A woman packing a luggage, getting ready for vacation

Don’t Forget Your Pre-Travel Wellness Check

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• Schedule a doctor’s visit and get vaccinated at least a month before departure to ensure health concerns are addressed. 

• Get an eye exam from an optometrist and fill any necessary prescription medications. 

• Pack protective skin items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats for hot climates or layers such as wool and fleece for colder climates. 

• Bring a hygiene kit with all the necessary items to keep you feeling fresh and clean during your travels. 

Whether you’re going on a short or long journey, staying healthy during travel is important. After all, no one wants to get sick in a strange city or country! A pre-travel wellness check is one of the best ways to ensure you stay healthy. Here’s a look at some tips for staying healthy while traveling.

Health Check

Of course, the first step in any pre-travel wellness check is to make sure you’re doing and feeling your best before the trip. Here are some of the health-related items to check before getting on the road:

Schedule a Doctor’s Visit

At least a month before your scheduled departure, make an appointment with your doctor for a checkup. Talk to them about any health concerns, including allergies, chronic health conditions, and other issues affecting your travel. Even the simplest of illnesses can wreak havoc on a trip if left untreated, so be sure to get checked out before you go.

Get Vaccinated

Getting vaccinated is one of the most important steps you can take before traveling. It’s essential to research what vaccinations are required for your destination and ensure you get them well before your trip. This will help protect you from any diseases or illnesses that may be common where you’re going. Additionally, if you have any underlying medical conditions, speak with your doctor beforehand about any special precautions or treatments that may need to be taken during your travels.

Eye Exam

Your eyes are one of the most important organs for travel. As such, getting them checked before a trip is important to ensure your vision is as sharp as possible. Ensure you visit your eye doctor for an eye exam at least a month before your departure date and get any necessary corrective eyewear.

Get Your Prescription Refills

If you take regular prescription medication, get your refill before leaving for your trip. Many pharmacies will offer travel-size containers to easily store and carry your medications while on the road. Make sure to bring an extra supply in an emergency or if your trip gets extended.

Different kinds of medicine on top of a table

Pack Smart

Especially when you’ll be traveling for a long period, make sure you have everything covered. Here are the essentials that you should pack with you:

Skin Protection

Are you taking a vacation in a sunny destination? Bring plenty of sunscreens, sunglasses, and hats to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. Bring enough layers to keep you warm in a colder climate, such as sweaters, jackets, and scarves.

Hygiene Kit

Your hygiene kit should be the first item to go in your luggage. Ensure you have all the basic things covered, such as toothbrush, soap, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, etc. If necessary, you can also bring other personal items that will help keep you feeling clean and refreshed during travel.

Pack Appropriate Clothes and Shoes

It’s important to pack clothes that are comfortable and appropriate for the climate of your destination. Your shoes will also need to be comfortable enough for walking long distances. Research the weather beforehand and make sure you pack accordingly. Here’s your quick guide:

For Hot and Humid Climates

A hot and humid place calls for light and breathable fabrics. Pack loose-fitting shirts and shorts, a few sleeveless tops, and layers that can be removed. A good fabric for these climates is cotton, which breathes well and keeps you cool. You can also go for light fabrics such as linen and rayon.

For Cold Climates

Pack warm and thick fabrics such as wool and fleece if you’re going in a cold climate. Layering is key for colder climates, so remember to bring some extra layers if needed. An excellent way to manage the ever-changing temperatures outside is to layer your clothing with thin items that are easily removed or added.

Your Shoes

A man on a hike, wearing sneakers

If you’re going for long walks, pack comfortable and supportive shoes. Make sure they are appropriate for the terrain you will be walking on as well as the weather conditions. Good shoes for these activities are hiking boots or sneakers. If you’re traveling to a place with high humidity, opt for breathable materials like mesh or leather that won’t make your feet too hot and sweaty.

Traveling is a great way to explore the world and experience new cultures. However, taking the necessary steps to stay healthy while on your trip is important. By doing a pre-travel wellness check, you can ensure that any health issues are taken care of before leaving and that you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.