Standard water isn’t always enough when you’re navigating high altitudes in Peru or the intense humidity of a tropical jungle. I recommend including an electrolyte powder to maintain your balance.

• The Pro Pick: Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier

• Pharmacist Tip: These are essential for rapid rehydration if you experience traveler’s diarrhea or are engaging in high-exertion trekking.

Digestive issues are the most common health complaint for international travelers. Having a reliable anti-diarrheal on hand is a non-negotiable for your kit.

• The Pro Pick: Imodium (Loperamide) Capsules

• Pharmacist Tip: While Imodium is excellent for symptom control, certain itineraries may require a prescription antibiotic. This is a core part of what we discuss during a consultation.

In regions where mosquito-borne illnesses are present, your choice of repellent is your first line of defense. I generally recommend using either Picaridin or DEET.

• The Pro Picks:  Picaridin or DEET

• Pharmacist Tip: If you aren’t sure which chemical is right for your destination or your family, you can read my guide on Choosing the Right Repellent.

Pack a generic pain reliever that you know works well for you, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These are helpful for muscle soreness from active travel or addressing any unexpected discomfort along the way.

• Pharmacist Tip: It is always better to bring the over-the-counter options you trust. Navigating a pharmacy overseas can be difficult, as they may not carry the same brands or formulations you are used to, and labels can be hard to decipher in a foreign language.

High-alcohol hand sanitizers and antimicrobial wipes are incredibly helpful additions to your day pack. While not mandatory, they are great for long transport days or those moments when you stumble upon a great street food vendor and realize you haven’t washed your hands recently.

If you are traveling with children, your kit requires a few more tools:

• Fever Relief: Always pack a familiar brand of Acetaminophen (Tylenol). You can bring this in either liquid or tablet form depending on your child’s age and preference.

• Digital Thermometer: Never guess a fever in a remote area.

• Important Clinical Note: If your child develops a fever while traveling in a malaria-risk area, it is critical to seek medical care immediately to ensure they do not have malaria or another serious infection.