Organized parents know the drill: as holidays near, assemble a first aid kit stocked with remedies for minor mishaps, ensuring you're prepared for every scrape. Tucked securely yet accessibly in your luggage—even during travel—this kit can feature organic and natural products alongside conventional medications.
Start by packing the children's health records. If you're separated or divorced and it's with your ex-partner, request it early—they're obligated to provide it, as it belongs to the child and must travel with them for their well-being.
On the administrative front, for trips to any of the 27 EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland, request your European Health Insurance Card from your provider. It covers on-site care, lasts 1 year, and is issued individually for each family member.
Use an old toiletry bag for the kit itself. Include a thermometer, small scissors, assorted bandages (sterile compresses, plasters), and a disinfectant.
For medications, pack aspirin, paracetamol, and any prescribed treatments. For insect bites, sunburn, or motion sickness, opt for natural and organic remedies.
For mosquitoes, lemon eucalyptus essential oil (Eucalyptus citriodora) outperforms citronella. Use it as a repellent in a diffuser or on a handkerchief, or soothe bites directly.
Diluted with sweet almond oil, it doubles as an anti-inflammatory massage for post-jogging soreness.
A homemade calendula cream works wonders for sunburns, scratches, and more.
For bruises and contusions, carry Arnica 7 CH granules and a pre-prepared arnica mother tincture.
Discover precise recipes for these natural remedies in "The Natural Pharmacopoeia" by Simone Bourgereau (Gallimard, Tout Beau Tout Bio collection, €13.50).
Medicinal plants and essential oils offer abundant resources. With growing focus on environmental health and natural wellness, start experimenting on your next vacation!
