Managing a wound while travelling
Heat, humidity, unfamiliar water and limited supplies. Pack for it rather than improvising.
A wound that would be trivial at home is harder to manage abroad, mostly because of climate and access to supplies.
What to pack
- Dressings in two sizes, more than you think you need.
- Sterile gauze swabs.
- Sterile saline pods — useful where you would rather not use tap water.
- Tape.
- Antiseptic wipes for intact skin around a wound.
Heat and humidity
Adhesive performs worse in heat and sweat. Expect more frequent changes, carry spares, and dry the skin thoroughly before each application.
Water
Do not clean a wound with water you would not drink. Use bottled or sterile saline. Avoid swimming in pools, lakes and the sea with an open wound — warm water carries real infection risk.
Know where to go
Look up local pharmacy and medical options on arrival rather than when you need them. Check your travel insurance covers treatment, and carry a GHIC or equivalent where applicable.
See a pharmacist, GP or urgent care if a wound will not stop bleeding after ten minutes of firm pressure, is deep or gaping, was caused by something dirty or rusty, contains anything you cannot flush out, or shows spreading redness, heat, swelling, pus or a fever. Get help urgently for animal or human bites, wounds over a joint, and any wound in someone with diabetes or poor circulation.
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FitMedix products are CE-marked medical devices intended for the care of minor wounds. This site does not provide medical advice — seek professional help for deep, dirty or non-healing wounds, or if signs of infection appear. Always read the instructions on the pack.