Planning Your Holiday? Don’t Forget Your Travel Vaccinations!

by | Aug 13, 2025 | Travel Clinic

Going on holiday? You’ve probably already checked your passport, booked your flights, and sorted your insurance, but have you thought about your travel vaccinations? If you’re travelling abroad, especially to destinations in Asia, Africa, or South America, travel vaccinations are just as important as packing your suitcase. At Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, near Dartford and Gravesend, we help you tick one more thing off your travel checklist with quick, expert-led vaccination services.

Why Travel Vaccines Should Be on Your Holiday Checklist

It’s easy to overlook vaccinations when planning a holiday, but they’re essential for protecting your health in areas where certain diseases are more common. A quick appointment at your local pharmacy can offer peace of mind and help you avoid serious illness while abroad.

Common Reasons Travellers Miss Their Jabs

  • Leaving travel health prep too late
  • Uncertainty about which vaccines are needed
  • Not knowing where to go for help

At Hodgson Pharmacy, we simplify the process and make it easy to book travel vaccinations, even at short notice.

What Vaccinations Might You Need?

Depending on your destination, length of stay, and planned activities, you might need one or more of the following vaccinations:

Essential Travel Vaccines by Destination

  • Asia (e.g. Thailand, Vietnam, India): Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies
  • Africa (e.g. Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana): Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Meningitis ACWY, Rabies
  • South America (e.g. Brazil, Peru): Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies
  • General: Tetanus boosters, COVID-19, Influenza, and Cholera (where appropriate)

Not sure which ones apply to you? Book a consultation and we’ll tailor your vaccine plan to your itinerary.

When Should You Book Your Travel Vaccines?

Some vaccines take time to become effective, and others require multiple doses. As a rule of thumb:

Travel Vaccine Timeline

  • 6-8 weeks before travel: Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis, Hepatitis B
  • 2-4 weeks before travel: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever
  • Last-minute?: Come in as soon as possible – we offer urgent appointments

Hodgson Pharmacy: Your Local Travel Health Partner

Located in Longfield, just 10–15 minutes from Dartford and Gravesend, Hodgson Pharmacy is trusted by local travellers for accessible, reliable travel health services.

Why Choose Us? 

  • Walk-in and same-day appointments available
  • NHS and private vaccine options
  • Yellow Fever certification
  • Travel health consultations with friendly, experienced pharmacists

Find us on Google Maps

Book your travel vaccines now at Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield – just 10–15 minutes from Dartford and Gravesend.

Holiday Travel Prep: What Else to Remember?

Vaccines are just one part of the travel health puzzle. Here’s what else you should include in your travel checklist:

  • Malaria tablets (if needed)
  • Insect repellent and bite prevention
  • Sun cream with high SPF
  • Rehydration salts and first aid essentials
  • Travel insurance and printed documents
  • Prescription medication in original packaging

Ask our pharmacy team for a personalised recommendation during your visit.

FAQs About Travel Vaccinations

Where can I get travel vaccinations near me?

Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield offers a full travel vaccination service. We’re conveniently located near Dartford and Gravesend.

How do I book travel vaccinations?

You can call us, visit in person, or book online via our website. Same-day and urgent appointments are often available.

Do I need vaccines to travel to Thailand or South America?

Yes, countries like Thailand and Brazil often require or recommend vaccinations such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid, or Yellow Fever.