Common health issues for Indian travellers in Thailand
- Stomach upsets from street food, seafood and ice.
- Dehydration and heat exhaustion in humid weather.
- Motion sickness on ferries and speedboats to the islands.
- Insect bites, sunburn and coral or rock scrapes on beaches.
Medicine checklist for Thailand
| Category | Why you need it in Thailand |
|---|---|
| ORS, antimotility, probiotic | Street food and heat raise the risk of loose motions and dehydration |
| Antacid | Spicy and unfamiliar food |
| Paracetamol / pain reliever | Fever, headache after long travel days |
| Antihistamine | Insect bites, seafood or pollen allergies |
| Motion sickness tablets | Ferries to Phi Phi, Koh Samui and Krabi |
| Plasters, cotton, antiseptic | Cuts from rocks, coral and sandals |
Thai rules on bringing medicines
Ordinary medicines for personal use are generally fine. Medicines containing psychotropic substances are allowed up to a 30-day supply with a prescription or medical certificate. Medicines containing narcotic drugs (such as some strong painkillers) need a permit from the Thai FDA, applied for online at least 15 days before travel.
Tips to stay healthy
- Drink sealed bottled water; be cautious with ice at street stalls.
- Eat at busy stalls where food is cooked fresh and hot.
- Use sunscreen and insect repellent, especially in the evening.
Frequently asked questions
Can I carry medicines from India to Thailand?
Yes. Ordinary medicines for personal use are allowed. Psychotropic medicines are limited to 30 days’ supply with a prescription, and narcotic medicines need a Thai FDA permit.
What is the most common illness for tourists in Thailand?
Traveller’s diarrhoea from food or water. Carry ORS and an antidiarrhoeal, and drink sealed bottled water.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Chitarth Rajasekaran
Founder & Medical Director · MBBS, MS Ortho, DNB Ortho, MRCS (Edin), Fellow in FIJR, FISS
A practising surgeon and frequent traveller, Dr. Chitarth founded TravelMed after a family trip abroad was derailed by a minor illness.
Read his storySources
This article is general information for travellers and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Medicine-import rules change — always confirm with the destination’s official health authority or embassy.
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