1. Surgical masking
While plasters can, if necessary, provide the same function, surgical tape is one of those necessary emergency materials for when you need to apply and secure gauze or a bandage to a wound.
2. Miniature scissors
These are included as standard in any First Aid Kit for Backpacking that is sold commercially, however you may also purchase them independently. They are useful for cutting bandages or gauze to the appropriate size. If you do bring scissors, just be careful to put your First Aid Kit for Backpacking in your checked luggage when you are traveling or airport security may take them away from you.
3. Tweezers
Another item that is frequently included in First Aid Kit for Backpacking are tweezers, which are essential for removing splinters, removing specks of stone or dirt when cleaning a wound, among many other valuable applications.
4. Sanitizing wipes
Antiseptic wipes are a crucial component of any decent first aid kit, yet for some reason most people prefer to overlook them when considering first aid. Antiseptic wipes are ideal for cleansing a cut or wound before putting a dressing since nobody wants it to become infected.
For most packs, a mere handful will be sufficient. They are simple to replenish at any pharmacy when you run out, like most essential products.
5. Drugs that relieve pain
In most cases, a little pack of generic paracetamol (acetaminophen if you’re American) or any of the related brand names will do, however ibuprofen or other similar drugs work just as well. Whatever you typically take for pain relief when you have a headache or other minor pain doesn’t need to be sophisticated.
6. Tablets of loperamide
This is helpful for temporarily stopping diarrhea when you need to catch a bus or train and is also marketed under a number of brand names, including Imodium. Remember that these are only to be used in an emergency while you are actually traveling; they do not treat diarrhea and shouldn’t be used when you have time to relax for a few days. The best strategy to treat diarrhea is typically to let everything go through regularly and drink lots of water to replenish lost fluids.
Loperamide tablets are a good addition to any first aid kit for travel if you use them sparingly, correctly, and in accordance with the instructions on the pack.
7. Cream with antihistamine
On our travels, it occurs to all of us: a bug bite results in an excruciatingly irritating lump or rash. Don’t worry, the lumps and stings almost always aren’t something to be concerned about, but they are so annoying! To assist manage itchiness and swelling, a decent antihistamine lotion is a great complement.
8. Topical antibiotics
Additionally, it’s a good idea to have antimicrobial lotions like Neosporin on hand in case you receive any wounds or scratches. This will hasten their recovery and help ward against any potential infections.
Depending on your travel requirements, you can modify or add to this list (a tropical jungle trek will require different planning than a city break in Europe). Any special, specifically recommended medications or antimalarial prophylaxis should be included in any excellent first aid bag.
The majority of common events and accidents may, however, be handled by the goods and equipment mentioned above for most tourists. Additionally, you should make sure you have complete travel insurance.
You should seek medical assistance if your injury, ailment, knock, or scrape calls for more than what the aforementioned equipment can provide. If something happens that you can’t handle on your own, you should be able to readily seek out professional help to cope with medical problems unless you are very far off the usual path.
So create your own personal first aid kit and store it in your pack in case of emergency. One’s unlikely that you will ever use it, and I sincerely hope that you never need one, but at least knowing that you have one will allow you to travel in peace and security.
Important Reminder: Any generic medication that you bring on a trip must be retained in its original packaging in case customs officers need to inspect it. This article only serves as general health information and guidance for travelers. Although it is given by a licensed nurse, a personal consultation with a travel nurse specialist, your general practitioner, or a doctor who specializes in travel medicine is still recommended if you want advice that is specifically tailored to your medical needs and history.