As many of us excitedly pack our suitcases for our summer holidays, we carefully choose light, stylish outfits along with makeup and skincare products that promise a sun-kissed glow. Yet amid all the holiday preparations, one of the most important travel essentials is often overlooked: a well-stocked first-aid kit.

Travel, outdoor activities and time spent in nature can bring unexpected challenges, while many smaller or more remote islands may have limited access to medical care. Being prepared is therefore just as important as planning the perfect itinerary.

According to health experts, some of the most common holiday health issues include insect bites, minor cuts and scrapes from rocks, dehydration caused by intense sun and high temperatures, as well as motion sickness during ferry or other forms of travel.

A properly equipped holiday first-aid kit can help you deal with minor emergencies quickly, ensuring that unexpected mishaps do not spoil your precious days off.

What experts recommend including in your holiday first-aid kit:

• Fever reducers and pain relievers
• A thermometer
• Ammonia solution for insect bites
• Saline solution ampoules
• Sterile gauze, antiseptic, adhesive tape and wound-healing cream
• Antihistamines for allergic reactions
• Antihistamine cream for skin allergies and insect bites
• Eye drops and ear drops, as ear infections are common during the summer due to frequent swimming
• Electrolyte sachets to prevent or treat dehydration caused by motion sickness, heat exhaustion or gastroenteritis
• Burn cream for minor sunburns and other superficial burns