If you’re heading to Japan and rely on Tums for heartburn or indigestion, you might be wondering: Can I bring them with me? The rules for bringing medicines into Japan can be strict, and not knowing them could cause delays at customs. In this guide, we’ll explain what’s allowed, what alternatives are available, and which safe, travel-friendly supplements you can pack for your trip.
Quick Picks – Best Travel-Friendly Alternatives to Tums
- Best Overall: Nutricost Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D – Gentle on the stomach and allowed in most countries.
- Best Probiotic: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics – Supports gut balance, easy to carry in capsule form.
- Best Budget: NOW Foods Magnesium Citrate – Affordable, helps with digestion and stool regularity while abroad.
Buyer’s Guide – Bringing Medicine into Japan
Japan has strict rules on importing medication, even for personal use. Here are the most important points to know:
- Personal use is limited: You can usually bring up to a 1-month supply of most over-the-counter medications like Tums without special permission.
- Prescription medications: If you need more than a month’s supply or prescription drugs, you may need a “Yakkan Shoumei” certificate from Japan’s Ministry of Health.
- Prohibited ingredients: Some medications common in the U.S. are banned in Japan (like stimulants or strong cold medicines). Fortunately, Tums is not on the banned list.
- Keep original packaging: Customs prefers clearly labeled bottles with dosage instructions.
- Check expiration dates: Expired medication may be confiscated.
Detailed Product Reviews – Travel-Safe Options
1. Nutricost Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D
Who it’s for: Travelers who want a safe calcium supplement for heartburn support.
- Gentle on digestion
- Well absorbed
- No banned ingredients
Pros:
- Safe for travel
- Compact bottle
Cons:
- Tablets are on the larger side
Final Verdict: A reliable, Japan-friendly alternative to Tums. Check the price here.
2. Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics
Who it’s for: Frequent travelers who want to avoid stomach upset and maintain gut health abroad.
- 50 billion CFU per capsule
- Travel-friendly blister packs
- Supports immune and digestive systems
Pros:
- Excellent for long trips
- No refrigeration required
Cons:
- Premium price
Final Verdict: The best probiotic option for international travel. See more here.
3. NOW Foods Magnesium Citrate
Who it’s for: Travelers who often experience constipation or digestive changes while abroad.
- Supports healthy digestion
- Affordable supplement
- Widely available online
Pros:
- Compact bottle
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- High doses can cause loose stools
Final Verdict: Great for digestive comfort on long trips. View price here.
4. Enzymedica Digest Gold + Probiotics
Who it’s for: People who want extra help digesting foreign foods while in Japan.
- Enzyme + probiotic combo
- Helps with heavy meals
- Travel-sized bottles available
Pros:
- Comprehensive digestive support
- Easy to carry
Cons:
- Higher cost
Final Verdict: Perfect for adventurous eaters in Japan. Order here.
5. NOW Foods Super Enzymes
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious travelers looking for enzyme support.
- Supports digestion of fats and proteins
- Capsule form for travel
Pros:
- Affordable
- Helps with rich foods
Cons:
- Not vegan-friendly
Final Verdict: A practical enzyme option for overseas travel. View details.
6. Klaire Labs Ther-Biotic Complete
Who it’s for: Sensitive travelers needing high-quality probiotics.
- 12 probiotic strains
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Pharmaceutical-grade quality
Pros:
- Great for sensitive stomachs
- Backed by clinical research
Cons:
- Premium price
Final Verdict: The gold standard probiotic for travel. See here.
Comparison Table – Tums Alternatives for Japan Travel
| Name | Key Features | Specs/Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nutricost Calcium Citrate | Gentle calcium + Vitamin D | 240 tablets | View Price |
| Garden of Life Probiotics | 16 strains, 50B CFU | 30 capsules | View Price |
| NOW Foods Magnesium Citrate | Digestive and bowel support | 250 tablets | View Price |
| Enzymedica Digest Gold | Probiotics + enzymes | 90 capsules | View Price |
| NOW Foods Super Enzymes | Budget-friendly enzyme support | 180 capsules | View Price |
| Klaire Labs Ther-Biotic | High-potency probiotics | 60 capsules | View Price |
FAQ – Traveling with Tums to Japan
Can I bring Tums into Japan?
Yes, usually up to a 1-month supply is allowed for personal use. Larger quantities may require special approval.
Do I need to declare Tums at customs?
If you are carrying only a small personal supply, typically no. But keeping them in original packaging helps avoid issues.
What if I need more than a month’s supply?
You will need to apply for a Yakkan Shoumei (import certificate) before traveling.
Are there alternatives to Tums available in Japan?
Yes, Japanese pharmacies carry local antacids and digestive aids, though labels are usually in Japanese. Bringing your own familiar brand is often more convenient.
Conclusion – Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind
Bringing Tums to Japan is generally safe in small amounts, but planning ahead can save you stress at the airport. For longer trips, or if you want to avoid chalky tablets, consider packing probiotics, calcium citrate, or digestive enzymes. These are travel-friendly, safe, and often more effective in supporting long-term gut health. With the right supplement in your bag, you can focus on enjoying Japan’s amazing food and culture without worrying about heartburn or customs trouble.
See our top pick Nutricost Calcium Citrate here and travel worry-free.