Getting sick while travelling is one of those things you do not really want to think about before a trip. Still, it can happen. A cold, stomach problems, headaches, sunburn or a small accident can be enough to turn a travel day into something very different from what you had planned.
That is why a small travel first aid kit has become a fixed part of our travel preparation. We also think about important medication, travel health insurance and a few documents we would want to have quickly available in case something happens.
Before every trip, we therefore prepare a few simple things. If something happens on the road, we at least know what we have with us, where our documents are and who we can contact.
Packing a travel first aid kit: What we take with us
We always take a small travel first aid kit with us. For example, we usually pack throat lozenges and pain relief medication that we know and tolerate well.
The point is not to take as much as possible. It is more about having the basics with you that you would also use at home. Especially for minor complaints, it is helpful not to have to look for a pharmacy straight away.
Check travel health insurance before your trip
Besides our travel first aid kit, travel health insurance is an important part of our trip preparation. Especially when travelling abroad, we do not want to find out only when we are already sick which costs are covered and who we need to contact.
Before a trip, we therefore check whether our cover is still active and whether the destination is included. We also save the emergency number of the insurance provider. This way, we have it ready in case we need medical help while travelling.
If you do not yet have suitable cover before your trip, you can compare travel health insurance here. Alternatively, you can also ask your existing health insurance provider whether travel health insurance is already included or can be added separately.
Pack important medication correctly
We do not pack medication that is really important in our checked luggage. If the suitcase arrives late or gets lost, this can quickly become a problem. That is why it makes sense to take important medication in your hand luggage. In addition, you should check the rules for liquids, sprays or special medication before flying.
For certain countries, it is also worth taking an extra look at the entry rules for medication. In the United Arab Emirates, for example, some medication may be considered a controlled substance. In that case, prior approval or a medical prescription may be required. For this reason, we would take medication in its original packaging whenever possible and check the rules for the destination before travelling.
Conclusion: Travel prep with a first aid kit
You cannot completely prevent getting sick while travelling. However, you can make sure that you are not completely unprepared if something happens. For us, a small travel first aid kit, important medication in our hand luggage and checked travel health insurance are now part of our normal trip preparation. It does not make the situation less annoying. But it does make it much easier to handle.
I’m Joshua, and my focus is road trips and round trips. I provide detailed travel information, planning tools, and practical tips for driving abroad. Together, we’ll make your next road trip perfectly organized and unforgettable
