While many self-care products are available abroad, packing key drugstore essentials ensures you're prepared for emergencies—without the stress of finding a pharmacy or communicating in a foreign language.
Advertorial
What to pack for peace of mind
Cristina, licensed druggist: "I always recommend a high-quality sunscreen, insect repellents (for prevention and post-bite relief), disinfectants, plasters, tweezers for splinters, painkillers, tick removers, and a vacuum pump for stings. The pump works best if used within two minutes, as venom spreads quickly via the bloodstream."
Motion Sickness
For those prone to it, pack motion sickness tablets and hay fever remedies—the latter also ease itching from bites or mild allergies. Note: Some motion sickness and cough medicines impair driving—consult your druggist.
Diarrhea
Include anti-diarrhea tablets, laxatives for constipation, and O.R.S. to replenish salts and minerals after severe bouts. Not all diarrhea remedies suit every cause; ask your druggist for the best option. For food poisoning, activated charcoal (like Norit) binds toxins before absorption.
Expert Advice
Always read package inserts and seek personalized guidance. Traveling with kids? Confirm age-appropriate products, as some have restrictions. Visit a drugstore with the Recognized Specialist in Self-Care quality mark for reliable recommendations.
Don't Forget
Pack contraceptives and the morning-after pill—not always available over-the-counter abroad, and some regions restrict it due to cultural or religious reasons.
Prescription Medicines
If using regulars, ask your pharmacy about a medicine passport. It's often required for border crossings, especially by air.
Extra Tips
In hot climates, stay hydrated to avoid dehydration; opt for hats and loose, light clothing. Skip tap water abroad. For road trips, carry snacks and drinks for traffic delays.
Your Shopping List:
– Sunscreen
– Insect repellents
– Post-bite remedies
– Disinfectant
– Plasters
– Tweezers
– Tick removers
– Vacuum pump
– Motion sickness tablets
– Hay fever tablets
– Painkillers
– Anti-diarrhea tablets
– Laxatives
– Contraceptives
– Morning-after pill
Meet Cristina
Cristina Knollema-Lertora is a licensed druggist at a Certified Specialist in Self-Care drugstore—the gold standard for expert advice on over-the-counter medicines. Find locations at www.erkendspecialistinzelfzorg.nl.
This article is powered by CBD.
