A Guide to Staying Healthy on Holiday

It might not be a great shock to learn that here at Medical Travel Insurance we love a holiday, staying healthy and, of course, getting you insured for your next trip!

The difficult truth is that if you don’t arrange travel insurance before you go, becoming ill while you’re away can cost thousands, and of course ruin your hard-earned trip. But don’t worry, Medical Travel Insurance is here to help, with our guide to staying healthy while you’re away:

Mindful eating…

Having a “travel tummy” can spoil days of your trip, and in some cases, it can be avoided with a few simple tips:

• If you’re eating from a buffet-style restaurant, ensure that the food is piping hot as this should limit bacteria, and avoid food that is exposed to insects.
• If you’re using shared items such as salt and pepper, sauces, or utensils like bread tongs, wash your hands before eating your meal.
• Try to avoid salads that may have been washed in unsafe water and try sticking to fruits and vegetables that can be peeled, if eating raw.
• Use your judgement when ordering seafood or rare meats – if you’re not confident, it may be best to steer clear!

Hydration is healthy!

If you’re travelling to warmer climes or taking part in activities such as hiking, cycling or even walking it’s important to keep hydrated. If you’re travelling with children or elderly people, they are particularly vulnerable to the effects of dehydration, so be vigilant.

We know water is the best thing for your body... unless you’re travelling to a destination where the local water isn’t safe to drink. Most European countries have safe drinking water but do check before you travel.

If you’re travelling to a country where the water isn’t drinkable, question the source of water served at your table, unless it’s served in a sealed bottle, the ice in your drinks etc…

Regrettably, cocktails and beer aren’t great for keeping hydrated – so if you’re planning to enjoy a tipple or two make sure you add in the odd water or soft drink!

First Aid Essentials

It’s a good idea to take a small first aid kit of essentials when you travel, such as:

• Painkillers
• Antihistamines – good for treating bites, stings, and allergic reactions
• Plasters, gauze or dressings
• Antiseptic creams or treatments for cleaning wounds
• Rehydrating powders – excellent for hydrating after a tummy upset
• Insect repellent

Your destination and itinerary will dictate what you’ll need, if you’re travelling to more remote locations or areas of high risk then a more comprehensive kit may be needed. You can find a full list of first-aid essentials on the NHS fit for travel page Take your meds

If you, like over 50% of Brits, take regular or prescribed medication ensure you have enough to cover the duration of your holiday. If your medication is essential, such as insulin for example, make sure you have extra just in case.

Some medications require a doctor’s note to be taken into some countries – you can check your medication here: NHS - Can I take my medicine abroad?

Get travel insurance - just in case

Medical Travel can find a policy to suit you. We have a range of policy types to choose from, we have single and multi-trip policies. Cover for backpackers, cruisers, and golfers – not to mention winter sports enthusiasts! We have platinum levels of cover, for added peace of mind and budget options too.

Whichever policy you choose, you can be sure that you’ll have what’s important to you - 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance for every policy. Cover for a range of sports and activities, as standard. Access to your policy at any time of day or night, using your personal “My BrokerSure” account, here you can download or view your documents, make amendments, or get quotes for your next trip!