Photo Credit: from IBDrelief
The summer season is in full swing: the beaches are packed, the coals of our BBQs are lit, and every day, passengers are prepping their passports and on the move! Not to throw a grain of sand in your shoe, but let’s discuss those essentials to pack before you reach for your boarding pass. On any trip, unexpected health issues can come out of nowhere. From an unwanted cold to a nasty diarrhea tying you to your resort bathroom, it’s anyone’s guess what may derail your trip. A proactive approach to packing these easy-to-grab essentials can save your trip and give you one extra ride on that jet ski. So, we’ll discuss some key over-the-counter and prescription items, why they matter, and how to use them safely on your summer travels.
Beat the Fever Heat
An unexpected cold or flu can significantly derail your travel plans, leading to body aches, headache, runny nose, and that icky feeling that all you want to do is stay in bed – while your pals are out there soaking in the summer sun. So, how can you keep yourself out of bed and under the beach umbrella? Firstly, purchase a few travel-sized hand sanitizers to keep germs at bay whenever you grab a door handle or close a taxi car door. If you do feel a cold coming on, and especially if you spike a low-grade fever, Tylenol will be your best friend. It’ll also help with those pesky body aches, too. Be sure to avoid any alcohol intake when taking it, as it can lead to severe liver damage. If the muscle aches are particularly bothersome, Ibuprofen can get you back on your feet. These over-the-counter medications come in travel sizes, so be sure to keep them in their original labeled bottles to avoid confusion.
Catch a Breeze, Avoid the Sneeze
Our immune systems become accustomed to the environments we live in and the many allergens around us over time. So, when we change environments – such as on vacation – sensitive individuals are particularly susceptible to acute flares of allergy symptoms. These may include nasal congestion, a runny nose, and enough sneezing to keep you out of the pool and in your hotel room. So, be sure to pack one of these essential anti-histamines that are also labeled as non-drowsy: Claritin, Allegra, or Zyrtec. Although they are labeled as non-drowsy, they still may cause mild drowsiness in certain individuals, so it is good to be aware of this. Another option includes nasal sprays, such as Flonase, that work to decrease the inflammation that causes the nasal congestion that so often accompanies allergy symptoms. If you are feeling particularly congested, medications such as Mucinex can help thin that mucus and clear it more easily. Be sure to pack a digital thermometer too, and stay on top of that fever as quickly as possible. So, be prepared and catch a breeze while beating the sneeze!
Tummy Troubles and How to Stay Afloat
Our gut, too, becomes accustomed to the environments we live in and, particularly, the foods we ingest. So, when we suddenly flip the script on the cuisine we’re eating, our gut bacteria may react strongly. There is also the chance, of course, of picking up a slew of different stomach bugs that may keep us in the hotel bathroom for the rest of our trip. Thus, know before you go! If you develop some mild diarrhea, medications such as Imodium can provide some quick relief. Suppose you experience persistent diarrhea, an associated fever, bloody stools, or any other concerning symptoms. In that case, it's crucial to see a doctor right away to determine the cause of your stomach bug and receive proper treatment. On the flip side, if you get constipated because of the new foods you’re eating, medications such as Colace can get you going again. So, don’t let the buffet ruin your stay!
Packing Tips and Tricks
It is equally important to pack and store your medications as it is to bring them with you on your travels. So, be sure to:
• Grab a waterproof, compartmentalized carrying case for both your over-the-counter and prescription medications.
• Check with your doctor about any temperature-sensitive medications and how to properly store them on your trip.
o Check in ahead of time with your resort if you need a mini-fridge.
• For your prescription medications, be sure to pack enough for the entire trip, plus another 3-5 days if your return home happens to get delayed.
• Be sure to also bring the original prescription labels with you in case you need to see a doctor at your destination and they need to refill your medications in emergencies.
Be prepared for all situations!
Final Boarding Call: Stay Healthy, Travel Happy
Whether you’re chasing sunsets on a tropical beach or hiking up a mountain trail, having the right health essentials on hand can mean the difference between a trip filled with adventure and one spent stuck in bed. A little preparation goes a long way—packing fever reducers, allergy relief, stomach remedies, and your prescription must-haves ensures you’re ready for whatever travel throws at you.
Think of your travel health kit as your personal insurance policy for fun. So before you zip up that suitcase, double-check your supplies, stow them properly, and set off knowing you’re covered. With your health in hand, the world is yours to explore.
Related Articles:
https://www.southernliving.com/cruise-packing-list-8407763
https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/health/article/26-easily-overlooked-health-essentials-to-pack-for-summer-vacations-according-to-doctors-and-pharmacists-161336434.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAHsLUpmxvOQZT6r8ymT2QBTDe53Naa4n4yaDRFSh-ssptJj8Lcx7j85IeCcJs0NWXQ259_sWGYo2g0zsmFbtuztjbJ26Iy7Mh3YdzrkoqXxX1nreslZ-O5RL3I2E--11X7UHDsPyuhZfx3NjHsuQt9lLnj_NwYNE_ysC75HWZQ3-
https://www.fox21news.com/living-local/pack-this-not-that-travel-health-tips-from-walmart-pharmacy/
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/health/pharmacist-says-six-medications-you-35375165
https://www.mirror.co.uk/travel/brits-urged-pack-4-essential-35503828
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