No matter where you're going, it's a good idea to bring along a first-aid kit when traveling. What you need to include will depend on your personal needs, mode of travel, destination, planned activities, length of stay and local availability of health products.
Here's a list of over-the-counter items you should consider packing:
- Aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Antidiarrheal medication
- Mild laxative
- Anti-motion sickness medication
- Antacid
- Oral rehydration salts
- Antihistamine and decongestant (separate or in combination)
- Cough suppressant or expectorant
- Antifungal and antibacterial ointments
- 1% hydrocortisone cream
- Anti-itch gel or cream and aloe gel
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Saline eye drops
- Antibacterial hand wipes or alcohol-based hand cleaner
- Mild sedative, sleep aid or anti-anxiety medication
- Disposable gloves
- Adhesive bandages, gauze, adhesive tape
- Elastic bandage wrap
- Antiseptic
- Cotton swabs
- Tweezers and scissors
- Digital thermometer