Travel First Aid Kit

Summer vacation is just around the corner, and many people have already started planning their trips. If you’re flying to the tropics, you won’t need the same first-aid kit as a guest at a 5-star hotel. You don’t pack the same things in a hiking backpack as you do in a suitcase for a cruise.

Whether you’re traveling alone or with your family, for just a few days or several weeks—you can get expert advice at the pharmacy on all health-related questions about your vacation.

You should also consider any necessary vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis. To avoid running out of time and to be able to draw up a vaccination schedule if needed, it’s recommended that you start planning 4 to 6 weeks before your trip.

While it’s usually easy to get medication in tourist centers and the nearest doctor is usually not far away, the situation can quickly be quite different in some countries’ inland regions.

A good sunscreen with a high SPF is essential to prevent sunburn. In areas with mosquitoes, an insect repellent helps prevent bites and their annoying consequences and, above all, serves as a preventive measure against malaria and other tropical diseases.

Special attention should be paid to individual sensitivities: everyone knows their own body best and knows what they should bring along. Does your digestive system react sensitively to changes in diet? Are you prone to motion sickness or seasickness? If you have allergies, sensitive skin, or are prone to eye infections, you should also take these factors into account when putting together your first-aid kit.

Don’t forget: bring a sufficient supply of any medications you take regularly. These should be packed in your carry-on luggage—especially insulin—so they’re always within reach. If they get lost, a copy of the prescription or the package inserts will be useful so you can obtain your medications in an emergency while traveling.

A few tips for traveling: in hot weather, suppositories can melt and solvents like alcohol can easily evaporate. Avoid glass bottles due to the risk of breakage. It’s best to always store medications in their original packaging to prevent mix-ups and potential difficulties upon entry.

Some medications, such as insulin, must be stored in a cool place; there are special coolers available for this purpose. In general, medications must be protected from heat, light, and moisture and should not be left in a car or in direct sunlight.

By following this advice and carefully putting together your personal first-aid kit, you can enjoy your vacation worry-free.

Stop by—we’d be happy to help you put together your first-aid kit.