All our advice on preparing your travel pharmacy

Going on holiday soon? Then save a little room in your suitcase for your travel pharmacy. First of all, you need to adapt this to your destination, as travel to certain countries or continents requires specific vaccinations and may involve risks of illness. The following recommended travel pharmacy will already save you a few inconveniences:

• Sun protection Make sure you choose sun protection that matches your skin type. And remember, it’s better to use too much than too little.
• Prevention against mosquitoes and ticks There are a wide variety of products (sprays and creams) in this area, some of which are plant-based and have proved effective.
• Medications for motion sickness (nausea)
• Antidiarrhoeals In the event of acute symptoms, it is particularly important to have a medicine to compensate for electrolyte loss.
• Stomach upset medication To treat troublesome symptoms, such as heartburn
• Antipyretics Also remember to pack a thermometer, always useful when in doubt.
• Anti-itch gel A soothing gel is highly recommended to treat insect bites and sunburn; particularly advisable for holidaymakers who spend a lot of time outdoors and in the sun.
• Painkillers Your GP can prescribe the medicine best suited to you.
• Medication for a cold Mild cold, cough and sore throat medication may already be enough to stop a cold at the first symptoms.
• Nose drops for ear pain. Nasal drops are particularly useful on long-haul flights, as they can reduce or even prevent ENT pain.
• First aid kit This kit allows you to carry out first aid in the event of injury (e.g. dressings and disinfectant); it is particularly recommended for active holidaymakers.

If, due to a chronic illness, you have to take a medicine on a long-term basis, remember to take the instructions for use issued by the manufacturer with you. This can be useful if you have to start a new medication during your stay or if you suffer side effects. Before you leave, check with your GP whether you need to take a medical certificate with you. Indeed, in some countries, certain powerful painkillers are only admitted if accompanied by a medical certificate.

Be alert to any symptoms that are difficult to assess (e.g. sudden fever) and if in doubt, seek advice from a doctor (or the hospital) at your holiday destination.

We wish you a dream holiday! Have a great trip!