There’s a lot to remember when you’re packing for a holiday, especially with babies and small children: toys, snacks, sunscreen, nappies, the list seems endless. But have you considered taking a first aid kit with you?
Accidents and illnesses can happen anywhere, and they can be even more stressful when you're away from home. Be prepared and equip yourself with a well-stocked First Aid kit and the knowledge to use. Then you can be ready for action if something happens. So, what should your travel first aid kit contain:
- Paediatric Paracetamol or Ibuprofen Sachets - Essential for relieving pain and reducing fever in children. They are also useful for alleviating ear discomfort caused by changes in air pressure during flights
- Paediatric Antihistamine - An antihistamine is useful for treating mild allergic reactions to new foods, insect stings, or other allergens. It can help reduce symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes. Available from the pharmacy
- Calico Triangular Bandages - These versatile bandages are made from sterile, non-fluffy material and can be used to stop bleeding, cover wounds on various parts of the body, or be folded into a sling for support
- Instant Ice Pack - Can be activated without a freezer and is useful for reducing swelling and pain from bumps and bruises. Wrap and apply to the affected area as needed
- Non-Adherent Dressings and Micropore Tape - Essential for treating grazes and wounds. Non-adherent dressings prevent sticking to the wound, while micropore tape secures the dressing in place. Include finger bandages and small bandage-style dressings for added versatility
- Burn Gel - Provides relief after cooling a burn under cool running water for at least 20 minutes. It's also helpful for sunburn and other minor burns when there is no running water available
- Tough Cut Scissors and Good Quality Tweezers - Tough cut scissors are crucial for cutting through clothing in emergencies. Tweezers can help remove splinters, sea urchin spines, or other small foreign objects
- Plasters - Useful for short-term covering of minor cuts and abrasions. Remember to remove plasters as soon as possible, clean the wound, and cover it with an appropriate dressing to prevent it from becoming soggy
- Sterile Wipes and Saline Pods - Sterile wipes are useful for cleaning wounds, while saline pods can help irrigate sand or debris out of eyes and clean wounds more thoroughly. Include some gauze squares for additional cleaning and dressing
- Small Crepe Bandage - Provides support for sprained or injured limbs. A crepe bandage can also help secure larger dressings in place
- Sterile Wipes and Saline Pods - Sterile wipes are useful for cleaning wounds, while saline pods can help irrigate sand or debris out of eyes and clean wounds more thoroughly. Include some gauze squares for additional cleaning and dressing
- Small Crepe Bandage - Provides support for sprained or injured limbs. A crepe bandage can also help secure larger dressings in place.
Other things items to consider:
- A thermometer - digital thermometers are the most accurate
- Anti-itch cream such as calamine lotion for bug bites and poison ivy
- Insect repellant
- Calamine Lotion/cream - useful for soothing insect bites and sunburn
- Medicine spoons/syringes – come as standard with the painkillers, but don’t forget to pack them. (Syringes are particularly useful in a baby travel medicine kit)
Emergency Numbers
Ensure you have the emergency services number for your destination. Throughout Europe, the emergency number is 112. For other destinations, check in advance or consult your guidebook.
Have the following contact information just in case there's a more serious medical problem:
Have the following contact information just in case there's a more serious medical problem:
- phone number and address of the hospital nearest to where you're staying
- phone number of your hotel or accommodation provider who may be able to help in an emergency
Remember the Everyday Essentials
Always carry tissues, hand sanitizer, snacks, and a bottle of clean water
Do a First Aid Course
Consider attending a practical or online first aid course tailored to the specific needs of your holiday and family.
Being prepared with these essentials ensures you can handle minor emergencies effectively, giving you peace of mind during your travels
Being prepared with these essentials ensures you can handle minor emergencies effectively, giving you peace of mind during your travels
Wishing you a safe and happy holiday!
Written by Kate Ellwood from Life First
May 2024
May 2024
This article provides information for guidance. It is not in any way a substitute for medical advice. Life First is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made, or actions taken based on this information. It is strongly advised that you attend a practical First Aid course to understand what to do in a medical emergency.