Planning your next getaway is exciting, whether it’s a relaxing beach holiday, a city break, or an adventurous trek. But in all the excitement, it’s easy to overlook one of the most important parts of travel: your health.
At Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, we support travellers from Dartford, Gravesend, and the wider community with everything from travel vaccinations to first-aid planning. Use our Travel Health Checklist to make sure you’re fully prepared before you take off, so you can focus on enjoying your trip, not managing illness.
1. Check Your Destination’s Vaccine Requirements
Many popular travel destinations have mandatory or recommended vaccines, depending on the region and your planned activities. Common travel vaccinations include:
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Yellow Fever
- Tetanus, Diphtheria & Polio
- Rabies (in areas with stray animals or limited medical care)
- Cholera (in areas with poor sanitation)
If you’re travelling to multiple countries, you may need a combination of vaccinations. Keep in mind that some vaccines take time to become fully effective, so it’s best to book an appointment at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure.
At Hodgson Pharmacy, we can check your itinerary, advise on what you need, and administer vaccinations in a safe, friendly setting.
2. Pack Your Travel First Aid Kit
Your travel first aid kit is your first line of defence against minor ailments abroad. What you pack should depend on your destination, the length of your trip, and the activities you have planned, but some essentials apply to most travellers:
- Pain relief (paracetamol or ibuprofen)
- Antihistamines (for allergies and insect bites)
- Insect repellent (with DEET for mosquito-prone areas)
- Antiseptic cream or wipes
- Diarrhoea relief (e.g. loperamide)
- Oral rehydration salts
- Motion sickness tablets
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Plasters, sterile dressings, and bandages
You may also want to include items like antibacterial hand gel, blister plasters, and thermometers, especially if you’re travelling with children.
3. Don’t Forget Your Prescriptions
If you take regular medication, planning ahead is vital to avoid issues while you’re abroad. Here are a few key tips:
- Make sure you have enough medication for the entire trip, including extra in case of delays.
- Keep medications in their original packaging, and bring a copy of your prescription.
- Research whether your medication is legal in your destination country, as some common UK prescriptions are controlled substances elsewhere.
- Pack spare medication in your hand luggage, in case your suitcase gets lost or delayed.
4. Consider Travel Health Risks
Every location comes with its own unique health considerations. Here are a few common risks to be aware of:
Malaria
This mosquito-borne illness is present in parts of Africa, Asia, Central and South America. Anti-malarial tablets may be required. Your pharmacist or travel nurse can advise the most suitable option.
Altitude Sickness
Travelling to high elevations (e.g., trekking in the Andes or the Himalayas) can cause altitude sickness. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Acclimatising gradually and staying hydrated helps, and medication may be advised.
Food & Water Hygiene
In regions with poor sanitation, avoid:
- Tap water (including ice)
- Uncooked fruits and vegetables (unless peeled)
- Street food that hasn’t been freshly cooked
Stick to bottled water and choose foods that are cooked thoroughly and served hot.
Final Thoughts
Illness can ruin even the best-planned trip, but with just a little preparation, you can protect your health and travel with confidence. From personalised vaccine advice to travel first aid essentials, the team at Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield is here to help.
Serving travellers across Dartford, Gravesend, and beyond, we offer professional, friendly support so you can enjoy your holiday safely and stress-free.
Planning a trip soon? Get in touch with Hodgson Pharmacy to book your pre-travel health consultation today.