Going on vacation to a cold country is the best thing you’ll probably hear all year round, considering how blazing and humid Malaysia is. However, you’ll need careful planning as the low temperature is likely to bring your mood down with cracked lips and dry skin.
While you’re at it, fill your toiletries bag up with antiseptic creams and ChapSticks as well, as a pharmacy is unlikely to appear whenever you need it most. Equip yourself with the correct travel essentials listed below for a breezy trip.
Ulcer Gel
Mouth ulcers and cuts are the worst, especially when exploring different food options is on top of your list.
Get them treated with oral gels like Bonjela – it contains keratolytic and mild antiseptic salicylic acid to numb and heal ulcers fast. It’s sugar-free, tasteless, and will not get in the way of your taste buds.
Antiseptic cream
Low temperature tends to dry out skin, leaving cracks and cuts that lead to bleeding.
Always have your antiseptic creams ready to prevent bacteria or any other nasty infection. Having to see a doctor while you are on vacation is the worst anyone could imagine.
Heat pack
If you’re not used to colder weathers, you might also experience pain and muscle aches. Before your cramps take place, keep yourself warm with heat packs. Place smaller ones in the pockets of your coats and pants to warm your hands.
You can also stick some inside your jacket to feel warm when you’re out skiing and exploring. Besides, you can place a pack on your sore muscles before bed to avoid falling sick.
Thermal Flask
Nothing beats a hot drink when you’re travelling around a cold city, as I have learnt during my hiking trip at Manaslu Conservation Area in Nepal in June.
Pack yourself a Thermos; they’re usually lightweight and will keep your beverage hot for hours. Drinking hot tea or water may help keep you from falling ill too.
Clear-coloured Lip balm
The cold weather will crack your lips for sure, as the skin around it is thin and fragile. Apply a clear lip-balm religiously before, during and after your day trip.
The essential oils will create a protective barrier on your lips and the skin around it. Besides, a clear balm is suitable for men too.
Face moisturiser
Never board the plane without packing your moisturiser with you. It’s likely that your skin will not get used to countries of lower temperature in the first week.
Also, use a hydrating moisturiser instead of a regular one, no matter what your skin type is.
Hydrating face mist
You’re not encouraged to re-apply your moisturiser for more than three times a day. Hydrate and moisturise your skin with a face mist instead.
They’re usually made with essentials oils and water and are lightweight. You can spray them on whenever you need to without having to worry about clogged pores.
Gloves
Your trip will be counterproductive if your hands are below the regular body temperature. Keep your hands warm and dry with a good pair of gloves.
Go for one with a Heat-tech feature – they’re usually thinner, as thick, wool gloves might disrupt your grip.
Thick wool scarves
Shelter your neck from the cold, because single-digit temperatures will give you a headache.
Keep it warm with a stylish scarf, and that will keep your skin from wrinkles and fast ageing, too.
Leg warmers
It’s difficult to focus and move around if your legs are too cold, and leg warmers will keep your calves warm. Besides, the skin on our calves is sensitive and prone to cracking. Apply some body moisturiser on your legs, before covering them up with leg warmers.
Without a doubt, these affordable travel essentials can be found in both retail and online stores. Personally, buying these essentials online is easier, plus you can get extra discounts by using a Lazada voucher or Shopee promo code.
Always be prepared and keep yourself comfortable, so you can travel around without worrying about pain and injuries.
Note: All photos for illustration purpose only.