A Well-Stocked Traveler's First-Aid Kit

Most people skimp on first-aid supplies when traveling, thinking they'll find whatever they need once they're at their destination (should anything untoward occur). That's definitely not the case. Imagine if you're a woman in a country where you don't speak the language and, in the middle of the night, you realize you have a vaginal infection. Good luck finding treatment or relief. The same goes for going off the beaten track only to find that you've been stung by a jellyfish or you brushed against poison ivy. Or if you're sitting beside a campfire and an ash flies into your eye. What do you do?

For these and many other reasons, I always carry a well-stocked first-aid kit when I travel. Below are my recommendations. You'll notice that I've grouped the supplies into categories based on symptom or body organ/system, which makes it easier to determine what you need for what ails you.

Bites, Stings, Rashes, Burns

Benadryl cream - for itching

Aloe vera gel - for sunburn relief

IvyBlock - to prevents poison ivy rash

Calamine lotion -- for rash/itching

Antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine -- for allergies or rash/itching

Hydrocortisone cream - for rash/itching

Tecnu - poison ivy skin cleanser

After Bite -- for itching after a "bug" bite

Cuts, Blisters and Bruises

Betadine or other antiseptic wipes

Bacitracin topical antibiotic cream

Blister kit with moleskin

QuikClot - to stop bleeding fast

Spenco 2nd Skin squares/pads - for blister protection

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain and fever

Thermometer

Bandage strips (in a variety of sizes) as well as “butterfly”-type bandages

Nonstick gauze squares and gauze roll

Ace-type, elastic wrap bandages

Adhesive tape

Aquaphor ointment - for blisters 

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer

Eye, Ear, Nose, Throat, Teeth

Eye Wash

Lubricating Eye Drops

EarPlanes to unclog ears on the plane

Saline nasal spray

Stomach Issues

Bonine - for motion sickness

MiraLax - for constipation

Pepto Bismol chewable tabs - for diarrhea and to prevent traveler's diarrhea

Electrolyte replacement powder - for diarrhea

Peppermint Tummy drops - for stomach upset

Antacids

Women's Needs

Diflucan (single oral dose) - prescription pill for vaginal infection

Monistat vaginal cream - for vaginal infection

Replens