The last thing you want while travelling is to end up on your sick bed or, in a worst case scenario, hospitalised in a far flung destination. But, with proper planning and by keeping fit during your trip, there’s a good chance both can be avoided.
Here, HotelView guest columnist Anya Willis offers tips on what to pack and how to be prepared for most eventualities.
What to do before going away
If you are travelling abroad, be sure to check for common illnesses in your holiday destination. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention details the vaccinations required and what to pack.
Check with your GP at least two months before you travel on what vaccines to take. The NHS can provide vaccinations for infections such as hepatitis A, yellow fever and typhoid.
Get travel medical insurance
A travel health insurance plan can cover medical expenses while overseas, but be sure to clarify what’s included in the policy. Does it cover treatment in both private and public hospitals? How about emergency transport such as an ambulance? And ask if pre-existing medical conditions are covered.
With a European Health Insurance Card you’ll get access to state-provided health care, but make sure it hasn’t expired. You can also apply through the NHS online for a Global Health Insurance Card. But keep in mind that they don’t cover all medical costs, so it’s better to get additional health insurance.
Carrying a PDF copy of your medical records may come in handy as well. For easy access, save them on your iPad or mobile phone. If you have them in your email, convert the files to a PDF so you don’t have to connect to Wi-Fi to get access. And don’t forget to make sure your PDF download was loaded on your iPad.
What to pack
A First Aid kit is essential. Include prescription medications and over-the-counter meds you may need. Don’t forget to carry your health insurance card and take a picture of it as a backup. Make sure to also bring sanitisers and hand wipes in case you can’t access to clean water.
Stay healthy
It’s okay to splurge on your comfort food while travelling, but make sure to maintain a fitness routine to stay healthy. Choose accommodations with fitness facilities to avoid having to pay extra for going to a gym. Whenever possible, walk or bike to get around, and make sure you have water to stay hydrated.
Contact the nearest health care provider if you do get sick. Bring your medical insurance card to avoid paying for costly medical expenses. Most importantly, take your medical records to get an accurate diagnosis.
In a nutshell…
- Research your destination
- Buy travel insurance
- Pack a First Aid kit
- Eat the right food
- Exercise properly
