Traveling with kids doesn’t have to mean packing a whole pharmacy. I've prepared the list that breaks down a smart, essential first-aid kit — everything you truly need for fever, allergies, stomach issues, injuries, and more. Remember: in most countries you can buy necessary medications locally, but reliable travel insurance is a must. Adjust this list to your destination, climate, and your child’s needs.
Food Poisoning / Intestinal Infection
Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) — glucose–saline mixtures are the gold standard for dehydration
Fever and Pain
Antipyretics and pain relievers:
• Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)
• Ibuprofen (Nurofen syrup for children)
Important: choose one active ingredient at a time; dose strictly by weight in children
Allergic Reactions / Severe Insect Bites
Second-generation antihistamines (drops/syrup for children):
• Cetirizine
• Levocetirizine
• Desloratadine
Non-sedating, effective for itching and swelling
Contact/Diaper Dermatitis and Rashes
• Hydrocortisone 1% cream or another low-potency steroid
Short course only (2–5 days), applied thinly and to limited areas
• Advantan — for more pronounced inflammation, also short-term
Wounds, Cuts, Scrapes, Burns
• Plasters, elastic bandages, sterile gauze pads, hemostatic sponge
• Tourniquet, scissors, tweezers, tick remover, digital thermometer
• Panthenol
• Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Antibacterial ointment (e.g., Bactroban) — only when there are signs of localized bacterial infection; not for every minor wound
• Local antiseptics: chlorhexidine, hand sanitizers
Conjunctivitis
• Artificial tears
• Antibiotic eye drops (e.g., Tobrex) — only if bacterial infection is suspected and preferably after medical advice
Most conjunctivitis in children is viral and does not require antibiotics
Insect and Tick Protection
• Mosquito and tick repellents
• Post-bite soothing gels
If Needed
• Nebulizer and bronchodilator medications
— only if previously prescribed by your doctor
• Motion sickness medications (for children 3+ years)
• Microlax or glycerin suppositories for acute constipation
• Epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) for anyone with a history of anaphylaxis
• Saline solution for nasal rinsing
• Decongestant nasal drops/sprays — no more than 3 days
• Zinc-based creams for irritation
Don’t forget your regular medications for chronic conditions.
Remember, you can contact us online for questions wherever you are. Save this post for your next trip 💙