Don't Let Travel Bugs Bite!
Read time: 4 minutes
Have you ever had a dream holiday ruined by an unexpected illness?
There's nothing worse than being sick when you travel. Staying healthy on the go is key! Think of these tips below as your wellness guide, ensuring you feel fantastic from takeoff to touchdown.
Pre-Trip Health Check & Vaccinations
Before you pack, chat with your doctor or a travel clinic. They'll advise on necessary vaccinations for your destination (like Yellow Fever for the Amazon or Typhoid for India) and ensure your routine jabs (like tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella) are up-to-date. A quick chat can save you a lot of hassle later! If you have existing health conditions, discuss managing them abroad and carry prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's note, especially for countries with strict medication rules.
Buy Travel Insurance
Getting comprehensive travel insurance before you leave is vital for peace of mind. It means you're covered for medical emergencies, unexpected hospital stays, and even emergency evacuation, should the unexpected happen. Seriously, don't leave home without it – it's your ultimate safety net!
Health On Board
Long flights can take a toll, but a little preparation makes a big difference. Drink plenty of water to combat dry cabin air and reduce fatigue. Keep that blood flowing by moving around the cabin when safe and doing simple leg exercises in your seat, like ankle circles or foot pumps, to prevent DVT. For added comfort, consider noise-cancelling headphones and a saline nasal spray. Your body will thank you when you land!
Pace Yourself
We get it – new places are exciting! But building in rest and recovery isn't just about avoiding burnout; it helps your body adjust to new time zones and climates. Don't overschedule. You'll appreciate each experience more, feel energised, and truly enjoy your trip. Listen to your body and allow for chill-out time. Your holiday is about enjoyment, not exhaustion!
Practice Good Hand Hygiene
This simple act is surprisingly one of your most powerful defences against illness while travelling. Wash your hands frequently with soap and antiseptic water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. When soap and water aren't available, a small bottle of hand sanitiser (at least 60% alcohol) is your travel buddy.
Hydrate Well
This one's a biggie, especially when you're soaking up the sun in the Caribbean or exploring the dry heat of Egypt. Always stick to bottled water or water you know has been safely filtered or boiled. Dehydration can quickly zap your energy and make you feel sluggish. Be cautious with tap water, and if you're unsure about the ice in your drink, it's best to skip it! Your gut will thank you for this.
Mind What You Eat
Trying local cuisine is one of the best parts of travel – hello, street food in Thailand or delicious curries in India! But be mindful of where and what you eat. Opt for freshly cooked, hot food. Make sure the meat is thoroughly cooked, and if a street food vendor's hygiene looks questionable, it's okay to politely pass. A good rule of thumb is: Cook it, peel it, boil it, or forget it!
Be Sun Savvy
Don't underestimate the sun's power, even on a cloudy day on the Mediterranean coast or during winter sports in the Alps! Always pack high-SPF sunscreen and apply it generously. A wide-brimmed hat is your best friend, and try to seek shade during those peak sun hours (usually 10 am to 4 pm). Sunburn isn't just uncomfortable; it can ruin your holiday vibe and lead to bigger issues down the line.
Get Insect Protection
Heading to tropical regions like Costa Rica, the Amazon rainforest, or even some parts of Southeast Asia? Insect repellent is an absolute must-have. Mosquitoes can carry nasties like malaria or dengue fever. Look for repellents with DEET or picaridin, apply them diligently, and consider wearing long sleeves and trousers at dawn and dusk when these tiny creatures are most active.
Your Travel First-Aid Kit
A small, basic first-aid kit can be a lifesaver for minor scrapes, headaches, or upset stomachs. Toss in essentials like pain relievers, plasters, antiseptic wipes, anti-diarrhoea medication, and any personal prescription meds (in original packaging with a copy of your prescription). Being prepared helps you bounce back fast and keep enjoying your trip!
What If You Get Sick…
Now, even with the best planning, travel bugs can strike. If you feel unwell, listen to your body and don't ignore symptoms. Hydrate and rest to recover faster. For minor issues, use your mini medic kit or visit a local pharmacy. Crucially, contact your travel insurance immediately if you need medical attention; they'll guide you to approved facilities. Don't hesitate to seek local medical help for severe or persistent symptoms.
Consider the FCDO Foreign Travel Advice and the official Travel Health Pro website your pre-travel command centre. These invaluable resources are packed with the latest information on local laws, safety risks, and crucial health considerations specific to your chosen destination.
By keeping these practical tips in mind, you're all set to focus on what truly matters: making incredible memories and fully immersing yourself in your travel experience.
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Ready to hit the road but want to avoid any travel trouble? This blog post is packed with essential travel safety tips so you can make amazing memories, worry-free! And if you're struggling with jetlag, check this out.
