What's in Your First Aid Kit?

I've travelled enough to know that in my suitcase or backpack there are a series of items that I think are essential to me, and then there are items that truly are vital to having a safe and healthy trip, wherever you are in the world. Clothing, shoes and beauty products are not deal breakers, but travelling without the appropriate medical supplies, especially in a developing country, is like a police officer racing to a call without his gun. So have a look at some of the items that I never leave home without, and compare it with your own kit, you might have some holes you need to fill, and there's nothing worse than getting caught out in an emergency situation without the tools you need to preserve life.



Medical Gauze
Angled Medical Scissors
Polysporin Ointment
Arm Sling
Tensor Bandage (Large enough to wrap a knee or foot)
Fiber supplements to relieve constipation, laxatives and diarrhea medications like Immodium

Several pairs of disposable non-latex gloves
Band-Aids (Waterproof and regular)
Tweezers
Sterilized Suture Kit
Sterilized Syringe Kit
Digital Thermometer
Two Emergency Blankets
Eye Patches
Ipecac syrup
Anti-Septic Wipes
Anti-nausea Medication (Gravol)

This is certainly not an exhaustive list, and obviously, the further you travel and the more isolated you are, will probably not only dictate the contents of your First Aid Kit, but also determine how much of everything you bring. If you're travelling in a hot climate, there are obviously items that you will pack in your kit that you might not bring if you were heading to Antarctica, and vice versa.
Other than surgical instruments and over-counter-medications, there are a few other things you might want to consider, like keeping a copy of any prescriptions you might be on, in your kit, and on your person in case someone goes into your kit in search of something to help you. The other thing I always have in my kit, and in my bags, are emergency contact numbers, including my doctor's name and number back. Personally, I don't think you can ever be too prepared, so be thorough when you're putting your kit together, make lists and be organized!