What To Include On Your Travel Checklist

Everyone looks forward to a vacation and whether you’re heading off on a chilled-out beach break or an outback safari, it’s important to plan ahead. But it’s not just flights and accommodation that you should consider in the planning process, it’s also your health. We’ve put together a handy checklist that can help you to stay fit and healthy on your travels:

Travel Checklist

4-6 weeks before travel:

• Visit a travel clinic to assess any potential health risks. You’ll be able to discuss and plan any required vaccinations and preventive medications, as well as general medical and safety concerns for your planned itinerary. Studies show that if you visit a travel health expert before international travel, you are seven times less likely to get sick on your trip.
• Check that your medication is allowed in the country you’re visiting, if not, discuss an alternative treatment course with your doctor. In some cases, you may just require a doctor’s letter explaining what you’re taking and why.

2 weeks before travel:

• Purchase travel insurance with comprehensive health coverage; don’t forget to read the small print, and make sure all your planned activities are covered.
• Start preparing a traveler’s health kit. Things you might want to consider include over-the-counter medications for diarrhea and pain relief, anti-histamines, insect repellants/bite treatment, sun-screen and after sun creams, bandages, plasters, and antiseptic.
• Start preparing a traveler’s health kit. Things you might want to consider include over-the-counter medications for diarrhea and pain relief, anti-histamines, insect repellants/bite treatment, sun-screen and after sun creams, bandages, plasters, and antiseptic.
• If you are taking prescribed medication, make sure you have a sufficient supply for your trip, and order a refill prescription if needed.

1 week before travel:

• Check the latest travel news on your destination to see if there any health or safety alerts.
• Give a family member or friend your itinerary and relevant contact details.

1 day before travel:

• Get a good night’s sleep.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Plan your travel outfit – comfy, loose-fitting clothing and take flight socks if you are traveling long haul.