Not all heroes wear capes or work in hospitals. For example, paramedics and EMTs are unsung heroes who work tirelessly to save lives in various settings. Despite not having all the tools and machines that doctors have, these first responders can do a lot with very little. Their secret? A well-equipped kit that contains essential medical supplies. And just like paramedics, every traveler can benefit from carrying a few medical supplies for emergencies.
Mark Browne, a paramedic and President and Chief Operating Officer of NDP EMS, emphasizes the importance of remembering prescription medications while traveling. He recommends carrying extra pills in case of travel delays. To help organize pills, a pill organizer like the Holii Pill Organizer is a great tool. It has multiple compartments and comes with sticky labels for easy identification.
In addition to prescription medications, Browne also suggests carrying a pair of tweezers. They can come in handy for removing embedded ticks or splinters. The Tweezer Guru Tweezers are made of stainless steel and come in various colors. They are sharp and perfect for removing stubborn ingrown hairs or splinters.
Another essential item to have while traveling is an instant cold pack. Browne recommends using disposable instant cold packs, as ice can be difficult to travel with. Clever Health Instant Cold Packs are highly rated and don’t require refrigeration. They are perfect for managing headaches or minor pain from falls.
Ken Martin, a paramedic and Assistant Director of Operations at NDP EMS, believes that carrying Band-Aids is essential. Band-Aid Brand Flexible Fabric Adhesive Bandages are durable and flexible, making them suitable for various wounds. They are highly rated and come in bulk, offering better value for money.
Miami-Dade Fire Department Lieutenant Tina Guiler, a paramedic with 24 years of experience, emphasizes the importance of hand hygiene while traveling. She recommends packing Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes, which kill 99.9 percent of bacteria and germs. These wipes come in travel-sized packs and have a Wet Lock Seal to prevent drying out.
Gavin Dawson, a Physician Assistant at Global Emergency Medics, advises travelers to carry an emergency whistle. Using your voice to call for help during an emergency can deplete your energy quickly. LuxoGear Emergency Whistles are loud enough to be heard from a mile away and can also deter predators. They have been reviewed as life-savers in emergency situations.
Katie McCann, a retired HCPC paramedic, suggests traveling with electrolyte tablets to stay hydrated. Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets are highly rated and come in various flavors. They are perfect for hot climates or after physical exertion, helping the body hydrate faster.
McCann also recommends carrying a compact first aid kit for treating minor injuries. The Swiss Safe 2-in-1 First Aid Kit is a popular choice, with 9,400 five-star ratings. It contains essentials such as antiseptic wipes, trauma shears, and blister relief pads. The kit includes a larger kit for road trips and a mini kit for convenience.
By following the recommendations of paramedics and medical professionals, travelers can be better prepared for emergencies and ensure a safer and more comfortable trip. These essential medical supplies, available on Amazon starting at just $4, can make all the difference between life and death in unforeseen situations. So, before you embark on your next adventure, don’t forget to pack your own mini paramedic kit.