As we approach holiday season, we decided to poll our GPs for a for a list of the products they would not cross passport control without!

Read on to learn how to create your GP-curated ‘grab and go’ travel apothecary - because finding a local pharmacy, and translating drug names at a weird time of night is no one's idea of fun!

SPF factor 50 is the only way to go- read Dr Rina’s blog for more on this!
Antihistamines; (cetirizine or loratadine) for random allergic reactions, insect bites etc. You could also consider promethazine which is an antihistamine, and also helps with motion sickness and vertigo, and can even help with short term insomnia (NB the short term bit is important- come and see our docs if sleep in general is a problem)
Hydrocortisone 1% cream - to calm down upset skin
Paracetamol & ibuprofen (obvs)
Laxatives to speed things up, (e.g. dulcoease, or dulcolax)
Loperamide (brand name Imodium) to slow things down
Rehydration salts (brand name Dioralyte) - good for all causes of dehydration- self inflicted or otherwise…
Selection of plasters
Gauze, wound glue and steristrips

Important! The above are generic recommendations only - always read the information leaflets, with reference to your own medical history and other medications - and of course follow the dosage instructions carefully. And just in case, it's always worth checking the regulations at your destination just in case they take exception to anything coming in from outside.

Final thought: Alas, not all the health challenges of travel can be solved by an over-the-counter (OTC) medication. Many of our patients come to us with health challenges that link clearly back to the impact of frequent travel - specifically on the key pillars of health: sleep, diet and exercise. If this sounds familiar, a wellness screen is a great way to get a better understanding of how your health is being impacted, and then get bespoke advice to change things for the better.