Family Travel Medicine Kit: What We Actually Pack

Family Travel Medicine Kit: What We Actually Pack

ByEvan Parker

Whether you’re hopping borders every few months or just planning a two-week escape, traveling with your family means prepping for the unexpected. I’ve learned the hard way that Googling “how to treat a weird rash” in a remote Airbnb at 2 a.m. is not ideal. So, after a few trial-and-error adventures (and one memorable incident with a sea urchin in Greece), here’s my honest, no-fluff guide to building a family travel medicine kit that actually works in real life.

Why You Need a Realistic Medicine Kit

The internet is full of “Ultimate Travel First Aid Kit” lists with 50+ items. You don’t need all that — especially if you’re traveling with kids and have to fit everyone’s stuff in a single checked bag. Your kit should cover:

  • Common kid and adult illnesses (fever, upset stomach, allergies)
  • Minor injuries (cuts, burns, stings, sprains)
  • Any ongoing prescriptions
  • Essential health documents
  • Airline and country-specific restrictions

Remember: This post isn’t medical advice. Always run your kit by your doctor, especially for prescription meds or if your family has specific health needs.

Our Actual Packing List

Here’s what goes in our kit for a family of four (two adults, two kids under 10). This covers most situations without needing a suitcase just for medicine. I’ve included real brands and dosages we use, but check with your pediatrician/doctor for age and region-specific recommendations.

True story: The only time we had to use activated charcoal was after a suspicious smoothie in Bali. Lesson: carry it, but don’t overpack “just in case” stuff.

Kid-Safe Basics

  • Children’s ibuprofen/acetaminophen (liquid and chewable): For fever, pain, teething. (We pack both; sometimes one works better than the other.)
  • Children’s antihistamine (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine): For allergies or rashes.
  • Oral rehydration salts (ORS): For diarrhea or vomiting — life saver after questionable street food.
  • Digital thermometer: Small and accurate. We like the Braun No Touch for travel.
  • Hydrocortisone cream (1%): For mild rashes, bug bites.
  • Antiseptic wipes and bandages: Easy for little scrapes.
  • Sunscreen (travel-size, broad spectrum): Get more at destination if needed.
  • Insect repellent (DEET-free for kids): If going somewhere buggy.
  • Saline nasal spray: For stuffy airplane noses.

Adult Essentials

  • Paracetamol/ibuprofen (tablets): For headaches, pain.
  • Loperamide (Imodium): For traveler’s diarrhea (adults only).
  • Antacid tablets: For heartburn after too much local cuisine.
  • Antihistamines: For allergies, bites.
  • Electrolyte tablets: Small, easy to pack. Use after long flights or stomach issues.
  • Motion sickness tablets: We like Dramamine, but always check local rules.
  • Blister plasters (e.g., Compeed): For tourist-level walking.

Prescriptions & Must-Haves

  • All required daily meds: Bring enough for your trip plus a week extra. Pack in original bottles with labels.
  • Specialty items: EpiPen, asthma inhalers, insulin, etc. Bring a doctor’s note!
  • Antibiotics: Only if prescribed and you know when to use them. Otherwise, skip — local doctors can help if needed.

Health Documents to Carry

  • Copies of prescriptions (paper and digital)
  • Doctor’s letter for all controlled meds, injectables, or unusual items
  • Immunization records for kids (especially for school/camp abroad)
  • Travel insurance card and emergency contacts

How to Pack and Store Your Kit

Medicine gets lost in the shuffle of chargers and toys. Here’s what’s worked for us:

  • Clear zip pouch or see-through toiletry bag: Easier at security and when you need something at 3 a.m.
  • Keep liquids under 100ml (3.4oz): for carry-on. Double-bag to prevent leaks.
  • Separate daily meds from the “emergency” kit: Keep essentials in your personal bag, everything else in checked luggage.
  • Temperature matters: Some meds (insulin, certain antibiotics) need to stay cool. Use a small insulated pouch with ice packs (TSA- and airline-approved).
  • Label everything: Especially if you’re crossing borders where packaging may look suspicious.

Airline and Country Rules — Watch Out

  • Liquid limits: All carry-on liquids, gels, creams must be below 100ml each, in a 1L zip bag.
  • No syringes/needles without paperwork: Always bring a doctor’s note if you need them.
  • Some countries ban codeine, pseudoephedrine, strong painkillers: Check embassy websites or IAMAT for up-to-date info.
  • CBD and cannabis-derived products: Illegal in many places, even with prescription.
  • Declare all prescription meds: Especially in the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

Family Travel Medicine Kit: Quick Checklist

Item Who Needs It Carry-On or Checked?
Children’s fever medicine Kids Carry-on
Adult painkillers Adults Carry-on
Antihistamine (all ages) Everyone Carry-on
Rehydration salts/electrolytes Everyone Carry-on
Prescriptions (in original bottles) Anyone with Rx Carry-on
Sunscreen & repellent Everyone Checked
Thermometer Everyone Carry-on
Bandages/first aid Everyone Carry-on
Doctor’s notes/copies Rx users Carry-on
Specialty items (EpiPen, inhaler, etc.) As needed Carry-on

Tools, Links, and More Resources

Pro tip: Snap a photo of all your prescriptions and insurance cards and email them to yourself. Saved us a ton of stress when my bag went missing in Amsterdam.

Final word: Build your kit for the 95% of stuff that might happen, not every possible zombie outbreak. If you need something major, local clinics or pharmacies will almost always have you covered — or be able to point you somewhere that does.

Some links above may be affiliate. You pay the same price, and this blog may earn a small commission that helps keep the site running strong for fellow travelers.

Disclaimer: This guide is based on personal experience, not medical expertise. Always consult your doctor before travel, especially for prescriptions, chronic conditions, or traveling with infants or elderly family members.

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