The All-Essential 50+ Health Checklist for Travelling Abroad

Whether you’ve just booked your summer holiday or are planning an extended trip abroad in the winter months, it’s always important to focus on staying healthy, both when travelling and upon arrival. Even the best breaks can be ruined by unexpected ill health or injury, especially when we get older, so it is important to make sure you get the most out of your travels, without letting poor health put a dampener on your holiday plans.

To ensure you enjoy your holiday travels while avoiding illness and infection, The Best of Health has put together an all-essential helpful checklist, outlining all you need to do to stay healthy when jet-setting, travelling to and from your destination, or just when out and about during your holiday break.

DVT Socks to Fly Safe

Travelling by plane is a quick, convenient way of reaching even the most far-flung destination, but it’s not without its pitfalls. Air travel immediately places you at a higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), so it’s a good idea to purchase some anti-DVT socks to wear during your flight. Also, remember to stretch your legs regularly and massage them when on the plane.

Tablets to Stop Travel Sickness

Travel sickness is a common problem when on holiday; and can be caused by bumpy roads, rough seas or turbulence during the flight. Luckily, there are plenty of over-the-counter tablets you can buy to combat the symptoms of travel sickness. But be aware that some travel sickness medication may cause drowsiness, so avoid these if you prefer to stay awake during your travels.

Antibacterial Gel for Healthy Hands

Washing your hands with soap at regular intervals is one of the easiest ways to avoid picking up unwanted bugs when travelling. It is a good idea to purchase a bottle of antibacterial hand gel and use it to wash your hands before eating and after using any toilet facilities.

Sunscreen to Stay Safe in the Sun

A common problem people suffer when travelling to hotter countries is sunburn and sunstroke. Both are very unpleasant and can really spoil your holiday. It is crucial to wear a good sunscreen, with of a sun protection factor of at least 15, during the day and top it up regularly. This should especially be done between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its hottest. NHS Choices advises to go for broad-spectrum sunscreens, which protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. For more information on sun creams see The NHS Choices web page Sun Safety Q and A.

Buy a Driving Guide to Travel Safe

Regardless of whether you’re taking your own car or renting a vehicle abroad, it’s important to be aware that the rules of the road are different in every country. Brush up on local driving regulations before you get in the car, and plan your route before setting off, to avoid the danger of studying the map whilst trying to drive. It is a good idea to invest in a guide for driving abroad, which should cover advice and driving laws you need to know when out on foreign roads.

Rehydration Treatments to Avoid Dehydration

When on holiday, it’s all too tempting to cut loose and enjoy some socialising with family and friends. However, excessive consumption of alcohol and salty snacks inevitably result in dehydration, which is especially problematic when in a hot country. If you know you’re going to be drinking, counterbalance the effects by drinking plenty of water. In case of dehydration, it is a good idea to purchase rehydration treatment medicines, which helps restore natural levels of fluid and salt in the body.

Put Your Health First with a First Aid Kit

Wherever you travel, you’re always at risk of minor injury or illness, just as you are at home. Don’t let a bout of traveller’s tummy, or a bad headache, or a cut on your foot from a pebble on the beach, ruin your trip. Instead, make sure you go well-prepared with a first aid kit that contains all the medication you might need. This should include medicines such as Imodium and paracetamol, as well as plasters and antiseptic cream.

Get Vaccinated Before You Travel

If you’re travelling outside of Europe, check with your GP whether you require any vaccinations or anti-malaria medication. Some vaccinations need multiple applications over an extended period of time, so you’ll need to arrange this well before your travel date. Be aware that certain countries will require specific certification to prove you’ve been vaccinated before they allow you to enter.

Ensure You’re Covered with Over 50s Travel Insurance

Last, but certainly not least, is insurance. When it comes to travelling, it’s never a good idea to leave healthcare to chance. It’s unlikely you’ll get severely ill when away, but, sadly, incidents can happen. As a result, you need to guarantee that you’re properly insured, should the worst happen. The last thing you want is to face a daunting healthcare bill after spending time in a hospital abroad, so make you are prepared with health insurance.

If you have pre-existing health conditions, you may like to read our comprehensive guide to choosing the best policy for your specific needs so click on the link below:

How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance with Medical Conditions

In Conclusion

As we embrace the golden years, the call of faraway shores becomes even more enticing. Travelling in your 50s and beyond brings a wealth of experiences, but it also necessitates a heightened sense of preparation, especially when it comes to our health. This all-essential 50+ health checklist is your companion, ensuring that every journey you undertake is not only memorable but safe. Remember, the beauty of travel isn’t just in the destinations we explore, but in the confidence and peace of mind with which we embark on each adventure. So, pack wisely, consult your health checklist, and set forth to create memories that last a lifetime.