics Packing List for South East Asia

On a personal note, we tend to travel with an abundance of electronics since we work while on the road. Our WANDRD PRVKE 21L backpack is fully geared with everything necessary, from laptops to external microphones. We understand that not everyone shares our passion for photography and shooting, and for those looking to keep their backpacks more streamlined, we’ve listed only the items we believe might make your travel easier and could be fun & easy for capturing your incredible adventure.

General electronics packing list for Southeast Asia

Besides the obvious as not forgetting your phone and phone charger, below are some other electronics that we personally always pack and make our travels more easier and pleasant:

Portable Charger / Power Bank

A reliable power bank for your phone is an essential item on your Southeast Asia packing list for on-the-go charging. Particularly during long bus rides or full days of exploration when you may not have access to power outlets. This specific portable charger from Anker provides almost 5 full charges for your phone.

Travel Adaptor

Don’t forget to pack a universal adaptor to ensure you can charge all your electronic devices during your trip. Different countries in Southeast Asia will require different plug sockets.

Kindle or E-Reader

While we have a deep appreciation for physical books, it’s not the most practical to lug around weighty volumes while backpacking. Opting for a Kindle  or  e-reader allows you to carry an entire library of books for on-the-road entertainment. Given the likelihood of spending considerable time on long bus or train rides, it becomes the perfect companion for passing the hours. The latest e-readers feature a glare-free HD touchscreen, making it possible to read in direct sunlight while also offering adjustable brightness and color temperature. Plus, many of them are waterproof, ensuring they’re always ready for unexpected spills or the occasional dip in the swimming pool.

Another entertainment item for those overnight trains is headphones . We love having a good travel playlist or listening to podcasts while on the road. I’m personally more a fan of classic headphones while Moritz these days prefers earbuds from Anker .

USB Flash Drive

While Southeast Asia is frequently modern and technologically advanced, there may still be instances where you need to print bus tickets or visas. We consistently carry an old-school USB drive from Sandisk with us because it proves to be quite handy in these situations.

Lightweight Laptop or tablet (optional)

While we strongly encourage you to immerse yourself in the outdoors and limit screen time during your Southeast Asia backpacking adventure, having a small t ablet can be incredibly useful. Even before we began working on the road, we found handling emails, making bookings, and checking things on a tablet more comfortable than on a phone. Additionally, for some Netflix indulgence during our journeys :p, a tablet provides a screen size that’s just right. If your tasks involve travel writing or photo editing, a travel-sized laptop might be more convenient in this scenario.

Photography Packing list for South East Asia

While your phone may be sufficient to capture all those unforgettable moments these days, the following gadgets can add a fun touch to your photography packing list for Southeast Asia:

If there’s one item that will truly enhance your travels, it’s an action cam! We personally have been enjoying the Go Pro Hero 10 on our latest travels. Depending on the range of activities you have in mind—whether it’s snorkeling, kayaking, or hiking—a GoPro is an ideal tool to capture your underwater adventures or any extreme environment where using your main camera or phone might be challenging. Its versatility shines as it captures both photos and videos, offering super wide-angle shots and even the option to shoot in raw format. While the GoPro can handle some water exposure, consider an underwater case for deeper dives. The compact size of an action cam is perfect for travel, but for hands-free filming, we recommend using a backpack mount to secure it to your backpack or another attachment .

Tripod or selfie stick

For solo travelers seeking to capture some self-portraits, investing in a versatile selfie stick that doubles as a tripod can add a fun dimension to your journey! Consider the Joby Gorillapods ; they’re compact, sturdy, and flexible, allowing you to attach them to branches or fences for creative shots. With various mounts available, they offer versatility for use with both phones and cameras.

As mentioned earlier, nowadays, you can effortlessly capture all your travel memories with your phone. However, if you’re keen on exploring photography further, consider starting with a budget entry-level model. We’ve always had a soft spot for Canon as a brand, you might want to check their entry-level DSLR model Canon EOS Rebel T7/2000D . For a lighter option, a mirrorless camera could be the perfect fit. If you’re just diving into photography, the Sony Alpha A6100   or  Sony α6400 are excellent choices.

Always good to take a few spare SD cards for your camera, we personally don’t like deleting on the go and want to make sure we have enough memory space with us. We can personally advise the SanDisk Extreme Pro SD cards , and we usually buy ones with a minimum of 128 GB to be sure that we have enough space (also depends on whether you shoot in RAW). Lately, we also have been testing the Samsung Pro Plus Micro SD cards   for our Go Pro & drone.

Drone (optional)

Undoubtedly, this falls under the category of a splurge item and isn’t essential. It will occupy a notable amount of space in your daypack. Nevertheless, it’s an incredibly enjoyable addition that provides a unique perspective of your surroundings. We have the DJI Mini 3 , a small and compact model. Before taking flight, make sure to familiarize yourself with the regulations, as flying these devices isn’t permitted everywhere. In 2023, it stands out as the smallest, lightest, and best-value mini-camera drone in DJI’s lineup. Not only is it the quietest, but it’s also the simplest and most fun to use. Moreover, it falls below the maximum weight threshold, eliminating the need for additional registrations, and making it a hassle-free choice.

5. Practical Travel Gadgets & Accessories

Listed below are a few more essential accessories that we recommend you take:

• Bring a Reusable water bottle and fill up at refill stations with clean water whenever possible. Alternatively, consider investing in a Life Straw or high-quality filtered water bottle from GRAYL that can turn any water source into safe, drinkable water, ensuring you’re never without a clean water supply!
• Ziplock bags – these always come in handy to store away snacks or leaking bottles.
• Elastic Bands or closable clips
• Duct tape – we have used this multiple times during our travels!
• Microfiber Towel – for at the beach or in case your stay doesn’t have towels.
• Flashlight  or  head torch – useful on poorly lit alleys, or if you stay in hostels and need to find something in your bag without putting on the light.
• Swiss army knife / Multi-tool – Make sure to store this in your checked-in luggage when flying, not your carry-on luggage!
• Sleeping mask – Although we only started bringing this recently, it has been a game-changer for our sleep, especially during overnight rides or in hotel rooms that often lack darkening curtains.
• Noise-cancelling earplugs – Same as the sleeping mask, but definitely recommend if you will be staying in hostels. The walls in Southeast Asia are thin!
• Travel journal – Carrying a compact journal while traveling is an excellent way to reflect on your experiences and chronicle your adventures.
• Waterproof watch – Moritz likes to bring a watch and this waterproof Casio watch in army green is just the perfect men’s accessory.

6. Toiletries Packing List for Southeast Asia

For added peace of mind, in case you’ve forgotten a toiletry item at home or need a replacement, most things are readily available in major cities throughout Southeast Asia . However, if you have specific preferences, such as skincare for acne-prone skin, it’s advisable to bring those along. Some items may not be as easily found everywhere and can be expensive, especially sunscreen. Additionally, be cautious about creams or skincare products that may contain whitening agents . Here’s what we typically bring, categorized for both men and women + items we both share.

TIP | We use travel-size containers for shampoo, body wash & lotion, etc. so we don’t have to bring the full-size bottle.

Products we share together:

• Toiletry Bag – This is the toiletry bag we share together. In case I’m traveling alone, I use the following smaller toiletry bag .
• Sunscreen – As a face sunscreen I can recommend Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion , and for the body Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion , both are oil-free, water-resistant, and reef-friendly. 
• Mosquito repellant
• Wet wipes – keep these in your hand luggage, will often come in handy!
• Hand sanitizer
• Tissues – Always have some paper with you because a lot of restrooms in Southeast Asia do not have toilet paper. 
• Travel Medical Kit – Carrying a first aid kit is vital for Southeast Asia! The high humidity in the region can easily lead to infections in cuts and burns, making it essential to address such issues promptly. Our travel medical kit includes bandages, plasters, sterile gauze pads, disinfectant, tweezers, scissors, a thermometer, and a range of medications, including ibuprofen, paracetamol, diarrhea pills (loperamide), buscopan for abdominal cramps, and motion sickness tablets.

Toiletries Packing List Southeast Asia: Women

• Refill Deodorant
• Shampoo & Conditioner
• Body lotion – if you have very dry skin like me you will want to bring a travel body lotion as this is also not easy to find in Asia and often holds whitening ingredients. You can also use this after the sun to moisturize.
• Face wash & cream – I am a big fan of products by The Ordinary   &  Origins . Make sure to bring your favorite products, because again most facial products have whitening in them!
• Hair Brush – Tangle Teezer Hairbrush for the win!
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Nail clippers & file
• Feminine hygiene products & tampons (not easy to find in Asia).
• Basic make-up: I don’t wear that much makeup anymore in general, and trust me in Southeast Asia it melts right off. So keep it basic, some mascara, eyebrow pencil, and maybe some concealer. One product I highly recommend is this tinted moisturizer with SPF from Origins , I wear it on top of my sunscreen, no need for foundation. Check out the following small make-up pouch .
• Chapstick with sunscreen – don’t forget to protect your lips!

Toiletries Packing List Southeast Asia: Men

• Body wash or soap bar – Moritz is a huge fan of this all-around soap bar from Foamie
• Nail clippers 
• Shaver/Razor
• Toothpaste & toothbrush

7. Documents & Finances Checklist

• Passport – stating the obvious here
• International Driver’s License – this is a must if you intend to ride a scooter or motorbike while in Southeast Asia, your driver’s license from back home isn’t sufficient. Fines are really high if you don’t have one.
• Photocopies of your passport – important in case of loss or theft
• Cards – Debit, credit
• Vaccination certificate
• Cash Money – We always carry some euros and dollars with us; often, in major cities, there are exchange offices with favorable rates. Also, just in case you need to exchange a bit at the airport to pay for a taxi or bus fare.
• A printed copy of your booking or stay – in case you don’t have an internet connection yet upon arrival and need to know where to go.
• A printed copy of your travel insurance – Prioritize travel insurance for peace of mind, especially if engaging in motorbiking or adventurous activities.   Heymondo   is a recommended provider; carry a printed copy of your insurance details in case of emergencies.
• Copy of your emergency numbers
• Extra passport photos – always handy for visas.

TIP | We also recommend scanning these documents and storing them online . This is very easy, e.g., with Google Drive or Dropbox. If you lose something or it’s stolen, it will be a bit easier if you can present a color copy of the original document for recovery.

Last Piece of Packing Advice for Southeast Asia

When you embark on the packing process, lay everything out on your bed . Personally, I like to envision potential outfit combinations, try them on, and consider the occasions for which I can wear them—whether it’s hiking, beach outings, city explorations, or temple visits. During my initial trips to Southeast Asia, I packed a suitcase filled with the 20kg limit, only to realize I didn’t wear half of it. With some strategic planning and packing finesse , it’s entirely feasible to limit yourself to the essentials listed above. Keep in mind that you’ll be packing, re-packing, and carrying your luggage around frequently in a very hot climate!

To give you an idea, here are the approximate total weights of our backpacks:

• Large backpack: approx. 13-15 kg
• Small daypack: approx. 5-7 kg

Consider getting some items in Southeast Asia:

• Some clothing: Leave space for beautiful pieces you’ll find at night markets for just a few euros! Elephant pants, in particular, will become your favorites.
• Tiger Balm: This magical cream is a must-have for soothing muscle aches (a holy grail among Thai boxers) and easing mosquito bites. Stock up!

Leave the following items at home:

• Jeans: It’s too hot; you’ll never unpack these.
• Laundry line: Laundry services are so affordable that there’s no need to bring your own.
• Mosquito net: Most places provide them in the room, and mid-range hotels often have well-secured windows, eliminating the need for one.

Practical Travel Basics & Links

TRANSPORTATION | For checking and booking bus, boat, and train rides in advance, we recommend using the website 12go . This platform has been our go-to across Asia, saving us from the hassle of queuing at travel agencies or bus stations. If you’re traveling during peak season, consider booking tickets ahead, keeping in mind that peak season coincides not only with the best weather but also with festivals and local holidays.

ACCOMMODATION | Finding affordable places to stay in Southeast Asia is a breeze with Booking.com . It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

FLIGHTS | Discover the best flight deals to Southeast Asia on Skyscanner . We love that they highlight the days with the cheapest prices for a destination, and the ability to search by month or region for flexibility. Skyscanner’s filter system simplifies finding the most suitable flight, and you can stay updated on the best prices with price alerts.

TRAVEL INSURANCE | When it comes to travel insurance, especially for backpacking in Southeast Asia, consider Heymondo . It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link .

CREDIT CARD | When it comes to managing your money while traveling, it can be a headache! We recommend getting a Credit Card that doesn’t charge you extra for foreign transactions.

INTERNET | Secure reliable internet access for your Southeast Asia trip with Airalo . Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey.

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For the best and most affordable city tours, day trip excursions, food tours, and cooking classes in Southeast Asia, check out GetYourGuide or Viator .

VISA ORGANIZATION | Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality in the countries you plan to visit. Explore details on travel documents at iVisa.com .

Southeast Asia Packing List Guide

We hope this Southeast Asia Packing List guide helps you when planning for your exciting upcoming trip. You can show some ❤ and support for the blog and help us share more adventures! Our travels are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows us to keep writing helpful travel guides and gather information to make it easier for people to discover the world.

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What to pack in your travel medical kit (+ a healthy packing checklist)

When I first started traveling, one of my biggest concerns was what to pack in my travel medical kit.

I started as a backpacker through Indonesia in 1997  in what was intrepid territory, even if you weren’t a novice.

And while I ended up with a hospital visit and some infected sores I didn’t really have to pull out a lot from my overcrowded first aid kit (My then brother-in-law was a nurse, so he made sure I was adequately supplied).

It was still comforting to know I had that sealed syringe I could whip out and insist on the doctors using if I saw them grab a used one from the drawer.

I have gotten somewhat complacent since then; years of traveling with barely anything going wrong will do that to you.

My list of travel sicknesses and injuries haven’t gone too much beyond the odd case of food poisoning, asthma flare ups, scraped up body parts, and tick bite fever. (There was that motorbike kidnapping in Indonesia  that could have gone a Whole. Lot. Worse.)

Sometimes I forget my travel first aid kit.

That has only been since we started road tripping in western countries. Complacency can be a killer, so I don’t recommend you follow my choices, especially if you travel with kids.

You already probably know the nightmare of having a sick baby and not being able to get them painkillers as pharmacies now only do over the counter and it’s late and the pharmacy is closed!

Important considerations when packing your travel medical kit

Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Where are you traveling to?

In some countries, you’ll usually be able to get access to help and first aid supplies easily. But, if you’re out in the wilds of Africa or Asia or Outback Australia you want to be prepared.

2. What type of activities are you doing?

Think about where you are going and what activities you are doing.

In some countries you may need to take malaria preventive medication.

If you are hiking in high altitudes, you may want to pack altitude sickness tablets or iodine tablets if you are traveling where water may not be clean.

If you suffer from motion sickness you might want to pack your remedies for that (try ginger oil, lavender oil or peppermint oil).

3. What vaccinations do you need?

You may need specific travel vaccinations for the country you are visiting.

Do your research as some vaccinations are required weeks before your departure date in order for it to work. This is especially important for children.

4. What personal medication do you need?

If you take medication already, you will want to chat with your doctor about taking them on your trip.

If you take birth control, you’ll want to check with your doctor about other medications, or antibiotics (if you get sick on the road) that may mess with that. I’m guessing you don’t want that to not work!

Not to freak you out, but it may be a clever idea to check if the medication you are taking is allowed in the country you are visiting.

I recently read a story of a woman who took some medication to her husband in Egypt. It was banned, she was arrested for drug trafficking and is now in prison.

This stuff is rare, but be prepared. You can always carry a doctor’s letter describing the medication and why it has been prescribed to you.

5. How long are you traveling for?

You don’t need to carry massive amounts of each travel medical kit item. Just enough to cover you if something happens. You can always restock at the nearest pharmacy once you use your supplies.

Tip: Consider doing a First Aid course.

If you are traveling for a long time in the wilderness, it might be an idea to do a first aid course. The odds of something happening are very low, but it’s best to be prepared.

Travel Medical Kit Packing List

You can go overboard and put things in your travel medical kit that you’ll probably never use. It does depend on where you are traveling.

There are however a few essentials I’d recommend not traveling without.

Craig’s mum was a nurse and would provide us with plenty of the essentials to include in our travel medical kit .

Our First Aid packing list we are giving you is based upon what she would give us to pack AND what we also have found to be super useful ourselves in over 20 years of travel.

Preventatives for a Healthy You

First let’s talk about preventatives.

I’m not a health guru or medical practitioner but there are a few things I believe in because I have seen the results within my own health, particularly when I travel.

Instead of managing sickness on the road, it’s best to just not get sick. Sometimes we can’t avoid it, but there are a few things we can do to help.

I know one lady who was the only one on a Chinese tour bus taking them. She was the only one who did not get sick. Since taking probiotics for a year now, I have not gotten sick once while traveling.

We have a partnership with Up4 Probiotics, (who has sponsored this post) which I arranged because I am a massive advocate for probiotics.

The  UP4 Ultra Probiotics  with ultra-high potency is perfect for travelers with a higher potency for digestive and immune support – strengthening your gut and helping you keep those germs at bay.

Make sure you take probiotics along for your children as well – The  UP4 Kids Cubes  come in the form of soft vanilla melts, which the kids will love. Savannah has a very sensitive stomach and probiotics have done wonders for her.

You can buy UP4 Probiotics at Target  or online.

Liver Tonic

Your liver works so hard to detox from all the toxins entering your body: pollution, alcohol, chemicals, fatty and sugary foods etc. Traveling can put a huge amount of extra strain on your liver.

Just put a squirt of this tonic in water a couple of times a day to give you liver a strength boost.

It doesn’t taste bad so don’t worry. I love how much better I feel since I’ve been taking this daily.

(My tip: if you are indulging in alcohol, have a squirt before you drink and when you have finished. It will make a difference on your hangover and recovery)

Drink it as pure as you can and have LOTS of it every day. Keep your body hydrated and filtered.

Make Smart Choices

Going for a joy ride on a scooter after five beers of Bintang is never a smart choice. Yet we hear the same disaster story repeatedly!

You’re smart enough to get yourself on the travel road, you’re smart enough to make choices that don’t put you in dangerous and reckless situations.

But yeah, we’ve all been young so carry a good medical first aid kit with you!

Travel Medical Kit

Thermometer.

If you travel with kids I’d say a thermometer is an absolute essential to pack in your travel medical kit.

We did not have one when Savannah got sick in Thailand and I really wish we did as she could have been borderline in trouble. A thermometer can be a good indicator for you if you need to get help fast.

Band aids, or plasters, are super handy.

You want to keep your wound exposed to air as much as you can to dry it out, but sometimes you want to stop the blood and protect it from infection.

I got tons of infections in Indonesia in all my cuts and scars. We were adventurous travelers and the humid polluted air did not help.

Reopening one of those wounds to get all the pus out was not pleasant. I can still feel the pain 20 years later. And I still have a small scar on my left shoulder from a pimple that got infected in Jakarta. That air was putrid.

With kids, band aids are like the magic water, it just instantly seems to heal them

Make sure you have band aids of assorted sizes.

Recently I scraped out my hand mountain biking in Austria . I needed quite a big band aid to cover it up. Non-stick gauze comes in handy too to cover the wound with the band aid on top.

We tend to carry just one or two bandages.

We had to use bandages on a trip to North Queensland when curious Savannah wanted to investigate the iron I had just put back in the cupboard  – it was still HOT. She won’t do that again.

The bandage came in handy for keeping it clean and covered when zip lining through the humid jungle.

Pain Relief

You might call it Panadol or Ibuprofen or Paracetamol. Whatever it is, pack some, just in case. Try water and other natural remedies first. Don’t forget the pain relief for your kids as well.

Surgical Tape

Diarrhoea and vomiting tablets

Really, I think it’s best to let the virus run its course and out of your body rather than plugging it up with this medicine.

But, if you’ve ever had food poisoning then you know you’re saying,

“Screw that, give me something that will end this horror!!”

Pack it. But hold off on using it unless you’re desperate.

Some natural methods that have worked for me before – lots of electrolytes and hot black tea with salt in it (Thank you Lombok for that home remedy )

I’ve used gauze countless times to clean up blood, apply pressure to a wound, cover a wound with surgical tape or a band aid on tip. It’s super useful.

Craig’s mum has always given us individually wrapped gauze which makes it easier to use and apply rather than having to cut up pieces from a roll.

I recently had the unpleasant experience of a nurse using tweezers to scrape out gravel and pluck small stones embedded my hand from my mountain biking accident.

You can use them for all sort of things, including pulling out ticks. More on that below.

Okay, so I maybe going overboard with the Vaseline and odds are you won’t want to pack it.

But, after seriously thinking I was going to die with tick bite fever in South Africa, I hear the word tick and go into convulsions.

Kalyra does now too after a tick embedded itself into my leg in Narooma at the beginning of our Australia road trip and I ran screaming down the main street,

“Emergency!!! Where’s the doctor??”

After finding one a few doors down, I busted through the front doors and demanded to see the doctor,

“because you don’t understand I have a tick in my leg and I’ve had tick bite fever before and I. Just. Can’t. Do. That. Again.”

She gingerly took me into the doctor’s room who quickly smothered the tick with Vaseline to suffocate it and then removed it with tweezers.

This is what you do! Don’t pull it out.

Suffocate the damn thing first otherwise chances are you’ll leave its head in your body and put yourself in a whole world of trouble.”

Scissors can come in handy if you need to cut bandages or gauze. Although make sure you put them in your checked luggage.

I’ve lost far too many of the girls’ desktop scissors before when they’ve been unknowingly put into their carry on.

Antiseptic Wipes

Yes. Pack them. My adventurous lifestyle has led to far too many scrapes and cuts. I’ve had too many infections from them as well, which suck!!

Essential Oils

There are a lot of essential oils that are super useful for travelers. Peppermint , Lavender and Ginger Oil are great for motion sickness.

Lemon essential oil is wonderful for many things, but I love to put it in my morning tonic tea as a lovely cleanser.

Tea tree oil is also fantastic to pack as an antibacterial. Dab it on your bites and wounds to help stop infections.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is a skin superfood that comes from the seeds of the fruit of the Shea (Karite) tree that is naturally rich in vitamins A, E and F.

It offers UV protection (it is SPF ~6) and provides the skin with essential fatty acids and the nutrients necessary for collagen production.

Shea butter is fantastic for sunburn, cracked lips, bites and itches, blemishes, eczema, wrinkles, wounds, and as a moisturizer.

It’s also great to use as a mosquito repellent. I have tested it many times and can tell you, it kept the mosquitoes from biting!!

It’s also a natural sunscreen. There’s nothing it can’t do!

Don’t travel without it.

I got mine from a local farmers market in Knoxville.

See these 21 reasons to use Shea Butter.

Sting Relief

When I asked our Facebook community what they include in the travel medical kit, I was surprised by how many people mentioned Stingoes.

It seems mosquito bites are a problem for travelers!

I like my shea butter as it only has shea butter in it and its organic. Tiger balm is also another one that works well. Save on packing though and just use Shea butter for everything.

Don’t go to the party without them!

Sterilized Needles

You won’t need these if you are traveling in Western countries and close to medical facilities.

It might be a good idea to pack them if you are going to third world countries and roughing it in the wild.

I always traveled with them when I backpacked through South East Asia and Africa. I’ve never needed them but just in case is good when it comes to your health.

I don’t travel without them now. Make sure they are in a sealed package.

Electrolytes/ Hydrolytes

All you do is mix it with clean water and you’ll be putting all the goodness in your body you may have lost from being sick or physical exertion.

I swear by these when I have food poisoning or Bali Belly. Coconut water is also a great substitute. If you can get it local, drink as much as you can.

Antihistamine Cream

The chances of you being bitten by something on your travels is high. I’m not talking deathly spiders, but any bug can cause an irritating and itchy reaction for you.

Antihistamine cream is a good thing to pack in your travel medical kit especially if you are prone to reactions.

If you suffer from allergies, you’ll want to travel with this.

Antibacterial Cream

As someone who has had a lot of cuts and scrapes on her travels AND had them turn infectious, I really recommend packing in some antibacterial cream, especially if you like hiking and adventure travel in humid climates.

Burn Relief

Aloe Vera is wonderful for when you spend too much time in the sun. Or Vitamin E cream.

I don’t always pack this, but if you are going to spend a lot of time in the sun it might be a good idea, especially if you can’t find an aloe Vera tree (our friends had one on the roof of their van when we traveled around Europe.

It was awesome and came in handy so many times.

Maybe just try not to get sunburned as well.

It may be good to carry though for more serious burns, as what happened when Savannah investigated the iron.

(But again, shea butter!!)

Personal Medication

What medication do you need that’s relevant to your life?

Birth control pills, blood pressure medication etc. Only you know this. Make sure you take enough for your trip.

Some handy first aid packing tips:

It’s an excellent choice which includes the most travel medical kit essentials and is perfect for families and adventurers.

• Tablets over liquids or gels. If you can’t put the liquids and gels into zip lock bags in case, they leak.
• Get travel size packaging. You may be able to get sample size products from your doctor you can take. That’s what Craig’s Mum and my brother-in-law would give us, and it was enough.
• Bottles take up a lot of space so look for sachets or flat pack products. To save space you can take out the items from the boxed packaging, but be sure to label and keep any vital information. I didn’t do this (except for Nurofen) because I was worried I’d forget or lose the instructions.

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Any must have items we’ve forgotten to include in this travel medical kit packing checklist?

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Southeast Asia Packing List | Backpacking Essentials Asia

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Apr 4, 2023 | Asia , Travel Gear , Travel Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia soon? In this guide, we’ll help you figure out what to pack for backpacking Southeast Asia.

We’ll divide our Southeast Asia packing list into different sections to help you pack everything you need.

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When it comes to packing for Asia, it may be challenging at first – especially if this is your first backpacking trip to Southeast Asia!

Without further ado, let’s start with the basics. Then, we’ll cover all the backpacking essentials.

Medical Supplies And Travel Insurance

The first thing to pack for Southeast Asia is a few medical supplies and good travel insurance. If you’re planning on traveling long-term, I’d recommend Safetywing or Genki .

You can read our guide on the best long-term travel insurance to help you decide.

When in Southeast Asia, you should make sure to be careful with what you eat. After all, having a completely new diet could lead to digestion problems.

After being in Bali for so long everybody seems to know what a “ Bali Belly ” is.

We’ve all been there, struggling with a dodgy stomach and running for that toilet that suddenly appears to be super far!

Between the toilet marathon and the flu caused by a pretty powerful AC, there is a high chance that you’ll get sick at some point.

You shouldn’t have to tiptoe around what you eat because you have a big adventure planned for the day. Travelan helps you to enjoy all your experiences while traveling – including the food.

Travelan is a packing essential, especially while traveling in Southeast Asia, as you can avoid the expected and unexpected stomach issues that come with the territory.

You can take one capsule before your meal and let Travelan do the rest.

Make sure you bring a first aid kit that includes tablets for headaches and stomach troubles.

Of course, if you ask me, I’m not always prepared for the worst, but it can be pretty easy to find a pharmacy with the medical supplies you might need abroad.

If you’re about to board a plane or an overnight bus with a dodgy stomach, you might not have the time to run to the pharmacy!

I met many people who hurt themselves while they were abroad, and of course, you could be luckier than them or me! We can’t prevent everything, though!

What if you break your tooth, if you get a naughty bladder infection, or if you crash your scooter? It can be quite hard to avoid infections in Asia.

A minor cut can become pretty nasty quickly in Southeast Asia!

Wondering Where To Buy What You Need For Your Travels In Asia?

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Best Travel Clothes For Backpacking Asia

Make sure to have comfortable clothes for traveling to Asia.

Think of tank tops, elephant pants , and fluffy clothing. In fact, they are pretty popular amongst backpackers!

Good news – you can always shop for a new travel wardrobe in Southeast Asia, knowing that many other people will also buy some of these trendy, comfy clothes.

You should also pack comfortable travel clothing prior to your trip!

Accessories To Survive The Tropical Weather In Southeast Asia

Grab your straw hat, your sarong, and your sunnies, and put a bit of sunscreen on, and you should be ready to hit the best beaches in Southeast Asia!

Let’s talk about what to pack for Southeast Asia.

You know you want to bring all the essential backpack supplies for your upcoming trip!

• Quick-dry towel
• Waterproof bag
• Day backpack
• Universal charger and adaptors (especially since most countries have different outlets!)
• Hiking shoes
• Mosquito repellant
• Travel pillow

Camera Gear & Tech

Unless your phone takes pretty good pictures already, you could consider bringing a camera with you while you’re in Southeast Asia.

I, personally, always travel with my GoPro and with a few accessories such as a head mount, tripod, and underwater case.

If a GoPro is a bit out of your budget, you could also check out alternatives for underwater cameras.

You should also consider bringing a power bank to charge your phone and other gadgets, especially on a plane or a long bus ride.

If you work online or like to travel with a laptop, you can always find cheap and convenient travel laptops that won’t take up too much room in your backpack.

Read more on how to choose the best laptop .

Best Luggage For Southeast Asia Travels

There are a few things to consider when choosing a piece of luggage to travel to Southeast Asia.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself to help you decide:

• Do you prefer to travel with a carry-on only?
• Are you on a budget?
• Do you have back pain?
• What do you feel more comfortable with? A suitcase or a backpack?

These questions are important because the answer can influence your choice.

For example, if you can pack light, having a carry-on can be a smart choice.

But, if you prefer to travel with large quantities of liquids, or if you have too much stuff to bring, you may want to bring a check-in luggage.

Then, if you are on a tight budget, you should know that some airlines in Asia charge for check-in luggage.

That said, the price can be much higher, so if you’re on a budget, traveling with a carry-on luggage will save you money.

Now, if you have back pain or if you don’t feel comfortable traveling with a backpack, you may want to pick a suitcase instead.

Otherwise, read our guide about the best backpacks for back pain .

Having a suitcase in Asia can be problematic if you travel by motorbike, but if you’re not planning on traveling with a scooter, the suitcase can work too.

For several years, I traveled with a carry-on backpack (33 litres), and it was perfect for my needs at the time.

Eventually, I changed my luggage and had a backpack with wheels which was the perfect mix between a backpack and a suitcase.

But now that I have more equipment for work and work out a lot, I need to bring more stuff with me when I travel.

I now travel with a check-in suitcase as well as a day backpack.

If you travel with a backpack, you can read about the best waterproof backpacks or the best backpacks with wheels .

Alternatively, you could pick a carry-on suitcase, like the one below.

Take a look at the different types of luggage available on Level8 . You can also get 10% off using our coupon code: ABROKENBACKPACK10

Getting Ready For A Backpacking Trip To Southeast Asia

Here’s a quick Asia checklist of what you need to prepare before going to the next country in Southeast Asia:

• Do you need a visa? If so, do you need to apply at the embassy, or can you do it online on iVisa ? (If you’re heading to Cambodia or Vietnam , I already wrote about their visas!)
• Do you know anything about the popular scams in this country? Better be safe than sorry!
• Do you need a flight out of the country as proof of onward travel?
• Do you want to purchase an Asia SIM card or an eSIM for Asia to have access to the Internet everywhere during your trip?

Final Thoughts On Backpacking Essentials For Asia

There you go, you have it – your complete backpacking Southeast Asia packing list .

By now, you should know exactly what to pack for your trip to Southeast Asia.

Remember, you don’t need to bring everything on this list. Take what you know that you will use and leave the rest at home.

Don’t get too bogged down by what you took with you, just take the essentials and enjoy your adventure!

Want more backpacking tips? Read one of the following blog posts:

• Easy backpacking meals
• Staying in a hostel
• Bali vs Thailand
• Cheapest Asian country to fly to

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Travel Gear

30 days to packing a better bag – day 19: the essential travel medical kit.

Welcome to Day 19 of 30 Days to Packing a Better Bag .

Today’s topic is all about a little something that many people overlook when they first start adventuring: the essential travel medical kit . We knew we wanted to prepare the essential list for you ladies, but after further inspection, we’ve decided that there are too many variables in order to be able to give one, finite list. Some women may require extra medications and have other health issues (chronic allergies perhaps) that cause their medical kit to expand, while some ladies might simply be heading across country for a quick 2-week tour of a major city.

Since we can’t give you one fail-safe packing list , we are going to give you several recommended items, plus a few tips that can help you to minimize what you actually decide to pack.

You’ll want to put a little time into this task. Why? Because a good traveler is always prepared.

Tweet that travel mantra out right now!

Evaluate Needs According to Trip Style

Part of this 30 days project has been for you to recognize your trip style and preferred destinations. These will obviously impact the amount and types of products that will need to go into your medical kit. Taking a road trip to major cities across the USA? Chances are you won’t need to pack much into your medical kit since pharmacies and doctors will be accessible (and understandable). Heading to the remote wilds of Central Asia or Mongolia ? Then you want to have a mini pharmacy in your bag at all times.

In the same light, those heading to the wilderness for camping and hiking will likely want a good medical kit that can get them by several hours or days should an emergency arise. People heading to countries where medical treatments and medicine can be seen as “less regulated” will want to be as prepared as possible, and within good reason of course. And, if you’re just heading to a destination where English is not widely spoken, then you will probably want to lessen the chance of pharmacy or doctor confusion by having some supplies with you for your basic needs. Think colds and female issues.

Evaluate Needs According to Personal Health

Before setting off on your travels, you really need to think about your own personal issues and the likelihood that you will need something important in a random country abroad.

For example, are you a female that gets more frequent UTIs? You better pack some medicine for that. Do you tend to get the dreaded yeasty beast on occasion? Yes, pack medicine for that, too! The last thing you want on your Euro Adventure is to be stuck in a doctor’s office getting your hoo-hah checked out by someone you can barely understand!

The Basic Kit

For shorter jaunts, city-bound, your travel medical kit might consist solely of some aspirin, pepto and band-aids. Here are the items to consider:

Pain pills: For the random headache and hangover.

Stomach meds: Think Pepto Bismol or Mylanta. Chances are you might have a few extra drinks, or a few extra servings of delicious food, on your travels that throw your stomach out of whack. Throw in jet lag , and your stomach might be even more confused.

Band-aids: For blisters, shaving cuts and other random small issues that might be in need of a quick fix.

Birth Control: Whether condoms, pills or both, you should always be prepared and stay regular.

Vitamins: A good multivitamin can be your best friend when you travel since our diets often go out the window. Combined with added travel stress, time changes and more public transport use, a vitamin might be just what the doctor ordered.

Extras to Consider

Anti-Diarrhea Meds: For destinations with sketchy food and water. These (think Immodium) can be a lifesaver, but not a cure.

Anti-itch Cream: For bug bites and small skin reactions. If heading to a mosquito prone destination, this is essential.

Cipro: The traveler’s antibiotic. This broad-spectrum tablet can cure a slew of ailments, but only take as recommended by a doctor. Update: May not be the go-to antibiotic, so please check with a travel doctor.

Probiotics: The kind that don’t need to be refrigerated. If you’re in a country that can do a number on your stomach, or if you have to take antibiotics, then these are a great addition.

Antibacterial Gel: For applying to minor cuts and abrasions. When traveling in less-than-fresh locations, a little antibacterial gel (think Neosporin) can make a huge difference.

Motion Sickness Tablets : For boat rides and long bus rides through the mountains.

>>Read more about how to prevent motion sickness here .

Decongestants: Essential if flying with a stuffy nose.

Electrolyte Replacements: Again, essential in places where you might have stomach issues.

Blister Strips: If you’re doing extra walking or hiking , a blister strip can help alleviate ongoing pain and issues.

Wound Cleaning: Alcohol or iodine swabs, gauze and medical tape.

Water Tablets : In many locations it is possible to buy bottled water , but more remote travelers will survive on iodine tablets.

Altitude Sickness Tablets: Certain destinations in mountains can cause altitude sickness without the proper care and attention.

Anti-malarials: Research your destinations in advance so you can be sure to stock up on the correct type of anti-malarial pills. Insect repellent is also important in these destinations.

>>Talk to your doctor about travel vaccinations before your trip .

Yeast Infection Treatment: Go for a tablet instead of cream as it will be easier to carry.

Cold / Flu Meds: Only if you don’t think you can get these at your destination.

Extras: Tweezers, safety pins and mini scissors.

Medical Kit Packing Tips

1. Go for tablets over liquids, gels and creams. Pepto tablets over liquid. Pain tablets instead of pain cream. Antihistamine tablets over cream.

2. Go for sachets and flat-packed tablets instead of tubes and bottles. Bottles are the ultimate space-suck.

3. Look for travel size packaging. Ask your doctor for sample size products that you can take with you on your trip. They will more than likely be enough but save you space in your kit.

4. Remove items from boxes, or flat-pack boxes to save space. If your medicine doesn’t have instructions on the individual items, be sure to keep leaflets, or cut out the instructions from the box and secure to medicine with a rubber band. ONLY remove items from bigger boxes if they are individually packaged and labeled. Loose pills are a no-no!

5. Store items in the empty space of bottles. If you must take bottles, use the empty space for individually packed (and labeled!) aspirins and the like.

Further Tips

Only take as much as you will need. For most trips, this is just enough to get by until you’re able to find a pharmacy to replenish.

Always visit a travel doctor before big trips away to ensure you have the knowledge and gear before a trip. It is also important to make sure the medications won’t interact with something else. For example, some antibiotics interfere with birth control pills. These are things you will want to know, ladies.

Take Action: Prepare Your Medical Kit Take note of your itinerary and think about the situations you might be put in on your travels. Prepare your ultimate medical kit, making sure to think about size and space in the process.

Is there anything not here that you can’t travel without? Let us know.

Written by Brooke

I run the show at Her Packing List and love packing ultralight. In fact, I once traveled for 3 entire weeks with just the contents of a well-packed 12L handbag . When I'm not obsessing over luggage weight, I'm planning adventures or just snuggling with my pet rabbit, Sherlock Bunz.

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Reader Interactions

September 20, 2013 at 3:24 am

Thanks for this awesome article! I’m notorious for getting some kind of injury while travelling. For example, I’ve had a blockage in my gallbladder, stung by two very large jelly fish at once, fell off a raft and landed on some very hard rocks, got pinned under a tree under the water… The list goes on. However, what do you recommend for a person that is on a lot of different medications? I have a whopping 10 pills I take a day. I was thinking perhaps pouring what I need into zip lock bags and labeling them? I have an AM/PM pill holder, but I don’t think that would be the greatest thing to take in a bag, especially because it pops right open. Nothing like searching through your bag for a pill the size of half your pinkie nail!

September 21, 2013 at 2:51 am

You can buy teeny bags at craft stores and make up as many bags of meds as you have days on the trip. Take a few extra days of course but the bags can be thrown away once used or repurposed and dont take up the space of a pill box.

September 21, 2013 at 6:54 pm

I have done that exact thing myself! Mini plastic bags can be a lifesaver! Plus you can suck all the extra air out. 🙂

October 5, 2013 at 2:47 pm

Hi…just wondering if there are requirements in regards to medications being in original,labelled packaging when travelling internationally? I am heading off on a 6 month backpacking trip so I have to take quite a lot with me (daily med, pill, vitamins, anti-malarial, and other meds as mentioned for headaches, stomach upsets etc)….so I’m worried about how much room this will take up!!

October 7, 2013 at 10:54 am

As a general rule, you need to have pills in their original packaging. So, if you pick up some antimalarials from the doctor, they should stay in that bottle and labeled (ask your pharmacist for a smaller bottle if possible). You should also have prescriptions/notes with those types of medications. For things like pain pills, etc., go with things that are individually packed and labeled… like pepto bismol tablets that are packed in tear-off sheets and are clearly labeled on each as pepto. Any pill sheets are going to be easier to pack than bulky bottles. If traveling to destinations where maybe certain medications might not be legal, check with your embassy. Take only as much as you think you’ll need. If traveling to fairly Western destinations, you will most likely be able to pick up extra headache meds, stomach meds and vitamins as you go.

October 7, 2013 at 11:56 am

Thanks Brooke! I had read that info about the doctor’s note regarding medications and I just wasn’t sure how much I could cut down on the packaging for my medication (putting more strips into one box). I am heading to numerous countries in South America and also to the USA. We leave in just over two weeks and the reality has set in and I am starting to get stressed! Hahahaha

By the way…I LOVE this site and wish I had found it months ago when I first started packing!!! Keep up the fantastic work!!

January 3, 2014 at 11:00 pm

Great article! I unpack all of my meds and then bundle them together using my hair ties – when I’m finished my meds I have spare hair ties to use to replace the ones I loose along the way!

January 22, 2014 at 4:30 am

One thing that a lot of people forget to bring is Benadryl/allergy meds. While traveling in a different country or even a different city you are around different areas, foods, etc. I didn’t know I had a sudden allergic reaction to ginger until it would have been too late. Luckily I had Benadryl in my purse and I was able to take that before my throat closed all the way up. This is a NEED if you are going anywhere, it could save your life!!

April 15, 2019 at 4:26 pm

This is so true! I had a weird allergy in a field camp and got a rash, didn’t have any allergy medication and I was saved by some flu pills that had antihistamines. After that I always carry Benadryl. Also, I got a weird allergy to fungus and spores and cannot stop sneezing, need to prepare for that too. I am planning a long term trip to Africa and adding all this super useful info.

March 2, 2014 at 3:11 pm

If I can’t take my meds in their original packaging, like when it’s a huge pill bottle or the long gone boxes my epi pens & inhalers came in, a week our so before I leave I ask my pharmacy to print out a bottle label for each prescription I’m taking. That way if a TSA agent needs proof that at it’s my med, I’ve got it.

July 19, 2014 at 7:04 pm

Thanks for your wonderful, helpful website. Great ideas for a chronic overpacker. I spend three to four months in one location every year, so I’m basically living wherever I happen to be, however, as a renter, I can’t leave a permanent stash, but must pack afresh for each trip.

I bring an assortment of cream medicines, such as anti-itch, muscle relaxant, antifungal, antibacterials in contact lense cases. Squeeze an amount into one of the little cups, close it up and using an indelible pen ( Sharpie ), print the name of the medicine either on the face or bottom of the container. Even liquids such as Betadine or a veggie wash can be put in these. They’re sturdy and for extra safety, can be sealed in a ziplock sandwich, or even a snack size zip bag. I even use these for prescription creams (rosacea), but I haven’t crossed any iffy borders into third world countries. I do take photos of my Rx’s and keep those on my ipad. I’ve rarely needed to purchase a larger size at a pharmacy, but at least I have enough for an urgent moment until I can get more.

June 11, 2015 at 3:05 pm

A hard-earned tip: Don’t assume you’ll be able to get the same OTC drugs you did at home just because you’re traveling to a big western city. I got a cold/flu my first few days on a trip to Germany and had to haul my butt out to the local Apotheke, where they’d only give me ineffective herbal remedies. (No disrespect to effective herbals, but these did not help.)

Now I keep a small pouch filled with Nyquil, Dayquil, and other OTCs from home so I can hunker down with remedies that I know work instead of having to hunt while sick for something that just might help. Experiment with foreign shampoo and snacks, not medications!

July 18, 2015 at 2:47 pm

My travels are to places without doctors or chemists so I need to take something for all potential occurrences. For sheer space saving – I use the tiny snack sized zip locks – about a third the size of a lunch one. i keep all pills in blister packs and I cut out the box showing the name and the prescription sticker. I label the bags – tummy, pain, allergy, colds. I get my doc to prescribe me several types of broad spectrum high dose antibiotics – pack of 3 pills for one per day so small to back. sachets of cranberry UTI and orange electrolytes are a mainstay. Super useful find lately has been stick on hot and cold packs. Lovely slimline ones that stay hot or cold for up to 8 hours in situations where you cant access an icepack or heat pack. The two hot ones I have tried are Hotteze and Nurofen from chemists, and cold ones were a Migraine Cool and Soothe which I found in the Post Office. All are small flat and compact to tuck into a slimline first aid bag. I tossed out most of the creams and potions and stick with Lucas Paw Paw for just about everything.

September 16, 2015 at 6:00 pm

It is important to include the expiration information on any medications you pack away from their original packaging. Some blister packs include the expiration date with each pill (which is great!), but some do not. So if you are cutting out only part of the original box, include the expiration date.

I keep ibuprofen, Benadryl, etc. pills in little 6 compartment box I found at Target years ago. I write the name of the pill on the cover, even though by now I know them by sight. Since the pills are loose, whenever the bottle they come from expire and I buy a new bottle, I dump out the old ones in my pill box and replace them with pills from the new bottle. That way, I know the pills are always good.

August 5, 2017 at 2:39 am

Thanks for the article and all the helpful tips.

I do have one point. Why would you take antibiotics? How often do you need them every 5-10 years? In the US they seem to prescibe antibiotics for everything. If you have a virus it won’t do a thing. Plus it will do a number on healthy gut bacteria. Which is not helpful if you are abroad. And if you do not take the whole package in x number of days you help bacteria to become more resistant. People have died recently because antibiotics don’t work anymore. This is a secious issue! Look up podcasts from the house call doctor on quick and dirty tips. She is a real doctor and has also some podcasts about travelling and medication. But look up the one on antibiotics!

@Robin I’m sorry you didn’t get anything that worked. In Germany and the Netherlands and probably other countries you only get over the counter medication. You need to see a doctrine for a prescription. Even if you have taken it before. They are not allowed to give it to you. In the Netherlands it’s best to go to a normal doctor because it’s faster.

February 5, 2018 at 10:02 am

You bring antibiotics on a trip because you may get a bacterial infection that might not clear up in its own. If you are a long way from medical help, this can turn into an emergency situation. Certainly no one should be taking antibiotics for a case of the sniffles but antibiotics are a must when it comes to severe traveller’s diarrhea, some sinus infections, infected cuts/scapes/wounds, seriius animal bites/stings.

December 28, 2018 at 8:25 am

I have a long list of documented/genetic chronic diagnoses, several rare disorders, and immunodeficiencies (my PCP told me I’m “overqualified” for disability/SSDI). I LOVE to travel but need to be prepped for any issues that arise – including chronic infections that have landed me in the hospital. My primary care and travel docs always make sure I take along a course of antibiotics in case an issue arises – like a kidney infection or significant gut issue. In spite of being verrry careful about what I consume, I ended up with cryptosporidium that went on for 6 mo and nearly killed me. My husband has a god-like immune system – his crypto lasted 3 days. Canapple makes very valid points. PS – this site is awesome.

September 19, 2017 at 11:26 am

I just returned from hiking Inca Trail (Peru) where I got travelers diarrhea along the trek. Azithromycin is the new recommended antibiotic rather than cipro. You might want to verify this through travel medicine doctor. Also, I like the electrolyte chews. They are heavier but contain some sugar and are easier on the stomach if you are really sick and need to stay moving on the trail.

December 28, 2017 at 2:45 pm

Great packing list! I am looking forward to a 3 month trek through South America in a few days and putting together a med kit right now. I want to really caution readers against Cipro as a cure-all antibiotic. Cipro is one of the hardest hitting antibiotics that is prescribed orally and in almost all cases the equivalent of bringing an uzi to a knife fight. If you want to bring an antibiotic, choose a more mild one, or purchase one at a local pharmacy.

[…] Aid Kit– Assemble a basic first aid kit for your trip, which should include bandages, aspirin, antibiotic ointment, burn cream and […]

[…] First-aid kit – Be sure to bring medicine that treats diarrhea, nausea and headaches, and keep the first in your purse/pocket at all times. Bad food can hit you quick, and it can hit you hard. Don’t be that person stuck in a squat toilet, weeping, calling their friends to find them more toilet paper. […]

[…] you’re not someone who travels with an extensive first aid kit, you can still find remedies for your afflictions by purchasing medicines in your destination or […]

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5 medications I wish I'd brought on my trip to Southeast Asia

Last time I went to Southeast Asia, I was just about to start medical school. Now that I'm a practicing emergency room doctor, I keep these medications in my bag to treat the most common health problems while traveling. Everyone should travel with a medical kit, and I recommend you consider adding these items to your kit.

Before we begin, a quick disclaimer: this information is provided for your general information only and isn't medical advice. Don't use this information to treat a health problem without speaking with a qualified healthcare provider.

Ok, let's get to it.

Nausea and vomiting: ondansetron (Zofran®)

This anti-nausea medication was originally developed to treat nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients. It worked so well that it's now used routinely in emergency rooms to treat nausea for gastroenteritis ("stomach bugs") and food poisoning in adults and kids as young as 6 months old.

If you feel nauseated or are vomiting after eating a few too many servings of Pad Thai, a Zofran tablet dissolved in your mouth can help relieve your symptoms.

Traveler's diarrhea: azithromycin

You've probably taken this antibiotic – it's the active ingredient in the "Z-pack" that's commonly prescribed for coughs during the winter months.

It's also the antibiotic of choice for traveler's diarrhea, particularly in Southeast Asia where bacteria have developed resistance to other classes of antibiotics.

Traveler's diarrhea is the most common illness in people traveling to the developing world, with up to 60% of people having diarrhea at some point during their trip.

A three-day course of azithromycin is an effective treatment for traveler's diarrhea.

Don't forget: the most important part of treatment of diarrhea is staying hydrated. Drink clean bottled water, diluted Gatorade, or make your own rehydration solution with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 4 tablespoons of sugar in one liter of water.

Remember: seek emergency medical attention, and avoid simply treating yourself, if you develop high fever, abdominal pain, or bloody diarrhea.

Eye infections and ear infections: ofloxacin

Oxfloxacin is an antibiotic drop is used to treat eye and ear infections. If you develop an eye or ear infection after swimming in Halong Bay (pictured below), ofloxacin drops can help clear up the infection.

Skin infection: mupirocin (Bactroban®) cream

Mupirocin is a topical antibiotic cream used to treat skin infections. It's stronger than Neosporin cream you'd buy at the drug store, because it also covers MRSA infection.

If you develop an infection on your skin while traveling, mupirocin cream is a reasonable treatment option.

Remember to wash all wounds thoroughly with soap and water, and keep them covered with a clean bandage changed at least once a day.

Other infections: ciprofloxacin (Cipro®)

Ciprofloxacin , brand name Cipro, is another general purpose antibiotic that's useful to have on hand. You may have heard its name in the news, because it happens to be the antibiotic that's used to treat anthrax.

In Southeast Asia, Cipro is handy to treat infections caused by jellyfish stings or other marine envenomations. It can also be used to treat a more serious infection should you develop one, such as a urinary tract infection, pneumonia, typhoid, shigella, dental infection, salmonella, and more.

While no single antibiotic can be used to treat every kind of infection, Cipro is a reasonable choice for an all-purpose antibiotic to have on hand.

Where to get these medicines

Visit Duration Health , where we sell prescription medication kits with these and other medicines specifically geared toward travelers. We prescribe emergency travel medications online, and ship them to you before your trip.

When you buy a Med Kit, you get a free online consultation with an emergency doctor , who can help you decide what medications are most appropriate for you.

All Med Kits come with ongoing email support from our doctors , so you can get medical advice if you're sick in the middle of nowhere.

And, we provide you with extensive education on when to use or not to use these medications in an emergency situation while traveling.

Get your Med Kit now at durationhealth.com

What about malaria.

Patients often ask me if they should be taking malaria prophylaxis for their trip. The answer is: it depends on exactly where you're traveling and what you'll be doing.

Discuss your options for preventing and treating malaria with your Duration Health provider. We can add malaria prevention medication to Duration Health medication kits for travelers who require it.

Also consider...

I recommend you check out the excellent CDC travel website for recommended vaccines before you go.

Every travel bag should have basic medicines and supplies like Tylenol (acetaminophen), Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Imodium (loperamide), Dramamine (dimenhydrinate), hydrocortisone cream, and bandages.

Have a safe trip!

Disclaimer: This post is not medical advice. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately.

Remote + Afloat

Medication to take backpacking: Our essential medical kit packing list

Deciding what medication to take backpacking

There is nothing worse than getting sick on the road and in certain situations its simply not possible to reach a pharmacy (think long heady boat trips or hot deserted islands ). From our experience, it is always good practice to have a well-stocked medical kit to hand. So without further ado, here is our recommended packing list of medication to take backpacking!

Medication Checklist

Malaria Tablets Malaria still exists in certain parts of SE Asia so check your destination before you travel. We took a two months supply to cover us during our initial stay in West Papua and the Philippines , and opted for Malarone which had minimal side effects. Discuss this with your GP first – It isn’t recommended to take Malaria tablets for an extended period of time.

As we only bought a two month supply, when we went back to Raja Ampat for the second time (unplanned) we weren’t taking any Malaria precautions. This was a bit risky, but we made up for it by covering ourselves in clothing and 100% Deet at dusk and dawn to avoid bites as much as possible.

Ibuprofen & Paracetamol Pain killers are an essential regardless of where you are in the world! We took a good supply with us but have had to re-stock on numerous occasions. It’s possible to buy Paracetamol off the shelf in supermarkets and 7-Elevens across SE Asia, but if you want Ibuprofen this is only available over the counter. The good news is, its inexpensive and tablets are normally 400mg each, helping maximise space and minimise packaging.

Cold & Flu Tablets Much like painkillers, these are an essential item. After experiencing a few rainy days and sleeping in a damp bungalow in Raja Ampat, Nick got sick – which just goes to show that it is still possible to catch a cold in paradise! Colds have a tendency to make you feel really lousy, so we also recommend packing some effervescent tablets and sore throat relief like Beekeeper’s Naturals propolis to ease symptoms.

Top tip – Even after a couple of months of travelling, certain supplies had diminished, so we always try to stock up on our must-have items (like painkillers ) if we are ever near a pharmacy.

Antihistamine With a high chance of insect bites and jellyfish stings while in the tropics, it is sensible to bring along some antihistamine tablets . I was bitten by a horrible horse fly once and it made me feel sick and a bit dizzy, so I quickly popped an antihistamine which did the trick.

Immodium For obvious reasons. You’ll likely be eating a lot of foreign food that your stomach may not be used to… The last thing you want is a bought of Bali belly ruining your trip!

Stomach Settler / Indigestion Relief Tablets If you suffer from food poisoning or an upset stomach during your travels (which is highly likely) it is really worth packing a good supply of indigestion relief / stomach settling tablets to ease delicate bellies. We use Pepcid AC , which is very effective.

Motion Sickness Tablets If you plan on travelling a lot by boat like we do, then motion sickness tablets may be advisable – especially on long ferry rides . Not all days are smooth sailing!

Water Retention Tablets I personally suffer from excess bloat and puffiness after flying so I take water retention tablets like Diurex to help these symptoms when travelling. Aspirin is also a good alternative.

Oral Rehydration Tablets ORT tablets are used to treat dehydration and replenish your body with electrolytes. With temperatures well into the 30’s and a feeling of constant humidity it is very easy to get dehydrated in SE Asia. This can also be brought on through diarrhoea, therefore Oral Rehydration Tablets are a sensible addition to your medical kit

Multivitamins It’s often difficult to maintain a consistently healthy diet while backpacking – especially if you travel on a budget like us. We try our best to keep things balanced, but in certain locations this can be challenging and we lack vitamins and minerals. It’s important to supplement this, especially whilst on the go. Multivitamins are generally cheaper at home, so stock up before you leave.

Ear Drops For snorkellers and divers, ear infections, like swimmer’s ear (ottis externa) is the most common ailment, so if you’re planning on spending a lot of time in the water, be prepared. Infections are rife in places such as Raja Ampat where there is a lot of plankton in the water. As a preventative measure, we created our own homemade mix of alcohol and white vinegar and use this once a day after snorkelling or diving to help clean and dry out our ears.

Top tip – It is important to wash out your ears with clean water straight after snorkelling or diving and if you are travelling by boat, cover them from the wind with a towel.

Eye Drops Nick and I have had laser eye surgery which makes us prone to dry eye. So artificial tears are a must-have medication to take backpacking. Symptoms are generally worsened whilst flying and when spending a lot of time in air conditioning.

Skincare Checklist

Antibacterial cream This is a med kit essential! Antibacterial cream is a multi-purpose item which can be used on a variety of ailments including cuts, bites, burns, coral stings, rashes and minor skin irritations. In hot, humid and often damp climates skin takes a lot longer to heal and is also prone to fungal infections, so make sure to apply cream ASAP.

Afterbite Even after 12 months of travelling, we still hate mosquitos. But since they’ve become part of daily life we’ve learnt how to deal with / put up with them! By far the best solution is Afterbite , which includes ammonia. If this is applied directly to a fresh bite, the itchy side effects and swelling are minimised significantly. Afterbite is also great for other insect bites and stings, so if you’re planning on trekking though the jungle this will be a firm favourite in your kit.

Alcohol/Antiseptic Wipes Alcohol and antiseptic wipes are a necessary addition to your backpacking medical kit, especially if you sustain injuries while on the go. These clean the wound, killing off any bacteria. 

Tiger balm We are a little bit obsessed with Tiger Balm with its primary use on our mosquito bites – the cooling sensation helps to ease itchiness. It’s also great for clearing nasal congestion, rubbing onto the temples to soothe headaches and muscular pain.

Top tip – If we’re staying somewhere a little on the stinky side (occasionally the bedding and pillows at homestays in Raja Ampat were a bit smelly) I rub Tiger Balm under my nose for soothing aromas to help me sleep!

First Aid Kit Checklist

Band-aid / Plasters I like to keep a little stash of band-aids in our day-bag in case of any accidents, and generally opt for waterproof band-aids or the super strong old-school fabric type. It’s really easy to sustain minor foot injuries like a stubbed toe or blisters during a hike.

Crepe Bandages & Gauze We have crepe bandages and gauze in our main first aid kit, for any larger ailments and unforeseen emergencies.

Safety Pins In case we need to use the bandages, we packed half a dozen safety pins . These also come in handy for other things such as temporarily mending holes in backpacks etc.

Surgical Tape Surgical tape is strong and water tight so if you have an injury that needs sealing this will do the job!

Folding Scissors A pair of stainless steel folding scissors are a backpacking must-have. Of course they are meant for cutting plaster strips and bandages but you’ll be surprised how useful they are. We tend to use ours on more of a day to day basis – especially for opening packs of powdered coffee and instant noodle sachets!!

Mini Sewing Kit Our clothes have sustained some significant wear and tear on this trip, therefore I highly recommend a travel sewing kit to our fellow travellers for mending clothing and bags while on the road.

Is this enough medication to take backpacking?

In truth we probably packed over-cautiously, because in most cases it is not difficult to pick up medical supplies in South East Asia. For example in Thailand you will always find a chemist in large Tesco Lotus stores and in Indonesia there are local ‘Apoteks’ in the most surprising of places!

Pharmacists generally speak English, so don’t be shy – its never been a problem for us to communicate our needs.

If you’re transiting through a town or city to reach somewhere more remote, its worth picking up any last minute supplies – even if you think you might not need them. Whilst we were in Raja Ampat I had to travel a long distance by boat to the Port of Waisai to grab medication for Nick. I really didn’t know what to expect, but thankfully found a very affordable and well-stocked pharmacy.

However, this is not always the case. So in our opinion, its always better to be safe than sorry!

We hope you found our list of medication to take backpacking useful! If you like our packing lists and want to read more blog posts like this one then please check out our Travel Guides . Have any questions? Give us a shout in the comments below!

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Question: what is your “recipe” for your homemade ear drops (ie the amounts/ratio of alcohol and vinegar)? Thanks!

Hi Shelly, we make up a 50/50 mix of alcohol and white vinegar. The alcohol solution we use is only 70% and can be purchased in pretty much all pharmacies throughout Indonesia. Hope this helps & thanks for your comment! Claire 🙂

Hi Claire I love reading your blog it’s so interesting and helpful. You may recall we met in Coropen in January? I’ve booked my flights to return to RA at the end of September for a week. I really enjoyed diving with Sandi and Maria but completely agree with your assessment of the homestay at that time. Have you heard if it has improved? Sandi said that they’ve built extra toilets, I don’t know if that means they come with a loo seat and a decent supply of paper! I know you said there were a few places Ilike Daroyen where I could stay and arrange to get picked up for diving but you mentioned that this could bit hit and miss if the dive crew forget or they’re full. As I only have a week off school I want to make the most of my return trip. I’m therefore assuming that sticking with Sandi and Maria and hoping conditions at the homestay have improved is my best bet? Thanks Michaela 😀

Hi Michaela,

Thank you so much for your lovely comment!! Yes I remember 🙂 Oh thats so awesome, we’re thinking about heading back to R4 Sep/Oct too, as long as we can get a good deal on flights from Thailand.

We’ve been in touch with Sandi and he has reassured us that the food has improved (fingers crossed re the toilet situation lol!). To be honest, with only a week you are better off sticking with a homestay like Corepen where the diving is guaranteed. Daroyen are good as long as you have time to play with, and your own equipment.

Despite our last experience, we’d definitely still go back to Corepen as we feel Sandi and Maria offer the best diving experience in Raja.

Hopefully see you out there, that would be fab! 😃 Talk soon – Claire x

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Top Must-Have Medicines While Travelling In India - Your Travel Medical Kit Guide

Medicines To Carry While Travelling In India

1. analgesic medicine, 2. antihistamine tablets, 3. cold and flu tablets, 4. cough medicine, 5. throat lozenges, 6. motion sickness tablets, 7. diarrhoea medicine, 9. antiseptic solution and ointment - first aid essentials, 10. band-aids, 11. wound dressing items, 12. insect repellant cream, 13. mild laxative, 14. antifungal or antimicrobial cream, 15. multi-vitamin tablet, 16. a pain relief balm.

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Our Travel Medical Kit: Have You Packed Yet?

• By Sarah Steiner
• Updated On March 14, 2024

The truth about packing medication for longterm travel is that you really don’t need much. We take two small travel pouches that contain our longterm travel medical kit and medication for travel.

Unless you are planning to be miles from civilisation for days on end (we were miles away for quite a few days in the hills of Kyrgyzstan ) you don’t need to go crazy with the packing.   There are pharmacies in towns and cities all over the world that will stock what you need. 

Rather, it’s easier to carry the essentials (like loperamide – trust me) and stock up whenever you run out. 

How do you know what to pack in your travel medical kit?

A packing list for longterm travel with kids is only slightly different.  (We always figure we will survive with less fuss with a headache or food poisoning, but it’s not quite as relaxing being in an unfamiliar country with a sick child).  

And, because of the age of our kids (the boys were 3 and 5 when we left New Zealand the first time) they aren’t able to swallow tablets which are far less bulky to carry.  But there are options for kid-friendly medicines that don’t take up too much space. 

• Looking for a longterm travel packing list? See our list for Packing for Family Travel .

*Ps. Definitely note that I am not a medical professional. I can’t give advice on specifics that YOU might need…  

Here is what WE took in our longterm travel medical kit and what worked well for us .

Painkillers/ Analgesics

• Paracetamol  tablets (adult)
• Ibuprofen  tablets (adult)
• Liquid paracetamol  (child) 100ml

There is nothing worse than being somewhere new and exciting with grand plans to get out and explore while dealing with an agonising headache.  

Painkillers are easy to purchase anywhere in the world (at large airports, pharmacies, supermarkets etc) so don’t worry about carrying too many.  

Especially in Asia, be sure to check ahead for restrictions by country on certain ingredients in painkillers that may not be permitted. 

Antibiotics

• 1x broad spectrum  penicillin antibiotic  (adult – tablets)
• 1x course  broad spectrum antibiotic  (child – powder form)
• 1x Doxycycline  tetracycline antibiotic  (adult – tablets)
• Topical antibiotic  ointment (not an ideal solution as can build resilience. We carried this but did not use it). 

Antibiotics for kids are one of the things that takes up most space in an otherwise fairly light medical kit.  

Because our children are young and can’t yet swallow tablets it’s easier to carry powder antibiotics that can be made up with drinking water when required.  (I confess we did resort to halving one Loperamide tablet in desperation somewhere in a yurt in Uzbekistan for our 5 year old when diahhroea threatened a second day without easing).  And he was able to swallow it.  However, it’s much easier to give liquid medicines to young children and your doctor can prescribe antibiotics that will suit your child best. 

Anti-inflammatories

• Loperamide  anti-diarrhoeal tablets  ( essential! ) 
• Antihistamine  tablets (adult) 
• Chewable  antihistamine  tablets (child)

Creams and Ointments

• Betadine  Antiseptic Ointment  25g
• Crystaderm First Aid Cream ( Hydrogen Peroxide  1%) 10g
• Pimafucourt  topical corticosteroid  cream 15g
• Savlon/Total  Antiseptic Cream  40g
• Antifungal Cream  15g
• Lucas  Pawpaw Ointment   25g (especially good for sunburnt lips) 

A small tube of antiseptic cream can work wonders to prevent infection.  You definitely don’t want to get an infection while travelling.  And especially in warmer, tropical climates small grazes can easily become infected.  

• Digital  thermometer  (my Mum insisted we take one and bought this for us at Auckland Airport!) 
• 5ml  plastic syringe  for measuring liquid paracetamol for the kids
• Bandaids/sticking plasters , gauze and knee-grazing-size wound covers (good strong bandaids are essential, though you can buy budget ones anywhere)
• Female  sanitary supplies
• Electrolyte rehydration  powdered solution to help treat vomiting and diarrhoea (6x sachets to make 200ml each)
• 2x  safety pins , clean needle and thread (this was primarily for sewing but was a lifesaver for prickles in Fiji). 

Documents to carry 

• Copies of your passport and travel documents
• Copies of any prescriptions (medical supplies, prescription medications, glasses etc)
• Health/travel insurance details and contact
• Proof of vaccinations (polio, yellow fever, Covid-19)

Small First Aid Kit 

• Emergency First Aid Kit . Depending on how thorough your travel medical kit and packing list is, it can be advantageous to take a small emergency kit. This should include items like bandaids, a bandage and anything you might need in a minor emergency.

Don’t double up if you are already carrying these things. Consider how best to pack and carry these items. It can be handy in a pre-packaged kit like this to grab and stash in your daypack for day trips and outings.

Tips for packing your Travel Medical Kit

• It is also important to note in many countries in Asia ( Uzbekistan ,  Kyrgyzstan ,  Thailand ,  Japan  and many more) codeine is banned and highly illegal. 
• It’s important to know the contents of any medications you are carrying, regardless of whether they are prescription or not. Check restrictions of each country before travelling. 
• Prior to departing, I visited our GP in New Zealand to discuss the contents for our medical kit and to get prescriptions for antibiotics and topical creams that we carried. 
• Buying and refilling your medical supplies at international airports and duty free is a good idea to keep up to date and be reminded of any restricted items. 

*Update : I wouldn’t change anything we took in our travel medical kit. However, I do feel extremely fortunate we didn’t need use of the antibiotics. We did use the liquid paracetamol on multiple occasions for the kids, as well as topical antiseptic creams. 

Speaking of travel-planning… 

These are the companies we use while traveling fulltime as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel. 

• Booking.com  – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally. 
• Hostelworld   – The largest inventory of hostel accommodation in the world. 
• Skyscanner   – This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.  
• GetYourGuide   – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
• World Nomads   – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). 

Read more about packing for travel

• Packing toiletries, medical and electronics (plus all the rest).
• 10 Daypack essentials: When that daypack really is a daily pack. 
• Our packing list for full-time travel: 2 packs, 4 people. 
• Our complete packing list for India: Everything you wanted to ask. 
• Kids daypacks: What is actually in there?

Wondering about itineraries?  Questions about schooling?  See our Family Travel Guides and FAQ here . 

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We are the Steiners: Sarah, Gavin, Harry and Oscar – a family from New Zealand with a love of travel and adventure together… Especially where it takes us off the beaten track! 

Away with the Steiners uses affiliate links. That means that if you buy something through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. 

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We have surveyed travellers, so we KNOW what is likely to happen, and what you are likely to need while you are away. Many travellers are aware of travellers diarrhoea or gastro, but that is not the only thing that can happen while travelling; For example, statistics show that 28% of travellers catch a respiratory tract infection

As with your vaccinations, our clinic tailors the medications we recommend to suit your specific destination, your length of stay and your medical history.

Our travel doctors can help you determine the necessary medication to have on hand in case you get sick. Our staff can supply a zipped Travel Medicine kit bag to make a kit look more ‘official’, a letter of authority to carry these medications through customs, and easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions that tell you exactly what to take and when.

The contents of the travellers medical kits include prescription medication and travellers will need to consult a doctor to make sure the medications are appropriate for their personal health situation.

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Medical Kits

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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How To Pack A Professional Travel First Aid Kit

I get a lot of questions about health care on the road. Since I’m not a doctor, I don’t like giving medical advice beyond a few general tips so I’ve asked Mike Huxley, a registered nurse, to share his expert tips and advice when it comes to packing a first aid kit for your travels.

I have been traveling the world for over fifteen years now, and in that time I have patched up more travelers’ scrapes and sprains than I can remember.

Thankfully, pretty much all of the incidents I have dealt with so far have been minor. Even during my time spent volunteering as an expedition medic in the Sahara, the jungles of Kalimantan and Borneo, and many other amazing places, I have been able to deal with most accidents and injuries that have crossed my path.

I have only been able to do all of this, however, because I have always packed my trusty first aid kit. It has evolved and been refined over the years, but I have always carried one.

As any experienced traveler or health professional will tell you, things can and occasionally do go wrong on any trip , and taking a well-stocked kit with you is always advised.

When I first started traveling, I did what most sensible people do and carried a commercially available emergency first aid kit .

However, over the years, and with a lot of experience and my nursing qualification behind me, I have refined my own kit to reflect what I will use out on the road and what I know will make for a much better first aid kit for the average traveler too.

The best first aid kits are simple but varied and have a variety of dressings and equipment to deal with the basics. More importantly, they can be used with little or no training. So, what items should you include? Here are my picks for the essentials:

1. Band-Aids/Plasters It goes without saying that these are absolutely essential in any first aid kit. The most common form of minor injury is a cut or a graze, so it is always a good idea to carry a handful of Band-Aids in a variety of sizes .

If you think you will be doing a lot of trekking on your travels and you aren’t used to that form of exercise, then some blister plasters are a good idea.

It isn’t necessary to go overboard and carry so many you could start your own tiny field hospital; just a few of each type will do, as you can always restock when you pass a pharmacy.

2. Gauze Gauze is the medical jack-of-all-trades. I never carry a first aid kit without a supply of gauze in it, and I can’t tell you how many times it has come in useful over the years. It can be used to apply pressure to a wound, clean an injury, soak up blood, help stop bleeding, and even form part of a basic dressing for small-to-medium wounds.

A clean wound and a layer of gauze kept down with either tape or an adhesive bandage is often enough to allow time for you to go and get it looked at by a professional.

The best type of gauze to carry in a first aid kit is individually wrapped sterile squares. This eliminates the need to cut them to size when you need them quickly and obviously makes it easier to keep the wound clean and sterile.

3. Crepe bandages (ACE or elastic bandages) For when you have something a bit bigger than a cut, basic crepe bandages are useful for keeping small dressings clean and in place until you can get some medical attention.

Remember, you’re only going to use them in an emergency, until you can get some professional medical care (ideally covered through the travel insurance that you got in advance of your trip). You don’t need too many of these, just one or two at most.

4. Surgical tape Surgical tape is one of those essential emergency items for when you need to apply and secure gauze or a bandage to a wound, although Band-Aids can do the same job if need be.

5. Small scissors These come standard in any commercially available first aid kit (although you can buy them separately too) and are obviously useful for trimming gauze or bandages to size. Just be careful if you do carry scissors to ensure that your first aid kit goes in your checked bag when you are in transit or else airline security will take them off you.

If you’re flying carry-on only, small scissors (max 4 inches/10 centimeters) are permitted according to the TSA. If you want to be on the safe side, get ones with rounded tips. Also, remember that you don’t need to bring them from home — most grocery stores or stationery shops have them as well.

6. Tweezers Tweezers are another item that often comes standard in most first aid kits and can be useful for pulling out splinters, getting out little bits of stone or dirt when cleaning a wound, or any number of other practical uses.

7. Antiseptic wipes For some reason this tends to be the one thing most people overlook when thinking of first aid, but antiseptic wipes are an absolute essential in any good pack. No one wants a cut or wound to get infected, and antiseptic wipes are perfect for cleaning it before applying a dressing.

Just a small handful will suffice for most packs. Like most basic items, they are easy to replace at any pharmacy when you run low.

8. Condoms Apart from the obvious benefits (staying sexually safe), these handy little items can be used as emergency water carriers or even filled with ice as an emergency ice pack. I’ve personally never had any call to use them in that manner, but it is a handy bit of information to keep in mind.

9. Pain relief medication A small pack of basic acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) or any of the associated brand names ( like Tylenol ) is usually sufficient, but ibuprofen or other similar medications are fine too. It doesn’t have to be fancy — basically whatever you normally take for pain relief when you have a headache or minor pain.

10. Loperamide tablets Also known under a variety of brand names such as Imodium , this is useful for stopping diarrhea for short periods when you need to catch a bus or train. Remember, these are for those emergency moments only when you are actually in transit, as they do not cure diarrhea and shouldn’t be used when you can rest up for a couple of days. (Normally the best way to treat diarrhea is to let everything pass through your system normally and drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids.)

If you use them sparingly, properly, and as directed on the pack, loperamide tablets can be useful additions to any travel first aid kit.

11. Antihistamine cream It happens to all of us on our travels: we get bitten by some form of insect and end up with a painfully itchy bump or rash. Don’t worry, the absolute majority of the time the bumps and stings aren’t anything to worry about at all, but they are damned annoying! This is why a good antihistamine cream is a useful addition to help control itching and swelling.

12. Antibacterial creams It’s also a good idea to carry antibacterial creams like Neosporin for any cuts and scrapes you get. This will help heal them faster as well as prevent any possible infections.

Obviously, this list can be tailored or added to depending on your trip needs (a tropical jungle trek will require different planning than a city break in Europe ). Any good first aid kit should also include any specific, individually prescribed medication or antimalarial prophylaxis.

For the majority of travelers, however, the items and kit listed above will cover the majority of basic incidents and accidents. You’ll also want to make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance as well to protect you against unexpected costs that you might incur should an emergency happen.

For any injury, illness, bang, or scrape that requires more than the basics and cannot be covered by the kit above, you should seek professional medical attention. Unless you are extremely far off the beaten track, you should be able to seek out professional assistance to deal with medical emergencies pretty easily if something happens you can’t handle yourself.

So go pack up your own little first aid kit and keep it stashed in your pack for emergencies. Odds are you will probably never use it — and I hope you never need to — but if you have one, at least you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind and be safe in the knowledge that you are prepared.

Important Note: When carrying any generic medication, it is essential that it is kept in its original packaging when you are traveling in case customs officials need to check it. The information provided here is for general travel health advice and information only. It is provided by a qualified nurse, but it is not a replacement for a personal consultation with a travel nurse specialist, your GP, or a doctor specializing in travel medicine who can tailor advice to your individual medical history and needs.  

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Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

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• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

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We set off on a huge Southeast Asia trip and did a ton of planning but not enough when it came to health and medication so if you are heading off on a trip or know someone who is, you should read this!

WE had no idea how important a medical kit was until it was to late. Jenn (my partner) has the curse of being very accident prone so we cam across many health obstacles throughout our travels. Ranging from burns, bikes, stitches and infections just to name a few.

That is why we wanted to put the question out there, "What is in your medical kit?"

After our trip we decided to do a bunch of research on the best items to pack and based how important they would be based off our own experiences. More on the lists here - http://www.whoneedsmaps.com/medical-kit-for-travel/

A few of the super important ones were:

- Burn cream (avoid the motorbike exhausts)

- Coconut oil for insect bites and repellent (especially on SE Asian beaches)

- Band aids (steri strips for larger cuts)

- Antiseptic cream (everything takes forever to heal in humid areas)

- Water purifying tablets for those sketchy moments (remember the ice is from tap water)

These are just a few things that we would recommend any traveler to pack but we would also like to know what YOU pack when traveling?

So help some fellow travelers out and list you 3 most important medical items!

I like your post a lot :)

I walk a lot each day on holiday, and I always carry elastoplasts/plasters with me, as being completely unfamiliar with wearing flip-flops/sandals whilst walking, I often stub my toes, especially as the concept of building flat level footpaths hasn't yet reached Thailand :)

Tiger Balm for insect bites, its amazing stuff, is there anything it won't cure ? :)

Norfloxacin tablets - travelling in Asia leads often leads to very urgent toilet needs at very short notice :), as I really found out this year especially. These tablets are amazing, within hours of taking 1, life seems so much better :). Have to admit I started taking 1 a day, even after the worst problems were over

Great tip on the 'toilet tablets', unfortunately the Bali betty is all over Asia not just Bali!

Yes , this is a great post, I generally pack a few it items .

How ever I find that a chemist is often near by.

The ice I buy at 7/11 is from treated water.

Cheers and thanks again

We take the tablet 'gastro' and found it fixed any problems resulting from the diet change from Western to Eastern, only had to take one dose and it did the trick.

Agreed, they are a necessity while traveling Asia!

I take a tiny first aid kit. Band aids, scissors, swabs. But I sometimes sprain my ankle, trip over those uneven footpaths, so but great cheap bandages from the pharmacy when I am there.

I always take gastro stop but fortunately. Never needed them.

"(remember the ice is from tap water)"

Most of the ice is made from purified tap water. Most of the stuff I buy when I arrive as there's usually a pharmacy somewhere and many of the supermarkets carry all that stuff.

We just visited a travel doctor many trips back and bought their kit. Replenished much of it over the years. The antibiotics come in handy for extended cases of "Bali Belly", the bandages and creams were well thought out and useful at varying times. My wife (a nurse) added her own bits and pieces over the years.

The only thing that hasn't been used was that funny funnel thingy with a hose that lets a woman pee like a man when there's no other choice.

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