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On-the-Fly First Aid
Staying healthy on the road can make or break any trip. Every smart traveler should carry a first aid kit. While you cant hide from germs, the sun, or accidents, you can treat minor ailments saving precious vacation time and energy in the process. Kits range in size and contents depending on geographic destinations and type of traveling. If you plan to stay in metropolitan areas, doctors and drugstores are readily available and you can carry a smaller kit. On the other hand, if youre organizing your own safari or backcountry adventure, you may want to be prepared for a few minor traumas. Take only what you need and think of this as an emergency kit. Leave the big bottles at home and take smaller amounts in more compact containers--chances are, if you really need a two-month supply of cold medicine you can stock up on the road. Over-the-counter pills can often treat more than one ailment. Choose your drugs wisely, and trim down that bulky kit to a reasonable size. For example, many antihistamines that treat allergies also cause drowsiness, which could slow you down, but could also double as a sleeping pill if you need to sleep. Know what your needs are and plan accordingly. A well-rounded painkiller such as Naproxin or Ibuprofen could dull the pain of menstrual cramps or a headache, reduce a swelling injury, or help cure a throbbing head in the event of a hangover. A good kit caters to the personal needs of its users. Basic kits are available from your local outfitters and will range in contents and price. Pre-fab first aid kits make a great base, but be sure to include commonly used items that will make your vacation more pleasant. For example, if you have really bad allergies stock up on antihistamines and decongestants. Or if you are bringing a new pair of shoes along make sure your kit will be ready for the blister challenge. BASIC KIT Antibiotical Ointment: Topically treats minor abrasions to prevent infection. Antihistamine: Useful as a decongestant for colds and allergies, to ease the itch from insect bites or stings, and to prevent motion sickness. Antihistamines can cause sedation and interact with alcohol, so use with care. Antiseptic: Betadine or Bactine for cleaning cuts and grazes. Individually wrapped wipes slip into a pocket and stay sterilized even in extreme environments. Bandages and Band-Aids: For minor injuries including cuts and scrapes. Bring a few different sizes and styles. Blister kit with moleskin: Always treat hotspots before they turn to blisters. Useful if you are walking a lot. Calamine lotion or Sting-ease gel or spray: Relieves irritation from bites, stings, and rashes. Chap Stick: Protects your lips from prolonged exposure to sun and wind to avoid cracking. Cold and flu pills and throat lozenges: Useful for treating minor colds and sore throats. Naproxen or Ibuprofen: For treatment of pain, swelling, or fever. Rehydration Mixture: Treats severe diarrhea, particularly useful if traveling with children. Scissors, tweezers, and thermometer: For general health issues (note that mercury thermometers are prohibited by airlines). Sunscreen: Protection for the sun is especially important. TROPICS, BACKCOUNTRY, AND EXTENDED TRIPS ADDITIONS For travel to certain areas and extended trips specialized medicines are also basic necessities. Antibiotics: Must be prescribed and accompanied with a prescription. Insect Repellent: DEET is harsh on your skin but does really does the job. For really bug-ridden and malaria-prone places, make sure your repellent contains at least 80% DEET. Lomotil: Suppresses diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Malaria prophylaxis: Certain parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America are malaria risk zones. If youre going to one of these places, consult your doctor months in advance to determine the right course of medication for you. Multivitamins: Especially important for long trips when dietary vitamin intake may be inadequate. Syringes and needles: In case you need injections in a country with medical hygiene problems. Carry a doctor's note and prescription. Water purification tablets: Never drink unpurified water. Using a water purifier is another good option.
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