Travel First Aid Kit

With the airlines having more restrictions than Sanjaya has hairstyles, it is becoming harder and harder to pack for your travels. Yesterday I wrote about first aid kits for your home. Today, I am going to help you pack the right first aid kit for your trips. Since accidents and emergencies can happen anywhere and at anytime, being prepared can be all the difference.

Here are some of the things you should take with you on every trip:

• Personal Medication (make sure you have enough for the length of your trip PLUS 50%). IMPORTANT: Remember to keep the pills in your prescription bottles!
• Cold & Allergy Remedies (antiseptic throat lozenges, nasal decongestant spray, cold & flu medication)
• Heartburn/Stomach (anti-diarrheal, antacid tablets, Pepto-Bismol, etc.)
• General Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.)
• Ointment/Creams (hydrocortisone cream, aloe vera, hand sanitizer, sunblock, burn gel, petroleum jelly)
• Sleep medication or Melatonin drops
• Eyeshade, face mask and earplugs
• Motion sickness tablets
• Allergy Medicine (Benadryl, EpiPen, Claritin, etc.)
• Insects (repellent with 50% deet, insecticide, insect bite treatment)
• Band-Aids, nonstick and spray on bandages
• Antiseptic wipes
• Thermometer

When travelling with kids and infants here are some further recommendations:

• Children doses for pain, allergies, antihistamine, malarial (if needed).
• Sterilizing tablets for bottles and pacifiers.
• Plastic sheeting (for changing, playing, etc.)
• Eardrops

Remember to put all of these items in clear plastic ziploc bags. All liquids must be 3 ounces or less to comply with current airline regulations. You should pack these medicines in your carry-on bag (you will have to remove the clear plastic bag to go through security so pack it on top).

Unfortunately, packing this little survival kit isn't enough. You should also consider visiting a travel clinic before any extended trips abroad (or if you are travelling to a remote or "third world" location). The doctors at these clinics are experts and will provide information on health risks, preventative advice and treatment options related to your travel destination. They should also inform you of any vaccines you will need and referrals for local doctors or medical support. You can begin your search for a travel clinic near you by visiting the websites of the International Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM) and the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH). You can also see if your primary care physician has a recommendation.

Certain destinations, like Africa, require even more attention for your trip to be a safe and health one. Check out this link for more information on Africa: Africa for Visitors.

I hope your travels are healthy and safe. Happy Travels.