Whether you are going on a jungle expedition or to a highly populated city in a foreign country, there may be problems getting medicines or first aid items that you need immediately in case of an emergency. Even if you do have access to a pharmacy, language differences and different international brands can make it hard to figure out exactly what you need. Â It is a good idea to pack a kit of products that you are familiar with and tuck it away in your suitcase. Â As my dad always said, “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”
The essential “Must Haves” in your first aid kit should include:
- All your personal prescription medication in their original containers, as well as photocopies of your handwritten prescriptions from your doctor’s office. Â Make sure to ask you doctor if you should take other applicable prescription medications or vaccinations to your specific destination, including an anti-malarial medicine.
- Anti-diarrheal medicine
- Antihistamine and Decongestant
- Anti-motion sickness medicine
- Antacid
- Laxative
- Cough drops
- Antibacterial ointment
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Pain medication of choice (aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and Aloe gel for sunburns
- Digital thermometer
- Rehydration solution
- Bandaids, gauze, or other bandaging material
- Antibacterial hand cleaner
- Eye drops
- Water purification tablets
- Latex condoms
You should also make sure that you keep a written list of local doctors, hospitals and pharmacies handy, and locate them within a day or two of your arrival just in case you need to get there quickly.
Most of the health problems that occur when traveling are small, treatable issues; but if they are not taken care of properly, they can develop into serious conditions. Â When you’re in a foreign environment, make sure you take care of yourself by eating, sleeping, and drinking regularly and sufficiently.
