Summer vacations are meant for adventure and relaxation—but staying healthy on the road takes a bit of planning. Whether you’re heading to Disneyland or a mountain retreat, these simple health and medical travel tips will help you enjoy your summer without interruptions.
1. Pack a Personal Health Kit
Always bring a basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and over-the-counter meds for headaches, upset stomach, and allergies. Don’t forget your prescription medications—bring enough for your whole trip (plus a few extras), and keep them in their original containers.
2. Check Travel Vaccines and Local Health Alerts
If you're traveling abroad, consult a travel clinic 4–6 weeks before departure. Some destinations require vaccines for diseases like yellow fever or hepatitis A. The CDC and WHO websites are great resources for checking current health advisories.
3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Smart
Dehydration and foodborne illness are common summer travel issues. Drink bottled or purified water if the local tap water isn’t safe. Choose freshly cooked foods over raw items, and avoid street food unless you can see it being made hygienically.
4. Protect Yourself from Insects
Being from Hawaii we are used to mosquitoes, bees and wasps. But when we recently traveled to Detroit to visit family, we were cautioned to keep out of the brush due to deadly ticks! Educating the kids on safe areas to play while we were there was necessary.
5. Be Cautious in the Heat
Heat exhaustion can sneak up on you. Wear light, breathable clothing, avoid intense activity during midday heat, and take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas. If you feel dizzy or nauseated, rest immediately and hydrate. We recently returned from Nevada, where temperatures were reaching beyond 110 degrees. Ensuring everyone was drinking more water than usual was necessary along with lots of lip balm and moisturizer.
6. Know Where to Get Help
Research nearby hospitals or clinics at your destination—especially if you have a chronic health condition. Carry a card listing your medical conditions, allergies, and emergency contacts, ideally in the local language if traveling internationally. Tip: Take a picture of your medical ID card. You never know when you may need it while traveling or at home.
Good health is the best travel companion. With a bit of preparation, you can enjoy your summer adventures feeling confident, safe, and well-cared for—wherever the journey takes you. 🌿✈️