The unexpected can happen...but what if it happens on your long-awaited vacation?

Small issues can turn into BIG stresses in a hurry. Toss in an extra "packable peace" item and forget about it - you're covered. That little incident is just that - not even worth mentioning. A blip in your fascinating travel memories...

1. Dental Misery: Losing a filling or a loose cap on a tooth

   Temparin: Pack this tiny little kit in your bag and an appointment with the dentist is a priority, not an emergency. The temporary filling contains the same ingredients that dentists use. Follow instructions for instant pain relief. Temparin is safe to eat with and is "Dentist Strength". Remember- temporary only. This teeny tiny vial holds enough Temparin for 8+ repairs. Seriously, if you need 8 repairs...your next trip should be to the dentist!

2. Low Blood Sugar: I have assisted several travelers when they were unprepared and found themselves suffering from low blood sugar. Here is some packable peace when dealing with low blood sugar:

   • GlucoBurst: Not just for diabetics, this glucose gel or tablets can make all the difference when experiencing a low blood sugar. Shaky, lightheaded, weak - these feelings can happen when your body needs something to eat. When food is not available, rely on GlucoBurst to supply your body with the energy it needs. This temporary solution does not replace food, but is a great product to throw in your purse or bag for those times that can quickly turn from uncomfortable to unconscious.

     DO NOT EVER GIVE FOOD, GEL, OR ANYTHING ORALLY TO AN UNCONSCIOUS PERSON.

   • Glucagon Emergency Kit: Everyone who uses insulin should carry a Glucagon Emergency Kit at all times. Ask your physician about this kit. Glucagon is injected or administered intravenously to an unconscious patient.
   
   
3. Teething: This usually happens when you least expect it. An irritable baby pulling on his/her mouth and ears, sucking on anything in sight, rosy cheeks, low grade fever, diarrhea, refusal to eat, biting, drool everywhere.... teething is a pain for babies - and can be a nightmare for all in flight.

Here are some products I have found beneficial for relieving pain and discomfort for teething babies.

• Chewable Jewels
• Baby Banana Brush



4. Nausea/Motion Sickness: For the first 14 weeks of pregnancy I was sick. Really sick. Not just morning sick - but afternoon, evening, and all night sick. And my nose was like a bloodhound. If I was in the same room with another person, I could smell their breath/body odor and would throw up. Try flying with that sensitivity!

   Out of necessity, I quickly learned a few tricks! Here are some things that helped me when traveling with nausea.

   • Preggie Pops/Drops & Queasy Pops/Drops: These all natural, drug free, nurse invented, doctor recommended lollipops and lozenges were "conceived" when the need was recognized for a natural alternative to treating motion sickness and nausea and of course morning sickness.
     
     The Preggie Pops are made especially for pregnant moms. A blend of essential oils and aromatherapy are delivered to moms in lollipop or lozenge. Relief of dry mouth, a quick burst of energy, and of course relief of morning sickness- these pops are a must have for the pregnant traveler.
     
     The Queasy Pops are beneficial for those suffering from motion sickness or nausea associated with chemotherapy.
   
   
   • Queasy Pops Kids are made especially for little travelers who suffer from nausea and motion sickness.
   
   
   • Psi Bands: I used "other" acupressure bands since these fashionable Psi (like sigh of relief) wristbands weren't available when I was pregnant.

   Nausea and motion sickness many times are unpredictable. Don't be caught at 37,000 feet with a sick child or family member and nothing to soothe their miserable motion sickness or nausea! The best part? No drugs - just natural remedies that have worked for centuries.

5. Food Allergies: Consult with your physician whether or not carrying over-the-counter Benadryl would be wise for your individual situation. Benadryl can be used for many reasons: environmental allergies, food allergies, drug reactions, etc.

   If you (or your child) have a history or family history of severe food allergies resulting in anaphylactic shock, carry an epinephrine injection kit (Epi-Pen), and inform the flight attendants. Make sure to tell your traveling companions and wear an identification tag or allergy bracelet identifying your allergy.

   Road ID: These bands are worn on wrist, shoes, or worn around neck similar to a military dog tag. Engraved with your identification information as well as medical alert info - these bands provide peace of mind in an emergency.

6. Ear Pain/Fullness/Hearing Loss: Consult with your physician if a prescription for the pain-relieving device - EarPopper is appropriate for you or your child. Narrow Eustachian tubes in young children means difficulty adjusting to pressure changes when flying. Flying with a cold or congestion can also result in excruciating pain for travelers of all ages, from infants to seniors. This congestion can cause temporary hearing loss or a feeling of "fullness" which can be annoying and sometimes painful. Avoid starting a much-anticipated trip unable to hear or uncomfortable due to ear pain.

7. Hospitalized Away From Home: Read the fine print. If you or your child are hospitalized while on vacation, health, travelers, and platinum card insurance coverage will cover transport to the "nearest appropriate facility" regardless of convenience to you. That does not mean transport home. Be realistic - many of those decisions are based on budget and your input is not considered. Purchase a year-round medical evacuation membership for your family. Similar to AAA, this card means YOU decide if, when and where you will be transported for your health care. As a nurse I can tell you, you do not want your child or yourself to be hospitalized away from familiar physicians and family support.

   MedJetAssist: This membership covers the entire family for an entire year - no matter if you travel to San Francisco or Casablanca. Avoid leaving home without this peace of mind.

NEVER assume those around you will understand your situation without explaining it to them. Write down and carry with you the following: your name, date of birth, any allergy, and if you are carrying an Epi Pen or inhaler. This information can then be handed to your flight attendant. It could save your life.