Travel Health: What to Pack and How to Stay Safe

Traveling is exciting, but a small health snag can ruin a trip. Pack your meds right, know local rules, and have a simple plan for emergencies. Below are clear, practical steps you can use before and during any trip — short or long.

Before you go: prescriptions, vaccines, and paperwork

Check your prescriptions early. Get enough supply for the trip plus a few extra days in case of delays. Keep medications in their original labeled containers and carry a copy of each prescription and a short list of med names, doses, and allergies. That makes airport security easier and helps local doctors if you need care.

Make a quick vaccine checklist based on your destination. For many countries CDC or local health authorities recommend travelers’ vaccines (for example, hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever). Book appointments early — some vaccines need weeks to become effective.

Look up local laws about controlled medications. Drugs that are common at home may be restricted or illegal elsewhere (codeine, some sleep meds, stimulants). If you take a controlled drug, bring a doctor’s letter stating the diagnosis and prescription details, and check customs rules before you fly.

Packing, storage, and common on-the-road problems

Put meds in your carry-on, not checked luggage. Airplane temperature and lost bags are real risks. For temperature-sensitive meds (insulin, some biologics), use a travel cooler and a letter from your doctor explaining why you need refrigeration. Bring extra batteries or chargers for medical devices.

Traveler’s diarrhea is common. Pack an over-the-counter antidiarrheal and, if appropriate, an antibiotic your doctor approves for emergency use. For mosquito-prone areas, bring insect repellent, long sleeves, and consider antimalarial medication if recommended for your destination. If you take doxycycline for malaria prevention, remember it can cause sun sensitivity — use sunscreen.

Altitude sickness can hit fast. If you’re heading to high elevations, talk to your doctor about acetazolamide (Diamox) and practice a gradual ascent when possible. For motion sickness, test patches or pills at home before you travel.

Need meds abroad? Use accredited pharmacies and telemedicine services. If you buy meds online, choose well-known, verified sites and never buy from sellers that won’t provide a real address or require odd payment methods. Keep receipts and check that the medication matches the generic name on your prescription.

Final tip: share your travel health plan with a contact at home. Include your itinerary, primary clinic or hospital contacts at your destination, and a copy of your prescription list. A little prep keeps you healthier and less stressed on the road.