Psychic Blog

For many; the month of July; represents children breaking up from school and potentially going on holiday. If you are having a staycation or are holidaying in the UK – then first aid supplies might not be at the forefront of your mind – as you would likely have access to chemists if needed. However, if you are off to sunnier climes, and language could be a barrier – a well-stocked first aid kit could prove very useful. However, with the advent of budget airlines and more restricted luggage allowances, how do you decide what to take?

Sun Screen/After Sun

Whilst technically not first aid – packing sunscreen is essential. Most people underestimate how much is needed to be fully protected. So, make sure you take enough for all of the family. You could purchase more at the airport or in the resort if luggage is an issue, but it is generally more expensive, and it can be easier in the UK; to ensure you are getting adequate UV & SPF protection. Sometimes, with the best will in the world – we still get caught out – so after-sun is also a great option to pack.

Ibuprofen & Paracetamol

Paracetamol can help to reduce temperature and is useful for sunstroke, headaches and hangovers! Ibuprofen is good at reducing inflammation, like sprains and is also great for period pain and toothache. 

Antihistamines and Hydrocortisone

Antihistamines are used for hay fever and allergies; holidaying in different places can bring symptoms you are not used to. They can also help with the dreaded mosquito bites, as can hydrocortisone, rubbed into any bites, stings or rashes. Newer antihistamines don’t tend to cause drowsiness.

Insect Repellent

Talking of mosquitoes – prevention, is better than cure. So, if you know you are tasty to the little biting bugs, then; using an insect repellent is a good route. The most effective repellents contain Deet, but more natural remedies are also available, as well as products; that are suitable for children.

Antacids

Drinking more alcohol, eating more, consuming different foods to your usual diet, and going to bed soon after eating – are all activities that can occur when we are indulging on holiday. Which means indigestion is more likely. Having a tablet or liquid sachet on hand – could smooth the way. 

Rehydration Salts

Suffering from vomiting or diarrhoea isn’t something; that any of us want to think about on holiday, but it is all too common. Changes in food, drinking local water, consuming ice cubes in drinks, or eating foods that have been cleaned in local water – like salads and fruit, can all bring about symptoms. Norovirus can break out when many people are in close quarters, and food poisoning can occur. Rehydration sachets help to replace electrolytes that your body loses. If you need to seek a Doctors help, then having a product like Imodium that can stop diarrhoea for a while can also be helpful.

Plasters & Antiseptic

A simple antiseptic cream and plasters in various sizes should help with any cuts and scrapes. Waterproof plasters might be a good idea; so you can continue with swimming etc. You could also consider bandages and other dressings, however; the advice would be that if you need to consider something beyond a plaster – you probably need some external medical advice.

Cold/Hot Sprays

If you have an active family that plays lots of sports or just kids that rough and tumble, you might want to make room for a cold spray like Deep Freeze, a hot cream – like Deep Heat, or an instant ice pack; something that can quickly soothe a bump or sprain. If you don’t have room – follow the advice – RICE: Rest, Ice, Compress and Elevate.

Anti-Sickness Tablets

If you know that any of your family suffers from travel sickness, then it is worthwhile packing anti-sickness tablets. The tablets usually dissolve under the tongue, and the pharmacist can advise how far in advance to take them. They can also prove helpful on holiday for general nausea, food poisoning etc.

Other First Aid items to consider packing:

• Tweezers.
• Eyewash.
• Scissors (but only if you are checking-in luggage).
• Anaesthetic throat spray.
• Throat sweets.

An Extra bit of First Aid advice:

Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you take – taking a few extra days’ worth in case of delays. A copy of your prescription can also be helpful.

You can apply for a free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Don’t be taken in by scam websites – these cards are free to obtain: www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/apply-for-a-free-uk-global-health-insurance-card-ghic/

Even if you apply for or have a GHIC you should still take out Travel Insurance. Don’t forget to get specific coverage if you have pre-existing conditions.

www.moneysavingexpert.com/insurance/cheap-travel-insurance/

* This article should not be considered medical advice. Before stocking your first aid kit, it is a good idea to check with your GP and Pharmacist; ref the suitability of products for you and your family. Take into account any other medications or prescriptions you take; and any conditions that you have.