Essential Items

Sterilised needle kit: Especially in developing countries, take a sealed sterilised pack with needles and syringes. It helps save scarce local resources.

First-aid kit: Take plasters, scissors, iodine, bandages, and rehydration salts.

Emergency numbers: Keep vital phone and document numbers in a safe place (or on a website).

Personal alarm: Small, cheap to buy and a must.

Security: A simple rubber door wedge is useful extra security in your hotel room. Carry a good quality padlock to secure lockers and cupboards.

Condoms: Should be carried by both sexes.

Jabs/malaria: Visit your GP for jabs well before you travel. Ensure you take the malaria tablets and pack an insect repellent and a mosquito net.

Torch: Useful for camping, powercuts and places with non existent streetlights.

Strong sun cream: 30 or 40 SPF is a must.