Going on Vacation? This Is What You Need to Pack

Mgr. Shlomi Selitzky

Your regular medications to maintain continuity - a MUST!

•  Supply: Take enough medication for your entire vacation, plus a 5–7-day reserve in case of flight delays or unexpected lockdowns. 
• Where to store it on the plane: Keep your essential medications with you at all times in your carry-on bag. Checked luggage is exposed to extreme temperature changes and the risk of loss. 
• Supporting documents: Bring a current medical summary in English from your doctor, along with a printed copy of your prescriptions. For anyone carrying syringes, such as patients with diabetes or those carrying an EpiPen, a letter in English from your doctor authorizing you to have the medical devices is essential to avoid confiscation when you go through security screening.

First-aid supplies for minor injuries and burns

• Pack antiseptics such as solution, spray or wipes to disinfect wounds (chlorhexidine-based products are recommended). 
• Bandages and dressings: Adhesive bandages in various sizes (including waterproof bandages), sterile gauze pads, a roll of medical tape and an elastic bandage for sprains. 
• Burn care: A numbing ointment for minor burns and a soothing gel (such as medical-grade aloe vera) for sunburn. 
• Additional supplies: Tweezers for splinter removal, small scissors (checked luggage only), a digital thermometer and disposable gloves.

Pain relievers and fever reducers

• Generic pracetamol or ibuprofen-based medications. 
• For children: Pack age- and weight-appropriate formulations (syrup or suppositories), and measure doses precisely using a standard dosing syringe or cup.

Stomach issues (adjusting to different food and water)

•  For diarrhea: Medications to stop acute diarrhea (for adults only, unless directed otherwise by a doctor). 
• Preventing dehydration (critical in children and the elderly): Oral rehydration salts (ORS) powder to restore lost minerals and fluids. 
• Additional relief: Antacids, anti-nausea medication and motion/sea sickness medications. If you're traveling to an extreme destination, consider packing water purification tablets.

Allergies, irritation and bites/stings

• An approved mosquito repellent (check suitability for children and infants). 
• Antihistamine cream or gel to soothe skin after a bite/sting or contact with irritating plants. 
• People prone to mild allergies should consider packing oral antihistamines. 
• Patients with life-threatening allergies: Make sure your epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) is not expired and keep it with you at room temperature at all times.

Medications and first-aid for your vacation: planning for the unexpected

Eyes, ears and trip-specific prescription medications

• Eye drops that act as artificial tears to relieve dryness during the flight. 
• Ear drops (after consulting a doctor) for ear pain or drops to dry the ear canal after swimming 
• Backpacking trips: If you're traveling to tropical regions or developing countries, be sure to visit a travel medicine clinic for vaccinations and destination-specific prescriptions, such as medications for malaria or altitude sickness.

In short, medications are highly sensitive to temperature changes, so you should never leave them in a closed car in the sun, in a glove compartment or on the beach. Store them in a cool, shaded place. Always keep medications in their original packaging along with the patient information leaflet. This helps you quickly check expiration dates and dosing instructions, and helps prevent delays at border control and customs overseas.

Wishing you a safe, healthy and great vacation.