Christmas is just around the corner and if you’re preparing for a trip, whether it’s across the globe or a weekend away, there are a few essentials we can often forget when we’re packing our bags.
Beyond those obvious must-haves like clothing, toiletries and Christmas presents, there are a few key travel items you need to add to your packing list.
Medications
Although they’re very important, they can often get left behind, so take the time to put medications at the top of your packing list.
If you are travelling overseas, we recommend packing enough medication for the entire duration of your trip, plus enough for a few additional days, in the instance of delays or cancelled flights. Whether you’re taking prescription medication or over-the-counter medications, make sure you keep the items in their original packaging with clear labels. This can avoid issues at customs.
Before you leave, make sure you:
- Speak to your medical practitioner or pharmacist about your travel plans.
- Visit your GP to see if you require any travel vaccines or other medications.
- Consider carrying a doctor’s note for any controlled substances you may be travelling with.
- Consider engaging with a local disability or aged care provider in the location you’re visiting for continued care on your trip.
Comfortable shoes
Travel often involves a lot of walking! So, whether you’re setting off to explore a new city, find a delicious restaurant for dinner or do a spot of shopping, wearing comfortable shoes is a must to reduce fatigue and prevent blisters, pain and discomfort.
Here are our tips for nailing the comfortable shoe brief:
- Opt for well-worn shoes. If you’ve bought a new pair for the trip, wear them in before departing.
- Supportive shoes should have good arch support and a cushioned sole.
- Look for a shoe which supports your entire foot – so avoid things like strappy sandals and slip-on shoes.
Supportive shoes can also prevent falls and increase your stability. If you’re prone to instability, it could be worth considering a walking aide like a walking stick or walker if you are visiting unfamiliar or crowded areas.
Spare glasses
Whether you’re reading maps, menus or hand-made Christmas cards, our glasses are a must! In the excitement of travel, our glasses tend to be surprisingly easy to lose at a restaurant, shop or in the bottom of a bag somewhere.
We recommend packing a second pair of glasses in your bag. You can usually get cheaper pairs of prescription glasses from your local chemist, which can become your emergency pair.You can also travel with your prescription details, in case you need to replace your glasses while you’re away, but finding an optometrist who’s open over Christmas can be difficult, so pack that spare pair just in case!
First-aid kit
Accidents happen, even in the most idyllic places, which is why it’s always a good idea to have a basic first-aid kit in your bag.
Some things you can include are:
- Band-aids
- Antiseptic solution
- Eye drops
- Burn cream
- Paracetamol and ibuprofen
- Antihistamines
If you’re packing your kit and reach for the tweezers, scissors or other sharp items, make sure you place the first-aid kit in your checked luggage, otherwise it will be taken by airport security.
The basics
Of course, the above items are crucial for a happy, relaxing holiday, but there are a few other items you’ll want to have on hand, including:
- Chargers and adapters
- Snacks
- Water bottle
- Care plans
- Medication charts
- Emergency contact numbers
Medical care when travelling
Regardless of where you are going, it’s important to research options for seeking medical support, should you need it. If you are going overseas, you can see which countries Australia has reciprocal health care agreements with here [https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/before-you-go/health/reciprocal-health].
If you are travelling locally, you may be able to use your NDIS or Aged Care package to pay for the same care you receive at home in your holiday destination. Many providers, like Focused Health Care, provide short-term care for people travelling to the area.
If you are travelling in Queensland this Christmas and would like to speak to us about having one of our highly qualified nurses visit you, please contact us today.
*All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Focused Health Care can consult with you to confirm if this service is right for you.
