What Should You Pack In Your Travel Health Kit?

A travel first aid kit is a great idea for almost any adventure. Since we’ve started traveling, our kit has grown bigger every year. That said, it’s been wonderful to have first aid supplies and basic medications on hand in case of a travel emergency.

Travel Health Kit List For Canadians

Here are some of our best ideas for what to bring along in your travel health kit.

The Essentials

hydro-cortisone cream (0.5%) for treating skin conditions like poison ivy
band aids (different sizes)
gauze (several sizes) and tape
adhesive bandages (multiple sizes) and adhesive tape
antibacterial cream (one with an anti-fungal as well is a good idea)
antiseptic wipes (for example, alcohol or iodine pads) to clean wounds
moleskin
disposable gloves
oral re-hydration salts
scissors
tensor bandage for sprains
thermometer
hand sanitizer
tweezers
prescription medications and prescriptions, if needed. Your prescription medication should always be clearly labeled when entering another country.
an over the counter pain medication, like Tylenol or Aspirin
anti-diarrhea medication (like Pepto-Bismal)

You can also buy a premade first aid kit like this one with most of these items already in it for under $20. Nearly all pharmacies and stores carry them as well. If you can, pick one up that has a little extra room in it so you can keep everything together in one handy bag.

Aside from the must have health and safety items, there are a few things that can make your trip a lot more comfortable if you become ill.

Niceties

cough drops and cough syrup
cold medication
anti-histamine tablets
laxatives
antacids
vitamins and herbal supplements

Good to know: Some prescription medications and herbal supplements that are legal in Canada may be illegal in other countries.

Depending on your destination and activities, some other, optional, items may come in handy. Adventure travel activities, especially, may require some of these items.