Falling ill at the best of times isn't easy, but when you are traveling in far-flung places with only your guidebook and rucksack for company, it can get a whole lot harder.
Things can be even more complicated if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, but with a bit of planning and common sense, things can still go smoothly.
We've put together a few tips to help you prepare for a trip abroad, whether it's backpacking through the Andes or cruising the Med on a yacht.
1. Vaccinations
First, make sure you are aware of the vaccinations required for your destination(s) and when you need to receive them, as some can take several weeks to become effective.
As a general guideline, eight weeks is typically sufficient advance notice for most vaccinations. Some vaccinations are available on the NHS, while others require payment.
For more detailed information, visit the NHS Travel Vaccination Planner or the NHS Fit for Travel website, which provides vaccination information for every country in the world.
2. Insurance
Some form of pre-existing medical travel insurance is essential if you are planning a trip, even if you are heading out on a backpacking trip to EU countries.
Healthcare and its associated costs vary hugely across the world, and taking time to find a good insurance plan will give you peace of mind and be invaluable if the worst should happen. You can quickly compare travel insurance plans at Singsaver to determine which one best fits your needs.
There are various types and levels of coverage, ranging from activity-based to pre-existing medical travel insurance. Take time to research the most relevant one for you and your travels.
3. Language
Learn a few key phrases that may be helpful in a medical emergency in the language of each country you will be visiting.
If you have an existing medical condition, obtain the key information translated into each relevant language before you leave, and always carry the relevant notes with you.
4. Medication
Pharmaceutical drugs can be expensive abroad, and in some cases, you may not be sure what you are being given, so it is worthwhile getting a prescription that will cover you for your whole trip, plus some emergency supplies in case you stay away a bit longer.
Although you can obtain the usual painkillers and other medications in all countries, they may be more expensive compared to the UK, so it's worth taking your preferred brand with you, just in case.
5. Emergency numbers
Always have emergency numbers with you and at your accommodation, if possible. Your next of kin's contact details, your insurance telephone number, and policy numbers should be easily accessible in case of illness or accident.
Ensure that your emergency contact at home also has access to all your insurance details and itinerary. If possible, try to let someone at home know you are ill so they can handle insurance matters if needed.
It's also worth making a note of the emergency numbers for the countries you are staying in - the equivalent of the UK's 999 emergency number.
Those are our top five tips to help give you some peace of mind when it comes to falling ill on your travels. Of course, we hope you won't get sick or have any accidents.
Your trip will be a total blast from beginning to end, and you'll come back fitter and more relaxed than ever before.
