It is a season of visitations and vacations. The ember months if you please. Weddings, end-of-year meetings and celebrations are around the corner. Missing out on the fun is not permitted so it implies intentional plans to keep both health and wellness in check.
If you have a medical condition, check in with your Doctor for any additional items to consider bringing along on a trip. Plan a travel health pack with items you may need, especially those that may be difficult to find on your trip.
Things To Consider For Your Health Kit
Clothiers: Consider rain or warm weather gear based on your location. Pack clothes that suit the weather for where you are headed. Flexible, suitable and comfortable styles are worth considering.
Health Cards: Medical documents that can tell your medical history, some have a medical alert bracelet or necklace, and watches that have their medical profiles in case of emergencies.
First Aid Kit – A stripped-down first aid kit would include essentials: a Sam splint, some Ace bandages and gauze pads of various sizes, a tourniquet and a compression device that could be a lifesaver when you need to stop the flow of blood. Remember to include adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointments like Neosporin, lip balm like Chapstick and similar things for the smaller injuries that could get worse if left untreated.
Medicines: Having medications hands-on are helpful but make sure they are prescribed by the Doctor. “Antacid. Antibiotics, if prescribed by your healthcare professional, such as for travellers’ diarrhoea. Antihistamine. Antimalarial medicines, if prescribed by your healthcare professional. Antivirals, if prescribed by your healthcare professional, such as for influenza (flu). Cough drops, cough suppressant, or expectorant (a medicine that helps loosen mucus). Decongestant. Diarrhea medicine (such as Imodium or Pepto-Bismol). Laxative (mild). Motion sickness medicine. Pain and fever medicine (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen).Prescriptions, preferably in their original bottle.Sedative or sleep aid (mild)” CDC.
Zip Lock Bags: “Resealable storage bags, like Ziploc bags, are a great way to keep items waterproof. GearJunkie lists all the uses for this versatile survival kit item: store toilet paper, keep electronics dry, organize snacks, keep fire starters dry/organized, pack out trash and catch rainwater. Just make sure the brand has a sturdy zipper and thicker plastic” Global Rescue.
Diabetes Tool Kits: “Extra insulin, syringes, pens, or insulin pump supplies. Other medicines you take for diabetes-related problems. A letter from your healthcare provider describing your diabetes care, as well as copies of all prescriptions” Saint Luke’s
General Health Kit: Having some of these things handy helps you prefer treatment in cases of emergency. A thermometer, blood pressure monitor (sphygmomanometer), and an oral rehydration solution(ORT) are used to treat moderate dehydration. It’s made of water, glucose, sodium, and potassium.
Insect Repellent: Especially mosquito repellent creams, “with an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin” CDC. They help you in mosquito-infested areas, one very active way of preventing malaria.
Hand Sanitisers: They come in handy, especially in dusty seasons, antibacterial hand wipes too, which is not a substitute for handwashing but an added advantage in an emergency.
The season sparks joy and thanksgiving. Where enough eating and drinking are appropriate yet caution at events and gatherings are necessary. Traveling during the festive season is a time for joy, connection, and adventure, but it’s also a time to prioritize your health. A well-prepared health kit is not just an add-on but a necessity for any journey. Whether you’re packing essential medications, a simple first aid kit, or protective items like insect repellents and sanitizers, these small but intentional steps ensure you’re ready for any surprises the season may bring.
