Whether you’re heading off on a beach holiday or an adventure further afield, a little preparation can go a long way. Our Lead Clinical Nurse Specialist, Amy, shares what she’s packing in her medicine bag for an upcoming family trip to Asia.
Patients often ask our nurses what to take with them on holiday. Of course, this depends on many factors, including where you’re going, what activities you have planned, and how easy it will be to access medicines and healthcare while you’re away. For some forms of remote travel, a more extensive medical kit may be required, but I like to be prepared with a small amount of basics before I go on a family trip.
This year Amy is staying mainly in areas with good sanitation, air conditioning and easy access to pharmacies. However, she believes every traveller should carry some travel health essentials.
Family Travel Essentials
Mosquito Protection
In many parts of Asia, protection against mosquito bites is one of the most important travel health measures.
Amy’s insect bite prevention kit includes:
- Permethrin-treated clothing spray to treat long-sleeved tops, trousers and mosquito nets. Treated clothing remains effective for several weeks, even after washing.
- 50% DEET insect repellent for maximum protection against mosquitoes and day to day use – suitable from 8wks old
- 20% Icaridin (Picaridin) repellent as a lighter alternative when a less greasy feel and milder smell are preferred, although it may need more frequent application.
Sunscreen
A mineral SPF stick can be handy for quick top ups on the face and neck
SPF 30 minimum – creams with UVA and UVB protection are essential. be aware that many supermarket own brands out perform big names in WHICH testing so they needn’t be pricey.
Family First Aid Kit
For minor cuts and scrapes:
- Antibacterial hand gel
- Antiseptic wipes
- Antiseptic cream
- Assorted plasters in different sizes
Medicine Essentials
For common travel ailments, a small selection of familiar over-the-counter medications can be on hand:
- Hydrocortisone cream for bites and minor skin irritation
- Antihistamine tablets for bites and minor allergies
- Paracetamol
- Ibuprofen
- Children’s pain and fever relief medicines in age-appropriate doses
- Vaseline or petroleum jelly for dry skin and cracked lips
Stomach Care Kit
No one wants to be searching for a pharmacy in the middle of the night, so a few gastrointestinal essentials:
For everyone:
Oral rehydration sachets
For children:
Children’s Pepto-Bismol (where appropriate and according to product guidance)
For adults:
Buscopan
Loperamide
Adult Pepto-Bismol
Regular Prescription Medications
One of the most important items in any travel bag is an adequate supply of personal medication.
Amy recommends:
- Taking enough prescribed medication for the entire trip, plus a small contingency supply where possible.
- Carrying a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s letter.
- Packing essential medications in hand luggage to reduce the risk of loss.
Travellers should also check local regulations before departure, as some medications that are commonly used in the UK may be restricted or prohibited in other countries.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Finally, Amy stresses that a well-stocked medicine bag is only part of staying healthy abroad.
For other eventualities, we make sure that we have appropriate medical insurance and scope out what access to pharmacies and clinics will be available in the local area before we travel.
A few simple preparations before departure can help ensure that minor illnesses and injuries don’t interrupt a well-earned family holiday. Safe travels!
