Heading to the bush for a breakaway? Don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure, but also remember to bring along some essential medications to keep you happy and healthy during your trip. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or going on a safari, having the right medications can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to the medications you shouldn’t forget to pack on a bush break.
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1. Antihistamines
Insect bites, stings, and allergies can put a damper on your adventure. Pack some antihistamines to relieve itching and swelling from bug bites and to manage allergic reactions to plants, pollen, or food.
2. Painkillers
A headache or muscle pain can quickly ruin your day in the wild. Carry some painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease any discomfort that might pop up unexpectedly.
3. Antibacterial ointment
Cuts, scrapes, and blisters are common when exploring the bush – especially if you’re doing a lot of walking. Bring along antibacterial ointment like Germolene to clean and protect minor wounds from infection.
4. Antidiarrheal medication
Digestive issues can strike when you least expect them, especially if you’re trying new foods or drinking untreated water. Pack some antidiarrheal medication to quickly relieve symptoms and keep your stomach settled.
5. Motion sickness medication
If you’re prone to motion sickness, don’t forget to bring some medication to prevent nausea and vomiting during long drives or bumpy rides – two common attributes of a bush safari.
6. Sunscreen
The African sun can be unforgiving, even on cloudy days. Protect your skin from sunburn and harmful UV rays by packing a high SPF sunscreen and applying it regularly.
7. Lip balm with SPF
Don’t forget to protect your lips from sunburn and dryness, too. Bring along a lip balm with SPF to keep your lips moisturised and prevent them from getting chapped.
8. Insect repellent
Mosquitoes, ticks, and other pesky bugs are common in the bush. Keep them at bay by applying insect repellent – sometimes this is provided by your accommodation but it’s always good to pack a travel size, just in case.
9. Stick to the script
If you take any prescription medications regularly, be sure to bring an ample supply with you. Check that you have enough to last for the duration of your trip, plus a little extra, in case of any unexpected scenarios.
10. Allergy medication
If you have known allergies to plants, pollen, or certain foods, don’t forget to pack your allergy medication. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to allergic reactions.
11. Tweezers
A pair of tweezers can come in handy for removing splinters, thorns, or ticks from your skin. Keep them in your first aid kit for quick access.
12. Water purification tablets
If you’re unsure about the safety of the water supply, bring along some water purification tablets to ensure you have access to clean drinking water wherever you go.
13. Anti-malarial medication (if you’re visiting a malaria area)
If you’re traveling to a malaria-endemic area, consult with a doctor before your trip and get your script for the necessary anti-malarial medication that you will need. Often, doctors instruct that you start taking the medication before you leave, so plan your trip to the GP in advance!
14. Medication for altitude sickness
If you’re heading to higher-altitude areas, such as the Drakensberg Mountains, consider packing medication to prevent or alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
15. Hand sanitiser
Keep your hands clean and germ-free, especially before eating or handling food. Pack a small bottle of hand sanitizer to use when soap and water are not readily available.
16. Burn ointment or gel
Accidents happen, especially around the campfire. Bring along burn ointment or gel to soothe and heal minor burns quickly.
Remember to store your medications in a waterproof container or bag to protect them from moisture and keep them easily accessible when you need them. With these essential medications on hand, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any challenges and enjoy your bush break to the fullest.
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