Travel Health

Travel Medicine Kit: UK Online Doctor Checklist

5 min readLast reviewed 24 April 2026

Educational information — not medical advice.

This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.

Key points

  • A small medicine kit prevents trips to foreign pharmacies.
  • Tailor contents to destination and length of stay.
  • Standby antibiotics, antimalarials and altitude meds need a UK GP prescription.
  • Pack medication in carry-on with original packaging.

Core items

  • Plasters, bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister care.
  • Paracetamol, ibuprofen.
  • Loperamide, ORS sachets.
  • Antihistamine.
  • Hydrocortisone 1% cream for bites/rashes.
  • Decongestant for flights.
  • Sunscreen, after-sun, insect repellent (DEET 50%).
  • Thermometer.

Prescription items (depending on destination)

  • Standby antibiotic for travellers' diarrhoea.
  • Antimalarials.
  • Altitude medication (Diamox).
  • Motion sickness tablets/patches.
  • Sufficient supply of regular medication + extra for delays.

Documentation

  • Doctor's letter for controlled drugs or injectable medication.
  • Prescription copies.
  • Travel insurance details.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions UK patients ask about travel medicine kit.

How an online doctor can help

This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.

See a UK GP about this today

Same-day video or phone consultations with GMC-registered GPs. Prescriptions, sick notes and referrals when clinically appropriate.