Equipping the first aid kit is an annual struggle for a lot of Czechs - most often in the spring and summer, when the time of well-deserved rest after a long and demanding winter is approaching. In addition to suitcases, clothes, or cosmetics, however, we should also check that our first aid kit is stocked up with appropriate medicines and medical supplies for the destination we plan on going. The usual equipment may not be enough in all situations. Unfortunately, there is no universal rule for a perfectly equipped first aid kit. Its contents vary from household to household. But when preparing for summer travel, a good starting point is generally to think about who would use the first aid kit in an emergency and where, and what problems they might encounter during their holiday. The contents of a first aid box will also always vary for seniors, children, and adults. Health status and whether the person is active in sport play an important role.

The very basis of any first aid kit should always be over-the-counter painkillers and antipyretics, along with medicines to alleviate minor viruses or colds. It should also be stocked with bandages, plasters, scissors, disposable gloves, disinfectant, a thermometer, or tweezers, for example. Disinfectant eye drops and a topical allergy treatment, for example, from stings or sunburn, are also recommended.

Better to be prepared than surprised

A holiday in the mountains is popular among sportsmen and nature lovers. But there are pitfalls waiting for them too. If you're planning a holiday among the rocks, you should add a few extra essential medical supplies to your list. For example, an elastic bandage or tape should not be missing from the box. If you expect difficult hikes and a lot of energy expenditure, it is always a good idea to have grape sugar and magnesium on hand. As your mileage increases, you'll probably also want to use gel blister plasters.

In warm countries, beware of Pharaoh's revenge (traveller’s fever)

If you are going to an exotic destination, don't just rely on hotel service in case of sudden illness. It is advisable to prepare for unpleasant situations in advance. Intestinal medication and probiotics should be included in your exotic travel kit. These can come in handy if you catch a bacterial infection causing diarrhoea and nausea. Probiotics can also be taken as a preventative measure. Allergy pills are certainly not lost in the travel first aid kit- a sudden allergy to something you haven’t before encountered is not uncommon in warm regions and can surprise patients unpleasantly. The first aid kit should also include sunscreen with a sufficiently high SPF factor, which is simply a must on a seaside holiday. Panthenol in the form of a foam or lotion - and topical antihistamines are also very recommended.

Think about your health even at the cottage!

We usually associate a holiday at the cottage with undisturbed peace and quiet. Because we are essentially at home, it is easy to get the feeling that nothing can happen to us. But as with anything, you can never be too careful. You should not underestimate protection against ticks, but also against minor skin injuries. Body and clothing repellent, as well as medicines for diarrhoea and constipation, should not be missing from the cottage first aid kit. If we really want to be prepared, healing ointment to protect the skin and lip balm will always come in handy. Lips, like skin, are susceptible to damage from sunlight.

We only have one health

Whichever destination you choose for your summer holiday, always remember that it's important not to underestimate the importance of preparing your first aid kit. Remember to consult your doctor about the correct use of your medication. With Doctor Online 24/7, you can even do this online and remotely, anytime, and anywhere. When it comes to your health on holiday, don’t take chances with self-medication or local products you don't know. It's important to read medicine information leaflets carefully and consult with your doctor or pharmacist about the dosage of each medication and its combination before taking it. This is because the medicines might not work or, in worse cases, incorrect dosage could cause serious health complications.