Travelling is thrilling, but staying healthy should be a top priority. In fact, the UK Health Security Agency reported a record-high 634 cases of dengue, an often serious mosquito-borne illness, among returning travellers across England, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2023, matching pre-pandemic levels.
That shows how easily avoidable health risks can creep into your holiday plans. Whether you’re heading somewhere sunny or remote, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are some straightforward travel health tips to help you stay safe, feel confident, and enjoy every moment of your trip.
Why is travel health advice important?
When you travel, you may be exposed to unfamiliar diseases, different climates, and food or water that your body is not used to. Good travel health advice helps you reduce the risk of infections and avoid disruptions to your trip. It also gives you confidence that you are prepared for any health challenges you might face abroad.
Common risks when travelling
- Stomach upset from unsafe food or water
- Mosquito-borne diseases like malaria or dengue fever
- Flu or respiratory infections picked up in crowded places
- Sunburn or heat exhaustion in hot climates
By taking simple precautions, you can protect your health and focus on enjoying your journey.
What health tips for travellers should you follow?
There are several practical steps you can take before and during your trip to minimise risks.
Before you travel
- Check if you need travel vaccinations well in advance.
- Pack a basic first aid kit with plasters, antiseptic cream, and pain relief.
- Take any prescribed medicines with you in their original packaging.
- Arrange travel insurance that covers medical care.
During your trip
- Wash your hands regularly or use sanitiser.
- Drink bottled or treated water if tap water is unsafe.
- Use insect repellent and cover exposed skin where mosquitoes are common.
- Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated in hot weather.
These health tips for travellers are simple but effective in preventing common travel-related illnesses.
Why are travel vaccinations important?
Travel vaccinations protect you against diseases that may not be common in the UK but could pose serious risks abroad. Some destinations require proof of vaccination before you can enter, while others strongly recommend it.
Our pharmacists can advise which travel vaccinations you may need based on your destination, length of stay, and health history. For example, you may need vaccines for yellow fevere, hepatitis A, or typhoid depending on where you are travelling.
If you need travel vaccinations, it is best to book them at least six weeks before your trip to ensure your body has time to build protection.
How can you book travel vaccinations easily?
At a local travel vaccination clinic, you can book travel vaccinations quickly and conveniently. Our pharmacists will guide you through the process, recommend the right vaccines, and provide other travel health advice tailored to your plans.
Booking early also gives you peace of mind that you are fully protected before you travel.
Where can you get reliable travel health support locally?
If you live around East Burnham or Gerrards Cross, you can book an appointment at Aroga Pharmacy in Farnham Common today. Our travel clinic offers trusted advice and travel vaccinations to help you stay healthy and safe wherever your journey takes you.
FAQs
1. What are the most important travel health tips to follow?
The most important travel health tips include getting recommended travel vaccinations, carrying a first aid kit, practising good hand hygiene, drinking safe water, and protecting yourself from the sun and insects.
2. Why do I need travel vaccinations before going abroad?
Travel vaccinations protect you against serious diseases that may be common in your destination but rare in the UK. Some countries even require proof of vaccination before allowing entry.
3. How far in advance should I book travel vaccinations?
It is best to book travel vaccinations at least six weeks before travelling. This gives your body enough time to build protection and ensures you are ready for your trip.
4. Where can I get reliable travel health advice?
You can get reliable travel health advice from trained pharmacists at a travel clinic. They will assess your destination, trip length, and health needs to recommend the right precautions.
5. What should I pack in a travel health kit?
A travel health kit should include plasters, antiseptic cream, pain relief, any prescribed medicines, hand sanitiser, and insect repellent. This helps you manage minor issues while abroad.
6. Can I book travel vaccinations at Aroga Pharmacy?
Yes, if you live around East Burnham or Gerrards Cross, you can book travel vaccinations at Aroga Pharmacy in Farnham Common. Our experts provide personalised advice and protection for your trip.