The Little Travel Pharmacy – Checklist with Everything You Need

Travelling with children requires a bit of extra planning and packing. A well-equipped travel pharmacy is essential for handling minor injuries, illnesses, and other unexpected situations that may arise. Here is a guide to help you create your own little travel pharmacy and make the journey as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

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The Little Travel Pharmacy – Checklist with Everything You Need Photo: Preggers

First Aid: Everything You Need for Minor Injuries

When it comes to minor injuries, a first aid kit is a must. These items will help you quickly and efficiently handle small accidents that may occur. Make sure to include:

  • Band-aids in various sizes
  • Sterile compresses
  • Vaseline-soaked compresses (to prevent scabs from sticking)
  • Wound tape, such as Steristrip, to hold cuts together
  • Gauze and elastic bandage to secure dressings
  • Scissors and tweezers
  • Rubbing alcohol for cleaning wounds

Medication: For Pain Relief and Fever Control

Young children can easily develop a fever and pain while travelling. It is good to have the following medications on hand:

  • Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for children
  • Fever thermometer
  • Oral rehydration solution for fever or stomach upset

Tip! Always check the dosage carefully and consult a doctor if you are unsure.

Skin Care: Protection Against Sun and Insects

Children's skin is sensitive and can be easily affected by the sun and insects. To protect against ticks, use a mosquito net over the stroller or bed and check the children daily for ticks. Here is what you should pack:

  • Sunscreen with high SPF (50+)
  • After-sun lotion
  • Mosquito repellent and mosquito bite cream
  • Hydrocortisone cream 1% to relieve itching from mosquito bites and other insect bites

Sun Protection: Prevent Sunburn

To protect children's skin from the sun, consider the following:

  • Children under one year should be kept in the shade and wear covering clothing
  • Use sunscreen with at least SPF 25 for older children
  • Apply sunscreen frequently, especially after swimming

If the child still gets sunburned, cooling balm or hydrocortisone cream can relieve the pain. Applying cold (but not ice-cold) water is also effective.

Digestive Problems: Quick Help for Stomach Troubles

To handle digestive problems that often arise while travelling, pack:

  • Probiotics for children
  • Medication for nausea and diarrhoea
  • Oral rehydration solution to prevent dehydration

Water and Fluids: Avoid Dehydration

Fluids are important, especially on hot days. Make sure to give your child plenty to drink. In case of vomiting or diarrhoea, be sure to replace lost fluids with an oral rehydration solution.

Extra Tips for Foreign Travel

When travelling abroad, consider packing:

  • More sachets of oral rehydration solution
  • Imodium or similar for temporary diarrhoea (not for children under twelve years old)
  • Lactobacillus supplements to maintain gut bacteria balance

Check with a doctor if any special vaccinations are needed for your destination.

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