Travel Health and Meds: Smart Tips for Your Trip

Most people expect lost luggage or missed flights. Fewer plan for meds, heartburn, or skin flare-ups that wreck a trip. Pack the right meds and a simple plan and you’ll spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the destination.

Bring a copy of prescriptions and carry meds in original containers. Put enough for the trip plus a few extra days in your carry-on. If you take refrigerated meds, ask your pharmacist for travel storage advice or get an insulated travel case. Photograph your pill bottles and prescription labels — a phone photo can save time if you need a refill abroad.

If you need to buy medication while away, use licensed pharmacies only. Check for a physical address, pharmacist contact, and clear return policy. Avoid sites that sell controlled drugs without a prescription. For common meds like antacids, pain relievers, or allergy pills, local pharmacies are fine. For prescription drugs, call your doctor first; many places require a local prescription.

Pain, Heartburn, Jet Lag — Quick fixes that actually work

Heartburn is a top travel complaint. Skip heavy meals before flying and avoid fried or spicy foods at night. Pack antacids and a PPI if you use one regularly — don’t stop chronic acid medicines suddenly. Stay upright for an hour after eating, especially on planes. If you’ve had frequent heartburn, talk to your doctor before you go; they can advise a short rescue plan.

Heat and sun can flare skin conditions like rosacea. If you use a hotel spa or infrared sauna, test for short sessions first and keep your skin cool afterward. Bring a gentle cleanser, sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and a calming cream your dermatologist recommends. Drinking water and avoiding alcohol in hot climates helps too.

Stomach bugs ruin trips. Wash hands before eating, stick to cooked foods, and choose bottled water where local safety is uncertain. For longer stays or high-risk areas, ask about vaccines and anti-parasitic precautions. If you’re on immunosuppressants or biologics, check with your specialist about travel risks and local medical care at your destination.

Find local health resources before you go: embassy guidance, nearby hospitals, and expat forums. If you need a refill, contact your home doctor about sending a prescription to a local pharmacy or arranging a telehealth consult. Keep emergency contacts and your insurance card handy.

Travel should be fun, not medical stress. Pack smart, confirm prescriptions, plan for common problems, and know where to get help. Want a quick checklist to print? Download ours from the site or reach out — we can point you to reliable resources for medication and travel health.

Double-check medication names and active ingredients before buying overseas — brand names change and generics may differ. Carry a short medical summary that lists allergies, chronic conditions, and current meds. If you use oxygen or needles, get travel approvals early. Buy travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for remote trips.

Keep copies of vaccination records and allergy cards handy.