Travel Plans Require More Than Just Filling Up Your Tires

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School is nearly out and the hotter days of summer are nearly here. If you’re getting ready to head out to escape the heat, we thought we’d share a few tips to help you get your health and wellness ready for that time away.

Depending on the length of your stay away, your destination, and the state of your health, you might want to get in for a quick check with your Provider. At least, consider the following tips:

  • If you have any chronic health conditions, think through your current medications and any active symptoms that may have an impact on your itinerary. Consider packing a Travel Health Kit that contains anything you need to manage your chronic conditions or over the counter medicines you prefer. They may not be available where you’re headed.
     
  • Plan for an adequate supply of prescription medications. Depending on the length of your trip, you may need to schedule refills or bring extra doses in case your return plans are delayed. Your medications may not be available at your destination and counterfeit drugs are a major problem in many developing countries, not to mention on cruises and other get-a-ways. Always pack your medications in the original container AND in your carry-on bag – not checked luggage – in case your luggage gets lost in transit. Review with your physician the timing of your medications while away. For some medications, the next scheduled dose may correlate to when you last took it, not the local time.
     
  • Make note of key health information. Carry this information, including your health conditions, current medications and food or drug allergies, with you at all times. If possible, get it translated into the destination language.
     
  • Schedule vaccinations needed for your particular travel locale or for general health. (see “Healing Therapies” below for more on this.)

It’s always a good idea to also verify coverage with your health plan to make sure you are covered wherever your travels may take you.

Get those bags packed. Make sure exercise is on your itinerary right along with the rest, relaxation and sight-seeing you may have planned. Happy Travels.

Excerpts of this article were obtained from Getting Ready for Travel Season.