A trip out of town can be the perfect escape. Even if you are traveling for work, you may get to see a new city, try new foods or enjoy some time to yourself. For many people, packing can be the worst part of a trip. Some pack far in advance. Others wait until minutes before they are supposed to be departing, adding extra stress to the start of the journey. While planning can give you peace of mind and assurance that you have all of the supplies you need, we have all had things come up that have forced us to do last-minute packing. Whether you are planning days before you are scheduled to leave or hustling to throw it all in a bag and still make it to the airport in time to board your flight, it is important to remember basic health items.
- Toiletries
Good hygiene makes you look, smell and feel better. Cleanliness can also help to stop the spread of germs. While traveling, you should pack the hygiene toiletries you rely on to stay clean. This includes face wash, soaps, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste and any other necessities. Dental hygiene basics such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash and floss should also be in your bag.
If you have sensitive skin, you can reduce the chances of breaking out or developing irritation on your skin by using products your skin is already used to. Some accommodations, such as relaxing cruise ships, provide some basic toiletries. Still, chances are they are brands you do not regularly use, so consider saving space for toiletries if you know your skin is sensitive. If you travel a lot, you may find it helpful to stock up on travel-sized containers of essential toiletries to make packing easier.
- Hand Sanitizer
Hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spreading of germs and illnesses. While traveling, you may not have access to running water and soap to wash your hands as frequently as you need to. Hand sanitizer is a must-have health item for your trip. Carry it with you to sanitize before eating or after touching public door handles. To stay healthy on your trip, remember to disinfect your hands frequently and thoroughly scrub your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds multiple times throughout the day.
- First Aid
You should always travel with a first aid kit. Many stores sell small first aid kits that can easily fit into your bags. These kits often contain antibacterial ointment, gloves, bandages and wound cleaners. At the very least, you should travel with acetaminophen or ibuprofen and bandages. You never know when you may get a headache or require pain medication. Extra medications to consider packing include diarrhea medicine, antacids, antihistamines and motion sickness medicine.
Along with your first aid kit, it is imperative to bring along all daily medications you take, including prescriptions with enough doses to last the entire trip, with a few extras just in case. Diabetes testing supplies and insulin should be on your checklist, too. If you have an EpiPen or inhaler, double-check that you have packed them. Don’t forget glasses and enough contacts and contact solutions to last your entire trip.
- Skin Protection
The elements can be harsh and damaging to your skin. The sun can be harmful, so it is vital to remember to pack sunscreen on your trips. Suppose you will be in a sunny, tropical destination or spending the majority of your time outdoors. In that case, you should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and even protective clothing to keep your skin safe from the damaging rays of the sun. Insect repellant is another item you must-pack if you will be spending time outside.
Traveling is a beautiful opportunity, so don’t let health issues keep you from enjoying your time. Illness can strike at any time, so having the essential health items can help keep you comfortable while traveling. You may never need some of these supplies, and that is great! But the one time you do need them, you will regret not packing them. It is much better to be over prepared than underprepared.
