How to look after your health abroad

by | Jul 21, 2017 | Travel Featured

If you’re planning a trip abroad, you may already be imagining yourself lying on a sandy beach, exploring cultural sites or discovering new cities. Wherever you’re planning to go, however, it’s important to stay safe.

By planning your trip carefully and conducting the appropriate research, you can increase your chances of having a safe, fun and eventful holiday or mini-break.

Plan excursions wisely

If you want to explore the local area, you may wish to take part in organised excursions or day trips. Travelling with a reputable company can be a great way to see the sights, without putting yourself in unnecessary danger.

When you take part in excursions, it’s likely that you’ll be travelling with other tourists and this can help to ensure your safety.

Only take part in organised activities

For many people, the ideal holiday involves sun, sea and sand. If you’re near the coast, you might be tempted to try a new activity, such as surfing, water-skiing or even diving. While these can be once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, it’s important to consider the risks carefully.

Not all countries have the same safety standards as in the UK, so you’ll want to ensure that the activities are run by a trustworthy company. Whilst a holiday can be a great time to try out extreme sports, it may increase the risk of sustaining an injury while you’re away.

Limit your alcohol intake

Whilst many of us choose to have a few drinks or partake in a lively night out when we’re on holiday, it’s vital that you do so safely. If you’re unfamiliar with the local area, you could easily get lost or suffer a slip, trip or fall.

Even staying at your hotel could prove dangerous if you’re under the influence of alcohol. Sadly, the presence of balconies and swimming pools can be hazardous if you’ve had too much to drink and a simple fall can result in a tragic accident.

Be aware of local customs

When you’re travelling, it’s important to consider where you are and what the local customs entail. In addition to being respectful to the local residents, being aware of their customs could help you to stay safe and healthy whilst you’re abroad.

If you’re advised not to drink unfiltered water, for example, it’s important to heed the warning. Following simple tips like this could prevent you contracting an illness and becoming seriously unwell.

Ensure you have access to medical treatment

Although you may not want to think about getting hurt or falling ill whilst on your holiday, it is always a possibility. By taking the necessary precautions, you can reduce your chances of sustaining an injury, but you can’t remove the possibility altogether.

Due to this, it’s important to have appropriate health solutions in place. Obtaining travel insurance before you depart, for example, could ensure that you’re able to access medical assistance if you need it.

Similarly, obtaining or carrying out an EHIC Renewal a European Health Insurance Card will ensure that you’re able to obtain free or low cost medical care within the European Economic Area or in Switzerland. Without this, medical treatment could prove to be extremely expensive and you may need to return home earlier to access additional help.

By preparing for your trip in advance, you can be rest assured that you’ll be able to access medical help as and when you need it. With that covered, you can relax and focus on enjoying your holiday to the full.