It's hard to give thought (and space!) to a First Aid Kit when packing for traveling but it should be right up there with shoes, makeup and clean underwear.

Most people try to focus on the fun side of vacation, which makes sense. With all the details that need to be taken care of before departure it can be difficult to add a first aid kit to the usual concerns of traveling.

A small portable travel kit can have significant benefits when you are far from home; especially when traveling in foreign countries.

We are accustomed to being able to go to the medicine cabinet when we have minor problems such as headache, nausea or "bowel issues," shall we say? The things we need may be just a short trip by car away from home. But minor problems get much bigger while out on the road.

Travelers have no problem remembering to pack prescription or allergy medications with their carryon bags. With a little more effort they can be better prepared for vacation emergencies.

The travel First Aid kit doesn't need to be as bulky or comprehensive as a home first aid kit. It should contain:
- Assorted bandages of various sizes,
- Sterile gauze pads,
- Anti-septic wipes for cleaning small cuts,
- Antibiotic ointment or creams,
- Waterless hand sanitizer (pack several!)
- Over the counter hydrocortisone cream.

MEDICATIONS:

Two types of Medication might travel with you: prescription and over the counter medications. In all cases, the medication must be secured properly and you need to have an explanation for carrying it with you.

OVER THE COUNTER

There are a number of OTC medications that might unexpectedly be needed on the road. Common medications found everywhere in your home might be sold under a different name or not at all overseas.

Aspirin and Tylenol are common headache remedies in America, while I had to get used to something called Mefinamic Acid in the Philippines.

Even without leaving the country you can have problems with OTC drugs. The current screening process at airports can cause a massive headache. Two tiny pills can cost you several dollars at the airport gift shop IF they have them on hand increasing your pain.

It's better to pack small bottles of:

- Your preferred headache or pain medication. (Fellow travelers might ask for a couple if they see it. You will be popular!)
- Antacids, gas tablets or Pepto Bismol to deal with your reaction to unfamiliar foods.
- Diarrhea medication, no need to explain that one.
- Motion

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