What to Pack to Have a Safe and Healthy Trip
As the winter months drag on and the days (and nights) continue to get colder, it isn’t uncommon for people to book last-minute holidays somewhere warmer than where they live, but just because you may be headed somewhere where Vitamin D comes from a hot sun, it doesn’t mean you can leave health concerns at home. Make a plan to pack the following items to ensure a safe and healthy trip abroad!
Even last-minute travel requires a packing checklist. Making a list and checking off each task and/or item as they are completed or packed can make the difference between a stressful trip and a relaxing one.
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Packing the Essentials
It is easy to remember the basics, such as pants and shirts, but what about the smaller things that you will still need, but could easily forget, such as:
- Cell phone charger
- Swimsuit
- Washcloths (especially for international travel, where they may not be provided by the hotel)
- Car and house keys (with a note on your smartphone of where you will store them while they are not needed)
- Camera and batteries
Packing First Aid Items
Besides medical prescriptions, it is also important to pack the basics, especially when traveling internationally, as over-the-counter medications may not be the same or may not be available in the country you are visiting.
Consider packing:
- Aspirin, Acetaminophen, or Ibuprofen
- Decongestant or sinus medication
- Bug or mosquito repellent
- Anti-itch cream or moisturizing cream
- Anti-diarrheal medications
- Sunscreen or sunblock
- Vitamins
Check out these First Aid Essentials for your Trip (CDC).
Packing for Kids
Children not only bore easily, but they also do better on a vacation tailored to them, such as a family-friendly all-inclusive resort.
If you are traveling someplace warm with kids, just remember to keep them healthy by ensuring you pack:
- Bandages
- Life vests or flotation devices
- Wide-brim hat and sunglasses
- Sunblock
- Bug repellent
- Favorite snacks, i.e., granola bars
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Secure the Right Travel Insurance
Choosing the right travel insurance is not as simple as saying “yes” to your travel agent when they ask if you want cancellation insurance.
Travel insurance is broken down into categories, including:
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When traveling, you should always ensure you have appropriate medical coverage for the trip you are planning, i.e., if you are planning on skydiving in Brazil, you will want to ensure you have the correct medical insurance coverage as well as extreme sports coverage.
Taking the time to research and invest in the right travel insurance will ensure any problems are resolved quickly and that you do not have to worry about unforeseen expenses associated with international medical care.
It doesn’t take long to arrange insurance coverage, and doing so will ensure peace of mind throughout the duration of your trip!
It’s important to remember that, regardless of how westernized your travel destination may appear, having access to the same healthcare items, medications, and medical treatments may prove to be difficult.
The safest way to ensure you have everything you need to remain healthy while traveling is to bring all necessary medical and wellness items with you and ensure you have proper medical coverage while traveling.
Sometimes, regardless of how prepared you are, a medical emergency can occur, but knowing you are protected can make the difference between a frustrating and a smooth outcome.
For more information on how a travel medical or global medical health insurance plan can help you have a healthy trip, contact us.
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Joe Cronin, President of ICI, is a leading expert in international health, life, and travel insurance. An MBA and founder of multiple global businesses, he helps expatriates and travelers access trusted, comprehensive insurance solutions worldwide.
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