Friday, July 8, 2011

Healthy Travel Tips # 1 – Bring the Basics

Summer is here and vacation trips abound; this is Part One of a series of health related travel tips. Bring the Basics regarding first aid supplies. This is especially important if you’re traveling to a rural area or out of the United States, but good practice for any trip. Prepare and carry a small pack of OTC (over the counter) medicines to take on your trip so you don't have to scramble finding a pharmacy or grocery store late at night in a new location.


Oral Medications: Read and follow all directions on the package labels regarding dosing and warnings on all medications.

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) for pain or fever.  
  • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for allergy symptoms (or your favorite antihistamine).  
  • Loperamide (Imodium) for diarrhea.          
  • Meclizine (Dramamine) for motion sickness. If you are flying, make sure you carry medicines in their original containers or foil packs (which are flat and easy for packing).

Topical Supplies:

  • Band-Aids (2 each in various sizes). 
  • Antibiotic cream.  
  • Corn & Callous pads. These come in small flat packages that are easy to pack and helpful if you anticipate a lot of walking.


Last but not least, seek care from a Licensed Physician or go to an Emergency Room if you have any severe or urgent symptoms.

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