Travel Health Advice for Students: Stay Safe on the Go

Thinking about heading off on a school trip or family vacation? Travel can be fun, but nothing ruins a trip faster than a surprise health issue. So, how do you keep yourself healthy and safe? Start by getting real about what you need in your travel kit, what’s allowed, and which quick fixes could backfire.

If you’re packing meds, don’t just toss everything in your bag. Prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) meds aren’t treated the same way in every country. Airports and border checks can be strict—even common painkillers can get you flagged if you don’t follow the rules. Always bring meds in original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription from your doctor, especially for things like ADHD meds, asthma inhalers, or epi-pens. If your school organizes the trip, ask them what’s allowed and who should know about your medical needs.

Ever thought of just grabbing an OTC remedy if you feel weird while away? Hold up. While some minor stuff (like motion sickness or mild headaches) can be handled with basic OTC meds, it’s way too easy to go overboard. Take too much cold medicine and you’ll feel worse, not better. Read the label, don’t guess the dose, and if it’s something you haven’t tried before, run it by a parent or chaperone.

For those using prescription meds, ask your doctor for a travel-sized supply. Splitting pills or rationing is risky—medications lose strength or become unsafe if repackaged incorrectly. And don’t forget some prescription drugs are banned in places you wouldn’t expect, so double-check entry requirements for your destination.

Worried you’ll run out of cash during an emergency? Travel budgets can get destroyed fast with an unexpected trip to a pharmacy or clinic. Bring a bit more money than you think you’ll need, and stash some emergency contact info in your phone and your bag. If you’re going abroad, it won’t hurt to look up how insurance works at your destination. Some schools require students to buy special travel health insurance—worth every penny if you twist an ankle or catch a bad bug.

Self-medicating gets risky if you don’t know when to stop. If a fever sticks around, you get sudden rashes, or you feel weak and dizzy, don’t wait. Get help—either from a teacher, a local doctor, or your group’s designated adult. Don’t ignore warning signs just to avoid disrupting the trip.

Healthy travel isn’t about getting lucky or hoping for the best. It’s about taking small, smart steps before you leave and while you’re on the go. Double-check your meds, learn the basics of first aid, and know when to get help. With a little planning, you can skip the drama and focus on what matters—enjoying every moment of your adventure.