Thailand travel first-aid kit: what should you pack?
What should you pack in a travel medicine kit for Thailand—and what can you easily get there? Here you’ll find my practical recommendations for mosquito protection, stomach and intestinal problems, minor injuries, and medication, as well as information on vaccinations and malaria.
Mosquito protection
Important in the evening—and beyond!
Mosquito repellent is a must for me in Thailand—and not just in the evening. Dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases can also be transmitted during the day. Mosquitoes can be especially bothersome at dusk and in the evening.
I’ve been using effective mosquito repellents for years and, depending on the area, try to wear lightweight long pants and a thin long-sleeved shirt in the evenings.
For trips to rural or wooded areas, treated clothing can offer additional protection.
For mosquito repellents, active ingredients such as DEET and icaridin have proven particularly effective. The right product depends on factors such as age, destination, and how it will be used.
Self-help
What you can do without medication
Mild stomach upsets are common when travelling in Thailand. That doesn’t always mean you need to take medication right away.
I like to bring a few tea bags, such as chamomile or fennel tea. They take up hardly any space and aren’t easy to find in Thailand.
If your symptoms are severe or last longer, such as fever, blood in your stool, or significant circulatory problems, be sure to go to the nearest hospital.
Medication and useful items
What to bring!
Thai pharmacies stock many things you might need while traveling. Still, there are a few small items I prefer to bring from home. For me, these include good-quality bandages, which can be hard to find locally, and a small ointment for treating wounds. I personally prefer a small tube of Panthenol ointment. I also always carry something for heartburn in my backpack.
You can also find disinfectant at many 7-Eleven stores, as well as paracetamol.
Common medications are readily available in Thailand. If I have any health concerns, though, I prefer to ask a pharmacist. In Bangkok, for example, I go to Watsons or Boots.
If you need to take medication regularly, put together your personal travel medicine kit at home and bring enough supplies for your trip.
For more personal tips on planning your trip and everyday life in Bangkok, see my guide Bangkok Panorama
Malaria in Thailand
The risk of malaria varies widely by region in Thailand. Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Pattaya are considered malaria-free.
Much of the rest of the country is considered low risk, including popular holiday islands such as Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. The risk is higher in certain areas along the border with Myanmar.
For your trip to Thailand, the most important thing is to take consistent precautions against mosquito bites. Whether you should also take malaria prevention medication or bring an emergency treatment depends on your itinerary and personal circumstances; consult a travel medicine specialist if needed.
Important: Other mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue and chikungunya, can occur even in malaria-free areas. It’s therefore a good idea to protect yourself from mosquitoes throughout Thailand.
Mosquito protection – especially in high-risk areas
· In areas with lots of mosquitoes, wear light, loose-fitting clothing that covers as much skin as possible, especially long trousers, socks and a long-sleeved shirt. Remember: mosquito protection is important in Thailand during the day too.
· For jungle treks or trips to areas where mosquitoes are common, I also treat my clothes with a
mosquito repellent impregnation. I’ve been using
NOBITE
clothing treatment for years.
· For exposed skin, I use an effective mosquito repellent. Personally, I’ve had good results with Anti Brumm Forte. NOBITE also makes suitable skin sprays.
· It’s especially important to use each product according to the manufacturer’s instructions and reapply it in good time.
Vaccinations
Before your trip to Thailand, make sure in good time that your routine vaccinations are up to date. Which additional travel vaccinations are recommended depends, among other things, on your itinerary, trip duration, and type of travel.
Hepatitis A vaccination is particularly recommended for Thailand. Depending on your personal risk and type of travel, vaccinations against hepatitis B, rabies, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, dengue or chikungunya may also be advisable.
For longer stays, trips to rural areas, or close contact with animals, it’s advisable to seek personalized travel health advice.
For the latest recommendations, consult the travel and safety advice issued by the Federal Foreign Office.
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