Flying abroad? To ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, it's important to pack a bag full of goodies, but don't forget the essential medical equipment as well.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US has published a useful list of medications and medical equipment that you should take with you in your carry-on.
The list includes basic items and is suitable for most travelers, but those with a complex medical condition should consult a doctor and stock up on different items as needed. The weather conditions at the destination you are traveling to and the nature of the trip must also be taken into account.
List of 40 essential items for travel:
1. Prescription drugs
2. Medical prescriptions
3. Antibiotics (if you are taking them)
4. Injection kit (if you use)
5. Medicine to prevent altitude sickness
6. Replacement glasses (if you use them)
7. Replacement contact lenses
8. Needles or syringes (for diabetics)
9. Equipment for testing sugar
10. Insulin
11. Inhalers
12. Medical identification documents
13. Heartburn medicine
14. Antidiarrheal medicine
15. Medicine against allergies
16. Anti-nausea medicine
17. Nasal spray to relieve congestion
18. Pain reliever and antipyretic
19. Mild laxative
20. A light sleeping pill or other sleeping aids
21. Saline nasal spray
22. Equipment to prevent diseases and injuries
23. Hand sanitizer or wipes (60% alcohol)
24. Tablets for purifying drinking water
25. Mosquito repellent
26. Sunscreen
27. Sunglasses and hat
28. Personal safety equipment (such as child safety seats or bicycle helmets)
29. Earplugs
30. Small first aid kit
31. Antifungal ointments
32. Antibiotic ointments
33. Agent for disinfecting wounds
34. Aloe vera gel for sunburn
35. Treatment against insect bites
36. Anti-itch gel or cream
37. Bandages, gauze and adhesive tape
38. Elastic/pressure bandage for strains and injuries
39. Digital thermometer
40. Eye drops
In addition, it is very important to take medical documents with you, which include copies of all regular medication prescriptions, health insurance documents (local and travel insurance) and vaccination certificates.
Remember - this list is general and it is recommended to consult a doctor before each trip, especially for those with a complex medical condition and underlying diseases. Early planning will guarantee you a safe and enjoyable trip.