travel pouch for medicine

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Travel Accessories

The 10 Best Travel Pill Cases of 2024

These are the best pill cases ranging from a one day to one month supply.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T + L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Nothing can throw you out of a routine quite like travel. Often that’s a good thing. Traveling allows for the spontaneity of exploration, and removing the push and pull of a daily grind can feel liberating.

But in some cases, losing the normalcy of your day-to-day life can disrupt important tasks like taking your vitamins and important medications. When you’re away from home, jet lagged, or off your normal schedule, forgetting to take an essential prescription, supplement, or vitamin can be a liability for your health.

A pill case is a must for anyone who needs to take any kind of medication while on the go, and ideal travel options are compact and secure so no tablets wriggle loose. We’ve selected the best ones to fit a range of capsule quantities and sizes, including a surprisingly stylish top pick with clever design features.

Best Overall

Port & polish am/pm pill organizer.

It can fit a week’s worth of medication with clear separation for morning and evening doses.

The mirror feature may feel unnecessary to some.

Too many pill cases we considered appeared the same: made from cheap-looking plastic in what was, essentially, the standard Monday to Sunday pill cases we remember watching our grandparents tote around (just in brighter colors.)

This Port & Polish case feels modern, and is an upgraded version of their tried-and-true weekly case with the addition of AM and PM slots for twice daily medications. It more closely resembles a cosmetics compact than a piece of medical equipment, and depending where you purchase it, comes in either blush, black, or mint green. The addition of a mirror means it doubles as a compact for on-the-go touch-ups. While that feature might not appeal to all, it’s an added perk that made it stand out from the rest.

The Details: 7.5 x 4.5 x 1 inches | BPA-free plastic | 7 compartments

Best Weekly

Auvon imedassist weekly pill organizer.

The clearly labeled and color-coded compartments fit all pill sizes, and the push-button spring design makes it easy to open and close. 

There are no separate compartments for morning and evening doses.

Unlike many other Monday through Sunday pill cases, this spring-assisted design can be open or closed with one hand so it’s easy to operate on the go. All lids are colorful and clearly marked, and the compartments are large enough to fit eight fish oil pills or 12 large vitamins, if needed. We also like how the compact plastic case is BPA-free and also includes a 12-month warranty.

The Details: 8.84 x 2.1 x 1.04 inches | BPA-free plastic | 7 compartments

Most Compact

Ppfish portable daily pill case.

This case is about the size of your thumb and comes in unique colors like rose gold and bright green.

Given its diminutive size, the container will only fit small pills like aspirin, ibuprofen, and small vitamins. 

Made from anodized aluminum, this case is our top option for those who travel with just a few small pills but don’t want to sacrifice style. 

With a diameter of just one inch, it's similar in size to a small lip balm. The case is waterproof with a rubber O-ring to protect its contents, and we like how it could be used for other small valuables such as rings, earrings, and earplugs. The color options are also more interesting than others we saw at this size and price, including matte black aluminum and (our favorite) rose gold.

The Details: 3.15 x 2.13 x 0.91 inches | Anodized aluminum | 1 compartment

HRX Pill Box Case

All seven compartments pop out in case you want to carry just the day’s doses (and then tuck away nicely inside a carrying case).

If you take medication more than twice a day, you’ll need a case with more compartments.

Sometimes, a one-a-day isn’t enough, and there are pills that must be taken in the morning, night, or both. This case makes it easy to stock up on twice-daily meds with compartments that are split into two separate spaces so there’s no forgetting a dose. 

The color-coded, translucent containers made from BPA-free plastic are clearly labeled for the time of day, and are small enough to individually fit in your pocket. Each canister pops into a case that holds all seven containers in place so there’s no worry about them falling out and rolling around inside a bag or suitcase. The organizer is under $10, making it one of the most budget-friendly options on this list.

The Details: 3.98 x 2.52 x 1.81 inches | Plastic | 14 compartments

Best Multi-pack

Qeedy 4-pack pill organizer.

This set comes with four waterproof cases and a package of labels so you can customize the organizer to each person’s individual needs.  

The compartments come in different sizes, so large pills might not fit in smaller spaces.

This set of four cases is great for a family who needs one case per person. Each organizer has eight compartments, and a set of blank labels are included so you can label the case, by pill type, dosage time, or day of the week. 

The cases are small enough — about the size of a credit card — to fit in a pocket, purse, or small bag, and made from BPA-free plastic with a silicone ring and a snap-shut lock for a secure seal. Unlike other cases, the compartments are different sizes, which can be a pro or a con depending on your family’s specific needs.

The Details: 7.17 x 4.76 x 2.95 inches | BPA-free plastic | 8 compartments each

Best Luxury

Ikigai weekly pill case.

Sleekly designed for minimalists, this case offers customized engravings, and is small enough to pack away anywhere you wish.

If you want to pack large vitamins, take twice daily doses, or are traveling for longer than a week, you’ll have to upgrade to a larger model.

Forget brightly-colored plastic or large carrying cases. This streamlined option made from anodized aluminum is a minimalist’s dream with clean-cut edges and hidden storage. 

But despite a demure design, the features are thoughtful. Made of a corrosion-resistant material, the case features a traction pad that makes it slide open with ease and comes in a slew of vivid colors and engraving options to imprint days of the week or your name across the front. And, with a lifetime warranty, consider this the last pill case you’ll ever buy.

The Details: 7.25 x 1.75 x 0.75 inches | Anodized aluminum | 7 compartments

Best Customizable

Cadence the originals set.

These aesthetically-pleasing containers are as functional as they are beautiful.

It costs extra to print words on the removable tiles if not included in the premade options.

This set of cases might be the most attractive, multi-use option we considered. Each capsule is magnetic and links up with others to form a unique honeycomb-like design. They’re leakproof, reusable, and impressively customizable with smaller and larger options as well as this original 1.32-ounce size.

In addition to the variety of calming colors they come in like eucalyptus, terracotta, and petal, each capsule features a removable top tile that can be customized to specify its contents. Choose premade icons that designate pills or day and night, or you can custom print the exact medication name or day of the week for an additional $2. These personalization options beat out anything else we saw and the multipurpose functionality — like transporting travel-size toiletries — adds loads of value.

The Details: BPA-free 20 percent recycled ocean-bound plastic and 30 percent excess manufacturing material | One compartment per Capsule

Most Stylish

Dosey am pm pill case.

The collection of zippered pouches are housed inside a chic carrier that’s more akin to a toiletry bag or cosmetics case.

Each pouch is zippered shut, so it might not be as secure against leaks as a standard case.

We love this choice for those who find a standard plastic case uninspiring. Instead, this case has zippered pouches that are housed inside a cosmetics train case-inspired carrier. It's also made from cruelty-free vegan leather with a velvet lining and wrist strap, and available in colors like sage, lilac, latte, and more. It comes with Monday through Sunday and AM and PM labels so there’s no confusion between pouches.

Use the 14 pouches for one week's worth of twice daily doses, two weeks for once daily regimens, or up to 30 pills to use as needed on your trip. 

The Details: 5 x 4 x 5 inches | Vegan leather | 14 EVA plastic pouches

Best for Long Trips

Auvon monthly pill organizer.

This color-coded organizer fits pills of all sizes for four weeks inside one larger carrying case so everything stays together. 

Since the case is intended to carry 28 doses of medication, it is bulky for a small bag.

For travels that extend beyond a week — lucky you! — a case that can hold doses for longer periods of time is a must. This organizer holds pills for four weeks, or 28 days, in clearly labeled and color-coded compartments that are roomy enough to fit large pills such as fish oil capsules. 

Each individual week can pop out on its own, so you can use those for shorter trips without bringing the entire kit, or you can use this option to bring pills for an entire family instead. We also like the accompanying case, which has a silicone seal to protect against moisture, and snaps closed to safely secure all medications.

The Details: 8.7 x 5.6 x 1.4 inches | BPA-free plastic | 28 compartments

Best for Backups

Restree weekly pill organizer 4 times per day.

This case is ideal for anyone who takes pills up to four times a day, or wants the security of traveling with extra spots for backup pills. 

It’s larger than other seven-day organizers. 

If you take pills more than twice a day, you’ll need a case with space beyond the daily, AM, or PM compartments. This weekly organizer holds medications of all sizes for up to four daily doses, and each individual day-of-the-week case can pop in and out. 

But the real standout feature to us was the additional box labeled for backup pills. Use it for a fourth dose or pack with extra pills, since, despite our best intentions, it’s still possible to lose medications. Bringing a surplus of each kind is the safest way to avoid a snafu while away from home.

The Details: 9.4 x 5.9 x 1.4 inches | BPA-free plastic | 28 compartments

Tips for Buying Pill Cases for Travel

Determine how many pills you need to travel with before selecting a case.

Your personal medical regimen should be the main deciding factor when selecting a pill case. Consider factors like trip duration, the number of daily medications needed, dosing times, and pill sizes before selecting a case.

For example, if you take pills twice daily, we wouldn’t suggest a seven-compartment option with no separation for AM and PM, no matter how much you like the style. Likewise, think about how long you’ll be traveling and make sure your case’s compartments match up to fit enough pills for the number of days you’ll be away.

Consider how much space your pills need

Pill cases are not one size fits all. An organizer might have every feature you want, but if you take large vitamins or fish oil capsules that won’t fit inside, the case will quickly become obsolete. Make sure to look for a case with slots that will either fit your specific pills, or can adjust, should your medications change in the future.

Look for cases that are accessible

If you experience swollen fingers, tremors, or have arthritis, be sure to select a pill case with accessible features. For example, a push-button, spring-assisted design will be easier to open and close with the touch of a finger than a snap-shut lid.

Anyone can use a pill organizer, and many are multipurpose enough to hold other items. However, anyone who needs to take a pill on a scheduled basis would benefit greatly from using a pill case, especially while traveling. A pill organizer keeps medications of any kind organized so you never accidentally skip it, or alternatively, take too much.

Different countries have different regulations regarding medication. If you plan to travel internationally and will be carrying prescription medication in a pill case instead of the container it came in from the pharmacy, it's a good idea to bring a copy of the prescription from your healthcare provider to avoid possible confusion with customs or local authorities. And no matter how you travel with medication, be sure to research the rules for medications where you're visiting to confirm if they may legally enter the country.

Just because a case is designed or marketed to hold medication doesn’t mean you can’t use it for other items. Many cases are multipurpose and can hold items such as jewelry, earplugs, or small valuables. Depending on the case you purchase, you might use it to store lotion, shampoo, conditioner, serums, cleanser, or other liquid beauty or toiletry products, too. Just make sure the case is airtight and leak proof in those instances.

TSA regulations allow passengers to bring medications kept within a pill case onboard in a carry-on. It is not required to keep medication in its original labeled packaging when traveling within the United States. You can also pack pill cases in your checked baggage, though we’d advise against that in the event of baggage delays. If you’re bringing liquid medications in quantities larger than TSA's allotted 3.4 ounces, be sure to alert the TSA security officer when you start the screening process. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure contributor Emily Hochberg is a veteran travel and lifestyle writer and editor who vacations frequently with her family and researched dozens of pill cases to find the best options for traveling with supplements, vitamins, and medications.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

This $6 Amazon Essential Keeps My Medications and Vitamins Organized When I Travel

By Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The one essential I keep in my carry-on no matter where I'm headed or for how long: a travel pill case from Amazon. The best travel pill cases are compact, secure, and easy to open on the go, and mine checks all the boxes. 

I used to bring the entire bottle of my daily medication in my carry-on and put loose vitamins in a plastic seal top bag—needless to say, this wasn't the best use of space (or single-use plastic). A year ago, I purchased a $6 travel pill case to save some packing room , stay more organized, and have something I could reuse trip after trip . Since then, it's been a packing non-negotiable for me and has made taking my medications, vitamins, and supplements while I'm traveling easier than ever. 

It's nearly impossible to stick to your normal routine when traveling. While I don't mind missing a few workouts or healthy meals on the road, I do want to stay on top of taking my supplements and vitamins every day. This sleek, portable case has eight separate compartments that hold everything I need for a week's vacation in one place and make it easy to track what I'm taking. It features two separate sections: One side with six small chambers for storing daily pills and a second side with two larger chambers that holds capsules and vitamins. Having a pill case with compartments of varied size makes it easy to pack as many pills as you need and organize them however you'd like. I use the smaller chambers for my daily allergy pills and the larger chambers to store emergency essentials that I like to have on hand, like Advil ,   Benadryl , and Tums . 

The size of this travel pill organizer is perfect for most trips I take. The compartments are spacious enough to hold at least a week's worth of pills, but the case is still compact enough to fit in my Dopp kit (for reference, it's smaller than an iPhone). I've packed this pill organizer on numerous trips and it's never opened while in transit or spilled any of my items. To secure each chamber, simply snap the plastic top down. After filling the compartments with your medication, snap the two sides of the case together and toss it in your carry-on . 

Something I love about this travel pill case compared to others on the market is its sleek design. When it's closed, no one would ever know you have a week's worth of supplements on hand. And of course, the price is right. This $6 travel essential from Amazon has accompanied me on short weekend getaways to the Catskills , a 10-day European cruise , and countless business trips —and I plan to bring it with me wherever I'm headed next.

If you're worried about carrying a pill case through airport security, rest assured that travelers are allowed to bring their prescription medications and over-the-counter supplements with them. TSA allows travelers to bring medication in pill or solid form in carry-ons and checked baggage—so you can bring your pill case no matter what bag you're packing. 

While I love traveling with this case, there are plenty of great options on the market with high ratings and glowing reviews. Below, a few more of the best travel pill cases that we recommend bringing on your next getaway.

More travel pill cases we recommend: 

Best day-by-day organizer

This best-selling pill organizer has over 57,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. It has two separate compartments for each day of the week with clear AM and PM labels, so you'll always remember if you took your medication or not. While it's designed for everyday use, it also doubles as a travel organizer for longer trips. If you're looking for an everyday pill box that will keep you on track or are headed on a two-week vacation, this one's for you.

Best for organizing by AM/PM

Another Amazon bestseller is this weekly pill case with AM and PM labels. Each day of the week has its own portable, pocket-size case that can be removed from the box and carried on its own for day trips or hikes . 

Most compact organizer

If you prefer something a little more discreet, this daily pill box has a simple yet polished design. The slim, lightweight organizer slides open and locks into place when you close it, so there's no need to worry about any of your pills falling out. Inside, there's a separate compartment labeled for each day of the week. 

Another very compact option

This small pill box fits in just about any purse or fanny pack you're bringing on your next adventure. It features four separate compartments that each fit several capsules or vitamins, making it an ideal choice for weekend trips when you need two to four days' worth of medications. 

Best multipurpose organizer

Cadence capsules are one of our editors' favorite reusable toiletry bottles , but they're versatile enough to neatly store pills, too. I keep a few emergency Tums stacked in one of these airtight, leakproof capsules in my tote bag at all times. 

• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Solo Location Guides
• Solo Travel Advice
• Solo Inspiration
• Luxury travel

TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

A pharmacist’s diy travel medicine kit: pack like a pro.

Let’s face it. A travel medicine bag isn’t many people’s priority when it comes to putting together that all-important packing list.

But it should be. You never know when you might come down with a cough or cold, have a bout of diarrhoea or take a tumble. A good traveller is always prepared.

However, many travellers are unsure as to exactly which products they should pack. So what should you include in a travel medicine kit?

This is where I can help you, both as a frequent traveller and as a healthcare professional.

In the course of many adventures in 70+ countries, I’ve experienced my fair share of sniffles, scrapes and sprains. Fortunately, as a registered pharmacist , I know how to deal with these as they arise.

However, I’ve only been able to manage these minor medical emergencies because I’ve packed the right medicines and first aid items. This travel medical kit has evolved over the years and I have honed my selection of pills and potions to a collection that covers most of the bases.

In this article, I will share the contents of my trusty DIY travel medicine kit and give you expert advice on what you should consider when packing medicines for travel.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

What Should I Pack in my Medicine Bag for Travel?

There is no such thing as a definitive travel medicine kit. Much will depend on your age, gender and medical conditions, your destination, style of travel and your attitude to medicines.

It’s all a question of balance. Whilst you won’t want to lug around a medical kit that a paramedic would be proud of, at the same time you should include essential items to cover your basic healthcare needs and emergencies.

Consider Your Destination and Trip Style When Packing Your Travel Medicine Kit

Consider where you are travelling to, and for how long, when deciding which medicines and first aid items to include in your travel medical kit.

Chances are you will not need an extensive selection of medicines, bandages and gauzes on a flashpacking European city break. However, it’s a different story if you are trekking in the Himalayan foothills where access to doctors and pharmacies isn’t a given.

Heading to a high-altitude destination? If so, then you may want to get your hands on preventative treatment before leaving home.

Travelling to a malaria zone? Then. don’t forget your antimalarial medication.

Consider Your Personal Health Needs When Packing a Travel Medicine Bag

Although this may be blindingly obvious, you should consider your personal health needs when packing for a trip. For example; if you are a woman who suffers from menstrual cramps, include your preferred remedy in your travel medicine kit.

What’s in my DIY Travel Medicine Kit

 As a pharmacist, I have honed my collection to one that covers most of the bases, and my medicines fit snugly into a semi-rigid plastic pouch from Muji .

Let’s take a closer look at its contents and why they are included.  You can buy all of the medicines in my travel kit over-the-counter in the UK without needing a doctor’s prescription.

Medicine for Travel: Essential Items

Pain killer: paracetamol 500mg .

Paracetamol (acetaminophen if you are American) is a highly effective pain-killer and it also helps to bring down your temperature if you have an infection. I have used it for headaches, for cold and ‘flu symptoms and for – whisper it – hangovers.

Don’t leave home without it.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY: IBUPROFEN 200MG 

Like paracetamol, ibuprofen is a painkiller and can be used in much the same way. However, it is also anti-inflammatory and so is useful for soft tissue injuries (strains and sprains).

Many women prefer it to paracetamol to relieve period pain.

If you have asthma or have had stomach problems (ulcers) you may not be able to use ibuprofen; check with your doctor or pharmacist.

The choice of paracetamol or ibuprofen to treat headaches and to bring down the temperature is entirely up to you.

Many people find that one works better than the other for them. For example, I find paracetamol is usually effective in killing a headache but ibuprofen barely touches it.

ANTIHISTAMINE TABLET

If like me, you suffer from hay fever or have allergies , an antihistamine is an essential part of your travel medicine kit. Antihistamines are also invaluable for relieving itchiness from hives and insect bites , including pesky mozzie bites .

 My traveller’s medical kit usually has a strip of whichever antihistamine I have to hand. Usually, this is acrivastine but good alternatives are loratadine or cetirizine , neither of which is likely to make you drowsy.

If you want a sedating antihistamine, go for the older drug, chlorphenamine (chlorpheniramine).

Although antihistamine creams are also available, I am less keen on these. They are not as versatile as tablets, and in rare cases can cause skin sensitisation.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY CREAM: HYDROCORTISONE CREAM 1%

I always pop a tube of hydrocortisone cream in my travel medicine bag.

Although it is used primarily for eczema – some people find that eating different foods makes their skin condition flare up – it is also excellent at relieving the itchiness of mosquito bites.

You don’t need to use a lot of hydrocortisone cream. Make sure that you apply it in a very thin layer.

DIARRHOEA MEDICINE: LOPERAMIDE 2MG

Think of loperamide (Imodium) as a pharmaceutical cork.

Call it what you like; Delhi Belly, Montezuma’s Revenge, Backdoor Trots. Most of us will have been struck down by  travellers’  diarrhoea (TD) , usually at the worst possible time.

Trust me; clenching your buttocks on a long-distance bus journey is not much fun. This is where these little green and grey capsules are worth their weight in gold. They are particularly helpful if you have colicky-type pain.

There is some debate as to whether the use of loperamide prolongs TD by retaining the offending bug. The consensus seems to be to let it all flow out, reserving loperamide for those situations where TD may affect travel plans.

My approach is to do exactly that, reserving the use of loperamide for emergencies; to avoid being caught short on a bus or train journey for example.

Codeine and diphenoxylate/atropine (Lomotil) are alternatives to loperamide but I don’t recommend them as they carry a higher risk of side effects for no great gain. Also, you need a doctor’s prescription for these medicines.

Some people take away antibiotics with them to self-treat. The choice of antibiotic depends on the destination.

You will need a doctor’s prescription. A common antibiotic that travellers include in their medical kit is ciprofloxacin .

REHYDRATION SACHETS

Your priority in treating travel diarrhoea or sickness is to keep hydrated. Therefore, I always pop a couple of rehydration sachets with electrolytes in my traveller’s medical kit.

It goes without saying that the water that you use to reconstitute these sachets should be safe

If you don’t have these sachets to hand you can drink other clear fluids, such as diluted fruit juices, as an alternative.

MOTION SICKNESS TABLETS

For those journeys across switchback mountain passes and across choppy waters, I use cinnarizine  (Stugeron) tablets, which do the trick but can cause drowsiness.

Another popular choice is hyoscine hydrobromide (Kwells) but I find that it gives me a dry mouth.

Some people swear by acupressure bands ( Sea-Band ).

Other Items To Consider Putting in your DIY Travel Medicine Bag

Antacid tablets.

Think Gaviscon or Pepto Bismol . For those times when you overindulge in delicious food or have a few extra drinks.

What’s NOT in my Travel Medical Kit

Proprietary cold and flu remedies.

This is polypharmacy at its worst. Proprietary cold and flu medicines are cocktails of unnecessary drugs at sub-therapeutic doses.

Save your money and precious packing space. Just take paracetamol or ibuprofen for cold and ‘flu symptoms. If you feel bunged up, a decongestant such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can be useful.

Expert Tips for Packing Your Travel Medicines

• You don’t need to take vast quantities of these medicines and first aid items; just enough to get by until you can replenish your supplies at a pharmacy or drugstore. For example, I take just a strip or two of tablets
• Choose strips of tablets instead of bottles to save precious packing space.
• For the same reason, remove strips from their boxes. But if you are unfamiliar with how to take the medicine, make sure to keep the instructions.
• Where possible, opt for tablets over liquids, gels and creams.

Travel First Aid Items

Sticking plasters (band-aids).

A few sticking plasters of different sizes are an essential component of my travel medicine kit.

The most common injuries are cuts and grazes and you don’t need to be an ardent trekker for blisters to appear.

CREPE BANDAGE

But what about if your injury is bigger than a small cut or graze?

A bog-standard crepe bandage is invaluable for keeping a small dressing in place until you get it looked at by a healthcare professional.

Gauze is one of the most useful items in your travel first aid kit.

A gauze square can be used to clean an injury, apply pressure to a wound to help stop bleeding, and dress a small wound. When used as a dressing, it can be held in place by a crepe bandage or surgical tape .

To keep the wound clean and sterile, pack individually wrapped sterile gauze squares.

ANTISEPTIC WIPES

I also always carry a few sealed alcohol wipes for wound cleansing.

ANTIBACTERIAL CREAM

Again, to prevent wounds from becoming infected and to help them heal faster, it’s a good idea to pack an antibacterial cream like Neosporin .

SMALL SCISSORS & TWEEZERS

Both of these items come as standard in most first aid kits and are extremely versatile items to bring with you on your travels.

Scissors are useful for trimming bandages or gauze to the desired dimensions. As well as grooming eyebrows, tweezers can be used to pull out splinters and to extract bits of stone or dirt from a wound.

Is It Worth Buying a Ready-Made Travel First Aid Kit?

For simplicity and for a travel first aid kit that will be packed to perfection, buying a ready-made travel first aid kit is a hassle-free option. You can be assured that the basics will be covered, and your travel healthcare essentials will come in their own sturdy and waterproof bag.

However, what you gain in convenience you lose in the ability to personalise your travel medical kit to your own needs. Also, as you will only include items that are essential for your trip, it’s likely that a DIY travel first aid kit will be cheaper than buying one online.

The Best Ready-Made Travel First Aid Kits

When choosing the best ready-made travel first aid kit, contents, size and weight are the key factors. Whilst you want to make sure you have enough of all of the essential items, you don’t want this to take up too much valuable real estate in your luggage.

Amazon has a good range of travel first aid kits and I’ve picked out the best lightweight and compact travel first aid kits that they have to offer.

Lifesystems Pocket First Aid Kit

Lightweight (100g) and compact first-aid kit that covers the bases for basic first aid.

>>> CHECK PRICE HERE

Mini First Aid Kit

A 92-piece first aid kit that packs a punch for its compact size.

Universal First Aid Kit in Bag

This 100-piece first aid kit is the most comprehensive of the three shown here and weighs in at 380g.

Best Travel Health Resources

Here are my go-to websites for keeping healthy whilst on the road.

• fitfortravel – a free, interactive, resource providing up-to-date information on avoiding illness and staying healthy when travelling abroad.
• TRAVEL HEALTH PRO – a website comprising the travel health resources of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC), set up by the UK’s Department of Health to protect the health of travellers.
• CDC TRAVELER’S HEALTH – an extensive collection of resources from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Travel Medicines: Final Tips From a Healthcare Professional

Think of this list of items for travel ailments, scrapes and bangs as a tool kit, to which you can add or subtract, according to your needs. In addition, you will need to include any prescribed medicines in your travel medicine bag.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have never taken any of the above medications before. Sometimes medicines don’t mix well together – oral contraceptives and antibiotics are good examples of this –  and medical conditions or allergies may mean that it is unwise to take a certain medication.

For any injury or illness that cannot be remedied by the contents of your travel medical kit, or that does not respond to self-treatment, you should seek professional medical attention.

Although carrying these basic items will help you to deal with the vast majority of ailments and accidents as a traveller, it is no substitute for comprehensive travel insurance.  As a  mid-life traveller , I get my travel insurance from  Staysure. It offers an excellent level of cover, including that against Covid-19, and has garnered 5-star reviews.

Finally, whilst it’s essential to be prepared, chances are that you will rarely need to use the items in your travel medical kit.

Safe and healthy travels!

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a registered pharmacist who has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

6 thoughts on “ A Pharmacist’s DIY Travel Medicine Kit: Pack Like a Pro! ”

Great list—thanks!

FYI: if you are traveling to or in India by air, ALL scissors are a no go except in checked bags! That includes those tiny ineffective blunt scissors in mini first aid kits and nail clippers. You WILL be stopped.

And as it happens, they fasten your checked bags shut if you’re flying within India! So you have no knife or scissors, and a sealed bag…

Great tip! Thanks. I’ll add it to the article 🙂

Admiring the time and energy you put into your blog and detailed information you provide.

This is a great list! Thanks!

Thanks. I’m glad you liked it!

This is a fantastic list! Thanks!

Comments are closed.

38 Items to Pack in Your Travel Medicine Bag

From a tiny cold to the dreaded diarrhea (don’t laugh, it’s happened to me every time I’ve been on safari in Africa !), or whether traveling across a state or to a different continent it is important that your travel medicine bag be prepared for when the unexpected might occur. Your first aid kit and supplies are just as important as your boarding pass!

But, what are the best items to pack? Here’s the list of what I bring no matter if I am heading out for just a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure. These items have made sure that I was equipped for many emergency situations, especially while in an unfamiliar place

NOTE: Always consult with your doctor before taking any medication as they may interact with other medications or aggravate existing conditions.

Things to Pack in Your Travel Medicine Bag

1. aloe vera gel.

When it comes to travel, packing a first aid kit is a must – and aloe vera gel should be at the top of your list. Aloe Vera Gel is a natural plant extract that has been used since ancient times for its medicinal purposes. Not only does this gel provide relief from sunburns, but it can also help soothe bug bites, rashes, and minor skin irritations.

Buy the Top Brands: Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Vera Gel Being Natural Aloe Vera Gel

2. Antacids

Heartburn or indigestion can hit at any time, but especially when your stomach might be confused by jet lag or all the different types of food in a new destination. Don’t miss out on eating the spicy Mexican food in Oaxaca or Nigerian cuisine in Africa, just pack some antacids. They help to neutralize acid in your stomach and restore the balance of digestive juices.

Buy the Top Brands: TUMS Chewy Bites Antacid Tablets Alka-Seltzer Extra Strength Heartburn Relief Chews

3. Anti-diarrhea Medication

Trying new foods is one of the best things about traveling! Unfortunately, different food around the world can also come with its fair share of unexpected upsets. One of these could be an unfortunate bout of diarrhea, which can ruin a trip quickly if you are not prepared.

You can get a prescription from your doctor, or an over-the-counter Imodium AD does the trick for me.

Buy the Top Brands: Imodium A-D Diarrhea Relief Caplets Pepto Bismol Diarrhea LiquiCaps

4. Antibiotic Ointment

We sometimes forget that even minor scrapes and cuts can become severely infected if left untreated, so packing an antibiotic ointment in your travel-sized first aid kit is essential. This common topical medication works by providing an antibiotic barrier on the skin that helps prevent infection while also helping to restore the natural balance of bacteria in the affected area.

Buy the Top Brand: Neosporin Antibiotic Ointment

5. Antihistamines

Allergies can be unpredictable, and even the hardiest traveler could find themselves in a jam if they don’t have medication on hand. Antihistamines are medications great as an aid for fast, effective relief to allergic reactions. This will also be a front of the line treatment for insect bites and hives.

Buy the Top Brands: Benadryl Allegra  

6. Bandages

Have you ever gotten one of those dang paper cuts that won’t stop bleeding? Me too! That’s why an assortment of bandages are one of the most important items to pack in your travel first aid kit. They come in all shapes and sizes, so pack just a couple of each type.

Buy the Top Brands: Band-Aid Flexible Fabric Adhesive Bandages, Assorted Curad Performance Series Ironman Antibacterial Bandages, Assorted Variety Pack

7. Calamine Lotion

Calamine lotion is a type of topical skin relief fused with zinc oxide, typically used for alleviating irritation from minor bug bites, sunburns, or mild rashes or sores. It’s an easy and affordable way to quickly treat minor skin issues while away from home. Plus its anti-itch properties mean it certainly loves to make itchy mosquito bites go away in a jiffy!

Buy the Top Brand: HUMCO Calamine Lotion

8. Cotton Swabs

Cotton swabs are a staple of most households, and another essential item for your first aid kit. They offer a convenient and hygienic way to clean wounds, apply ointments, help with splinters or foreign particle removal, and even stop bleeding.

Buy the Top Brands: Q-tips

9. Cough Suppressant/Syrup

It really puts a damper on a day of exploring when you have a nagging cough that just won’t stop. Over-the-counter cough suppressants or syrup can be used to reduce the intensity of a cough, making it easier for sufferers to get some rest.

Buy the Top Brands: Robitussin Max Strength Cough and Congestion Liquid Medicine HALLS Honey Lemon Sugar Free Cough Drops

10. Decongestant

A decongestant can be a lifesaver during your travels. Not only can it help to relieve irritating and uncomfortable symptoms of a cold or seasonal allergies they help to clear the passages and reduce inflammation in the body to allow for better breathing and relief from sinus headaches.

Buy the Top Brands: Sudafed Maximum Strength Non-Drowsy Decongestant Tablets Afrin Original 12 Hour Nasal Congestion Relief Spray

11. Disposable Gloves

Packing a pair of disposable gloves can protect yourself and others when attending to an injury. These gloves help provide a barrier, ensuring you don’t come into contact with any germs or bacteria lingering on a wound, therefore preventing any further infection.

Buy the Top Brands: Comfy Package Black Nitrile Disposable Gloves SAFESKIN Disposable Nitrile Gloves in POP-N-GO

12. Eye Drops

Traveling can often leave your eyes feeling strained, dry and uncomfortable. Whether you’re out sightseeing, spending a long day on a plane, or working long hours staring at a computer screen, you need to have some eye drops handy to alleviate the irritation. Eye drops provide immediate relief by washing away dirt and bacteria, moisturizing your eyes and replenishing their natural lubricants so that they don’t feel dry and scratchy.

Buy the Top Brands: TheraTears Dry Eye Therapy Eye Drops Visine Red Eye Hydrating Comfort  

13. Face Mask

Face masks are a part of our “new normal” lives, offering protection from air pollution, dust, and other environmental elements, but also helping prevent the spread of airborne pathogens. In these unpredictable times, it is even more important for travelers to take extra precautions—having an easily accessible face mask in your first aid kit can go a long way towards keeping yourself safe as well as others around you.

 Buy the Top Brands: Grey Disposable 3 Ply Face Mask 3M N95

Gauze is a loosely-woven medical bandage used for lightly compressing wounds and providing protection from outside elements such as dirt and debris. It comes in varying sizes and lengths to fit any injury or wound, ranging from superficial scratches to deep abrasions. Gauze can also be layered on top of one another until the desired cushioning and pressure has been achieved while still allowing the skin to breathe beneath it.

Buy the Top Brands: Medpride Band-Aid Brand

15. Ginger Pill

If you’re looking for a more natural way to ease some of the travel aches and pains, ginger is a natural digestive aid that helps reduce nausea, motion sickness, stomach aches, mild cramping and dizziness. There are many studies that have identified important compounds in the root that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties

Buy the Top Brands: Nutricost   Nature’s Way

16. Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone cream is a topical steroid that can help soothe and reduce swelling and redness caused by skin irritation, such as bug bites, sunburns, itching and other minor skin ailments. Not only is it great for a travel emergency use but also provides ongoing relief from conditions like dermatitis or eczema.

Buy the Top Brands: Cortizone 10   Aquaphor Hydrocortisone Anti Itch Skin Ointment

17. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a natural antiseptic that helps to both clean and protect wounds from infection, making sure the skin can heal quickly and properly. Not only does it  prevent bacteria from entering any open wounds, its oxygen bubbles create a tingling sensation which helps ease pain. Additionally, since hydrogen peroxide decomposes easily into oxygen and water, there isn’t any residue to irritate or harm healthy skin around the wound area.

Buy the Top Brand: Swan

18. Insect Bite Anti-Itch Gel or Cream

Mosquito and other bug bites are ANNOYING, and there’s many destinations that are prone to these pesky critters (I’m talking to you Guyana !). Having an anti-itch gel or cream is the best solution for anyone who is dealing with an annoying and itchy bug bite. It can provide immediate relief and limit the side effects, such as inflammation and discomfort.

Buy the Top Brands: After Bite Earth’s Care

19. Insect Repellent

Traveling to exotic places can also mean insects and bugs! Do not let these little creatures stop you from exploring the world! Bring along a variety of repellants to help you best enjoy your stay.

Buy the Top Brands: Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Natural Mosquito Repellent OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent

20. Instant Cold Pack

When packing your travel medicine bag, an Instant Cold Pack might be overlooked, but it’s an incredibly versatile tool that can help in a variety of situations. Whether you just hit your finger with a hammer outdoors or are dealing with more serious injuries on a camping trip , an Instant Cold Pack can provide some relief and comfort in the moment.

Buy the Top Brands: Clever Health Disposable Instant Cold Pack

21. Laxative

The fact is that many travelers out there suffer from constipation, and if you’re one of them a laxative can be a Godsend. They work by either increasing fluid in the small intestine to help move things along or help make stools softer, so they are easier to pass.

Buy the Top Brands: Dulcolax Laxative Tablets   ex-lax Maximum Strength Stimulant Laxative Pills

22. Medical Tape

Medical tape, also known as surgical tape, is an invaluable tool for any first aid kit, particularly when you’re traveling. It can be used to hold gauze and bandages in place, especially on hard-to-bandage areas like wrists and fingers. I am currently traveling with a broken toe and am using it to tape my toes together, so one toe is acting as a splint for the other!

Buy the Top Brand: Nexcare Gentle Paper First Aid Tape with Dispenser

23. Micro Led Flashlight

A tiny flashlight may not sound like an important addition to your emergency kit, but it can be invaluable in an unexpected situation. For example, if you are camping in the middle of nowhere, and it’s in the middle of the night and you need to inspect the wound of a family member or friend that was injured. tHaving a micro LED flashlight can also help if you need to read dosage instructions or expiration dates on medication. Of course if you have a phone with a flashlight, you can skip this.

Buy the Top Brands: ThruNite EDC Flashlight Archer Mini OLIGHT Tiny Rechargeable Keychain Flashlight

24. Motion Sickness Medication

Motion sickness medication can be a saving grace when it comes to getting through car trips, boat rides and flights! These medications work by blocking the signals between the inner ear and the brain, which can help reduce dizziness, nausea and vomiting. They come in both pill form and as patches that are applied to the skin behind your ear.

Buy the Top Brands: Dramamine All Day Less Drowsy Motion Sickness Relief Bonine Chewable for Motion Sickness Relief

25. Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)

You can become dehydrated really quick if you are suffering from diarrhea, vomiting or excessive heat. Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) have the ability to provide the essential salts and minerals our body needs for proper hydration during a bout of illness. The electrolytes or hydro lights will restore your body back up with all the goodness it needs while keeping your sugar and salt levels in check.

Buy the Top Brands: DripDrop Hydration – Electrolyte Powder Packets Hydralyte Electrolyte Tablets

26. Pain Reliever

A key item in any travel first aid kit should be a pain reliever. Remedying common maladies such as headaches and cramps while traveling can make all the difference in having an enjoyable holiday versus an excruciatingly painful one. Pain relievers can relieve discomfort almost instantly, meaning faster recovery time and less worry about worsening symptoms.

Buy the Top Brands: Tylenol Extra Strength Caplets Advil Pain Reliever and Fever Reducer

27. Emergency Contact List

If you ever find yourself needing medical attention or assistance while on the road, being able to easily access the contact details of doctors, police or family is essential.

28. Saline Nasal Spray

Most people think of bandages and aspirin when assembling their medicine bag, but don’t forget to add a bottle of saline nasal spray. This spray can help alleviate the symptoms of allergies, colds, and sinus infection while traveling— relieving congestion, stuffiness, or dryness in the nose. It can also be used to flush out mucus and dirt particles that are stuck in the nasal passages.

Buy the Top Brands: Vicks Sinex Saline Nasal Spray, Drug Free Ultra Fine Mist ARM & HAMMER Simply Saline Nasal Care

29. Sanitizer

Trains, planes, buses…the germs are everywhere! These days, it’s rare that people leave the house without some sanitizer in hand, so adding it to your travel medicine bag is essential. Whether it’s a gel or a wipe, sanitizer is extremely handy for many different things, from cleaning minor scrapes to helping keep your hands germ-free.

Buy the Top Brands: Purell Singles EO Botanical Lavender Hand Sanitizer The Honest Company Sanitizing Alcohol Wipes

30. Scissors

Packing scissors in your travel first aid kit is an absolute must— even if it’s just a tiny pair of emergency ones! Not only can a good pair of scissors come in handy for emergency clothing repairs, but they are also invaluable when dealing with medical emergencies. For example, if you must construct makeshift bandages or splints, having a pair of scissors on-hand means that you can snip any loose ends and customize them to the shape of the affected area. Additionally, they can be used to cut off clothes or dressings that have become stuck to a wound or dressing.

Buy the Top Brands: Plus Pen Style Compact Scissors Luleyjor Folding Travel scissors SUMAJU Folding Stainless Steel Scissors

31. Sleep Aid

One of the best ways to stay healthy while traveling is by getting plenty of rest. However, if you’re staying in unfamiliar places or have an irregular sleep schedule it can become difficult to fall asleep and/or stay asleep. That’s why packing a sleep aid in your travel first aid kit is so important—it ensures that you get essential rest during your travels, no matter where you are.

Buy the Top Brands: ZzzQuil Nighttime Sleep Aid LiquiCaps Carlyle Melatonin Tablets 

32. Sunscreen

Don’t let the sun take a toll on your health while you travel the world! Sunscreen is important whether traveling in the mountains or beaches. It helps prevent sunburns especially in places where the terrains and conditions are different than what you are used to.

Buy the Top Brands: Neutrogena Beach Defense Spray Sunscreen SPF 70  Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 Neutrogena Ultra Dry-Touch Sunscreen

33. Thermometer

Having a thermometer on hand not only allows for convenient fever tracking, but taking a temperature also gives insight into what type of illness you or someone you’re with might have.

Buy the Top Brands: iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer Konques Digital Thermoter

34. Tweezers

Tweezers are an incredibly versatile and useful item that can come in handy when dealing with minor injuries. Since they have pointed ends, they’re able to remove debris such as splinters and thorns from our skin. Additionally, tweezers can be used for delicate tasks such as cleaning dirt out of a wound as well as adjusting dressings without causing further harm to the injured area.

Buy the Top Brands: Revlon Mini Tweezer Set Tweezerman Rose Gold Slanted Tweezer

35. Water Purification Tablets

Having water purification tablets can help protect you from bacteria-borne illnesses and keep you healthy while discovering new places. Even if the tap water in a foreign country is potable, waterborne illnesses are incredibly common and can easily ruin your trip. With just a single tablet, you can make any water safe to drink—instantly!

Buy the Top Brand: Potable Aqua Water Purification Tablets  

36. Whistle

Whistles are essential for alerting people that you need help in an emergency, especially in wilderness areas when being visible or audible is more difficult. They can call attention to yourself so that other individuals and authorities can quickly respond to urgent situations such as weather warnings, medical concerns, getting lost, and traveling companions in danger.

Buy the Top Brand: Storm Alert Whistle

37. Tissues

No toilet paper in the restroom? Need to blow your nose? Want to pick up something nasty from the floor? Tissues will come in handy in a variety of different ways while you’re on the road.

Buy the Top Brands: Kimberly-Clark Kleenex 3-Ply Pocket Packs Facial Tissues

38. Medications and Vitamins

Of course don’t forget your normal everyday vitamins and prescribed medications!

A travel medicine bag is your first line of defense when it comes to being prepared for unexpected emergencies while traveling. With a well-stocked first aid kit, you can help protect yourself and your family against health risks during trips and vacations.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

You might also like.

My Favorite Tripod Selfie Stick for the Iphone 7 Printable Vacation Packing Lists for Your Next Trip How to Make a Travel Itinerary: Creating the Perfect One for Your Next Trip 35 Travel Safety Tips to Know Before Your Next Trip 200 Best Travel Quotes: Sayings to Inspire You to Explore The World 9 Ways to Make Travel More Meaningful 8 Tips to Help Conquer Your Fear of Flying Comfortable Airplane Travel: 25 Products To Take on Your Next Flight 9 Things To Do on a Long Haul Plane Flight to Cure Boredom

1 thought on “38 Items to Pack in Your Travel Medicine Bag”

Thanks for your recommendations. I’m adding it to my list, I’m sure it will be very useful. I look forward to your other articles, much love.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Hey Bucket Listers! I'm Annette .

I’m a goal obsessed mid-lifer, traveler, experience collector, fear crusher, digital marketer and author with big bucket list dreams. Let's Connect!

Want Inspo To Your Inbox?

I’m giving you practical tips, exclusive tools and the inspiration to stop dreaming about your bucket list and start living it.

Whatcha Looking for?

Home About Blog The Shop Partnerships Contact

Bucket list ideas travel facing fear & anxiety.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

Read Next: Things To Do on Socotra

To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

How to Get a Decent Haircut in a Foreign Country

Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Travel Itinerary for One Week in Beijing

If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

How I Planned My Trip to Vietnam

The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

Places to Visit in Barcelona That Aren’t Beaches

First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

20 Travel Tips I’ve Learned From Travelling The World

There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

12 Stunning National Parks and Regional Parks In France

If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

How To Stop Procrastinating When Trip Planning

Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

Two Weeks In Thailand: The Perfect 14-Day Itinerary

I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

You Will Also Like: 3-Day London Itinerary

Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

How to Save Money While Traveling in Europe

The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

JOIN MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Email Address *

YOU WILL ALSO LIKE

10 Dishes You Must Try When Going To Moscow

15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips Close to Moscow

When Is the Best Time To Visit Russia

24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

My website uses cookies so that I can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to my website and helping me to understand which sections of Mind The Travel you find most interesting and useful.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that I can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, I will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit my website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.