Whether you’re gearing up for a move to Europe or planning a visit to the USA, this post is your guide to the items you will not be able to get abroad. Save it for reference, especially if you’re moving abroad, so you don’t forget these 10 American drugstore essentials and know exactly what to buy from before you go.
I always stop at Target when I am back in the USA to grab these 10 American drugstore essentials | Photo by Shabaz Usmani Unsplash
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We returned to the US this past November, and let me tell you, my shopping list was extensive. Living in Switzerland presents its challenges, particularly with hefty import taxes and limited product availability so finding things you like, or need, can be a huge hassle. It’s also super important know – crossing the border to Italy or Germany offers a whole new range of options – but you can’t always leave your shopping for long weekends. On top of that, Switzerland (Zurich specifically) does not have typical drugstores like Dm or Müller. So, in light of these challenges, I’ve compiled a list of 10 American drugstore essentials that I simply can’t do without.
If you are getting reading to move abroad, make sure to check out my post 7 Practical Tips for Moving Abroad: An Essential Pre-Move Checklist!
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Overview of 10 American Drugstore Essentials
- Cold Medicine
- Pain Relievers
- Anti-histamines
- Bandaids
- Deoderant
- Teeth Whitening Strips
- Motion Sickness Tables
- First Aid Kit
- Curly Hair Products
- Skincare Products
What is an American Drugstore?
American drugstores are comprehensive retail establishments that offer a wide array of products and services beyond just pharmaceuticals. They are often a one-stop shop for everyday needs, including health and wellness items, personal care products, beauty supplies, and household essentials. Popular chains like CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and even Target are known for their extensive selection and convenience.
Let me tell you, exploring an American drugstore like CVS or Target is a true eye-opener, offering an array of conveniences that can’t be matched elsewhere. While pharmacies worldwide have their unique offerings—such as French pharmacies for skincare—sometimes, it’s the good ol’ American drugstore essentials that hit the spot. Whether you’re planning a visit to the USA or gearing up for a move abroad, this comprehensive list of American drugstore essentials ensures you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.
Cold Medicine
When I got my first cold here in Switzerland I was incredibly sick and I was in for a shock at the pharmacy. The pharmacist offered me tea and lozenges. Yup, you read that right. You will find this in Switzerland, and a good portion of Europe, tea is even prescribed by doctors. I asked her for a comprehensive something, anything please that would help my sore throat, stuffed sinuses, headache, and body aches. She proceeded to bring out 4 different things in addition to the tea to help. None of these were what I wanted and when I asked her if they would help she suggested I just take the tea. So, save yourself the hassle when you are sick and stock up on the Nyquill tablets and Theraflu for when seasonal sickness hits you.
Pain Relievers
This is 100% because I am accustomed to what a true painkiller is such as Advil or Tylenol, and pharmaceutical nonsense aside, paracetamol doesn’t come even close to cutting my monthly period cramps. Speaking of – if Midol is the only thing that helps you during that time of month, make sure to bring some with you. There is NOTHING close to that here.
Anti-histamines
Another medicine item I would bring, and just stocked up on myself, is allergy medicine and Benadryl. If you are like me and get horrible sneezing fits that a neti pot can’t even tackle, bring Benadryl. I’ve asked at the pharmacy here for allergy items and once again been told to ‘luften‘ the windows for more fresh air. Even to vacuum and clean more, or go outside less during windy days. Not quite the help you’d like.
Band-Aids
Now you can get “plasters” here aka Band-aids but I have no clue what the purpose of them are. They are these strange pieces of barely sticky fabric that are in my opinion totally useless. *You can also find these on iHerb now too!
Deodorant
We’ve all heard the jokes about europeans being smelly, and while I don’t think that’s true, I do know I sure stink whenever I use any of the deodorant I’ve grabbed from the store here. When shopping for deodorant (what you are used to back home) at drugstores, you will find mostly antiperspirant, or ‘antitranspirant’. This helps you sweat less, but doesn’t do anything for a smell. Nothing beats Secret deodorant and I will forever bring those back with me. *You can now get Secret Deoderant on iHerb, it’s a bit pricey and often sold out, but keep your eyes open!
Teeth Whitening Strips
I often get complimented on my white teeth living here and I was surprised at first. No one in the US ever complimented me on my teeth, but I quickly realized teeth whitening at home is not a thing here. It’s really difficult to find any teeth whitening products online (that actually work) and teeth whitening at the dentist office costs a lot. You really only need to, and should, whiten your teeth once a year so this pack of Crest White Strips will last you until your next visit home.
Motion Sickness Tablets
If you are like me and get car sick (or boat sick) Dramamine is a life-savor. We go on a lot of road-trips here, and I am notorious for getting car sick on windy roads but have struggled to find anything similar to Dramamine.
First Aid Kit
This is the first aid kit we have and I love it. If you want to save yourself on the hassle of buying some of the products above individually, just grab this!
Curly Hair Products
If you have curly hair, you are in for a bit of an awakening in Switzerland in particular. Not only can I not find a hair dresser that remotely understands curly hair, I’ve found it really difficult to find products made for curly hair. There is nothing better than the curly hair section of Target or CVS so make sure to stock up!
Skincare Products
This one is specifically looking at Switzerland because let me tell you, I’m my opinion, skincare falls SHORT. It may simply be because of the lack of drugstores, but it’s tricky. You’ll find La Roche Posay and Avéne at the local pharmacy which is great, but there are products missing from those lines. So, stock up on your skincare essentials, ensuring your beauty routine stays intact no matter where you go. Make sure to check out this post: The Ultimate Guide to Shopping for Beauty Products Across Switzerland.
Shop my storefront for these American drugstore essentials!
Moving, especially abroad, entails a whirlwind of adjustments. Amidst the chaos, having your familiar staples can offer a sense of comfort and stability. Whether you’re packing for your move or planning a return trip, these American drugstore essentials ensure you’re taken care of. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions—I am here to help make your transition smoother!
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