When it’s time to get away, I’ve always believed in packing light — if I forget something, I’ll just buy it when I get there.
But over the years, a few “funny only in hindsight” travel moments have made me reconsider that strategy. Just because you’ve never had a problem with traveler’s tummy or you haven’t had your nose feel like it’s on fire due to the dry cabin air, doesn’t mean it won’t happen.
You can’t outrun the inevitable. There’s no such thing as infinite good luck. No matter how often you travel or how “healthy” you feel, any experienced traveler will tell you that the worst experiences often make the best stories; I mean, lessons.
That’s why having a few travel medicine essentials in your bag can make all the difference. From motion sickness pills to antacids, these tiny lifesavers can turn a near-disaster into just another funny story for later.
And as always, consult your physician or travel clinic about any of the medicines mentioned below. In addition to the local laws of the country you are traveling to, keep in mind that not all medications are legal in every country.
Why You Should Pack a Mini Drugstore When You Travel
The best life lessons come from the most humbling moments.
On a trip to Morocco, I had my first run-in with traveler’s tummy. I’d never packed meds for that kind of issue — in fact, I’d never even heard of traveler’s tummy until that trip. Thankfully, my bestie was traveling with me, and she saved us both (IYKYK) with some Immodium.
Then in Scotland, I had a terrible case of heartburn. It wasn’t my first time with that particular problem, but since food in the U.K. is famously mild, I didn’t think to bring my meds. Oops. Luckily, I was traveling with a group, and because there was a national shortage of Pepto-Bismol at the time, I had to rely on my fellow travelers to bail me out.
Before those learned and lived experiences, I only ever traveled with Midol, Tylenol, Excedrin Migraine, and cough drops (though I do love buying those abroad — they’re oddly fascinating, I know).
And while it’s not technically medicine, my suitcase has always included a thermometer, a few band-aids, and pads or tampons.
I know — can you believe it? So naïve.
Since then, I’ve become the traveler who always packs a mini drugstore. Here’s what I never leave home without — and what you’ll thank yourself for packing too.
Drugstore Meds You Should Always Pack
Whether you’re heading across the state or across the ocean, it’s worth creating your own travel med kit with just a few in-case essentials. Because when something goes wrong mid-trip, it’s never at a convenient time.
Here are the over-the-counter travel meds I never leave home without (and you’ll be glad you didn’t either):
- Antidiarrheal medication (e.g., Imodium, Lomotil, Pepto-Bismol) – Because traveler’s tummy never gives advance notice. Even one or two doses can turn a miserable day into a manageable one.
- Antacids (e.g., Maalox, Zantac, Tums) – For that surprise heartburn after a rich meal or unexpected spice. Toss a small roll or packet in your toiletry bag — future you will be grateful.
- Electrolytes (e.g., Buoy, Ultima, LMNT) – Long flights, hot destinations, or a night out can leave you dehydrated fast. A few electrolyte packets or dissolvable tablets can help you bounce back quickly — think of them as your travel hangover insurance.
- Mild laxative (e.g., Metamucil, MiraLAX) or a probiotic (e.g., Seed, Ritual, Culterelle) – Travel can throw off your routine in more ways than one. A mild laxative keeps things moving, while probiotics can help prevent discomfort before it starts.
- Mild sedative or sleep aid (e.g., Unisom ) – To reset your body clock or help you sleep through noisy hotel neighbors.
- Motion sickness medication (e.g., Dramamine, Bonine) – Whether it’s a winding mountain road, a choppy ferry ride, or turbulence midair, motion sickness can strike anytime. A small pack of tablets takes up no space but can save your stomach.
- Saline nose mist or spray – Especially useful for long-haul flights or dry climates. Keeps nasal passages hydrated, helps prevent that “plane cold,” and makes breathing easier on travel days.
A Final Tip
You don’t need to bring the whole medicine cabinet — just a few essentials in travel-size form. Store everything in a clear zip pouch or pill organizer, and check expiration dates before each trip.
Because if there’s one thing travel has taught me, it’s that the best adventures are the ones where you’re prepared just enough to handle whatever comes your way.
The Bottom Line on Travel Medicine
Travel medicine isn’t just for globe-trotters crossing time zones — it’s for anyone who’s ever been caught off guard by a sudden headache, stomach issue, or sleepless night away from home. Having a small stash of essentials means fewer frantic pharmacy runs and more time enjoying your trip.
If you’re traveling solo, having the right travel medicine packed adds another layer of confidence and comfort.
Think of it as peace of mind in pill form: your own tiny, take-anywhere pharmacy. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a long-haul adventure, pack your travel medicine kit before you go — and you’ll be ready for anything the journey throws your way.
