The Essential Travel First Aid Kit

Have you ever been away and suddenly needed a stomach remedy antibiotic or bandages?  Were you frustrated by how difficult it was to find the items you needed?

That scenario happened to me when my husband and I were traveling in Costa Rica.  We were in a very small village that just didn’t have a convenience store or pharmacy to find what we needed.  Ever since that trip, I have started traveling with a travel first aid kit that I created.

We have found it very useful on several of our trips, so I thought I would post my list of the items you need to create your own essential travel first aid kit.  Of course, you may need to tailor this list for your specific destination, but these essentials are perfect for just about any trip imaginable! 

Try to find a kit that has several compartments so that you can separate your items into different categories and keep things organized and easy to find.

  • First compartment (everyday items you may need)

    • Your personal prescription medication
    • Cold/allergy remedies
    • Heartburn/upset stomach medicine
    • Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
    • Contraceptives
    • Hand sanitizer

  • Second compartment (eyes, ears & miscellaneous)

    • Antibiotic eye and ear drops
    • Sterile eyewash
    • Dry eye drops
    • Cotton swabs
    • Earplugs
    • Small scissors
    • Latex gloves
    • Lip balm or salve
    • Thermometer

  • Third compartment (first aid)

    • Band-Aids
    • Antibiotic ointment
    • Nonstick dressing
    • Burn cream or gel
    • Burn dressings
    • Antiseptic wipes for cleaning wounds
    • Sutures
    • Triangular bandage

  • Fourth compartment (travel medications)

    • Antibiotics (ex. Amoxicillin for common infections)
    • Diarrhea remedies
    • Antifungal and cold sore gels
    • Anti Malaria pills (if required for your travel destination)

  • Fifth compartment (travel essentials)

    • Insect repellent
    • Insect bite treatment
    • Water purification tablets
    • Hydrocortisone cream
    • Sunscreen (choose a high SPF)
    • Rehydration packets
    • Travel sickness pills
    • Sleeping pills

Chances are you’ll never have to unpack your first aid kit, but let me tell you – if you do need something, the right remedy will be at your fingertips!

Posted by on 10/18 at 11:38 AM

Next entry: The Best Islands in Greece!

Previous entry: Captivating Caral!

<< Back to main