16 Μαΐου 2025

ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY FIRST AID KIT

During holidays, various health issues such as insect bites, allergies, diarrhea, gastroenteritis, sunburns, minor injuries, nausea, and heartburn are common occurrences. The contents of your travel first aid kit should be tailored to your destination, the duration of the trip, and the health condition of each traveler. Naturally, you should include all prescribed medications necessary for any personal chronic conditions. If you have any special health concerns, consult your doctor ahead of time to determine what is essential to carry with you during your vacation.

Recommended Contents for a Holiday First Aid Kit

The SOS DOCTORS recommend that your holiday first aid kit include the following:

  • Antiseptic solution or antiseptic wipes

  • Sterile saline solution (0.9%) in ampoules

  • Adhesive plasters

  • Hansaplast-type bandages

  • Cooling spray (e.g., Pulvo 47)

  • Antihistamine syrup

  • Antihistamine cream for allergic reactions and itching caused by insect or jellyfish stings

  • Cream containing cortisone and antibiotic

  • Ammonia-based cream, spray, or stick for insect stings (e.g., from mosquitoes or bees), as well as jellyfish or sea anemone stings

  • A small plastic cup (urine sample size) filled halfway with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)

  • Insect repellent spray

  • Antipyretics (e.g., Paracetamol)

  • Anti-diarrheal tablets

  • Anti-nausea medication (e.g., dimenhydrinate)

  • Moisturizing lotion or cream for after-sun care (e.g., Bepanthol)

  • Examination gloves

  • Hemostatic cotton

  • Sterile/adhesive gauze pads

  • Elastic bandages (5 cm width)

  • Cold pack or instant ice compress (activates upon shaking)

  • Scissors

  • Thermometer

  • Tweezers (for removing thorns, sea urchin spines, or insect stingers)

  • Important emergency phone numbers

COVID-19 Precautions

Your first aid kit should also include:

  • Surgical masks (to be worn in accordance with public health guidance, particularly in enclosed or crowded spaces)

  • Hand sanitizers

  • Disposable gloves

Storage and Maintenance Guidelines

Use a waterproof and insulated case to protect the contents from high temperatures. If any medications require refrigeration, place them in a cooler bag with an ice pack during travel. Upon arrival, store them in a refrigerator or cool, dry place along with the ice packs (avoid humid areas like bathrooms).

Ideally, medications should be stored at temperatures below 25°C and away from heat or direct sunlight. Do not leave your kit inside a car or on the beach. If traveling with young children, ensure the kit is kept out of their reach.

Useful Contacts

Before using any specialized medication, consult your personal physician or pediatrician.

It is also advisable to have the following contact numbers with you:

  • The hospital, health center, or pharmacy nearest your holiday location

  • The Poison Control Center (Greece: +30 210 7793777)

In Case of Emergency

Call +30 210 82 11 888 (available 24/7, including weekends and holidays, from any landline or mobile phone within Greece). You will be connected to a coordinating physician or nurse for medical advice.