This is a guest post covering some basic travel health tips. It is a quick and easy read that does a good job of summarizing a lot of information we have presented on the site.
Holiday illness can and does happen. Be aware, and you’ll reduce the risks. Read on for a few tips …
Travel insurance – essential! I check price comparison sites for for the best deal, checking it covers me for everything I need. I take a copy and leave one at home. It’s not expensive – no excuse! If you’re travelling within the EU, apply for a free EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card). This doesn’t replace insurance!
I always call my GP for advice on vaccinations and malaria, also checking my tetanus injection is up-to-date. Inform your GP ahead of time – if you need malaria tablets, you often need to take them before travelling also.
I ensure I’m rested prior to travelling. I’ve found a good way is to book into airport hotels – great when travelling early. I start refreshed and chilled. Check out Premier Inn Manchester Airport for fantastic prices.
Always pack medications in hand-luggage, in original boxes, clearly labelled with your name. Check with the country’s embassy, to make sure medication is okay to take. Some medications are banned or controlled in certain countries – you might need a doctor’s letter, possibly translated, if yours is one. Additionally, if you need to take syringes for insulin, prior-inform the airline.
If you’re pregnant, always check with your airline first. Also check with your GP regarding fitness to travel, and again just before departure.
We’ve all heard about DVTs and long-haul – it’s important to be aware of the risks. Check with your GP before booking. Once onboard, stretch and exercise as much as possible – I get up and walk around regularly. Keep hydrated, and avoid excess alcohol and caffeine.
I know they’re not fashionable, but they’re essential for many – compression stockings. Go for quality, and ensure the right size and type. Also check you’re wearing them correctly. Mine were under a maxi-dress – no-one could tell!
You’re on holiday – the dreaded stomach bug strikes. Most pass quickly; just ensure you drink plenty of bottled water. If it goes on for longer, or you’re concerned, visit the doctor.
Always travel with diarrhoea medication, along with antihistamines for allergies and bites. Wash hands and remember hygiene. When eating out, I always avoid shellfish, and make sure food is well cooked. I also religiously avoid tap-water and drink bottled – even brushing my teeth with bottled water. Be aware – salads and fruit may be washed in tap-water, and ice also. Only drink milk you’re sure has been pasteurised, and avoid soft cheeses.
We love the sun – however sunburn and sunstroke can make us seriously ill. Whatever your skin type, slap on protection. Never use sun-cream less than SPF15. You won’t tan any better with a lower factor – you’ll burn, and that’s not attractive. Avoid cheap products, and check expiry dates – last year’s sun-cream is no good now. Go for brands with a high star rating and high SPF, indicating both UVA and UVB protection. Reapply after swimming. Kit children out with loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts, hats and sun-cream. Adults likewise. Hats are fashionable now – wear one!
Avoid 12pm-3pm, when the sun is strongest – I always sit in the shade with a cool lemonade! Speaking of which, drink plenty, and I don’t mean alcohol.
Remember my tip of resting before flying, helping to cut stress levels. Bewley’s Hotel Manchester Airport is a great start to your break.
Use common sense and heed advice – your holiday will be a happy, healthy one.
This post was made possible by Holiday Extras
Photo credit: Flickr user captainkimo
A Healthy Holiday is a post from: Sick on the Road