No one likes to think about getting sick on their cruise. And odds are, you’ll be fine. But with all those endless buffets, adventurous excursions, and late-night parties, there’s always a possibility you’ll be in need of some minor first aid.
Sure, there’s an onboard medical facility, but even a quick trip to the infirmary can wind up costing you extra cash. And while the shops onboard often stock common over-the-counter medications, their supplies are limited and expensive.
Avoid the hassle and expense by packing your own cruise first aid kit. Here’s a list of some basic supplies to get you started.
A Sturdy First Aid Kit Case
It’s important to keep your first aid supplies separate from the rest of your belongings so you can easily access them in a pinch. I use this sturdy, lightweight case. It zips up tightly and has pouches inside to keep everything organized.
Portable First Aid Pouch with Two Zippers and Pill Pockets
Seasickness Meds
Huge ships can often handle the choppiest seas with smooth sailing… but there’s always the chance that you’ll encounter some rough patches that’ll have you rocking and rolling around your stateroom. When that happens, Bonine is my go-to seasickness medication. It works quickly, doesn’t make you sleepy, and packs light.
Some other seasickness remedies you might consider bringing along:
- Seasickness Wristbands. I’ve never used them, but I know a lot of people who swear by them.
- Dramamine. A quality anti-nausea medication, but since it makes you sleepy, you might want to save this one for bedtime.
- Scopolamine Patches. These wearables require a prescription from your doctor.
Treatment for Tummy Troubles
After a day or two of overindulgence on vacation, it’s not unusual to start developing some tummy trouble. That’s why I always include a pack of Tums in my cruise first aid kit. A roll will slide easily into your case; pack two if you’re going on a longer sailing (or just really like to fill your plate at the buffet).
Some other stomach medication you might consider bring along:
- Acid Reducers. For those times when Tums just aren’t working hard enough.
- Immodium. Sadly, norovirus is a potential concern for any cruiser. Pack some anti-diarrhea medication so you don’t have to suffer.
Wound Care
If you’re anything like me, you’ll inevitably wind up with a few scrapes or bruises by the time your trip is over. Frankly, that’s a sign of a vacation well-spent – you were active! – but you should also pack some basic simple items to take care of your wounds.
I always pack the following in my cruise first aid kit:
- Band-Aids. An assortment of different sizes and styles are best.
- Neosporin. This travel spray is perfect for preventing infection.
- Alcohol Wipes. Pop them in your excursion bag to clean wounds right away.
- Hydrocortisone Cream. Without an anti-itch cream, mosquito bites can wreck your evening.
Pain Relievers & Fever Reducers
Whether you’ve caught a cold or you’re dealing with a hangover, it’s always a smart idea to bring along some standard OTC medication. I always pack:
Allergy Medicine
Traveling is always full of surprises. Most of them are good. Some of them are not-so-good – like dust, pollen, or insect bites. You never know what you might encounter in a new environment, so if you’re someone that suffers from allergies (like me) it’s a wise idea to pack allergy meds.
Since I often travel with my family, and our allergy needs are different, I tend to pack a variety, including:
What’s In Your Cruise First Aid Kit?
This list is by no means comprehensive, but I think it provides basic, all-around coverage for the most common health concerns you’ll encounter while cruising. What about you – what’s in your cruise first aid kit? Let me know in the comments below.
