What to Pack
You don't want to end up paying $4 or more for a single bandage or pack of acetaminophen at the concierge desk, or even worse, have to do without, so take care in planning your vacation kit. Your vacation first-aid kit should include the same items as the kit you have at home, plus the following:
A chemical cold pack or two for treating bruises and sprains
Suntan lotion (SPF 15–SPF 30 is recommended)
Bismuth subsalicylate for traveler's diarrhea
Moleskin for blisters
Lip balm
Moist towelettes for cleaning hands
Hand sanitizer
OTC medications for nausea
Water-purification tablets
Insect repellent
Elastic bandages for support or swelling
Topical pain reliever
Zip-top freezer bags
Insect-sting relief pads
Sanitary napkins (they are sterile and great for compresses to stop bleeding)
Butterfly bandages
A copy of your family medical history
A list or chart including phone numbers of pediatricians and family doctors
Any prescription medications you are taking in the original bottles; or, if you are using traveler's containers, be sure to record dosages and exact names of each drug
First-aid manual
Guidebook
A phrase book that covers vocabulary on illnesses and talking to a doctor
Some people also like to take such things as cold medicine, a nasal decongestant, zinc lozenges, vitamin C and echinacea, and a can opener and bottle opener.
A great container for your traveling first-aid kit could be a small cooler with a zipper and shoulder strap. They have the ability to keep items at an even temperature, are lightweight and easy to fit in with other luggage, and easy to carry.
Essential
Make sure to bring your doctor's phone number and the number of any recommended specialists in travel medicine in case you need a consultation or a second opinion while traveling. Keep these numbers handy and make sure that everyone traveling with you knows where to find them.
Sunglasses are a must for sunny destinations, but make sure to avoid yellow- or blue-lens sunglasses because they tend to distort colors and are not safe choices for driving. Sunglasses should block 99–100 percent of UVA and UVB rays according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, so make sure to check the label when you purchase a pair — it should tell you the amount of protection the sunglasses provide.
