Going on holiday? Pack a first aid kit

Don’t let a minor accident take the shine off your holiday this year. It really does pay to be prepared.

So, you’ve got the passports, sun cream and guide book – what else do you need to ensure the holiday goes without a hitch? A first aid kit, that’s what.

There’s no holiday that won’t be improved by the inclusion of a travel first aid kit.

The need is particularly pressing for families, because excited kids understandably go a bit wild on holiday and bumps and scrapes often result with swimming pools, sporty games and things to climb on offer.

The fact is, even a minor incident can throw a monkey wrench in your plans, especially on a foreign holiday. Suddenly, you have to drop everything and start looking for a local pharmacy.

Then you’ll have to deal with that lethal combination of language difficulties and the fact that most medications have different names.

TAKE A TRAVEL FIRST AID KIT

Perhaps worst of all, there’s that awful feeling of powerlessness when something goes wrong and you’re not equipped to help – particularly if it’s the kids who are suffering.

That’s why our travel first aid kit is designed to fit snugly in your suitcase – and it contains all the gear you’ll need to deal with most mini-emergencies.

But even if something happens and you don’t have a first aid kit, many everyday items can also be used in first aid emergencies.

You may not realise it, but tea towels, cling film, frozen vegetables and even credit cards can be very effective medical aids if you know how and when to use them.

The Red Cross have given us advice on what a travel kit should contain.

First aid guideEye wash pod 20 mlFive non-alcoholic wipesGauze swab (7.5 x 7.5 cm)Rehydration sachetSmall sachet of water gel for burnsSingle-use thermometerMicropore tape 2.5 cm x 9.1 mTufkut scissorsPair of nitrile glovesSix safety pinsResuscitation face shield

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Take a look at the Red Cross first aid app

Pack a Red Cross travel fist aid kit

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