Any prescription medications you’re currently taking

It may sound like a given, but you’d be surprised at how many people forget to pack their prescribed medications. It’s always a good idea to put them in your carry-on luggage as well- just in case you don’t have immediate access to your checked bag. Also, if you have severe allergies, make sure to bring your epinephrine pen!

It’s always a good idea to let one of your travel companions know where you intend on keeping it in case of emergencies (also teach them how to use it if they don’t know how).

Anti-Diarrhea Medication

Carrying anti-diarrheal medication (such as Imodium) is so important considering that diarrhea is one of the most common illnesses while traveling. It’s usually caused by contaminated food or water—but sometimes it just happens.

When traveling through a foreign country, our body’s digestive system may not be used to the diet you’re now exposing it to and as a result, can’t digest it properly.

See also:

• How to Avoid Food Poisoning: A Traveler’s Survival Guide
• How to Maintain a Healthy Guide While Traveling Abroad

Laxatives

Continuing on with digestive issues, sometimes your new diet can have the opposite effect. Carrying laxatives on you can help regulate your digestive system until your body adjusts.

Antacids

Although trying all the new foods and drinks while traveling makes you happy, sometimes your stomach does not feel the same way. Stomach aches and heartburn are common, which is why carrying antacids, such as Tums, is a good idea.

Antihistamine

Sometimes, new plants, animals, and climates can confuse your immune system- leaving you with an itchy throat and eyes, sneezing, stuffy nose, etc. An antihistamine, such as Benadryl, can help combat this.

If you’re looking for something that is non-drowsy, try Claritin.

Nasal decongestant

Need to clear your head? A good nasal decongestant (such as Sudafed) can do the trick.

Let’s face it, no one likes to travel while congested.

Anti-motion sickness medication

While you’re traveling, you’re moving. Whether it’s on an airplane, car, or boat- sometimes all that movement can make you feel queasy and nauseated.

Don’t try and just tough it out; instead, bring along an anti-motion sickness medication such as Dramamine.

Pain medication

Bringing pain medicine kind of goes without saying. These over-the-counter medicines can help with your aching feet from a day’s worth of exploring, or even help combat a nasty headache after a night of drinking.

See also:

• A Nurse’s Guide: How to Avoid a Hangover

Cough suppressant & cough drops

When you travel, your exposure to various bacteria and viruses amplifies- leaving you prone to all kinds of illnesses. Cough drops can bring temporary relief until you get over your cold.

Also, less coughing decreases your chances of spreading it to your travel buddies.

Antifungal and antibacterial ointments

If you end up with any cuts or scrapes, in order to keep it from getting infected you’re going to want to thoroughly clean it out and apply an antifungal or antibacterial ointment. Especially if you’re traveling in a warm, humid climate where bacteria flourish- these topical ointments are essential.

Hydrocortisone cream

This is good for so many things- insect bites, poison oak/ivy, eczema, dermatitis, hives, rash, or the general itching that you really can’t go anywhere without it.

There’s nothing more annoying than having itchy and irritated skin- carrying hydrocortisone cream is a lifesaver.

Multivitamins and immune system boosters

With all this talk about increased exposure to bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.; in order to keep your immune system at its best, routinely take multivitamins and immune system boosters such as vitamin C or Airborne.

Electrolyte replacement tablets

Having electrolyte replacement tablets on hand is so important while traveling. Electrolyte replacements are used to replace fluids and minerals usually lost from vomiting or diarrhea. They are also good for combating dehydration if visiting a hot, humid climate and you’re just constantly sweating.

Drinking water is good, but you also need to replenish your electrolytes (sodium, potassium, etc.).

Now, I know some of you may be thinking, “How do I fit all these in my carry-on?” And the answer is simple. You don’t NEED to bring full bottles of all these medications…A couple of each for a week’s trip is sufficient.