INSURANCE
Anytime you travel, you want to stay
healthy and return home in one piece.
Well before your trip begins, make sure
you are covered with travel insurance so
you can embark on your big adventure worry-free.
MEDICATIONS & FIRST AID
Don’t forget to pack any prescription
medications or products you need, such
as asthma inhalers, EpiPens or insulin.
Depending on your itinerary, consider
putting together a small first aid kit of things like
plasters, painkillers and insect repellent. For motion
sickness or concerns about traveller’s diarrhoea,
a quick visit to the pharmacy will supply everything
you need.
VACCINATIONS
No one wants their holiday ruined by
illness, so consult your GP or travel
doctor in advance to find out what the
recommended vaccinations are for every
leg of your journey, as some require a series of shots
over several days or weeks. It’s also a good idea to
check if proof of vaccination is required upon arrival.
HYGIENE
Travelling may strengthen your
immune system, but there’s no point
taking unnecessary risks. Along with
vaccinations, keep a hand sanitizer on
you that you can use before eating, after using the
bathroom, or if your hands get grubby. Sometimes,
there just aren’t adequate facilities when you need
them most!
FOOD
Trying a foreign cuisine is a once in
a lifetime opportunity and one of the
things we look forward to the most about
a holiday. Unless you have allergies or
are vegan, don’t get too hung up about ingredients or
calories, just do your best to eat some fruit and veges
each day – you’ll feel much better for it. If you are in a
country where the water isn’t safe to drink, steer clear
of fresh fruit and salads which might have been washed
with contaminated water and just stick to ordering
cooked vegetable dishes instead.HYDRATION
It can be easy to get dehydrated,
especially if you’re doing a lot of walking
on your trip, and the last thing you want
is a headache, dizziness or stomach ache
from constipation. Make water your drink of choice,
always ensure you are drinking clean water, and
consider packing some electrolyte sachets.FITNESS
During the day, walk or bike as much as
you can to keep your body moving, and
make sure you have the required level
of fitness if you have any physically
demanding activities planned. Travelling can involve
some big days on your feet, so doing regular walks
prior to your trip is good preparation.CLOTHING
Know what climate you are heading into,
with the correct clothes and footwear
packed to protect yourself from the
elements. Even if you don’t need hiking
boots, bring comfortable shoes that you can walk in all
day without blisters.DRESS CODES
Before you pack your suitcase, double
check if there are any dress codes or
cultural customs you need to be aware of
in the country and at any specific tourist
spots you plan on visiting. Dressing appropriately will
ensure you don’t cause any offence to locals, but will
also increase your level of safety by helping you to
blend in.SAFETY
Keep all important travel documents and
money with you – not in your suitcase –
and consider buying a hidden money
belt. Lock away valuables and consider
leaving items that are irreplaceable or sentimental at
home, in case they get lost or stolen.TRAVEL HEALTH TIPS
be informed
be nourished
simply be
be energised
be inspired