The American College of Emergency Physicians has compiled the following list of items for a Travel First Aid Kit. This list will provide you with the necessary "tools" to handle many medical emergencies. Prior to any foreign or domestic travel, check with your doctor and travel clinic or public health department for specific required immunization/ documentation for you and the area you are traveling. For the kit itself, a tote bag is recommended because it can hold all the items listed and is easy to carry. Never store your kit in your luggage: put it in your carryon bag always keep it with you. Follow the same precautions with your first aid kit as you would with any medicine. Store out of reach of children and only use products with child safety caps.
BEFORE YOU LEAVE
Visit your doctor prior to traveling. Have your doctor prepare a medical summary listing medical problems, operations, allergies and a copy of your most recent EKG. If you wear corrective lenses, take an extra pair on your trip and carry your lens prescription with you. Have TB skin test results recorded by your doctor.
Ask your doctor to list any medications you are taking, using both generic and brand names. Be sure to pack enough medication for your trip.
Check your medical insurance policy and health plan for coverage of illnesses or accidents outside the U.S.
Assemble Travelers' First Aid Kit.
SUGGESTED CONTENTS:
Aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen: For headaches, pain, fever, and simple sprains or strains of the body. (Aspirin should not be used for relief of flu symptoms or given to children.)
Antihistamine/ decongestant cough medicine.
Antinausea/motion sickness medication
Bandages of assorted sizes, including adhesive bandages: (i.e., Bandaids)
Adhesive tape and 2" gauze: For dressing wounds. Elastic wraps: For wrapping wrist, ankle, knee, and elbow injuries.
Triangular bandage: For wrapping injuries and making an arm sling.
Scissors with rounded tips.
Rubber gloves: To reduce the risk of infection.
Disposable, instant activating ice bags: For icing injuries and treating high fevers.
Antifungal cream (tolnaftate 1% or clotrimazole 1%): good for athletes' foot or ringworm.
Antibacterial ointment.
Antibiotic ointment: For burns, cuts, and scrapes.
Thermometer with case.
Sunscreen: Number 15 or higher.
Insect Repellent: Those that contain 3555% DEEwith stabilizer.
