Staying Healthy While You Travel

Summer is not quite done yet and upcoming vacations are still upon us! Or maybe you’re already getting started on planning your winter getaway (it’s never to early right?). Whatever you may be planning, and wherever you may be going, staying healthy (and safe!) while you travel is so important, and often hard to do when the daily conveniences from home are not readily accessible. So we have complied some tips and ideas for you to ensure you and your family are good to go for your family vacation!

Know before you go

Research where you are going! This goes without saying – If you’re heading somewhere warm and sunny, sunscreen and a hat should be the first things you pack. Going on a new culinary experience in Asia? Carry probiotics and Pepto Bismol to make sure your stomach is taken care of if anything doesn’t quite agree with you. Bugs and insects prevalent where you’re staying? Grab a proper bug repellent or a mosquito net if it is needed! We suggest making a list or picking up one of our own travel health lists in the pharmacy. It has everything you could possibly need on there, and will make it easier to keep track of what you have and what you may need to pick up before leaving. Essential items are often forgotten or left until last minute. Have everything ready well in advance and don’t leave it until the last minute!

Vaccinations

Travel vaccinations are always something to look into before you head out to a different country. Some countries actually require specific vaccinations in order for you to even enter! Speaking with a Certified Travel Pharmacist is your best bet to make sure you are fully prepared before you leave. It’s important to look into vaccinations well before you leave, many need to be injected at least 2 weeks prior. So the earlier you look into it, the better! You can book an appointment with our Travel Pharmacist by calling the pharmacy and speaking with a team member!

Carry the pharmacy with you

You never know what you may run into while you’re travelling. So take the pharmacy with you! Bring items such as Pepto Bismol, a first aid kit, antihistamines, cold medicine, probiotics, and motion sickness medicines with you. Remember to take enough of any prescription medicines and supplies such as contact lenses, glasses, diabetes testing supplies, and inhalers. In foreign countries, it can be hard to find what you need due to medication restrictions and language barriers. Play it safe and keep the necessities with you.

Make healthy, and smart choices

This can include things such as checking if the ice cubes are made out of purified water. Washing your hands frequently, drinking packaged drinks such as pop and juice instead of the vendor on the street if you feel unsure. Avoiding raw seafood or any food that looks undercooked. But of course you should always…

Use your judgement!

It’s easy to read any information or advice on travelling and how to stay safe. Use your own judgement and listen to your gut instinct. If you’re unsure about something, don’t do it. If you have a good feeling, go for it! Your trip should be one of the best experiences of your life, don’t waste it being too careful, or not careful enough!

Safe and happy travels everyone!