Hitting the road and heading off your adventures is probably something you’ve been waiting for, for months – possibly even years! You’ve got your itinerary, your travel documents, you know where you’re headed, your money is sorted, you’ve got your phone and your camera ready for all those amazing pictures you’re going to take – you can print off a mosaic of pictures here when you return home from your trip – and your bag is all packed!
You might feel like you’re ready for anything and can take on anything that the road can throw at you. But what about illness? A large percentage of travellers fall ill when they’re abroad, for a wide range of reasons. But did you know that many illnesses are easily prevented?
Here you’ll find 6 tips that will keep illness at bay whilst you’re on the road.
Visit your GP
Prevention is better than cure. So, before you travel, make sure you pop into your GP before you travel and have a chat about any health issues you’re worried about. A cough that won’t go away, a painful ankle joint that keeps flaring up. It’s also imperative that you make sure you’re up to date with any vaccinations you might need. As well as your contraceptive and any other prescriptions.
Your dentist
The same as above, try to fit in a quick check up before you travel. The last thing you want is a crumbling tooth or a nasty toothache ruining your trip of a lifetime.
Sanitize
Sanitizing wipes and gels are a travelers best friend. They’re the quickest and most convenient way to keep bugs and germs at bay. From handling money, to using a public toilet without any hand washing facilities. Use your hand gel before you eat and don’t be afraid to wipe down things like cutlery with your wipes before you eat.
Bring your own
Alternatively, there’s nothing wrong with bringing your own reusable cutlery set and water bottle on the road with you. In fact, they’re more eco friendly and you can make sure that they’re clean before you eat and drink anything.
Wash your hands
It sounds simple, but you’d be surprised how often this basic advice slips peoples minds! Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly will ensure that any germs are stopped in their tracks. Wash your hands before you eat, after you use the bathroom or doing anything that’s pretty grimy.
A first aid kit
It might sound a little pretentious, but even the most experienced travelers bring their own first aid kit along. It doesn’t have to be extensive, just enough to help you out if you’re in a jam. Anything can happen on the road and it’s always best to be prepared. You’ll want something to clean and disinfect cuts and grazes before they become infected, sterile dressings and plasters, pain killers, antihistamines, diarrhea tablets, medicine that can help with dehydration issues and travel sickness pills. And plenty of sun cream too!