Regardless of whether you’re getting some last-minute bargain flights abroad or setting your sights on a lengthy cruise, here are some things you’ll want to keep in mind to ease your travel worries.

What is the water like? No, I’m not talking about the pool or the sea. Let’s talk hydration. It’s always worth checking the water quality of the places you are visiting; we would always recommend drinking bottled water purchased from safe sources – better to be safe than sorry! If drinking tap water cannot be avoided, bring some water purification tablets. If the country, you are travelling to is high risk for any water-borne infections our travel experts can advise on any other precautions you may want to take, such as vaccines. 

So, you’ve drank some tap water and are currently suffering on the toilet… Well, thank goodness you read this blog before you travelled abroad and brought some rehydration medication with you! Rehydration medication can be a real-life saver during your travels, especially in hot, humid countries – they replace essential salts and fluids that are lost through diarrhoea and vomiting, (sweat too). 

Worried about bites and mosquitos? Insect bites can occur anywhere (even in the UK) and you are most at risk of being bitten between dusk and dawn. Sprays containing DEET are the gold standard insect repellent, however, other sprays containing Picaridin or Eucalyptus citriodora oil are also good alternatives to help keep those pesky critters away. When using DEET sprays alongside suncream, it is important to apply the suncream first as DEET sprays can lower the effectiveness. Our team can also advise on antihistamines and creams to help soothe bites. 

Unsure if you need vaccinating for your travels? Pop down to one of our pharmacies for a travel risk assessment! We have vaccine experts on hand who can talk you through the necessary vaccination programmes advised for the countries you are visiting. We offer a wide range of travel vaccines and have registered Yellow Fever vaccination sites too. As part of our assessment, we factor in your itinerary,and medical history and can advise on anti-malarials if necessary. 

Due to malaria being common in tropical and remote areas, it is important you are aware of the symptoms, which can include fever, sore throat, headaches, chills, aches, and pains. If this occurs while in a high-risk country/after returning from one, it is important you seek medical attention. 

Please also be aware that some prescribed medications may be restricted or banned in certain countries. If you have any worries regarding this or how best to transport medication, please speak to a member of our team, we are happy to help. 

Hopefully, this has helped prepare you for your travels now we are getting out of winter and summer is fast approaching! If you want to learn more, consult one of our pharmacists or fill in a form on our website! 

Happy Travels!

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