Going on vacation is the perfect way to relax, unwind, and enjoy everything that the world has to offer. But getting sick or injured while traveling can quickly put a damper on your fun.

That’s why it’s important to pack a well-stocked holiday pharmacy that can help you deal with common ailments that may arise while on the road. Here are some essential items that you should consider packing before you depart for your next adventure.

First-Aid Essentials

Every traveler needs a basic first-aid kit that can help deal with minor injuries and illnesses. Here are the items that should be in every first-aid kit:.

Adhesive bandages
Gauze pads and medical tape
Antiseptic wipes or spray
Antibiotic ointment
Pain relievers (aspirin or ibuprofen)
Medication for upset stomach (Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, etc.)
Thermometer
Tweezers
Scissors
Disposable gloves
Instant cold packs

Prescription Medications

If you’re taking prescription medications, make sure you pack enough to last the entire trip. It’s also a good idea to bring a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s note that explains why you need certain medications.

This will help you get through security checkpoints and may be helpful if you need to visit a local doctor or pharmacy for a refill.

Allergy and Cold Medications

If you have allergies or are prone to getting colds, it’s a good idea to pack some over-the-counter medications to help relieve your symptoms. Here are some options that you might find helpful:.

Antihistamines for allergies
Nasal decongestant spray
Cough drops or sore throat lozenges
Cold and flu medications that contain acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Eye Drops

It’s not uncommon to experience dry or itchy eyes while traveling, especially if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors. Eye drops can help relieve these symptoms and make your vacation more comfortable.

Look for drops that are made for dry eyes or that contain antihistamines if you have allergies.

Antibacterial Wipes and Hand Sanitizer

Germs are everywhere, and it’s especially easy to pick up a bug while traveling. To help prevent illness, pack some antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer.

Use the wipes to clean surfaces that you’ll be touching frequently (such as airplane tray tables, hotel room doorknobs, and restaurant menus), and use the hand sanitizer before eating or after touching shared surfaces like handrails or ATM keypads.

Insect Repellent and Bite Relief

If you’re travelling to a destination where mosquitoes, ticks, or other biting insects are a problem, make sure you pack insect repellent. The most effective repellents contain DEET, but there are also natural alternatives that can be effective.

If you do get bitten, pack something like hydrocortisone cream to help relieve itching and swelling.

Sunscreen

If you’re planning to spend time outdoors, you’ll need to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun.

Make sure you pack sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply it every two hours (or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating). Also, don’t forget to pack lip balm with sunscreen to protect your lips.

Stomach Remedies

Traveler’s diarrhea is a common problem that can ruin your vacation. Pack some stomach remedies to help you deal with this issue. Options include Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, or charcoal capsules.

If you’re unsure which one is best for you, ask your doctor or pharmacist before you go.

Final Thoughts

Packing your holiday pharmacy may not be the most exciting part of your vacation preparations, but it’s definitely a crucial one.

By bringing along the items listed above, you’ll be prepared to deal with the most common accidents, illnesses, and inconveniences that can arise while travelling. Remember to check with your doctor or pharmacist before you go to ensure that you’re well-prepared for your trip!.