When you’re making plans to go on vacation, your first aid kit is unlikely to be near the top of your must-have list of items for packing, however you may be surprised to learn that including a few essential things could save you a lot of grief and discomfort when you are away. After all, as a traveler you never know what kind of emergencies you may encounter and being prepared is always a good idea. Here are a few tips on what to include in your vacation self-help medical package.
Common discomforts when traveling
Upset stomachs, in one way or another, are often an issue when disruptive travel schedules and unfamiliar food interferes with your body’s natural cycles. Of course, there are lots of ways to counter gastric discomforts, which might include constipation, stomach acid, heartburn and diarrhea, and these include prescription drugs, over the counter medicines and also home made remedies. Laxatives are an option for constipation; antacids for stomach acid and heartburn; and loperamide (often sold as Imodium) for diarrhea. However it also pays to look into local, non chemical remedies for these issues as often they can be more effective.
Cuts and bruises
The usual range of antiseptics, band aids and bandages should be included in case of an accident involving cuts and bruises, especially if you happen to be traveling with children. A good selection of differently sized band aids is a smart idea as you (and your children) may be concerned about even a small cut and you may find that you’re glad of a larger dressing in the event that you or a companion sustain a more serious injury.
Expecting the unexpected
As you can’t predict precisely what might affect you when traveling, it’s best to be prepared for instances that may, for example, result in allergic reactions including rashes and unexplained, persistent coughs. For the former, it’s best to investigate topical applications and to use these as per local recommendations – check what works with the pharmacists wherever you are. For options for natural cough remedies the official website for Élan Veda products is extremely good. These remedies contain herbs known to be effective expectorants and antihistamines, and are extremely effective at loosening mucous membranes.
Take care of your skin
Don’t forget how important your sunscreen is and make sure you use a lotion with a high sun protection factor if you are going somewhere where you might experience increased exposure to the sun. Insect repellent is also a good idea if you know there may be a few nasty bugs around at your vacation destination. Lots of varieties are available, including, sprays, creams, roll-ons and sticks – shop around for what suits you best.
Finally, in addition to seeking chemical solutions to some of your everyday traveling complaints, don’t forget that there are wonderful alternative solutions available to you that use essential oils and herbal supplements to impressive effect for everything from headaches to joint and muscle problems, and much more.
