Whether it is a beach holiday, a gap year, a study placement or visiting family overseas, here is what to think about in the weeks before you travel.
6 to 8 weeks before
- Check vaccinations. Some vaccines need more than one dose. Book a travel vaccination consultation and we will recommend what you need for your destination and activities.
- Check official advice. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) publishes travel advice for every country, and TravelHealthPro lists health risks by destination.
- Ask about malaria. If you are visiting a malaria risk area, speak to a pharmacist about prevention.
Before you pack
- Travel insurance. Make sure it covers any existing medical conditions and the activities you plan to do.
- GHIC card. If you are travelling in the EU, a free UK Global Health Insurance Card gives you access to state healthcare. It does not replace travel insurance.
- Regular medicines. Take enough for your whole trip plus a few extra days, keep them in your hand luggage in their original packaging, and bring a copy of your prescription.
- Periods. If your period would clash with your trip, you can ask about period delay.
Your travel health kit
- Insect repellent containing DEET, for areas with mosquitoes
- High factor sun cream and after sun
- Oral rehydration sachets and a basic first aid kit
- Pain relief and antihistamines
- Hand sanitiser
Food and water safety
In many destinations, stick to bottled or treated water, avoid ice in drinks, and choose freshly cooked food that is served hot. Traveller's diarrhoea is the most common illness abroad. If you are heading somewhere higher risk, ask about traveller's diarrhoea treatment and the cholera vaccination.
Long haul flights
On long journeys, walk around when you can, stay hydrated and avoid too much alcohol. Crossing several time zones? Our jet lag service can help you adjust faster.
When you get home
If you feel unwell after travelling, especially with a high temperature after visiting a malaria area, seek medical advice promptly and tell them where you have been.
Questions? Pop into our Bristol Road pharmacy or Selly Pharmacy in Campus, call 0121 472 0155, WhatsApp 07425 614023 or email hello@sellypharmacy.co.uk.
This article is general health information and does not replace advice from a pharmacist, GP or other healthcare professional.