Anytime I travel, I create a small first aid kit so I have all the necessary supplies at my fingertips. This is especially useful when my travels take me off the beaten path locations where a drugstore is most definitely not around the corner. Whether it is a scratch, a blister, or hay fever, my kit always has me covered.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or medical professional so please speak with someone who is to find the best over-the-counter or prescription remedies for your kit.
What do I bring?
1. Band-aids — I grab various sizes and shapes to cover all types of injuries, especially some of the larger, “knuckle” band-aids which work great for shielding blisters on the back of your foot. Moleskin (sold at drugstores) also works great for blisters.
2. Neosporin – Either a small tube or the individual packets.
3. Antiseptic wipes – If I do get a scratch, I can use these individually-wrapped wipes to clean the area before applying Neosporin and a band-aid.
4. Aloe Vera gel – If time in the sun is on your agenda, bring a small tube of aloe with in case of sunburn.
5. Headache/Pain Relief medication – a small tube will suffice in case of a headache or muscle pain.
6. Stomach Remedies – I always have a small container of Antacid (Tum’s) and Anti-diarrhea medicine (which I only use if I am in a situation without close access to a bathroom).
7. Allergy/Hay Fever medication – I don’t normally have allergies but usually pack Benadryl (or its generic equivalent) as I sometimes will experience mild allergies as I adjust to the pollen/plant life of a new destination.
8. Hydrocortisone cream – Something to help if you get a skin rash.
9. Tweezers – in the event of a splinter.
10. Motion Sickness medication – If you are susceptible to air, sea, or car sickness, add a box to your kit.
Depending on my destination, I may visit my doctor to get a prescription for an antibiotic (Cipro is a common choice among travelers) and/or a Malaria prophylaxis (Malarone is one of the most popular brands). It’s nice to have the Cipro on hand in case a pharmacy is not in close proximity and you come down with a nasty bug. Be sure to reference the Center for Disease Control’s website for more information on staying healthy abroad and a quick guide to when you will need to get Malaria medicine (based on your destination).
Also, worth noting, if you are bringing any prescription medicine with, bring it in its original container that was labeled by the pharmacist. This will hopefully alleviate any concerns if your bag is checked at your destination or a border crossing.
Do you have other items you include in your travel first aid kit? Post them here to share with other readers.
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