Whether you are visiting family across the country or exploring somewhere new overseas, travel is exciting. It can also bring unfamiliar food, new climates, long journeys and disrupted sleep. A little preparation before you leave helps you avoid common problems and enjoy every part of your trip.
Plan ahead with your doctor
Book a travel health visit a few weeks before you leave, especially for international trips. Your doctor can check which vaccines are recommended for your destination, review any long-term conditions and make sure your routine immunizations are up to date. If you are pregnant, travelling with young children or managing a heart or lung condition, this visit matters even more.
Pack a smart health kit
Carry your regular medicines in your hand luggage, in their original packaging, with enough to cover delays. Add a simple first aid kit with plasters, pain relief, rehydration sachets, insect repellent and sunscreen. Keep a copy of your prescriptions, allergy details and insurance information on paper and on your phone.
Stay well on the journey
On long flights or drives, stand up and stretch when you can, flex your ankles while seated and drink plenty of water to lower the risk of stiffness and swelling. To ease jet lag, shift your sleep a little before you leave, get daylight soon after you arrive and keep caffeine and alcohol modest during the first days.
The best souvenir from any trip is coming home healthy, rested and ready for the next adventure.
Your pre-trip health checklist
Tick these off before you head to the airport:
- Book a travel health check and review your vaccines
- Refill prescriptions and pack extra medicine
- Check that your insurance covers care while away
- Prepare a small first aid and hygiene kit
- Save emergency contacts and your care team's number
Ask us for a printed summary of your medicines and conditions before you travel. It helps any doctor you meet on the road understand your needs quickly.
Travel should feel freeing, not stressful. With the right preparation, you can focus on the people and places you came to see. Our team is always happy to help you plan a healthy trip, wherever you are heading.