IF you have been looking forward to your holiday for months on end, the last thing you want is sunburn, mosquitos or a tummy ache to ruin your trip.

Sadly though, the risk of bites or a dodgy tummy  is high —  and you’ll need something to treat them.

Sun on Sunday GP Dr Jeff Foster says: “With a little preparation and ensuring you take the right things with you, it can make all the difference to making sure your holiday runs smoothly.”

Here, Dr Jeff reveals what you should, and should not, pack for a healthy summer break, without busting your luggage allowance.

Do take

SUNSCREEN: Nine out of ten of us do not pack enough sunscreen when heading abroad, research by Holiday Hypermarket found.

Dr Jeff says: “Packing sun protection at home means you can check it passes British Standard tests for UVA and UVB protection.

“SPF protects against UVB, which causes sunburn, while UVA damages skin.

“Make sure it has both. The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) recommends you use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.”

AFTERSUN: The BAD say four in ten of us reported at least one case of sunburn last year.

Dr Jeff says: “Even when you apply sunscreen, your skin still dries out so it’s really important to apply aftersun or moisturiser if spending a long time in the sun.”

OTOVENT: Dr Jeff says: “A narrow passage called the eustachian tube regulates air pressure in your ear.

“When air pressure changes quickly on a flight, this tube often doesn’t react quickly enough, causing a pocket of air to build up and push on the eardrum, leading to discomfort.”

Chewing gum or sucking a sweet can help.

There’s also a device called Otovent (£14.24, amazon.co.uk) — a specially pressurised balloon which you blow up with your nose — to ease ear popping.

ANTIHISTAMINES: Dr Jeff explains: “Allergies are far more common on holiday when we are exposed to new and different allergens and irritants.

“Antihistamines are also great for bites and stings to reduce reactions and cut the risk of a secondary infection, as well as swelling and pain.”

DIORALYTE: Diarrhoea or vomiting is common on holiday.

Dr Jeff says: “This can be due to new foods or foods left out in the heat that go off.

“Kids might be sick after having drinks such as slushies that are high in colours or additives. Sometimes it’s just a consequence of sunstroke.

Sickness can lead to the loss of fluids and salt. Drink water but also pack Dioralyte (£4.65, boots.com) for you and the kids.”

PAINKILLERS: The chances of kids having an accident at some point are high.

“Packing Calpol (liquid paracetamol) or Ibuprofen for kids can be a life-saver,” Dr Jeff adds.

Most children know them and feel comfortable taking them.

The alternative is a local pharmacy with tablets or a liquid that tastes different.

“Pack adult paracetamol and Ibuprofen too.”

Don’t take

ASPIRIN: “Many people wrongly believe aspirin will reduce their risk of blood clots such as DVT but aspirin only reduces clotting in damaged organs, vessels or external injuries where blood platelets are activated.

“A DVT causes a clot via blood stasis and pooling, which results in coagulation and blockage.

“Aspirin won’t help. For flights over four hours, stay hydrated, walk around, wear flight socks.”

ANTIBIOTICS: “People request antibiotics to take on holiday ‘just in case’,” Dr Jeff says.

“This is a no-no. You may start taking them when they’re not required.

“And it might be the incorrect antibiotic or dose which will increase your risk of serious illness. If you need antibiotics on holiday, see a local doctor.”

FLIGHT LETTERS: Some strong painkillers or controlled drugs may require documentation in countries such as the Middle East but generally no letter is needed.

Dr Jeff says: “Many patients request a letter allowing them to take medicines through customs but the vast majority of prescription drugs are compatible with customs regulations and do not require letters.

“Just take your prescription with you. Check with the airline for guidance if you are still in doubt.”

MOSQUITO WRIST BANDS: The smell of DEET products are unpleasant but they work.

Dr Jeff says: “DEET is safe even in children over two months. There is little evidence, however, that wristbands work and they are less regulated than repellent sprays.”

FANCY FIRST AID KITS: “Unless you are planning a high adventure holiday or travelling to a rural, underdeveloped country, all you need is plasters and antiseptic cream.

“If you have an injury that needs gauze, bandage or tape, you should be seeing a doctor urgently anyway.”