A basic first aid kit is something every traveler should carry. Exactly what you carry in it is dependent on your skills. Also consider if you will want to take it on board a plane since there are things that will not be allowed.
Here is a sample first aid kit which is safe to have as carry-on luggage, as long as the liquids do not exceed the 100 ml limit.
Since most travelers prefer to limit the amount of luggage they have, this sample kit is very minimalist which means many things will have to be improvised if needed.
Further information about specific items and their use can be found in later chapters.
Minimalist First Aid Kit Contents
Adhesive Bandages: an assortment of sizes.
Amoxicillin/Clavulanate, e.g., Augmentin (antibiotic).
Anti Diarrheal, e.g., Imodium.
Aspirin (analgesic, anti-inflammatory).
Ciprofloxacin, e.g., Cipro (antibiotic).
Cloth tape.
Clove Oil (alternative/natural medication).
Doxycycline, e.g., Vibramycin (antibiotic).
Diphenhydramine, e.g., Benadryl (antihistamine).
Gauze pads: preferably sterile.
Gloves: preferably non-latex.
Haemostatic, e.g., QuikClot (blood clotting agent).
Hydrocodene (analgesic, strong).
Laxative: preferably natural, e.g., Metamucil.
Lip Balm.
Soap Notes and pencil; Must Read – Secondary Exam.
Scissors: may not be able to take on board the plane, but if they are small enough they should pass.
Sunscreen: SPF 30 at a minimum.
Tick/Splinter Kit: it should include small tweezers and mini magnifying glass.
Medications pertinent to your travels, e.g., altitude, scuba.
Personal Medications, e.g., allergy, asthma, contact lenses, epinephrine.
Also Consider:
Albuterol: even if non-asthmatic.
Alternate antibiotics in case of allergy or other complication, e.g., pregnant.
Blister band aids.
Epinephrine Auto-Injector, e.g., EpiPen: even if no known history of anaphylaxis.
Eye wash, eye drops and/or antibiotic eye drops.
Oral thermometer.
Roller bandage.
Small LED flashlight.
Triangular bandage(s).
Vet wrap.
Paperwork, e.g., notes from doctor for prescription drugs, first aid notes, inventory etc.
If you do not trust natural remedies for certain (or all) things, then consider also including:
Acetaminophen (Analgesic).
Antacids.
Antifungal.
Antiseptic.
Burn gel.
Decongestant.
Dramamine (motion sickness).
Hand sanitizer.
Ibuprofen (analgesic, anti-inflammatory).
Itch relief.
Insect repellant: DEET 30% maximum or Picaridin.
Triple antibiotic ointment.
Important Notes:
Check your first aid kit regularly for expiration dates and refill any supplies that have been used.
Please read the medications guide chapter before considering the use of any type of medication; Must Read – Medications Guide.
Doctor notes for prescription drugs are recommended.